Pinch and forming roll assembly for numerically controlled contour forming machines

摘要

A pinch and forming roll assembly for a numerically controlled contour forming machine wherein a piece of material (part) having a preformed cross-sectional configuration is moved through pinch rolls located in between right and left hand forming rolls is disclosed. Each forming roll is position adjustable both laterally and separationwise with respect to the pinch roll along two longitudinal axes. In addition, each forming roll is position adjustable along two rotational axes. Adjustment is provided by rotatably mounting each forming roll in a position adjustable yoke. The yokes are adapted to swivel about an axis running orthogonally through the centerline defined by the rotational axis of the relative forming roll. In addition, each yoke has a semi- spherical outer surface that is position adjustable. Further, each yoke is supported by a mechanism that allows it to be position adjusted along two orthogonal longitudinal axes. In addition, a rotating shoe assembly is provided for pressing the part to be contour formed tightly against the forming rolls. Moreover, the pinch rolls are position adjustable in a manner such that they can change the leg angularity of a part, or its thickness in certain regions, if desired.