Patent ID: 8089024

Claim:
A torch spacing apparatus for a cutting machine fitted with multiple tools for simultaneously performing multiple tool operations, and capable of substituting one type of tool for another to enable operation of different tools to operate with a minimum spacing, the machine having a gantry that is guided to travel along an X axis, at least two carriages mounted to the gantry and guided to travel along a Y-axis, and at least two cutting torches mounted to each carriage, the apparatus comprising: a substitution mechanism operatively attached to each carriage, the substitution mechanism including a lifting and guiding mechanism, an activation means, and a cradle, the activation means comprising at least one pneumatic cylinder pivotally connected to the cradle, the cradle being mounted to the lifting and guiding mechanism and configured for having the at least two cutting torches operatively mounted thereto, the cradle configured to operatively perform a torch substitution, wherein a first of the at least two cutting torches is substituted with a second of the at least two cutting torches, by rotating the at least two cutting torches about a rotation axis parallel to the X axis of the gantry, thereby to operatively rotate the first of the at least two cutting torches out from a vertical active position and simultaneously rotate the second of the at least two cutting torches into the vertical active position.