Tool holder assembly, as well as seating / fixing components and operating system therefor

Abstract

A tool holder assembly (100) having movable parts (108, 109) and an operating system (110'). The movable parts (108, 109) of the tool holder assembly (100) can be configured to shift, as necessary, to engage a jig or tool when the assembly (100) is actuated. In some cases, the movable parts (108, 109) can be further configured to shift for better engagement by a jig or tool. The operating system (110') can be electrical.

Description

【Technical Field】 【0001】 (Related Application) This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 350,410, filed on June 8, 2022, the teachings of which are incorporated herein by reference. 【0002】 (Field of the Invention) The present invention relates to a tool holder assembly for use with industrial machines or equipment, as well as seating / fixing components and operating systems for such assemblies. 【Background Art】 【0003】 Sheet metal and other workpieces can be processed into a wide range of useful products. Commonly used processing (i.e., manufacturing) processes involve bending, folding, and / or forming holes in sheet metal and other workpieces. Equipment used in such processes includes many types such as turret presses and other industrial presses (such as single-station presses), Trumpf-type machines and other rail-type systems, press brakes, sheet feeding systems, coil feeding systems, and other types of processing equipment adapted to punch or press sheet materials. 【0004】 Regarding a press brake, a press brake is generally used to deform a metal workpiece and is equipped with a lower beam (or table) and an upper beam (or table). One beam (typically the upper beam) is configured to be movable vertically towards the other beam. A forming tool is mounted on the beam, and when one beam is moved towards the other beam, the workpiece positioned between the beams can be formed, for example, bent into an appropriate shape. Typically, the upper beam is configured to hold a male forming tool (punch) having a bottom workpiece deformation surface (such as a V-shaped surface), and the bottom beam is configured to hold an appropriately shaped female tool (die) having an upper surface aligned perpendicular to the workpiece deformation surface of the male tool. 【0005】 As is known, forming tools are generally mounted on the press brake beam using one or more tool holders provided on the beam. In particular, the upper part of the tool, generally referred to as a tang or shank, is inserted between the opposing walls of the holder, and these walls are configured to form channels that can fix the tool tang. Very often, the channels are defined through a stationary part of the tool holder and a movable part of the holder that opposes it. 【0006】 In order to design a tool holder for an industrial machine, for example, a press brake, many factors need to be considered. One factor relates to the variability, particularly with respect to the various tooling styles that can be used, such styles potentially having different tang profiles. For example, the surface or extent of the tang extending upward from the tool safety slot can be straight (substantially vertical), angled (having an angle from the vertical), or curved. For example, some tool holders designed for press brake applications are configured to require the use of an adapter. While an executable solution for accommodating different tang styles, the adapter requires proper positioning and / or maintenance. Additionally, the adapter may need to be moved different distances corresponding to different tang styles. These different movements typically require precise adjustment of force, or else damage can occur to the tang and / or tool holder from contact with the adapter. Such adjustments have conventionally been provided via hydraulic, pneumatic, electrical, or other similar means, thereby enabling precise adjustment of the applied force. However, the incorporation of adjustment elements adds complexity and overall cost to the design. 【0007】 Another factor to consider when designing a tool holder relates to tolerances. For example, there can be a slight degree of variation in each tool and tool holder design, such as the general dimensions of the tool (e.g., its tang) or the operation of the tool holder (e.g., the closing operation of one or more movable parts of the holder). Considered separately, these variations can be somewhat negligible. However, in situations such as when loading a forming tool into the tool holder, when encountered collectively, such variations can result in a corresponding degree of play for the tooling. To account for such variations, some tool holders have been equipped with structures such as shape memory materials or springs to compensate for tolerances in these areas of the design. However, even with the use of these elements, problems of looseness or play between the tool and the holder can occur over time, often due to wear. Furthermore, such shape memory materials or structures may require periodic maintenance or replacement. 【0008】 Additional factors to consider when designing a tool holder relate to the machining and use of the tool holder. With respect to machining, while the tool holder can be configured / adapted to different lengths as required, provided it is guaranteed for both new designs and retrofit designs, especially for press brake applications, it also needs to have some form of mounting system that is easily adaptable to its installation. With respect to the use of the holder, the issues can focus on how the holder is actuated and how that actuation is divided / controlled across the tool holder. As already explained, the actuation force needs to provide sufficient fixation of the tooling, but not be so excessive as to cause concern about damage to the holder and / or the tool. Additionally, the actuation force may need to be adjusted based on the length of the tool holder being used / actuated and the type of tooling being secured. It is possible to incorporate such adjustment elements into the tool holder design, but this adds further complexity and overall cost to the design. 【0009】 Accordingly, there remains room for a tool holder assembly that can effectively and efficiently solve the above-mentioned problems and others, thereby providing an excellent holder design. SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION 【0010】 Embodiments of the present invention involve a tool holder assembly, as well as an insert body and an operating system used therewith. In some cases, the insert body of the tool holder assembly is configured to shift as needed to engage a jig tool when the assembly is actuated. For example, the insert body can pivot correspondingly based on the shape of the tongue of the jig tool and the orientation in which the body can best engage the tongue. The insert body can have one or more fingers. In some cases, the engaged jig tool can be one or more tools, whereby each tongue of the tool can be engaged by one or more of the fingers of the insert body. In some embodiments, the tool holder assembly is electrically actuated. In some cases, the tool holder assembly is integrally formed with a single insert body and is configured to actuate the single insert body. In other cases, the tool holder assembly can be formed with multiple insert bodies and configured to actuate the multiple insert bodies, whereby the insert bodies can be actuated collectively or independently. In both cases, multiple tool holder assemblies can be fittingly joined to form tool holders for one or both of the upper beam and the lower beam of a press brake. In such cases, the range of the tool holders can be correspondingly defined based on the machine size. Following setup, a selected amount of the tool holder assemblies provided across the beam can be used as needed based on the intended machining job and the jig tools required therefor. 