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Wednesday, June 10, 2009 - 12:00 PM
MDE3.7

Light Weight Modular Platforms for Machining and Other Shop Functions

P. W. Marino, Paul W. Marino Gages, Inc., Warren, MI

This light weight, modular platform brings new opportunities to the pre-prototype and prototype industries, providing highly accurate work and work surface. Holes, precisely located in a grid pattern, are used to fasten pieces for holding.

Wood, polystyrene, clay, urethane, aluminum and other typical materials used are machined while still on the armature structure. Weight limit is tested to 10,000 lbs; heavier load values are available upon request.
The platform’s modular construction allows for expansion in increments of 40mm in X, Y and Z directions.

Auto-Leveling Option
Auto-leveling is accomplished with linear actuators. Each actuator features 0-10” of movement up/down and an individual load capacity of 1½ tons, for a combined load of 12,000 lbs., a 24 volt motor, 110/230 AC power and is PLC controlled for height. Leveling feedback is via high gain electronic inclinometer. Auto-leveling is achieved by moving the armature to the approximate height and pushing the single push button on the hand box to initiate the leveling sequence this is accomplished in less than two minutes. Tests have provided 0.008” levelness repeatedly every ten feet. Actuators may be packaged inside or outside the frame. (Patent Pending).


Summary: Light weight, modular platform brings new opportunities to the pre-prototype and prototype industries, providing highly accurate work and work surface.