Claims:We claim:
1. An interchangeable cartridge assembly for a press tool, the interchangeable cartridge assembly comprising:
a base plate for receiving a workpiece,
a stripper plate mounted to the base plate, to secure the workpiece on the base plate, during machining of the workpiece;
a tool housing mounted on the stripper plate and configured to house a plurality of tool members, wherein the plurality of tool members includes a first set of tool members and a second set of tool members; and
a tool plate mounted on the tool housing (3a), the tool plate defining a first set of cavities for receiving the first set of tool members and a second set of cavities for receiving the second set of tool members, wherein the first set of cavities extends into the tool plate at a first depth and the second set of cavities extends into the tool plate at a second depth, wherein the second depth is greater than the first depth.

2. The interchangeable cartridge assembly as claimed in claim 1, wherein the base plate further defines a plurality of through holes, for receiving a machined workpiece.

3. The interchangeable cartridge assembly as claimed in claim 1 further comprising a plurality of guide pillars mounted on the base plate.

4. The interchangeable cartridge assembly as claimed in claim 3, wherein the plurality of guide pillars receives and aligns the stripper plate onto the base plate.

5. The interchangeable cartridge assembly as claimed in claim 1, further comprising a first spacer member provisioned between the stripper plate and the base plate for maintaining a gap between the stripper plate and the base plate.

6. The interchangeable cartridge assembly as claimed in claim 1, wherein the stripper plate further defines a plurality of first through holes to receive the plurality of tool members.

7. The interchangeable cartridge assembly as claimed in claim 1, wherein the stripper plate is fastened to the base plate by at least one locking pin.

8. The interchangeable cartridge assembly as claimed in claim 1, wherein the tool housing further defines a plurality of through holes for slidably receiving the plurality of tool members.

9. The interchangeable cartridge assembly as claimed in claim 1, wherein the plurality of tool members extends from the tool housing and into the stripper plate.

10. The interchangeable cartridge assembly as claimed in claim 1, further comprising a plurality of guide pillar housings inserted into the tool housing for receiving the plurality of guide pillars.

11. The interchangeable cartridge assembly as claimed in claim 10, wherein the plurality of guide pillar housings receives the plurality of guide pillars such that, a gap is maintained between the tool housing and the stripper plate, to enable movement of the tool housing along the plurality of guide pillars for machining the workpiece.

12. The interchangeable cartridge assembly as claimed in claim 11, wherein the tool plate is fastened to the plurality of guide pillar housings.

13. The interchangeable cartridge assembly as claimed in claim 1, wherein the second depth is greater than the first depth by about 0.5mm to about 2mm.

14. The interchangeable cartridge assembly as claimed in claim 1, wherein the first set of tool members are fastened to the first set of cavities and the second set of tool members are fastened to the second set of cavities, such that the second set of tool members are seated at a height lower than the first set of tool members.

15. The interchangeable cartridge assembly as claimed in claim 1, wherein the plurality of tool members are at least one of a blanking tool, a piercing tool, a bending tool, a forging tool, a forming tool and a trimming tool.

16. A press tool, comprising:
a bolster assembly, comprising:
a top bolster;
a bottom bolster;
a plurality of guide rods inserted into the bottom bolster, for receiving the top bolster;
a plurality of guide ways inserted on the bottom bolster for receiving an interchangeable cartridge assembly; and
the interchangeable cartridge assembly, comprising:
a base plate for receiving a workpiece
a stripper plate mounted to the base plate, to secure the workpiece on the base plate, during machining of the workpiece;
a tool housing mounted on the stripper plate and configured to house a plurality of tool members, wherein the plurality of tool members includes a first set of tool members and a second set of tool members; and
a tool plate mounted on the tool housing, the tool plate defining a first set of cavities for receiving the first set of tool members and a second set of cavities for receiving the second set of tool members, wherein the first set of cavities extends into the tool plate at a first depth and the second set of cavities extends into the tool plate at a second depth, wherein the second depth is greater than the first depth.

17. The press tool as claimed in claim 16 further comprising an inlet conveyor fixed to the bottom bolster at an inlet section of the press tool and an outlet conveyor fixed to the bottom bolster at an outlet section of the press tool.

18. The press tool as claimed in claim 17, wherein the inlet conveyor and the outlet conveyor are each provided with a guide plate for guiding the workpiece in and out of the press tool.

19. The press tool as claimed in claim 18, wherein the guide plate further defines a plurality of slots to receive a plurality of cam followers to guide and move the workpiece in and out of the press tool.