【0011】 In one embodiment, a tool holder assembly is provided. The assembly includes a stationary portion having a vertical side wall that partially defines a tool channel, a movable portion positioned opposite the vertical side wall of the stationary portion, and an electric actuation system operably coupled to the movable portion. The electric actuation system is movable during operation of the system and has an output shaft that, when moved, effects a corresponding movement of the movable portion. The electric actuation system includes a motor and a gearbox through which the output shaft extends. The corresponding movement of the movable portion is in a first direction with respect to the tool channel and, when loaded within the channel, effects a locking engagement with a jig tool, and the output shaft reaches a first position during operation of the system. The first position represents a locked position of the output shaft and a corresponding locked position of the movable portion via use of the motor and gearbox pair, and the locked position is maintained even if power to the electric actuation system is lost. 【0012】 In another embodiment, a tool holder assembly is provided. The assembly includes a stationary portion having a vertical side wall that partially defines a tool channel, a movable portion positioned opposite the vertical side wall of the stationary portion, and an actuation system operably coupled to the movable portion. The actuation system is movable during operation of the system and has an output shaft that, when moved, effects a movement of the movable portion in a first direction toward the tool channel and secures a jig tool when loaded within the tool channel. When the movable portion and the tool contact when loaded within the tool channel, if the movable portion can achieve a better engagement between the movable portion and the jig tool, the movable portion is shifted in a second direction to a new orientation with respect to the jig tool, and the movement of the movable portion in the second direction stops in the new orientation when the movable portion engages and locks with the jig tool. 【0013】 In certain embodiments of the present invention, a tool holder assembly is provided that includes a stationary portion, a movable portion, and an actuation system. The stationary portion has vertical sidewalls that define a tool channel. The movable portion is positioned opposite the vertical sidewalls of the stationary portion. The movable portion includes a base portion and a body having two offset fingers. The two offset fingers project outwardly from the base portion toward the tool channel. A female threaded opening is formed in the base portion of the body. The actuation system is operably coupled to the movable portion by a male threaded output shaft that threadedly engages the female threaded opening within the base portion of the body. The male threaded output shaft rotates in a first direction upon actuation of the actuation system, thereby moving the movable portion toward the tool channel such that when the two offset fingers are loaded within the tool channel, they engage a jig tool. The body of the movable portion can optionally have a generally triangular configuration. Additionally or alternatively, each of the two fingers preferably has a tip region having an inclined surface configured to engage a jig tool when loaded within the tool channel. In many embodiments, the tool holder has a length configured to extend along the length of the upper beam of a press brake, and the two tip regions of the two fingers are spaced apart along the length of the tool holder. Additionally, preferably, the threaded engagement between the male threaded output shaft and the female threaded opening of the base portion of the body provides a degree of freedom of movement for the movable portion to pivot about the male threaded output shaft when the actuation system is actuated to move the movable portion relative to a jig tool loaded within the tool channel. In this embodiment, the actuation system is preferably an electric actuation system that includes a motor and a gearbox through which the male threaded output shaft extends. However, it should be understood that various other types of actuation systems can alternatively be used. 【Brief Description of the Drawings】 【0014】 The following drawings illustrate specific embodiments of the present invention and, accordingly, do not limit the scope of the present invention. The drawings are not necessarily to scale (unless so stated) and are intended to be used in conjunction with the description in the following detailed description. Embodiments of the present invention are described below in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, and like reference numerals represent like elements. 【Figure 1】 A cross-sectional view of a tool holder assembly according to a particular embodiment of the present invention, the holder assembly being shown in a closed configuration, coupled to an exemplary adapter, and an exemplary forming tool being loaded therein, as viewed along line I-I of FIG. 5A. 【Figure 2A】 A rear view of an insert body shown in an exemplary use according to a particular embodiment of the present invention. 【Figure 2B】 A front perspective view of the insert body of FIG. 2A according to a particular embodiment of the present invention. 【Figure 2C】 A further front perspective view of an insert body according to a particular embodiment of the present invention. 【Figure 2D】 A front perspective partial exploded view of the electric operating system and the insert body of FIG. 2C according to a particular embodiment of the present invention. 【Figure 2E】 A rear perspective partial exploded view of the electric operating system and the insert body of FIG. 2D. 【Figure 3A】 A cross-sectional view of a tool holder assembly according to a particular embodiment of the present invention, the holder assembly being shown in an open configuration, coupled to an exemplary adapter, and as viewed along line IIIA-IIIA of FIG. 5A. 【Figure 3B】 An alternative view of the tool holder assembly of FIG. 3A, the holder assembly being shown in a closed configuration. 【Figure 4】 An alternative view of the tool holder assembly of FIG. 1, the holder assembly being shown in an open configuration. 【Figure 5A】 An upper rear perspective view of a tool holder assembly configuration according to an embodiment of the present invention. 【Figure 5B】It is a top front perspective view of the assembly configuration of FIG. 5A. 【Figure 5C】 It is a front view of the assembly configuration of FIG. 5A. 【Figure 5D】 It is a bottom view of the assembly configuration of FIG. 5A. 【Figure 6A】 It is a top rear perspective view of a further tool holder assembly configuration according to an embodiment of the present invention. 【Figure 6B】 It is a top front perspective view of the assembly configuration of FIG. 6A. 【Figure 6C】 It is a front view of the assembly configuration of FIG. 6A. 【Figure 6D】 It is a bottom view of the assembly configuration of FIG. 6A. 【Figure 7A】 It is a cross-sectional view of a further tool holder assembly according to an embodiment of the present invention, and the holder assembly is shown in an open configuration together with the view along line VIIA-VIIA of FIG. 7C. 【Figure 7B】 It is an alternative view of the tool holder assembly of FIG. 7A, and the holder assembly is shown in a closed configuration. 【Figure 7C】 It is a top rear perspective view of the tool holder assembly of FIG. 7A. 【Figure 7D】 It is a top front perspective view of the tool holder assembly of FIG. 7A. 【Figure 8A】 It is a front perspective view of another tool holder assembly according to an embodiment of the present invention. 【Figure 8B】 It is a rear perspective view of the tool holder assembly of FIG. 8A. 【Figure 9】 It is a front perspective view of an exemplary beam adapter according to an embodiment of the present invention. 【Figure 10A】 It is a front perspective view of an exemplary mounting configuration for grouping the tool holder assemblies of FIG. 8A as mounted on the beam adapter of FIG. 9 according to an embodiment of the present invention. 【Figure 10B】 It is a front perspective view of an exemplary mounting configuration for grouping the tool holder assemblies of FIG. 8A as mounted on the beam adapter of FIG. 9 according to an embodiment of the present invention. 【Best Mode for Carrying Out the Invention】 【0015】 The following detailed description is merely exemplary in nature and is not intended to limit the scope, applicability, or configuration of the invention in any way. Rather, the following description provides some practical illustrations for implementing exemplary embodiments of the invention. Examples of configurations, materials, dimensions, and manufacturing processes are provided for selected elements, and other elements use elements known to those skilled in the art of the invention. Those skilled in the art will recognize that many of the described examples have various suitable alternative forms. 