Importance

Loading Importance Indicators...

Abstract

A multiple spindle honing machine of the disclosure includes automatically controlled feed cylinders for initially expanding honing tools driven by the spindles and also includes a constant rate feed mechanism that continues to expand the tools after the initial expansion actuated by the feed cylinders. Each spindle includes a connector that extends between one of the feed cylinders and its associated honing tool. Mechanical locks respectively lock first threaded members of the connectors after the initial tool expansion. Second threaded members of the connectors are unthreaded from the first members thereof by an actuating member, preferably embodied by the gear rack, of the constant rate feed mechanism so as to continue the tool expansion and completion of honing operation. Electrical and hydraulic circuits control operation of the pressure feed cylinders, the constant rate feed mechanism, and the mechanical locks. Each honing tool is automatically contracted independently of the other tools after the bore being machined thereby reaches the required size and, after all of the tools are contracted, the feed cylinders may be actuated to re-expand the tools for a finishing operation.

Loading the Abstract Image...

First Claim