Routing of power and data from a voltage source to multiple electrically powered tools in a multi-tool processing station

摘要

A multi-tool process station includes a tool sub-station having a plurality of electrically powered tools moveable between an operating position and a ready position; a voltage source spaced therefrom by a distance; at least one controller spaced from the tool sub-station and in communication with the tools; a cable structure extending across the distance and having not more than one outer cable sheath at any point along the distance, the cable structure supplying power from the voltage source to a plurality of the tools and further carrying control signals to the plurality of tools. The cable structure may consist of a single continuous cable, or may comprise multiple cable segments, such as first and second cables connected in series. The tool sub-station may be disposed proximate a vehicle manufacturing line and the plurality of tools comprise at least a plurality of screw spindles.