The patent badge is an abbreviated version of the USPTO patent document. The patent badge does contain a link to the full patent document.
The patent badge is an abbreviated version of the USPTO patent document. The patent badge covers the following: Patent number, Date patent was issued, Date patent was filed, Title of the patent, Applicant, Inventor, Assignee, Attorney firm, Primary examiner, Assistant examiner, CPCs, and Abstract. The patent badge does contain a link to the full patent document (in Adobe Acrobat format, aka pdf). To download or print any patent click here.
Patent No.:
Date of Patent:
Oct. 02, 1990
Filed:
Aug. 17, 1989
Gerald R Trudell, Pinconning, MI (US);
Terrance C Marlinga, Kawkawlin, MI (US);
AP Parts Manufacturing Company, Toledo, OH (US);
Abstract
A tube bending apparatus is provided for placing a plurality of bends in an elongated tube. The apparatus includes a position sensor for sensing at least one location on the tube for assessing the accuracy of the bends placed therein. The apparatus further includes a programmable bender having a bend die and a clamp die for securely engaging the tube and bending the tube through a selected degree of curvature. A collet assembly is operative to axially and rotationally position the tube for each sequential bend. A pressure die boost and a collet assembly are provided for exerting axial pressure on the tube to urge the tube into the bend. The amount of axial force is programmed and selectively controllable in response to sensed operating conditions. A lubricated mandrel is programmably operative to be placed inside the tube. The movement of the mandrel is programmable and the flow of lubrication therethrough is both programmable and condition responsive.