20. The press tool as claimed in claims 19 wherein the plurality of slots are configured to vary distance between the plurality of cam followers based on the dimension of the workpiece.

21. The press tool as claimed in claim 19, wherein the plurality of cam followers are adjusted within the plurality of slots to accommodate variable dimensions of the workpiece.

22. The press tool as claimed in claim 16, wherein the plurality of guide rods are provisioned with a lubrication hole for lubricating the plurality of guide rods.

23. The press tool as claimed in claim 16, wherein the bottom bolster is configured with a plurality of ports for receiving machined workpiece.
, Description:TECHNICAL FIELD
[001] The present disclosure relates to manufacturing technology. Particularly, but not exclusively, the present disclosure relates to a cartridge assembly for use in a machine tool. Embodiments of the present disclosure relate to a press tool for machining a workpiece.

BACKGROUND OF THE DISCLOSURE
[002] Mechanical presses come in varying sizes suitable for heavy machining or light machining based on the nature of the workpiece. These mechanical presses are either hydraulic presses or pneumatic presses and are employed in either hot working or cold working processes such as forging, blanking, coining, piercing and the like. A press tool generally includes a cartridge assembly mounted to a bolster assembly. The bolster assembly is operated by the mechanical press to apply an impact force to the workpiece during the machining process.

[003] Conventional press tools are generally configured with predetermined or pre-set dimensions corresponding to the dimensions of the workpiece. As an example, for a coining operation of 10 mm coins, the components of the press tool i.e. the cartridge assembly and the bolster assembly are configured for coining 10 mm diameter coins on the workpiece. As a result, changing the desired dimensions on the workpiece necessitates replacement of the cartridge assembly and the bolster assembly to reflect the change in dimensions. For example, when changing from an operation for blanking 10 mm coins to blanking 15 mm coins, the cartridge assembly and the bolster assembly of 10 mm dimensions must be replaced with a cartridge assembly and bolster assembly of 15 mm dimensions. Accordingly, tool members of the cartridge assembly for blanking 10 mm coins would be replaced by tool members suitable for 15 mm coins. Additionally, cavities in the base plate and ports in the bolster assembly for receiving the machined workpiece require changing between 10 mm and 15 mm coin dimensions. Further, replacement of the press tool involves dismantling of the cartridge assembly and the bolster assembly from the mechanical press. Therefore, for each dimension of the workpiece, a separate press tool i.e. cartridge assembly and the bolster assembly is required. Such frequent replacements of the press tool introduce long production lead-times and induce excess manufacturing costs and undesirable manufacturing complexity.

[004] In view of the foregoing, new and improved machine tools, such as press tools, are desired which may overcome one or more limitations present in existing tools and methods of their use.

[005] The information disclosed in this background of the disclosure section is only for enhancement of understanding of the general background of the invention and should not be taken as an acknowledgment or any form of suggestion that this information forms the prior art already known to a person skilled in the art

SUMMARY OF THE DISCLOSURE
[006] In one aspect, machine tools, such as press tools and interchangeable cartridge assemblies for use therewith, are described herein which may provide one or more advantages over prior machine tools. For example, in some embodiments, machine tools described herein enable cassette type replacement of an interchangeable cartridge assembly in the press tool, thereby obviating disassembly of the cartridge assembly and booster assembly due to variable workpiece dimensions between machining operations. This advantageously reduces machining lead-time and manufacturing complexity.

[007] In one non-limiting embodiment of the present disclosure, an interchangeable cartridge assembly is provided. The interchangeable cartridge assembly comprises a base plate for receiving a workpiece and a stripper plate mounted to the base plate to secure the workpiece on the base plate during machining of the workpiece. A tool housing is mounted on the stripper plate and is configured to house a plurality of tool members. The plurality of tool members includes a first set of tool members and a second set of tool members. A tool plate is mounted on the tool housing, the tool plate defines a first set of cavities for receiving the first set of tool members and a second set of cavities for receiving the second set of tool members. The first set of cavities extends into the tool plate at a first depth, and the second set of cavities extends into the tool plate at a second depth, wherein the second depth is not equal to the first depth. In some embodiments, the second depth is greater than the first depth. In other embodiments, the second depth is less than the first depth.

[008] In an embodiment, the base plate further defines a plurality of through-holes for receiving a machined workpiece.

[009] In an embodiment, a plurality of guide pillars is mounted on the base plate.

[010] In an embodiment, the stripper plate further defines a plurality of first through holes to receive the plurality of tool members.