【0016】 FIG. 1 shows a cross-sectional view of a tool holder assembly 100 according to a particular embodiment of the present invention. The holder assembly 100 is shown with an exemplary forming tool 102 loaded therein and coupled to an exemplary adapter 104 for coupling to a press brake (upper) beam (not shown). The embodiments described herein are applicable to a wide variety of tool styles such as those in the United States, Europe, Bystronic, and Trumpf / Wilson Tool, but it should be understood that the clamp will function similarly with other tool styles / tang types. Additionally, while the embodiments herein are depicted with respect to a press brake upper beam, the present invention is applicable to the lower beam of a press brake as well. Further, the assembly 100 can be operatively coupled to a press brake beam via the adapter 104 as illustrated, but various other adapters and / or configurations (such as Z1 or Z2 for Euro style beams or a Universal Bolt Pattern (UBP) for direct mounting to an OEM upper beam) can alternatively be used. As a further alternative, the assembly 100 can have an integral coupling for joining to the beam of a press brake and thus be configured to not require a separate adapter for such a coupling. In a further embodiment, the holder assembly 100 can be used with other industrial machines. For example, the tool holder assembly 100 can be used with a machine configured to provide any of a variety of forming processes such as bending, folding, and / or forming holes in sheet metal and other workpieces. 【0017】 Continuing to refer to FIG. 1, the illustrated tool holder assembly 100 has two main components used to seat and secure a jig or tool to the assembly 100, namely a stationary portion 106 and one or more movable portions. One of the movable portions is the insert body 108. For further details regarding a first exemplary design of such an insert body 108, note FIGS. 2A and 2B which illustrate a rear perspective view and a front perspective view of the design (FIG. 2A shows the insert body 108 in an exemplary use to be detailed later herein). Continuing to refer to FIGS. 2A and 2B, in certain embodiments, the insert body 108 has a base portion and at least one finger. In a more preferred embodiment, the body 108 has two or more fingers. To that end, the insert body 108 is illustrated with a base portion 108d and first and second fingers 108a, 108b. In certain embodiments, as shown, the base portion 108d has a generally triangular configuration and the fingers 108a, 108b are configured to project from the base portion 108d. In some embodiments, as shown, the fingers 108a, 108b are offset so as to extend (e.g., be elongated) along different axes A1, A2. In certain embodiments, as shown, the axes A1, A2 may be parallel, but the invention should not be so limited. For example, one or more of the fingers 108a, 108 may project from the base portion 108d so as to be angled inwardly or outwardly with respect to the vertical centerline M of the insert M. As shown, the vertical midpoints M1, M2 of the fingers 108a, 108b may be separated by an angle A, the apex of which is at a pivot point PP (to be detailed later) along the vertical centerline M of the insert. When using the insert body 108, the fingers 108a, 108b can contact and engage different points across the jig or tool loaded within the tool channel 100a. In particular, the fingers 108a, 108b of the insert body 108 are designed to extend from different points of the insert 108 to achieve a more effective engagement with the jig or tool.For example, the contact points (or locations) made by each of the two fingers 108a, 108b can be distinct, and each finger forms a separate engagement relationship with the jig tool and itself. To that end, the engagement with the jig tool can result in one finger being purer than the other due to the tolerance of the jig tool. Thus, by offsetting fingers 108a, 108b from each other, first and second opportunities are obtained to establish a better engagement with the jig tool. 【0018】 Continuing to refer to FIGS. 2A / 2B, the separation angle between the midpoints M1, M2 of the fingers 108a, 108b with respect to the pivot point PP can be selectively chosen based on the intended use of the tool holder assembly 100. Ideally, the separation angle A is as close to 180° as possible. However, the insert body 108 can advantageously function with a separation angle of less than 180°. In certain embodiments, the angle A can be in the range of about 35° to about 120°. In a more preferred embodiment, the angle A can be in the range of about 50° to about 100°, and in an even more preferred embodiment, the angle A can be in the range of about 60° to about 80°. Certain embodiments can include more than three fingers with angular separation between each adjacent pair. For example, in the case of an insert body having three fingers, there is a first angle between the first outer finger and the central finger, and a second angle between the central finger and the second outer finger. In the case of more than three fingers, the sum of the separation angles between the fingers ideally approaches 180° as much as possible. However, the insert body 108 can advantageously function with a total separation angle of less than 180°. For example, in a design having three fingers, the first and second angles between the first finger and the second finger, and between the second finger and the third finger can be made the same if desired. However, the present invention is not so limited. Depending on the jig tool to be fixed, it may be preferable to have different angles for such first and second angles. 【0019】 Moving on to FIG. 2C, a further exemplary design of the insert body 109 is illustrated. Although not shown in the tool holder assembly 100 of FIG. 1, the assembly 100 can be configured to function with the insert body 109. The insert body 109 has a number of similarities with the insert body 108 of FIGS. 2A / 2B and includes, for example, a plurality of fingers (e.g., first and second fingers 109a, 109b) that project from a base portion 109d so as to extend along axes A1', A2' for contacting / engaging different points across the tool when loaded within a tool channel of a tool assembly such as the assembly 100 of FIG. 1. In certain embodiments as shown, the fingers 109a, 109b are offset (e.g., spaced apart) from each other to allow for separate contact points or locations (and effective engagement with the tooling) through each of the fingers. Similar to the insert body 108 of FIGS. 2A / 2B, the axes A1', A2' can be parallel, but the invention should not be so limited. 【0020】 Continuing with respect to the insert body 109 of FIG. 2C, the insert body also has a generally triangular configuration, but has a reduced outer shape compared to the insert body 108 of FIGS. 2A / 2B. For this reason, the central bore 109c defined within the base portion 109d is located at a lower height B' (measured from the bottom of the insert body 109), and is thus closer to the fingers 109a, 109b of the insert body 109. As a result, the separation angle A' between the central vertical centerlines M1', M2' of the fingers 109a, 109b (the apex of the angle being at the pivot point PP along the vertical centerline M' of the insert body 109) is greater than the separation angle A of the insert body 108 of FIGS. 2A / 2B. Ideally, the separation angle A' is as close as possible to 180°. However, the insert body 109 can function advantageously with a separation angle of less than 180°. In certain embodiments, the angle A can range from about 105° to about 175°. In a more preferred embodiment, the angle A can range from about 125° to about 160°, and in an even more preferred embodiment, the angle A can range from about 140° to about 150°. It should be understood that as this separation angle increases, the distance between the vertical centerlines of the fingers 109a, 109b increases. Increasing this distance provides a more compact design for the insert body 109 and further counteracts any overall play or looseness between the insert body 109 and the tooling within the holder via a more secure transfer of force across its fingers 109a, 109b onto the tooling. 