flip up toolholder

Edited By ady on 07/07/2011 01:43:53

Hi all, i know I'm terribly late joining in with this v interesting thread (!) .... but thought I might just have some things to add that might turn a bulb on somewhere....I was dreaming about a flip-down tool originally held up by (probably) an electromagnet that was released by a micro-switch - hence no problems with flicking the drive out at the right instant, time and again. I have to admit that the flip-up seems a better solution but would be so nice if accompanied by a pair of micro-switches that one sets up at the ends of the thread and the lathe then just trundles up and down between the 2 while you put on the cut (top or cross slide) until done!

What could be simpler/ more satisfying? Has anyone done this?

Another little thought; coming from an engine background, where if at all possible sliding bearings are avoided since their specific loading is generally low compared to rotating bearings, I would suggest that the most efficient structural design for the swinging element would be a triangle where the pivot was along one "leg" and the tool at one corner, the pivot bearings being at the other 2 corners. May not fit toolposts that well of course!, but may just spark something off in someone's head to make what appears to be an exceptional idea, even better.

Many thanks to all who have contributed to the development of this idea - if there wasn't CNC then this would have had a big impact on the manufacturing world I'm sure, although coventry dieboxes are brilliant bits of kit too, and thread rolling for high volume / thread strength can't be bettered.

cheers all, Phil