[011] In an embodiment, a first spacer member is provisioned between the stripper plate and the base plate for maintaining a gap between the stripper plate and the base plate.

[012] In an embodiment, the stripper plate is fastened to the base plate by at least one locking pin.

[013] In an embodiment, the tool housing further defines a plurality of through holes for slidably receiving the plurality of tool members.

[014] In an embodiment, the plurality of tool members extends from the tool housing and into the stripper plate.

[015] In an embodiment, a plurality of guide pillar housings is inserted into the tool housing, for receiving the plurality of guide pillars.

[016] In an embodiment, the plurality of guide pillar housings receives the plurality of guide pillars such that, a gap is maintained between the tool housing and the stripper plate, to enable movement of the tool housing along the plurality of guide pillars for machining the workpiece.

[017] In an embodiment, the tool plate is fastened to the plurality of guide pillar housings.

[018] In an embodiment, the second depth is greater than the first depth by about 0.5 mm to about 2 mm.

[019] In an embodiment, the first set of tool members are fastened to the first set of cavities and the second set of tool members are fastened to the second set of cavities.

[020] In an embodiment, the plurality of tool members is at least one of a blanking tool, a piercing tool, a bending tool, a forging tool, a forming tool and a trimming tool.

[021] In another non-limiting embodiment of the present disclosure, a press tool is disclosed. The press tool comprises a bolster assembly comprising, a top bolster and a bottom bolster. A plurality of guide rods is inserted into the bottom bolster for receiving the top bolster. A plurality of guide ways is inserted or positioned on the bottom bolster for receiving an interchangeable cartridge assembly. The interchangeable cartridge assembly comprises a base plate for receiving a workpiece and a stripper plate mounted to the base plate to secure the workpiece on the base plate during machining of the workpiece. A tool housing is mounted on the stripper plate and configured to house a plurality of tool members. The plurality of tool members includes a first set of tool members and a second set of tool members. A tool plate is mounted on the tool housing, the tool plate defining a first set of cavities for receiving the first set of tool members and a second set of cavities for receiving the second set of tool members. The first set of cavities extends into the tool plate at a first depth and the second set of cavities extends into the tool plate at a second depth, wherein the second depth is not equal to the first depth. The second depth can be greater than or less than the first depth. In some embodiments, a press tool described herein comprises a plurality of interchangeable cartridge assemblies having construction described herein and operable for use with the bolster assembly. Tool members between the interchangeable cartridge assemblies can be of differing dimension, design and/or function. In this way, a user of the press tool can select a first interchangeable cartridge assembly having tooling and design for a particular machining application and workpiece. When the machining operation is complete, the first interchangeable cartridge assembly can be removed from the bolster assembly. A second interchangeable cartridge assembly is inserted or coupled to the bolster assembly, wherein the second interchangeable cartridge assembly comprises tool members for machining a different workpiece and/or administering a different machining application. Notably, the requirement of dismantling the bolster assembly or replacement of the bolster assembly is eliminated. This process can be repeated any number of times for any number of interchangeable cartridge assemblies. In some embodiments, dimension(s) of the interchangeable cartridge assemblies can be selected relative to standardized dimensions of bolster assembly to ensure proper insertion and coupling of the cartridge with the bolster assembly. Accordingly, a press tool described herein can exhibit multiple machining functionalities with significant reductions in associated tooling and machine downtime.

[022] In an embodiment, an inlet conveyor is fixed to the bottom bolster at an inlet section of the press tool and an outlet conveyor is fixed to the bottom bolster at an outlet section of the press tool.

[023] In an embodiment, the guide plate further defines a plurality of slots to receive a plurality of cam followers to guide and move the workpiece in and out of the press tool.

[024] In an embodiment, the plurality of slots are configured to vary the distance between each of the plurality of cam followers based on the dimensions of the workpiece.

[025] In an embodiment, the plurality of cam followers are adjusted within the plurality of slots to accommodate variable dimensions of the workpiece.

[026] In an embodiment, a first mounting plate is mounted on the guide plate and in-between the plurality of cam followers on each of the inlet conveyor and the outlet conveyor.

[027] In an embodiment, a second mounting plate is mounted on the first mounting plate on each of the inlet conveyor and the outlet conveyor.

[028] In an embodiment, the inlet conveyor and the outlet conveyor includes a plurality of spacers provisioned between the first mounting plate and the second mounting plate for maintaining a predetermined gap for receiving the workpiece.