【0021】 Similar to the insert body 108 of FIGS. 2A / 2B, the insert body 109 of FIG. 2C can have three or more fingers, with an angular separation between each adjacent pair of fingers. For example, in the case of an insert body having three fingers, there is a first angle between the first outer finger and the central finger, and a second angle between the central finger and the second outer finger. Ideally, the sum of the separation angles is as close to 180° as possible. However, the insert body 109 can function advantageously with a total separation angle of less than 180°. If desired, the first and second angles can be the same. However, the present invention is not so limited. For example, depending on the tooling to be fixed, it may be preferable to have different angles for such first and second angles. 【0022】 Returning to FIG. 1 (and as already described), either the insert body 108 of FIGS. 2A / 2B or the insert body 109 of FIG. 2C can be used therewith. To that end, referring to FIG. 2A, the insert body 108 is positioned within a pocket (or cavity) 100b of the tool holder 100. When actuated, the insert body 108 (or 109) is moved in a first direction to a shallower position within the pocket 100b, e.g., toward and into (or further into) the tool channel 100a of the holder assembly 100. As a result of this movement, as shown in FIG. 1 with respect to the insert body 108, its fingers 108a, 108b extend into the tool channel 100a and engage corresponding to one or more tangs 102a of the tool 102 loaded within the channel 100a. Although finger 108a is not shown in FIG. 1, fingers 108a, 108b can be configured to have similar shapes and lengths. Thus, the distal ends (or “tool engagement ends”) 108a’, 108b’ of fingers 108a, 108b are sized and shaped to be received and fit correspondingly within grooves 102b defined within the tool tangs 102a. When actuated, the insert body 108 is moved toward (and into, or further into) the tool channel 100a, and the finger distal ends 108a’, 108b’ each enter (or further move into) the tool channel 100a and contact / engage the tangs 102a of the tool 102 loaded therein. In certain embodiments, each end 108a’, 108b of the two fingers 102a, 108b has a tip region with an inclined surface configured to engage the tool 102 when loaded within the tool channel 100a. 【0023】 In certain embodiments, the tool holder 100 has a length configured to extend along the length of the upper beam of the press brake, and the two tip regions 108a', 108b' of the two fingers 108a, 108b are spaced apart along the length of the tool holder. In connection with the fixing (or "clamping") of the tool 102 (and with continued reference to the insert body 108), the process includes the opposing sides of the tool tang 102a that are contacted by the corresponding surfaces of the stationary part 106 and the insert body 108. Such contact functions collectively to fixedly clamp the tool 102 between the insert body 108 and the stationary part 106. In a preferred embodiment, the fixing and seating of the tool 102 into the tool channel 100a occur simultaneously. However (as will be described in more detail herein), seating the tool 102 involves vertically lifting the tang 102a within the channel 100a such that one or more tang upper surfaces are flush with one or more corresponding surfaces of the stationary part 106. Once clamped and seated, the tool 102 is in the operating position, i.e., no other positioning steps are required before using the tool for its intended machining purpose. In this embodiment, clamping and seating preferably occur simultaneously (e.g., by a single movement of the insert body 108). 【0024】 In certain embodiments, as shown, the stationary portion 106 includes a lower wall 106a, side walls 106b, and an upper wall 106c. The side walls 106b and upper wall 106c bound a tool channel 100a that is configured to seat and secure a tooling fixture therein. For example, the tooling fixture can often be fixed (or "clamped") to the side wall 106b of the stationary portion 106 while also being seated against one or more of the lower wall 106a and upper wall 106c (as is illustrated in FIG. 1). As illustratively depicted in FIG. 1 (see also FIGS. 3A and 3B showing views of the tool holder assembly 100 in the open / unclamped configuration and closed / clamped configuration, respectively), the insert body 108 can be used in cooperation with the side wall 106b of the stationary portion 110 to secure (or "clamp") one or more forming tools 102 therebetween and thus to the tool holder assembly 100. With respect to the seated tooling fixture, this is the function of the insert body 108 that continues to be pushed into a groove 102b defined within the tool tang 102a. In certain embodiments, the distal ends 108a', 108b' of the fingers 108a, 108b of the insert body 108 have inclined upper surfaces (e.g., angled from horizontal) and thus they mate (e.g., cam) with the inclined upper surfaces bounding the groove 102b and exert a force. Thus, by the actuation (and corresponding driving) of the insert body 108 into the tang groove 102b, the tool 102 is secured to the side wall 106b and seated against the lower wall 106a, the upper wall 106c, or both, depending on the tool type 102. 【0025】 Embodiments of the present invention relate to an insert body used to fix (or "clamp") and seat a tool within a tool holder assembly 100. As already explained, the insert body 108 of FIGS. 2A / 2B or the insert body 109 of FIG. 2C can be used and, when actuated, is driven towards and into (or further into) the tool channel 100a so as to engage the tool tang 102a for fixation / seating purposes. Additionally, the insert bodies 108, 109 of FIGS. 2A / 2B and 2C are each preferably configured such that their orientation shifts upon contact and initial engagement with the tool tang so as to have an advantageous clamp / lock engagement with the tang. 【0026】 For example, the distal ends 108a', 108b' of the fingers 108a, 108b of the insert body 108 (and similarly, the distal ends 109a', 109b' of the fingers 109a, 109b of the insert body 109) can routinely fit into similarly sized tang grooves 102b, but if a particular groove 102b is of a different size, each insert body 108 and 109 is configured to shift (along with fingers 108a, 108b and 109a, 109b) as necessary to engage the tool when the assembly 100 is actuated. In certain embodiments, as described in more detail herein, each insert body 108 and 109 can pivot correspondingly (based on the shape of the tool tang groove 102b) to an orientation where the fingers 108a, 108b and 109a, 109b can best engage the groove 102b. In some embodiments, such pivoting can be accompanied by rotation of the insert body relative to the tool 102 in combination with movement in either an inward or outward direction from the groove 102b, depending on how the finger distal ends 108a', 108b' and 109a', 109b' best lock-engage the groove 102b. 【0027】 As previously described with reference to FIG. 1, the tooling loaded into the tool channel 100a can be one or more tools 102, and the tang 102a of each tool 102 is engaged by one or more of the fingers 108a, 108b of the insert body 109 (or alternatively, by one or more fingers 109a, 109b of the insert body 108). For this purpose, depending on the quantity of tools to be secured / seated and the tang profile of each of those tools, the insert body 108 (or body 109) can pivot slightly or significantly from its default orientation to best secure / seated such tools. For example, as shown in FIG. 2A, the insert body 108 is engaged with two tools 102’ and 102’’. However, the grooves 102b’ and 102b’’ of the respective tangs 102a’ and 102a’’ are not aligned, and the tang channel 102b’ is higher than the other tang channel 102b’’. Thus, the insert body 108 can rotate (e.g., in the clockwise direction C as shown) such that the first finger 108a is received within the upper channel 102b’ of the tool 102’ and the second finger 108b is received within the lower channel 102b’’ of the other tool 102’’. Returning to FIG. 1, each of these engagements facilitates the advantageous securing and seating of the tools 102’ and 102’’. Preferably, this is enhanced by the inclined profile at the finger ends 108a’, 108b’, such that the ends still extend into the tangs 102a’ and 102a’’ and effectively engage. As previously described, the insert body 109 functions similarly when used alternately. 【0028】 As described above, many different types of activation / actuation systems (e.g., hydraulic, pneumatic, electrical, mechanical, or other similar means) have been implemented over the years with tool holder designs. Often, such systems introduce excessive complexity and / or cost, especially when the actuation needs to be regulated. It should be understood that any of these activation / actuation systems can be adapted to be used with the clamp assembly including the insert body 108 / 109 embodied herein. 