摘要:
An automatic tool changing and verification system and method and system for switching engraving heads is shown. The tool changing method and system comprises a turret having a plurality of work holders for holding a plurality of replacement tools. Some of the work holders are empty for receiving a worn tool from an engraving head on the engraver. When it is desired to change a tool on the engraving head, an empty tool holder is indexed to a tool changing position opposite the engraving head whereupon the worn tool is transferred from the engraving head to the tool changer. Thereafter, the tool changer is indexed to position where a replacement tool is situated in opposed relationship with the engraving head. In the embodiment shown, the tool changer comprises a pneumatic system for causing the worn tools and replacement tools to be transferred between the engraving head and the tool changer. Other features of the invention comprise a tool verification routine for verifying that a tool on an engraving head is the correct tool and/or is not defective. Moreover, another aspect of the invention includes a engraving head turret having multiple engraving heads for indexing into engraving relationship with a cylinder to be engraved. The multiple-engraving head turret facilitates, for example, reducing the number of required tool changes.
摘要:
An automatic tool changing and verification system and method and system for switching engraving heads is shown. The tool changing method and system comprises a turret having a plurality of work holders for holding a plurality of replacement tools. Some of the work holders are empty for receiving a worn tool from an engraving head on the engraver. When it is desired to change a tool on the engraving head, an empty tool holder is indexed to a tool changing position opposite the engraving head whereupon the worn tool is transferred from the engraving head to the tool changer. Thereafter, the tool changer is indexed to position where a replacement tool is situated in opposed relationship with the engraving head. In the embodiment shown, the tool changer comprises a pneumatic system for causing the worn tools and replacement tools to be transferred between the engraving head and the tool changer. Other features of the invention comprise a tool verification routine for verifying that a tool on an engraving head is the correct tool and/or is not defective. Moreover, another aspect of the invention includes a engraving head turret having multiple engraving heads for indexing into engraving relationship with a cylinder to be engraved. The multiple-engraving head turret facilitates, for example, reducing the number of required tool changes.