US Patent:
20080067035, Mar 20, 2008
Inventors:
Malcolm E. Keith - Algonquin IL, US
Michael Paul Cayley - South Barrington IL, US
International Classification:
B65G 47/22
Abstract:
An automated pallet changer for detachably attaching a pallet with respect to a machine table or a frame, particularly of a 5-axis machining center. The automated pallet changer can attach and/or detach a pallet with respect to the frame. A keeper element is movable with respect to a base of the receiver, between an engaged position and a disengaged position. In the engaged position, the keeper interferes with a least a portion of the pallet to fix the position of the pallet with respect to the machine table. The automated pallet changer according to this invention can be used to eliminate the need for electrical cables, pneumatic lines, hydraulic lines and the like on a conventional 5-axis machining center.