Importance

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Abstract

A method and apparatus for a self compensating and geometrically centering jaw type chuck for engaging and retaining a workpiece, particularly an asymmetric workpiece, wherein a geometric center of the workpiece is aligned with a rotation axis of the chuck. The chuck includes two opposing jaws each of which is rotatable about a pivot pin extending from a radially adjustable jaw slide. Each jaw includes an outer end that is slidably and rotatably coupled to a rotatable ring symmetrically disposed about the rotation axis by a synchronizing pin having a first end rotatably disposed on the rotatable ring, and a second end, slidably engagable with the outer end of the jaw. The rotation of one jaw about the pivot pin rotates, in synchronism, the rotatable ring and the other jaw to maintain the geometric center of the asymmetric workpiece in alignment with the rotation axis of the chuck. The jaw slides are radially adjustable to open and close the jaws by reciprocating a piston along the rotation axis of the chuck. The piston is coupled to the jaw slides by two opposing cranks rotatable about a crank pivot which provides a levering action to adjust the jaw slides. A passive spring assembly applies a force to the piston which biases the jaws in the closed position. The jaws are opened in response to an applied counter force applied to the piston by pneumatic or hydraulic actuation.

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First Claim