[029] In an embodiment, the plurality of guide rods are mounted on the bottom bolster such that a first end of the plurality of guide rods are mounted at predetermined locations on the bottom bolster and a second end of the plurality of guide rods are inserted into the top bolster.

[030] In an embodiment, the top bolster includes a plurality of guide rod housings for receiving the plurality of second guide rods.

[031] In an embodiment, each of the plurality of guide ways are configured with a stopper for locking the interchangeable cartridge assembly on the bottom bolster.

[032] In an embodiment, the bottom bolster is configured with slots for seating the bottom bolster on a bed of a machine tool.

[033] In an embodiment, each of the plurality of guide rods are provisioned with at least one lubrication hole for lubricating the plurality of guide rods.

[034] In an embodiment, the bottom bolster is configured with a plurality of ports of predetermined dimensions for receiving machined workpiece.

[035] It is to be understood that the aspects and embodiments of the disclosure described above may be used in any combination with each other. Several of the aspects and embodiments may be combined to form a further embodiment of the disclosure.

[036] The foregoing summary is illustrative only and is not intended to be in any way limiting. In addition to the illustrative aspects, embodiments, and features described above, further aspects, embodiments, and features will become apparent by reference to the drawings and the following detailed description.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF ACCOMPANYING DRAWINGS

[037] One or more embodiments are now described, by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings wherein like reference numerals represent like elements and in which:

[038] Figure 1 illustrates a perspective view of an interchangeable cartridge assembly for a press tool, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[039] Figure 2 illustrates a side view of the interchangeable cartridge assembly of Figure 1, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[040] Figure 3 illustrates an exploded view of the interchangeable cartridge assembly of Figure 1, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[041] Figure 4a illustrates a side view of a tool assembly of the interchangeable cartridge assembly of Figure 1, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[042] Figure 4b illustrates a perspective view of a tool plate of the interchangeable cartridge assembly of Figure 1, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[043] Figure 5 illustrates a perspective view of a bolster assembly for the press tool, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[044] Figure 6 illustrates an exploded view of the bolster assembly of Figure 5, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[045] Figure 7 illustrates a perspective view of the press tool with the interchangeable cartridge assembly, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[046] Figure 8 illustrates an exploded view of the press tool of Figure 7, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[047] Figure 9a illustrates an exploded view of an inlet section of the press tool of figure 7, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[048] Figure 9b illustrates an exploded view of an outlet section of the press tool of figure 7, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[049] The figures depict embodiments of the disclosure for purposes of illustration only. One skilled in the art will readily recognize from the following description that alternative embodiments of the structures and methods illustrated herein may be employed without departing from the principles of the disclosure described herein.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[050] While the embodiments of the disclosure are subject to various modifications and alternative forms, specific embodiment thereof has been shown by way of example in the figures and will be described below. It should be understood, however, that it is not intended to limit the disclosure to the particular forms disclosed, but on the contrary, the disclosure is to cover all modifications, equivalents, and alternative falling within the scope of the disclosure.

[051] The terms “comprises”, “comprising”, “includes” or any other variations thereof used in the disclosure, are intended to cover a non-exclusive inclusion, such that an assembly and mechanism that comprises a list of components does not include only those components but may include other components not expressly listed or inherent to such system, or assembly, or device. In other words, one or more elements in an assembly proceeded by “comprises… a” does not, without more constraints, preclude the existence of other elements or additional elements in the system or device.

[052] Embodiments of the present disclosure relate to an interchangeable cartridge assembly. The interchangeable cartridge assembly comprises a base plate connectable to a press tool and a stripper plate mounted to the base plate. The stripper plate is mounted on the base plate such that a predetermined gap is maintained between the stripper plate and the base plate for receiving a workpiece. A tool housing is mounted on the stripper plate and is configured to accomodate a plurality of tool members. The plurality of tool members is at least one of a blanking tool, a piercing tool, a bending tool, a forging tool, a forming tool and a trimming tool. The plurality of tool members includes a first set of tool members and a second set of tool members. A tool plate is mounted on the tool housing and defines the first set of cavities for receiving the first set of tool members and a second set of cavities for receiving the second set of tool members. The first set of cavities extends into the tool plate at a first depth and a second set of cavities extends into the tool plate at a second depth, wherein the second depth is greater than the first depth. A plurality of guide members are mounted on the base plate, for aligning the stripper plate, the tool housing and the tool plate onto the base plate. The interchangeable cartridge assembly is configured in the press tool, via a bolster assembly, such that the base plate is connected to a bottom bolster and the tool plate is connected to a top bolster. This configuration enables the top bolster to operate the interchangeable cartridge assembly, for machining the workpiece. The press tool includes an inlet section and an outlet section, configured with a conveyor means for feeding the workpiece and extracting machined workpiece from the press tool. Thus, enabling the interchangeable cartridge assembly to be removably connectable to the press tool for machining the workpiece. This enables replacement of the interchangeable cartridge assembly in the press tool as per requirement.

