Patent ID: 8118312

Claim:
A tool-holding system configured to interchangeably receive a standard ER collet and a centering adaptor and used for centering a cutting tool in a machine, the tool-holding system comprising: a housing having a first alignment portion and defining a tapered recess that is sized and shaped to interchangeably receive a standard ER collet and a centering adaptor, and is to be provided to the machine for receiving at least a portion of a centering adaptor; said centering adaptor having a tapered exterior portion comprising a shank that has a tapered exterior and is to be received within the tapered recess defined by the housing, the adaptor comprising: an aperture formed in the adaptor for receiving a proximate end of the tool, wherein a portion of the aperture is configured to correspond with a portion of the proximate end of the tool such that the cooperation of the portions positions the tool inside the aperture in a predetermined angular orientation and maintains the predetermined angular orientation of the tool within the aperture before the proximate end of the tool is secured; and a tool fastener for securing the proximate end of the tool within the aperture at the predetermined angular orientation therein; a second alignment portion provided to the adaptor to cooperate with the first alignment portion to establish a predetermined angular orientation of the adaptor relative to the housing while the shank of the adaptor is at least partially inserted into the tapered recess; and a fastener for securing the adaptor within the tapered recess of the housing.