【0029】 In certain embodiments of the present invention, the tool holder assembly 100 is electrically actuated. Referring to FIG. 3A, the tool holder assembly 100 may be integrally constructed with a single insert body (e.g., the insert body 108 of FIGS. 2A / 2B as shown, or the insert body 109 of FIG. 2C) and configured to actuate the single insert body. The tool holder assembly 100 is shown in an unclamped configuration, whereby the fingers 108a, 108b of the insert body 108 do not extend into the tool channel 100a. The electric actuation source or system 110 includes, in certain embodiments, a DC motor 110a and a gearbox 110b having an output shaft 110c. Such DC motors are well known and often configured with a corresponding gearbox as shown. By their design, the motors are equipped to function at a certain voltage (e.g., 6v, 12v, or 24v) to provide a certain RPM, and the gearbox converts such to a defined RPM for the output shaft. To that end, the speed and torque on the output shaft 110c depend on the internal configuration (or ratio) of the gearbox 110b. The motor 110a has, in certain embodiments, a worm gear that couples to the gearbox 110b and is configured to generate rotation of the output shaft 110c, which in turn generates the clamping force necessary to secure and seat the tool via the insert body 108. Exemplary parameters of an embodied configuration can include a 24v motor with a gearbox having a ratio of 600:1 such that 6000 RPM of the motor is converted by the gearbox to 10 RPM of the output shaft. It should be understood that other motor / gearbox configurations can alternatively be used and the designs described herein are provided for illustrative purposes only.Exemplary manufacturers for obtaining such motor / gearbox products are Fuzhou Bringsmart Intelligent Tech.Co.,Ltd. (China, Fuzhou, www.bringsmart.com), Shenzhen Jinshunlaite Motor Co.,Ltd. (China, Shenzen City, www.aslongdcmotor.com), and Need-for-Power Motor Co.,Ltd. (China, Shenzhen, www.nfpmotor.com). 【0030】 Returning to FIGS. 2A / 2B and 2C, for the insert bodies 108 and 109 shown therein, their fingers 108a, 108b and 109a, 109b are offset from each other (spaced apart, branched, or by both, etc.) such that, for example, each of the illustrated insert bodies 108 and 109 has a generally triangular shape. Referring to FIG. 1, the fingers 108a, 108b of the insert body 108 project from the base of the body 108, and the top or central region (e.g., apex or central region) of the body 108 is defined to receive and function with the threaded output shaft 110c of the electrical system 110. As shown in FIG. 2C, the insert body 109 has a similar configuration. In certain embodiments, each insert body 108, 109 is defined with a threaded bore 108c, 109c, and the output shaft 110c of the electrical system 110 is correspondingly threaded (e.g., male-threaded) such that the bore 108c receives the shaft 110c in a threaded manner. Preferably, the insert bodies 108, 109 (or the movable parts) are configured to (a) move towards (and into, or further into) the tool channel 100a in response to rotation of the output shaft 110c in a first direction, and (b) move away from the tool channel 100a in response to rotation of the output shaft 110c in a second direction. The first and second directions are selected from clockwise and counterclockwise. 【0031】 In certain embodiments, the output shaft 110c can be a single body that extends from the gearbox 110b into the central bore 108c of the insert body 108 (or the central bore 109c of the insert body 109). Alternatively, referring to FIGS. 2D and 2E (as illustrated for insert body 109), the output shaft can be designed to include multiple elements. For example, in certain embodiments as illustrated, the electric actuation system 110’ comprises a gearbox 110b’ with an output shaft 110c’ that includes a male portion 111a and a female portion 111b that are configured to selectively couple the system 110’ to the insert body 109c. The male portion 111a of the output shaft has a shape that mates with a correspondingly shaped aperture 111c defined in the female portion 111b. In certain embodiments, as shown, the shape can be a multi-point star shape such as a six-point star. A screw drive with such a configuration is sometimes referred to as a star drive. One commercially available drive of this type is sold under the Torx brand name. Here, the reader should understand that such a male / female configuration enables the installation and / or replacement of the electric actuation system 110’ to be performed easily and efficiently. Further details regarding such installation / replacement will be covered later. In certain embodiments, the female portion 111b is defined by a male thread that mates correspondingly with the female thread of the central bore 109c of the insert body 109 (or the central bore 108c of the insert body 108). 【0032】 Returning to FIGS. 3A and 3B, the operation of the electric actuation system 110 and the corresponding trigger of the insert body 108 are illustrated. While the collective functions of the system 110 and the insert body 108 are detailed herein, it should be understood that the electric system 110' and / or the insert body 109 may alternatively be used and function in a manner similar to that described for the system 110 and the insert body 108. When the electric system 110 is actuated and as a result the threaded output shaft 110c rotates within the threaded bore 108c of the insert body 108, a corresponding forward movement of the insert body 108 (e.g., toward and into or further into the channel 100a) occurs. Such forward movement is caused by the insert body 108 being positioned within the pocket 100b of the tool holder 100, whereby the orientation of the insert body 108 is maintained, but movement of the body 108 along the output shaft 110c is enabled when the output shaft 110c rotates. To that end, when the electric system 110 is actuated, the insert body 108 moves in a first direction toward the tool channel 100a. When the insert body 108 is advanced into contact with the tang 102a of the jig tool such that the fingers 108a, 108b engage the tang groove 102b (when the jig tool is received within the tool cavity 100a), the fingers 108a, 108b are moved to move away from their initial engagement and orientation if they are not firmly engaged / clamped to the tool tang 102a. 【0033】 As already described with reference to FIGS. 2A / 2B and 2C, the insert bodies 108 and 109 (and correspondingly, their fingers 108a, 108b and 109a, 109b) can rotate relative to the shaft 110c until they reach a secure engagement / clamping orientation based on the space within the pocket 100b. In certain embodiments, each insert body 108 / 109 has a limited degree of freedom of rotation of up to 7 degrees or less, or 6 degrees or less, e.g., from 1 / 2 degree to 5 degrees, or from 1 degree to 5 degrees, in both clockwise and counterclockwise directions about its pivot point PP / PP'. In essence, this rotation or pivoting of the insert bodies 108 and 109 correspondingly pivots their fingers 108a, 108b and 109a, 109b to absorb / accommodate tolerances (variations) for different tools that can be mounted within the tool cavity 100b. It should be understood that this rotation / pivoting of the insert bodies 108 / 109 is enabled by a limited amount of tolerance between the outer periphery of the insert bodies 108 / 109 and the pocket 100b of the tool assembly 100. The size of such a pocket 100b can be varied. However, it should have one or more wall surfaces defined to be close to but spaced from the sides of the base portions 108d, 109d of the insert bodies 108, 109. This allows its overall orientation to be maintained when actuated via the output shaft 110c. As an alternative to having such closely configured pockets 100b, alternatively, two or more posts, shoulders, or other stoppers can be provided that allow only the desired limited degree of rotational freedom for the insert body. 