Patent ID: 6264418
Filing Date: 2001-07-24
Classification: B23K,B23Q

Abstract:
A workpiece positioner adapted to move a workpiece from a load/unload zone to a work zone spaced from said load/unload zone, said workpiece positioner comprising:a first stationary frame having two spaced apart bearings;a second frame having first and second ends each coupled to one of said spaced apart bearings so as to be rotatable relative to said first stationary frame about a first axis;a first drive device for effecting rotation of said second frame about said first axis;a first workpiece holder adapted to releasably receive the workpiece and coupled to said second frame so as to be rotatable by way of gravity about a second axis spaced from said first axis to permit said workpiece holder and the workpiece, when releasable received, to be maintained in a substantially constant orientation relative to said first stationary frame as said second frame is rotated about said first axis; and,a second workpiece holder adapted to releasably receive another workpiece and coupled to said second frame so as to be rotatably by way of gravity independent from said first workpiece holder about a third axis which is spaced from said first and second axes.