Importance

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Abstract

A progressive former and method of producing progressive formers is disclosed in which the bed frame is formed of two side frame members and a spacer member. The two side frame members and the spacer member are substantially fully machined before the side frame members are assembled on opposite sides of the spacer member. Within a given machine size, the side frame members are identical and the width of the spacer member is adjusted to provide the proper spacing between the side frame members for the particular number of work stations in a given machine. By utilizing component parts to produce the machine bed frame rather than a one-piece casting, substantial cost savings are achieved. Further, since the side frame members are identical in machines of a given size having different numbers of work stations, it is economically feasible to produce side frame members for inventory and then assemble them with an appropriate spacer member to provide the desired number of work stations. Similar economies are achieved by utilizing similar kickout drives in timed knockout drives at each work station. The slide and the die breast are laterally located with respect to one of the side members so that tolerance and thermally-induced variations in the spacing between side frame members do not adversely affect the alignment of the slide and the die breast.

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First Claim