Milling machine
The improved milling machine makes use of individually controlled x-axis, y-axis, and z-axis carriages. These carriages provide positive and precise control of the position of the cutting tools and the blank to be cut. A tool changer allows the tools to be changed to accommodate other materials. A camera is used to detect wear on the tools.
1. A milling machine for milling a blank comprising
(a) an x-axis carriage having a first and second spindle, which are each operable to translate independently along an x-axis,
i) said first spindle having a first central axis and operable to receive a first tool in line with said first central axis and
ii) said second spindle having a second central axis and operable to receive a second tool in line with said second central axis and in an opposing orientation to said first tool;
wherein said first and second central axes are axially aligned and parallel to said x-axis;
(b) a subassembly mechanism operable for holding and adjusting the position of said blank, comprising;
i) a y-axis carriage operable to translate independently along a y-axis and;
ii) a z-axis carriage contained within said y-axis carriage and operable to translate independently along a z-axis.
2. The milling machine of claim 1 wherein the x-axis carriage further comprises a pair of rails for aligning and translating said first and second spindles along said x-axis.
3. The milling machine of claim 1 wherein the spindles each comprise a motor for rotating said tool when received and coupled to its respective spindle.
4. The milling machine of claim 1 wherein at least one spindle comprises a means for delivering a cooling fluid to the blank.
5. The milling machine of claim 4 wherein the means for delivering comprises at least one fluid jet.
6. The milling machine of claim 5 wherein the fluid jet obtains a cooling fluid from a reservoir located beneath the milling machine.
7. The milling machine of claim 6 wherein the reservoir allows for the settlement of particulate located within the fluid.
8. The milling machine of claim 1 further comprising said first and second tools received and coupled into the first and second spindles, respectively.
9. The milling machine of claim 1 further comprises a tool changer for storing at least one replacement tool.
10. The milling machine of claim 1 further comprises a camera.
11. The milling machine of claim 10 wherein the camera is positioned to view said first and second tools.
12. The milling machine of claim 10 wherein the camera is a CCD camera.