[053] Henceforth, the present disclosure is explained with the help of one or more figures of exemplary embodiments. However, such exemplary embodiments should not be construed as limitations of the present disclosure. The assembly shown in figures are of one particular configuration, it is to be noted that slight variations in the configuration of the assembly are to be considered as part of the present disclosure. Further, it is to be noted that the assembly is used in any presses such as horizontal presses and vertical presses. However, for the purpose of simplicity, these presses are not illustrated in the figures of the present disclosure.

[054] The following paragraphs describe the present disclosure with reference to Figures 1 to 9b. In the Figures, the same element or elements which have similar functions are indicated by the same reference signs.

[055] Figures 1-3 illustrate a perspective view, a side view and an exploded view of the interchangeable cartridge assembly (100). The interchangeable cartridge assembly (100) may be connectable to a press tool (101) via a bolster assembly (102) for machining a workpiece. The interchangeable cartridge assembly (100) broadly includes a base plate (1), a stripper plate (2) and a tool assembly (3).

[056] The base plate (1) is defined with a plurality of cavities (1a) for receiving the workpiece. The base plate (1) includes a plurality of first guiding holes (1b) [shown in Figure 3] for receiving a plurality of guide pillars (5). The plurality of guide pillars (5) includes a first end (5a) and a second end (5b) such that, the first end (5a) of the plurality of guide pillars (5) are inserted in the plurality of first guiding holes (1b) and the second end (5b) of the plurality of guide pillars (5) extend axially. Each of the plurality of guide pillars (5) comprise a locking ring (5c) positioned proximal to the first end (5a), to a seat on the surface of the base plate (1) for locking the plurality of guide pillars (5) on the base plate (1). Further, the base plate (1) also includes a plurality of apertures (1c) for receiving at least one locking pin (7).

[057] The stripper plate (2) is mounted on the base plate (1) to secure the workpiece on the base plate (1) during machining. The stripper plate (2) is mounted such that, the plurality of guide pillars (5) align the stripper plate (2) over the base plate (1). The stripper plate (2) comprises a plurality of second guiding holes (2b) corresponding to the plurality of first guiding holes (1b), for inserting the stripper plate (2) into the plurality of guide pillars (5), while mounting the stripper plate (2) on the base plate (1). This configuration prevents misalignment of the stripper plate (2) with the base plate (1) during assembly. The stripper plate (2) is mounted such that, a predetermined gap is maintained between the stripper plate (2) and the base plate (1), for receiving the workpiece. The predetermined gap between the stripper plate (2) and the base plate (1) is maintained by fastening a first spacer member (6) [shown in Figure 8] on the base plate (1). In an embodiment, the predetermined gap between the stripper plate (2) and the base plate (1) may be selected based on the thickness of the workpiece to be machined. In an embodiment, the predetermined gap between the stripper plate (2) and the base plate (1) may be in the range of about 0.5mm to about 2mm. The first spacer member (6) [shown in Figure 2] restricts movement of the stripper plate (2) along the plurality of guide pillars (5), thereby maintaining the predetermined gap between the stripper plate (2) and the base plate (1). The stripper plate (2) also includes a cut-out (13) [shown in Figure 3] for receiving the workpiece. The cut-out (13) is configured to seat the workpiece in the stripper plate (2) during the machining operation. The stripper plate (2) also includes a plurality of third through holes (2c) corresponding to the plurality of apertures (1c), for receiving the at least one locking pin (7). Upon mounting the stripper plate (2) on the base plate (1), the at least one locking pin (7) secures the stripper plate (2) onto the base plate (1). The stripper plate (2) further defines a plurality of first through holes (2a) that are machined in-line with the plurality of cavities (1a) provided on the base plate (1). The plurality of first through holes (2a) receives a plurality of tool members (4) for machining the workpiece, inserted between the stripper plate (2) and the base plate (1).