【0034】 Returning to FIGS. 2D and 2E, as described above, the electric actuation system 110’ is substantially similar to the electric system 110, but the output shaft 110c’ is selectively connectable to a plurality of elements, such as the central bore 109c of the insert body 109, and then includes male part 111a and female part 111b that collectively link. For this purpose, the female part 111b can have a male thread that mates correspondingly with the female thread of the central bore 109c of the insert body 109 (or the central bore 108c of the insert body 108). In certain specific embodiments as shown, the male thread of the female part 111b comprises a multi-start thread, and such a thread converts rotation into a linear movement of the insert body 109 from the male part 111a (e.g., into the tool cavity of the holder). As understood, the linear movement of the body 109 is faster due to the multi-start thread compared to a standard pitch thread. However, in other embodiments, a single thread design can be used. 【0035】 There are various reasons for the electric actuation system (whether it is system 110 with a single body output shaft 110c or system 110’ with a multi-element output shaft 110c’) used with the tool holder assembly 100. The electric systems 110, 110’ are efficient and effective in generating the required clamping force, especially when compared to other actuation systems. Both systems 110, 110’ have a limited number of components, which can lead to a simplified structure. However, despite being simple, from the DC motor 110a used with systems 110, 110’, especially when using a high gear ratio for the motor, as will be further explained below, a high gear ratio corresponds to a higher clamping force, so a large torque can be achieved. 【0036】 When using the gearboxes 110b, 110b’ (with worm gear drive) in combination with such a motor 110a, the systems 110, 110’ exhibit mechanical self-locking of the output shafts 110c, 110c’ via the gear device when in the first (or “operating”) position. Thus, in either case, the insert body 108 or 109 is locked and maintained in a closed (or “clamped”) state, for example, as shown in FIG. 3B together with the insert body 108. Such a first position represents the locked position of the shafts 110c, 110c’. In other words, when actuated via the electrical system 110 or 110’ and as a result the tooling is fixed / seated, the threading and the gear ring of the motor / gearbox are locked in place, and as a result, it becomes substantially impossible to move the tooling. Of course, the insert body 108 (or insert body 109) can be reversed from its locked position via the system 110 (or system 110’) when desired. Due to the mechanical lock, the clamping force of the electrical system 110 (50 pounds to 100 pounds) can be made lower than the clamping force required for other operating systems and still be effective. This locking characteristic of the electrical systems 110, 110’ (from the motor / gear device) is maintained even when power is lost, which is not the case for other operating systems. Using the electric operating system 110 or 110’ as the actuation source enables reliable clamping for many applications using less clamping force (compared to other operating systems) due to the nature of the mechanical locking characteristics of the operating system 110. However, in certain applications, more clamping force may be required (for larger-sized tooling), and the electric operating systems 110, 110’ of the present invention advantageously allow their design elements and parameters to be adaptable to those applications. 【0037】 Continuing with the above description of the electric actuating systems 110 and 110', it should be understood that the greater the clamping force, the slower the clamping speed (determined by the speed of the output shafts 110c, 110c'). However, as described above, this is not a critical drawback since the electric actuating system 110 can function as needed with a smaller clamping force (50 pounds to 100 pounds). Preferably, other variables are considered when providing a preferred clamping force of 50 pounds to 100 pounds. Such variables include the distance the insert body 108 needs to move to engage / clamp the tool tang 102a and how many rotations the output shaft 110c needs to make for such movement. For example, to achieve a clamping force of 70 pounds to 100 pounds, the time required to fully rotate the shaft 110c ranges from 5.4 seconds to 7.1 seconds. One particular embodiment, using an output shaft 110c with an M8×1.25 pitch to advance a system with a clamping force of 70 pounds, the system requires approximately 5.4 seconds. Increasing the pitch of the shaft 110c and / or reducing the force to near 50 pounds but not less than 50 pounds allows the insert body 108 to move further with fewer rotations and / or less time. 【0038】 Alternatively, in certain embodiments as described above, as depicted by output shaft 110c’ in FIGS. 2D and 2E, a multi-threaded insert can be used as the female part 111b to enable the slow rotational speed of motor 110a to achieve a faster clamping time. As described above, by using such a multi-threaded insert (or helix) as the female part 111b, the linear motion corresponding to the rotational motion of shaft 111a extending from gearbox 110b’ is effectively accelerated. An example can include a gear ratio of 600:1 for motor 110a, as described above, which produces approximately 10 rpm. Such a 10 rpm motor, when used with a 5-start drive screw with a 10 mm pitch for the threaded insert functioning as the female part 111b, enables a significant clamping force (100 pounds to 150 pounds) at an acceptable clamping speed in the range of 2 seconds to 2.5 seconds. In comparison, conventional hydraulic systems tended to show slack unless a high clamping force (about 250 pounds) was maintained. 【0039】 As described above, the electrically actuated systems 110, 110’ have a limited number of components, making the construction and operation relatively easy. To that end, referring to FIGS. 1 - 4, the corresponding components are small enough that the electrical systems 110, 110’ can be provided on one side of the holder assembly 100. Further, referring to FIGS. 5A and 5B, the components of the electrical system 110 are fairly compact and are of the same width as the underlying insert body 108. Thus, in certain embodiments as shown in FIGS. 5A and 5B, a series of integral units each including a single electrical system 110 (or a single system 110’ connected to a single body 108 as illustrated in the tool holder assembly 300 exemplified in FIGS. 8A and 8B) connected to a single insert body 109 can be operably connected and joined together side by side to form a collective tool holder for one or both of the upper and lower press brake beams (or tables). 【0040】 With respect to the above concept of an integrated unit, the insert bodies 108 can be grouped together in a modular fashion to account for any beam length, allowing for wide variability with respect to new and retrofit applications. The tool holder assembly 100 can be sized to accommodate any amount of insert bodies 108 by virtue of their integral actuation / clamping. For example, as further described below, different tool holder assembly configurations are depicted in FIGS. 5A-5D and FIGS. 6A-6D. To that end, the configurations share common modules but have different lengths / different numbers of modules, which can represent significant savings with respect to shipping. Upon reaching their destinations, the tool holder assemblies 100’ (see FIG. 6A) can be connected to one another (to form the desired length / configuration) and operably coupled to press the brake beam or to form a beam. When collectively grouped on a press brake beam (or table), any individual or combination of insert bodies 108 and 109 (and their fingers 108a, 108b and 109a, 109b) can be used for machining applications along the beam length. Again, this flexibility with respect to the length of the tool holder assembly 100 allows the product package to be shipped in much smaller increments, enabling the packaging to be palletized in smaller rather than crated. For comparison, the hydraulic beams used in many of the clamp systems sold today must be fully assembled at the factory with respect to the length of the press brake table and then shipped in standard 8’, 10’, 12’, or even longer lengths. 