Method and apparatus for adjusting the gib-slide clearance using a thermal treatment process
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United States of America Patent
Stats
-
Dec 23, 2003
Grant Date -
Jan 16, 2003
app pub date -
May 20, 2002
filing date -
May 22, 2001
priority date (Note) -
Expired
status (Latency Note)
Importance
Abstract
A feedback control system for use in a press machine is adapted to monitor and adjust the clearance between the gib and slide. A connection bolt provides a connection between the gib and frame upright. A thermal applicator selectively heats and/or cools the connection bolt to induce a controlled deformation of the bolt, namely, an expansion and/or contraction, respectively. In one form, a heat-induced elongation of the bolt along its longitudinal dimension actuates a corresponding displacement of the gib towards the slide to regulate the spatial relationship therebetween. A sensor provides a measure of any possible clearance between the gib and slide. The clearance measurement is compared to allowable reference clearance data. A controller controls the heating and/or cooling action in accordance with the comparison results, thereby controllably moving the gib. The gib may be selectively displaced to optionally effectuate a partial or full close-out of the existing clearance.
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Cited Art Landscape
Patent Citation Ranking
- 9 Citation Count
- F16C Class
- 4.11 % this patent is cited more than
- 22 Age