[058] The interchangeable cartridge assembly (100) further includes the tool assembly (3), comprising a tool plate (3b) and a tool housing (3a). The tool housing (3a) defines a plurality of through holes (3c) [shown in figure 8] for slidably receiving the plurality of tool members (4). The tool plate (3b) is mounted on the tool housing (3a) such that, a plurality of guide pillar housings (10) are provisioned corresponding to the location of the plurality of first guiding holes (1b) in the tool housing (3a), for receiving the tool plate (3b) and tool housing (3a). The plurality of guide housings (10) are configured such that, the tool assembly (3) is slidable along the length of the plurality of guide pillars (5). The plurality of guide housings (10) further includes a ring (10a), for locking the tool housing (3a) at a predetermined gap from the tool plate (3b). The tool plate (3b) includes a first set of cavities (8) and a second set of cavities (9) [as shown in figure 4b] for receiving each of the plurality of tool members (4), wherein the plurality of tool members (4) includes a first set of tool members (4a) and a second set of tool members (4b). The first set of cavities (8) extends into the tool plate (3b) at a first depth (X) and is configured to receive the first set of tool members (4a). The second set of cavities (9) extends into the tool plate (3b) at a second depth (X’) and are configured to receive the second set of tool members (4b). This configuration of the tool housing (3a), acts as a support member for each of the first set of tool members (4a) and the second set of tool members (4b).

[059] In an embodiment, a guideway [not shown in figures] may be provisioned to a bottom surface of the base plate (1), for mounting the base plate (1) on to the press tool (101).

[060] In an embodiment, the shape of the base plate (1) may be at least one of a rectangular shape, a circular shape or any other geometric shape which serves the requirement.

[061] In an embodiment, the plurality of cavities (1a) may be through holes, defined with shapes such as, but not limiting to a circular shape, a rectangular shape, a square shape or any other geometric shape which serves the requirement.

[062] In an embodiment, the plurality of cavities (1a) may be selected such that, the workpiece of varying dimensions can be machined.

[063] In an embodiment, the plurality of first guiding holes (1b) and the plurality of apertures (1c) may be through holes.

[064] In an embodiment, the workpiece may be a metallic strip or a non-metallic strip on which various operation such as blanking, coining, punching etc. operations may be performed.

[065] In an embodiment, the predetermined gap between the stripper plate (2) and the base plate (1) may be selected based on the thickness of the workpiece to be machined. In another embodiment, the predetermined gap between the stripper plate (2) and the base plate (1) may range from about 0.5mm to about 2mm.

[066] In an embodiment, the shape of the stripper plate (2) may be at least one of a rectangular shape, a circular shape or any other shape which serves the requirement.

[067] In an embodiment, the first spacer member (6) may be selected from a group such, as but not limiting to, a fastener, a flange, a protrusion and the like, which serves the purpose of maintaining the predetermined gap between the stripper plate (2) and the base plate (1).

[068] In an embodiment, the plurality of third through holes (2c) may be a counter-sink hole or a counter-bored hole for seating a head of the at least one locking pin (7).

[069] In an embodiment, the at least one locking pin (7) may be at least one of a bolt, screw or any other fastening member, which serves the purpose of fastening the stripper plate (2) on the base plate (1).

[070] In an embodiment, the number of the plurality of first through holes (2a) may correspond to the number of the plurality of tool members (4).

[071] In an embodiment, the tool assembly (3) may include a plurality of through holes corresponding to the plurality of first guiding holes (1b), for mounting the tool assembly (3) on the stripper plate (2) via the plurality of guide pillars (5).

[072] In an embodiment, the first set of cavities (8) and the second set of cavities (9) may be defined adjacent to each other on the tool plate (3b).

[073] In an embodiment, the second depth (X’) of the second set of cavities (8) may be greater than the first depth (X) of the first set of cavities (9).

[074] In an embodiment, variation in the first depth (X) of the first set of cavities (8) and the second depth (X’) of the second set of cavities (9) may be in the range of about 0.5mm to about 1.5 mm.

[075] In an embodiment, each of the first set of cavities (8) and the second set of cavities (9) may be defined with fastening means such as, but not limiting to, screw thread arrangement, bolt and nut arrangement, snap fit arrangement or any other arrangement which serves the purpose of securing each of the plurality of tool members (4) to the tool plate (3b).

[076] In an embodiment, the plurality of guide pillar housings (10) may be connected to the press tool (101), to enable the tool assembly (3) to reciprocate along the plurality of guide pillars (5), during machining of the workpiece.

[077] In an embodiment, the shape of the tool plate (3b) may be at least one of a rectangular shape, a circular shape or any other shape which serves the requirement.

[078] In an embodiment, the plurality of guide pillar housings (10) may include a through hole, which aids in sliding along the plurality of guide pillars (5).