【0041】 Referring to FIGS. 5A - 5D, in certain illustrated embodiments, the tool holder assembly 100 includes a series of light devices. In certain embodiments, the lights are LED lights. In certain embodiments referring to FIG. 5D, one light device can include, for example, ambient downward lights 120 for illuminating the work space. These lights 120 can be hidden from the overall view in certain illustrated embodiments (e.g., positioned behind the shield 118), but can be seen from the bottom view of the holder assembly 100 as shown in FIG. 5D. Alternatively, or in addition, in certain embodiments as shown in FIGS. 5B and 5C, the light device can be accompanied by side - facing lights 122, for example, to signal the function of the tool holder. In certain illustrated embodiments, the lights 122 extend over and across the extent of the holder assembly 100 and can be used illustratively to indicate the state of each holder section. For example, the lights 122 can illuminate red above the unclamped / open sections of the holder and green above the clamped / closed sections of the holder. In certain embodiments, these same lights 122 can be used additionally or alternatively to inform of any of the various characteristics of the tool holder. For example, they can inform, by flashing green for example, the location where the next bend should be made for a step - by - step bending. Further, the lights 122 can be used to inform of the location to remove the tool, by flashing red for example. 【0042】 As described above, the tool holder assembly 100 can include pairings each including a single electrical system 110 having a single insert body 108, and the assembly 100 can be formed with any desired number of such pairings. To that end, FIGS. 5A-5D show an exemplary tool holder assembly 100 having 24 such pairs of numbers, while FIGS. 6A-6D show a further exemplary tool holder assembly 100' having only 4 such pairs of numbers. Certain embodiments are such that such an assembly 100' can be in the range of 6 inches to 8 inches in length, whereby the cost of transporting any desired number of such lengths will be lighter compared to transporting lengths in the range of 8 feet to 12 feet. In fact, the transportation cost is significantly lower because the module size of the assemblies 100, 100' that can be transported is small. Upon arrival at the shipping destination, the tool holder assemblies 100' are connected together (e.g., to form a longer assembly as shown in FIGS. 5A-5D) and operably coupled to the press brake beam or can form the beam. When grouped together on the press brake beam (or table), any individual or combination of the insert bodies 108 (and their fingers 108a, 108b) can be used along the beam range for machining applications. 【0043】 In certain embodiments, the electric actuation system 110 can be single and configured to pair with (e.g., be operably coupled to) a plurality of insert bodies 108. Such embodiments are illustrated with respect to FIGS. 7A-7D, which illustrate a further tool holder assembly 200 according to certain embodiments of the present invention. Similar to the tool holder assembly 100' shown in FIGS. 6A-6D, the assembly 200 in FIGS. 7A-7D has a reduced length. As described above, the assembly 200 is composed of a single electric actuation system 210 that includes a DC motor 210a and a gearbox 210b, and the output shaft 210c is configured to be coupled to a cam 205. In certain embodiments, as shown, the cam 205 is operably coupled to a pivot arm 207 configured to actuate an insert body 208. The insert body 208 has, in certain embodiments, a plurality of fingers similar to those already described with respect to the insert body 108. However, the insert body can alternatively have a single finger. 【0044】 When in use, when the electrical system 210 is activated, the output shaft 210c rotates. The distal end of the shaft 210c is defined by an inclined channel with which the cam 205 engages. As the shaft 210c rotates during operation, the channel becomes shallower for the cam 205 (thereby causing a cam action), and the cam 205 is extended to exert an outward force on one end (e.g., the upper end) of the pivoting arm 207. Such an outward force deflects the other end (e.g., the bottom end) of the pivoting arm 207 inward, and correspondingly provides an inward force to the insert body 208, causing one or more of its fingers 208a, 208b to move into the tool channel 200a and engage a fixture (not shown) therein. In certain embodiments, as already described with respect to the insert body 108 of FIGS. 1 and 2, the distal ends 208a', 208b' have inclined upper surfaces (e.g., angled from horizontal), and thus, advantageously, they mate with and apply force to an inclined upper surface bounding a groove on a tang of the loaded fixture. Thus, the actuation (and corresponding driving) of the insert body 208 into such a tang groove first secures the fixture against the side wall 206b of the stationary portion 206, and further seats it against the bottom wall 206a and / or the upper wall 206c, depending on the fixture type. 【0045】 By configuring the insert body 208 to function with the cam 205 as illustrated in the electric actuation system 210, it becomes possible to move the insert body 208 at a higher speed together with the gearbox 210b that moves at a lower speed. For this purpose, the cam 205 is designed to move the insert body 208 by the distance required for fixing / seating the tooling (loaded in the tool channel 200a) without further requiring the motor 210a to rotate additional times based on the thread pitch, unlike in the case of the system 110 of FIGS. 5A - 5D. As described above, the distance by which the cam 205 moves (through the rotation of the output shaft 210c) corresponds to the distance by which the insert body 208 moves (through the pivot arm 207). In certain embodiments, the distances by which the cam 205 and the insert body 208 move can be associated in a 1:1 ratio. However, the present invention is not so limited. In particular, this ratio can be varied as desired (e.g., through variations made to the pivot arm 207, as just one example) to produce a lever effect to correspondingly increase or decrease the clamping force output by the motor gearbox. 【0046】 Based on the concepts described in detail with reference to FIGS. 6A-6D, FIGS. 8A-8B illustrate a particular range of tool holder assemblies 300 according to certain embodiments of the present invention. In particular, as shown, the assembly 300 is composed of four pairings (or four "modules"), each including a single electrical system 110' with a single insert body 109. As will be appreciated, the holder assembly 300 shares similarities with the assembly 100' of FIGS. 6A-6D in that there are four pairs. However, the assembly 300 differs in that it is formed to be enclosed or encapsulated. For this purpose, the overall length of the assembly 300 and / or the spacing between the fingers 109a, 109b of the insert body 109 can be established as standard parameters. For example, in certain embodiments, the length of the assembly 300 can range from 100 mm to 200 mm. In a more preferred embodiment, the assembly 300 can range in length from 150 mm to 170 mm. With regard to the spacing between the fingers 109a, 109b of the insert body 109, this depends somewhat on the length of the assembly 300. In certain embodiments, the spacing can range in length from 0 mm to 50 mm. In a more preferred embodiment, the spacing can range in length from 10 mm to 40 mm. In an even more preferred embodiment, the spacing can range in length from 20 mm to 30 mm, and in a preferred embodiment, the spacing can range in length from 20 mm to 25 mm. 【0047】 For the advantageous concept of modular units, the assembly 300 can be grouped together to account for any beam length, allowing for wide variability with respect to new and retrofit applications. As a result, transportation savings can be realized. For example, upon reaching their destination, the tool holder assemblies 300 can be connected to one another (to form the desired length / configuration) and operably coupled to press the brake beam. When grouped together on the press brake beam (or table), any individual or combination of insert bodies 109 (and their fingers 109a, 109b) can be used for machining applications along the beam length. This flexibility with respect to the length of the tool holder assemblies allows the product package to be shipped in much smaller segments, enabling the packaging to be palletized in a smaller rather than crated format. These assemblies can be shipped in significantly reduced sizes compared to hydraulic beams that must be fully assembled and then shipped at standard 8-foot, 10-foot, 12-foot, or even longer lengths. 