Importance

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Abstract

The present invention relates to a module for use with a portable lathe to machine an area of a pipe wherein a cutting tool is supported such that the orientation of its axial path of travel varies as the tool rotates around the pipe. The module feeds a cutting tool along an axial feed path that extends substantially parallel to a line connecting spaced apart reference points located on opposite sides of the area of the pipe to be machined. The orientation of this reference line varies with respect to the longitudinal axis of the pipe as the module is driven around the axis of the pipe. The mechanism to feed the cutting tool along its axial and rotational cutting paths has first and second drive shafts extending substantially perpendicular to each other. The mechanism is simplified by having a first tool support member pivotally attached to the portable lathe so as to pivot about an axis coincident with the axis of rotation of the first drive shaft. A second tool support member is pivotally attached to the first tool support member so as to pivot about an axis coincident with the rotational axis of the second drive shaft. Thus, regardless of the relative pivoting motions of the first and second tool support members, the drive shafts are always in driving engagement with each other.

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First Claim