Automated work-piece handling system for machine tool

Claim 1

An automated machine tool system comprising: a machine tool having a plurality of workstations spaced along a longitudinally movable worktable, wherein automated machining operations are performed on workpieces at each workstation; first transport means for transporting workpieces to one end of said machine tool, adjacent a first workstation; first feeder means on said machine tool for (a) engaging workpieces on the first transport means, (b) drawing workpieces from said first transport means and delivering said workpieces onto said worktable, and (c) disengaging the workpieces after delivery to the worktable; means for facilitating the shifting of workpieces to different workstations along the worktable, said means including means for maintaining the workpieces stationary while the worktable is moved in a first longitudinal direction thereby to shift each workpiece to an adjacent workstation; means for selectively elevating workpieces above said worktable and lowering workpieces onto said worktable; and means connected to said machine tool for engaging said workpieces when elevated above said worktable for preventing movement of said workpieces with said worktable as said worktable moves longitudinally whereby movement of said worktable with said workpieces elevated shifts said workpieces along said worktable.