Hurco Companies, Inc.

Mihai Leahu

Himat Patel

A manually operated apparatus for removal and insertion of a tool holder to and from a tool pocket of a magazine includes two components--a multi-function insertion/removal tool, and a pivot bracket. The multi-function tool generally comprises an elongated bar having a tool holder removal element at one end and an insertion element at the opposite end. The removal element can constitute a known pry tool having a fork portion configured to facilitate insertion between the rim of the tool pocket and the underside of the circumferential flange of the tool holder. The insertion element of the multi-function insertion/removal tool comprises a pivot block and a pressure plate. The pivot block includes a pivot pin projecting therefrom that is configured for pivoting engagement within a channel defined in the pivot bracket. The pivot bracket is mounted to the housing of the tool magazine at a manually accessible location relative to the tool pockets with the open end of the channel facing away from the tool pocket. When the pivot pin of the insertion/removal tool is disposed within the channel of the pivot bracket, the pressure plate is situated over a portion of the circumferential flange of the tool holder when the holder is loosely disposed within the tool pocket. The elongated bar of the tool can be used as a lever arm to pivot the tool about the fulcrum point defined by the pivot pin and pivot bracket. As the elongated bar is manipulated, the pressure plate is pivoted downward, bearing against the circumferential flange of the tool holder with sufficient force to overcome the pocket spring force operating against the knob of the tool holder.

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Zionsville, IN, United States of America

Mihai Leahu