摘要 |
The present invention comprises a cutting tool having a cutting tool insert which may be automatically rotationally indexed. The cutting tool includes a shank and an indexable cutting tool insert rotatably connected to the shank. The insert includes a plurality of tips and a side surface therebetween. Indexing means including an index member slidably mounted to the shank are also provided. The index member includes a locking surface and a cam lobe. The indexing means is effective for rotating the insert upon extension of the index member so that the cam lobe pushingly engages the insert, and locking the insert in a stationary cutting position upon retraction of the index member so that the locking surface is securely positioned against the insert side surface. In an exemplary embodiment of the invention, the index member comprises a slider which is translatable only in a direction parallel to a longitudinal axis thereof. The slider also includes a recess disposed between the locking surface and the cam lobe which is effective for accommodating the insert tip as the insert is caused to be rotated by the cam lobe. |