AUTOMATIC ENGRAVER TOOL CHANGING METHOD AND APPARATUS

摘要

An automatic tool changing and verification system and method and system for switching engraving heads is shown. The tool changing method and system comprises a turret (58) having a plurality of replacement tools (62a-62c). Some of the work holders are empty for receiving a worn tool from an engraving head (36) on the engraver. When it is desired to change a tool on the engraving head (36), an empty tool holder is indexed to a tool changing position opposite the engraving head (36) whereupon the worn tool is transferred from the engraving head to the tool changer (50). Thereafter, the tool changer (50) is indexed to a position where a replacement tool is situated opposite the engraving head (36). In the embodiment shown, the tool changer (50) comprises a pneumatic system for causing the worn tools and replacement tools to be transferred between the engraving head (36) and the tool changer (50).