[079] In an embodiment, the fastening means provisioned to the plurality of guide pillar housings (10) may be a screw thread arrangement, which serves the purpose of fastening the tool plate (3b) to the plurality of guide pillar housings (10).

[080] In an embodiment, the first set of cavities (8) and the second set of cavities (9may accommodate the plurality of tool members (4) in the range of about 8 to 12 tool members, for example 8 tool members.

[081] In an embodiment, the plurality of tool members (4) may be selected from at least one of a blanking tool, a piercing tool, a bending tool, a forming tool, a trimming tool and the like.

[082] Referring to Figures 4a, which is an enlarged view of part of the tool plate (3b), illustrates the first set of cavities (8) and the second set of cavities (9). The first set of cavities (8) and the second set of cavities (9) are configured such that, second depth (X’) of the second set of cavities (8) in the tool plate (3b) is greater than the first depth (X) of the first set of cavities (9). The first set of tool members (4a) are fastened into the first set of cavities (8) and the second set of tool members (4b) are fastened into the second set of cavities (9). This configuration enables the first set of tool members (4a) to protrude in comparison with the second set of tool members (4b).

[083] In an embodiment, the press tool (101) applies load on the tool plate (3b) such that, the first set of tool members (4a) contact the workpiece prior to the second set of tool members (4b). This configuration of the first set of tool members (4a) enables machining of the workpiece up to a depth of about 0.3 mm to about 0.8 mm and shears the workpiece. At this condition, the load on the second set of tool members (4b) reduces due to shearing of the workpiece. Simultaneously, the second set of tool members (4b) contact and shear the workpiece, for machining the workpiece with the application of the same load from the press tool (101). Thus, protrusion of the first set of tool members (4a) in comparison with the second set of tool members (4b) enables machining of the workpiece, with the application of the same load from the press tool (101). In an embodiment, protrusion of the first set of tool members (4a) utilises lesser load for machining the workpiece than the conventional tool assembly (3).

[084] Figures 5 and 6 in one embodiment of the present disclosure, illustrates a perspective view and an exploded view of a bolster assembly (102) for the press tool (101). The bolster assembly (102) is configured to accommodate, the interchangeable cartridge assembly (100), for machining the workpiece.

[085] The bolster assembly (102) comprises a bottom bolster (11) mountable on a bed of a machine tool [not shown in figures]. The bottom bolster (11) includes a plurality of guideways (14) at predetermined locations on its top surface, for receiving the base plate (1) of the interchangeable cartridge assembly (100). In some embodiments, the plurality of guideways (14) includes a stopper member (26) mounted to the bottom bolster (11), for restricting movement of the base plate (1). This configuration therefore prevents misalignment of the interchangeable cartridge assembly (100) with the bolster assembly (102). In an embodiment, the interchangeable cartridge assembly (100) can be replaced in the bolster assembly (102). This enables cassette type of replacement of the interchangeable cartridge assembly (100) in the bolster assembly (102), based on the configuration of the workpiece. Therefore, requirement of dismantling the bolster assembly (102) based on dimensions and machining of the workpiece is mitigated. The bottom bolster (11) also includes a plurality of ports (28) [shown in Figure 8], configured to receive the machined workpiece. Further, the bottom bolster (11) is defined with through holes at predetermined locations, for receiving a plurality of guide rod housings (25). The plurality of guide rod housings (25) are configured to receive a first end (15a) of a plurality of guide rods (15). The plurality of guide rod housings (25) includes a fastening means [not shown in Figures] for fastening the plurality of guide rods (15) onto the plurality of guide rod housings (25). In an embodiment, each of the plurality of guide rods (15) are machined to comprise at least one lubrication hole (15c) for receiving lubrication. The at least one lubrication hole (15c) ensures lubrication to the plurality of guide rods (15) during operation.

[086] In an embodiment, the through holes defined on the bottom bolster (11) may be provided at corners of the bottom bolster (11).

[087] In an embodiment, the bottom bolster (11) may include a plurality of holes for receiving fasteners [not shown in Figures], for fastening the bottom bolster (11) onto the bed of the machine tool. In another embodiment, the bottom bolster (11) may include a plurality of slots such as T-slots (11a) on its bottom surface, for slidably mounting the bottom bolster (11) on to the bed of the machine tool.

[088] In an embodiment, the fastening means in the plurality of guide rods (15) may be a screw thread arrangement.

