Pallet locating and clamping mechanism for a transfer machine

摘要

In transfer apparatus for advancing work-supporting pallets from one work station to a successive work station, a locating and clamping mechanism for precisely positioning a pallet at each work station and securing the pallet thereat so that an operation can be performed on work that is supported on the pallet. The locating and clamping mechanism consists of a plurality of lift-pin members, driven by an actuator assembly, and movable up and down into engagement with the underside of the pallet at the work station. At least one of the lift-pin members has a tapered head that is received in a correspondingly-tapered opening in the pallet so as to horizontally orient the pallet. Stop means overlie the pallet at the work station so as to be engaged by the pallet upon its upward movement by the lift-pin members to clamp the pallet at a predetermined position where the work performing operation can be carried out.