Illinois Tool Works Inc.
Multi-station reciprocating die roll forming machine

Abstract:

A multi-station, reciprocating die pattern forming machine (500), including a pair of parallel reciprocal slide members (502, 503) with spaced pairs of pattern forming dies (504) thereon reciprocal between an insert position and an eject position. Drive mechanism (505, 506, 510) reciprocates the die pairs alternately between the insert position and eject position. Mechanism delivers and positions a pattern receiving blank (600) to a pair of dies when in the insert position. Axial translation of the dies causes the dies to rotate the blank at a center of process and impart a pattern upon the blank. Servo-motors on blank positioning mechanism provide feedback recognition of the position of the blanks during processing. The invention also relates to a method of patterning blanks.