A toolhead with sensing means for depth control

摘要

A toolhead (1) for use on a multi-axis machine tool consists of a support assembly (2) equipped with a pivoting spindle (3) designed to accept a removable tool-holder (4), and centred on a machining axis (J) about which a tool (U) clamped to the tool-holder (4) can be driven in rotation. Also forming part of the toolhead (1) is a depth stop (9) affording an active surface (10) substantially transverse to the machining axis (J) and positionable against a surface (S) of a workpiece (P). The depth stop (9) is mounted to the support assembly (2) and capable of movement along the machining axis (J) between a first position, distanced from the spindle (3), and a second position of proximity to the spindle (3). Transducers (12) incorporated into the toolhead (1) are able to sense the position of the active surface (10) relative to the support assembly (2), and thus used to control the depth to which the workpiece (P) is penetrated by the tool (U).