【0048】 Moving on to FIG. 9, the beam adapter 310 is illustrated, which in certain embodiments is configured to function with the modular tool holder assembly 300 of FIG. 8A. To that end, the adapter 310 is used to attach to certain OEM mounting options (Euro style Z1 or Z2, UBP, etc.) and can be formed to have any applicable length. In use, the upper surface 312 of the adapter 310 is attached to the upper (or lower) beam of the press brake, and one or more assemblies 300 can be attached to the adapter 310 via the mounting bar 314. As shown, the bar 314 defines a series of mounting holes 316 located at spaced positions along its length. Returning to FIG. 8A, each assembly 300 is composed of one or more (e.g., a pair of) mounting fasteners (e.g., threaded fasteners such as bolts or screws) 302 that are positioned / spaced to align with the hole spacing of the mounting bar 314. Thus, the tool holder assembly 300 can be attached to the adapter 310 as needed. To that end, FIGS. 10A and 10B illustrate a close arrangement and a spaced arrangement of such assemblies 300, respectively. It should be understood that the spacing can be varied as needed to provide a guaranteed tool holder setting with respect to the space 318 shown between the assemblies 300 in FIG. 10B. 【0049】 Several advantages should be realized from the mounting configuration illustrated via FIGS. 10A - 10B. For example, if a section is damaged, the plug of the supply cable can be unplugged while removing the fastener 302 and pulling the damaged section away from the beam adapter 310, allowing only that section to be easily replaced. The steps to do this can take about 5 - 10 minutes, compared to the days or weeks it can take for a service call for a broken solid beam. Also, the rest of the holder assembly 300 continues to function in the case of a damaged portion, as compared to the potentially inoperable entire beam until a repair is made to one non-functional area along the beam. 【0050】 As suggested in connection with FIGS. 2C and 2D, by using the male part 111a and the female part 111b on the output shaft 110c' of the electric operating system 110', these parts can be easily separated as needed for maintenance or repair of the electric system 110'. Further, in some embodiments, the motor 110a can be replaced simply by removing the screws on the back of the assembly 300, removing the back cover 304, unplugging the motor 310a, and sliding the male part 111a out of its connection to the female part 111b, thereby freeing the electric system 110' for removal. In some preferred embodiments, these steps take only about 5 - 10 minutes, compared to several days or weeks for a service call for a broken solid beam. Also, if the motor fails, the remaining part of the holder assembly 300 continues to function, as compared to the failure of a solid beam bladder that cannot be used until the entire beam is repaired. 【0051】 Thus, embodiments of a tool holder assembly, and seating / fixing components and operating systems therefor are disclosed. Those skilled in the art will recognize that the invention can be practiced in embodiments other than those disclosed. The disclosed embodiments are presented for illustrative purposes and not limitation, and the invention is limited only by the following claims.

Claims

[Claim 1] A tool holder assembly, A stationary portion having vertical side walls that partially define the tool channel, A movable portion located opposite the vertical side wall of the stationary portion, The system comprises an operating system to which the movable part is operably connected, The actuation system includes an output shaft that is movable when the actuation system is in operation, and when moved, causes the movable portion to move in a first direction toward the tool channel, thereby securing the tool when loaded into the tool channel. When the movable portion is loaded into the tool channel and comes into contact with the fixture, the movable portion is configured to shift in a second direction to a new orientation relative to the fixture if this allows for better engagement between the movable portion and the fixture, and the movement of the movable portion in the second direction stops in the new orientation when the movable portion engages with and locks with the fixture. The movable portion is screwably connected to the output shaft, and the output shaft is movable by rotation during the operation of the actuation system, and through such rotation, the movable portion rotates in the second direction relative to the output shaft. Tool holder assembly. [Claim 2] The tool holder assembly according to claim 1, wherein the movable portion has a plurality of fingers, the fingers protruding from the movable portion such that the fingers engage with the tool when the movable portion is loaded into the tool channel during the movement of the movable portion in the first direction. [Claim 3] The tool holder assembly according to claim 2, wherein the plurality of fingers are two fingers, and the two fingers are offset so as to be adapted to contact and engage at one or more different points on the jig and along different axes when loaded into the tool channel. [Claim 4] The tool holder assembly according to claim 1, wherein the operating system is an electrically operated system. [Claim 5] The tool holder assembly according to claim 4, comprising a plurality of electrical actuation systems and a plurality of movable parts, each of the electrical actuation systems being connected to a corresponding one of the movable parts. [Claim 6] The tool holder assembly according to claim 1, wherein the output shaft comprises a male portion and a female portion collectively connected to the movable portion. [Claim 7] The tool holder assembly according to claim 6, wherein the female portion has a male thread that fits in correspondence with the female threaded bore of the movable portion. [Claim 8] The tool holder assembly according to claim 7, wherein the male screw includes a multi-start screw, and the multi-start screw converts rotation from the male portion into linear movement of the movable portion. [Claim 9] The movable portion comprises a body including a base portion and two offset fingers, the two offset fingers projecting outward from the base portion toward the tool channel, and a threaded opening is formed in the base portion of the body. The tool holder assembly according to claim 1, wherein the operating system is operably connected to the movable portion by a threaded output shaft that is threaded into the threaded opening in the base portion of the main body. [Claim 10] The tool holder assembly according to claim 9, wherein the threaded engagement between the male threaded output shaft and the female threaded opening of the base portion of the body provides a degree of freedom of movement for the movable portion to pivot around the male threaded output shaft when the actuation system is operated to move the movable portion relative to the jig loaded in the tool channel. [Claim 11] The tool holder assembly according to claim 10, wherein the movable portion is received in a pocket of the tool holder assembly, and the pocket is configured to restrict the degree of freedom of movement of the movable portion so that it pivots no more than 5 degrees clockwise or counterclockwise around the male threaded output shaft. [Claim 12] The tool holder assembly according to claim 1, wherein the actuation system is an electrically actuated system, the electrically actuated system comprising a motor and a gearbox on which the output shaft extends. [Claim 13] The tool holder assembly according to claim 12, wherein the movement of the movable portion is in a first direction relative to the tool channel, resulting in a locked engagement with a tool when loaded into the tool channel, the output shaft reaches a first position when the electric actuation system is in operation, the first position representing a locked position of the output shaft and a corresponding locked position of the movable portion due to the motor and gearbox, and the locked position and the corresponding locked position are maintained even during power loss to the electric actuation system. [Claim 14] The tool holder assembly according to claim 13, wherein the electrical actuation system is located opposite the vertical side wall of the stationary portion. [Claim 15] The tool holder assembly according to claim 13, wherein the tool holder assembly includes a plurality of movable parts, and the electrical actuation system is connected to each of the movable parts.

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