[089] In an embodiment, the plurality of ports (28) may be configured to accommodate machined workpiece of varying sizes or dimensions. In an embodiment, the plurality of ports (28) may be configured to accommodate machined workpieces of sizes ranging from about 5mm to about 100mm.

[090] In an embodiment, the plurality of guideways (14) may be provided adjacent to the location of the through holes of the plurality of guide rods housings (25) [shown in Figure 5].

[091] In an embodiment, the first end (15a) of each of the plurality of guide rods (15) may be tapered in configuration, for ease of assembly of the plurality of guide rods (15) onto the plurality of guide rod housings (25).

[092] Referring to Figure 7, the press tool (101) along with the bolster assembly (102) is illustrated. The bolster assembly (102) comprises a top bolster (12) mounted on the bottom bolster (11) via the plurality of guide rods (15). The top bolster (12) includes the plurality of guide rod housings (25) [shown in Figure 6] at locations corresponding to the locations of the through holes in the bottom bolster (11), for receiving the plurality of guide rods (15). The top bolster (12) is defined to be slidable along the plurality of guide rods (15). The top bolster (12) operates the interchangeable cartridge assembly (100) for machining the workpiece. In an embodiment, a second end (15b) of the plurality of guide rods (15) may be inserted into the plurality of guide rod housings (25) for mounting the top bolster (12) on the bottom bolster (11). .

[093] In an embodiment, the top bolster (12) may include a plurality of provisions for receiving fasteners [not shown in Figures], for fastening the top bolster (12) onto a ram of the machine tool. In another embodiment, the top bolster (12) may include T-slots (12a) on its top surface, for slidably mounting the top bolster (12) on to the ram of the machine tool.

[094] In an embodiment, the top bolster (12) may include a fastening means [not shown in figures] for fastening the tool assembly (3) to the top bolster (12). The top bolster (12) may include a plurality of provisions for receiving fasteners [not shown in Figures], for fastening the tool assembly (3) to the top bolster (12).

[095] Referring to Figure 9a, the press tool (101) comprises an inlet section (101a) and an outlet section (101b). The inlet section (101a) includes an inlet conveyor (16) which is provided for feeding the workpiece into the interchangeable cartridge assembly (100). The inlet conveyor (16) is mounted to the bottom bolster (11) and comprises a guide plate (17) for guiding the workpiece. The guide plate (17) is provisioned with a plurality of slots (17a), configured for receiving a plurality of cam followers (18). The plurality of cam followers (18) are configured to guide the workpiece on the guide plate (17) and into the interchangeable cartridge assembly (100) for machining the workpiece. The plurality of slots (17a) enables adjustment of the position of each of the plurality of cam followers (18), based on the size of the workpiece. Further, the inlet conveyor (16) includes a first mounting plate (19) mounted on the guide plate (17). The first mounting plate (19) is mounted in-between the plurality of cam followers (18). A second mounting plate (20) is mounted to the first mounting plate (19), such that a predetermined gap is maintained. A plurality of spacers (27) are provided in-between the first mounting plate and the second mounting plate to maintain the predetermined gap. This configuration of the first mounting plate (19) and the second mounting plate (20) act as guiding members, to guide the workpiece into the interchangeable cartridge assembly (100) during operation. In an embodiment, a first inclined plate (22) is mounted adjacent to the guide plate (17) which forms a ramp for the workpiece.

[096] In an embodiment, supporting brackets (23) may be provided adjacent to the guide plate (17) for supporting the guide plate (17) at the inlet section (101a).

[097] In an embodiment, the predetermined gap between the first mounting plate (19) and the second mounting plate (20) may range from about 0.5mm to about 2mm.

[098] Referring to Figure 9b, the outlet section (101b) of the press tool (101) is illustrated. The outlet section (101b) is provided with an outlet conveyor (21) for guiding the workpiece from the interchangeable cartridge assembly (100), to exit the press tool (101). The outlet conveyor (21) is mounted to the bottom bolster (11) and comprises the guide plate (17) for guiding the workpiece. The guide plate (17) is provisioned with a plurality of slots (17a), configured for receiving the plurality of cam followers (18). The plurality of cam followers (18) are configured to guide and move the workpiece on the guide plate (17), from the interchangeable cartridge assembly (100), to exit the press tool (101). The plurality of slots (17a) enables to adjust the position of each of the plurality of cam followers (18), based on the size of the workpiece. Further, the outlet conveyor (21) includes the first mounting plate (19) mounted on the guide plate (17) and mounted in-between the plurality of cam followers (18). The second mounting plate (20) is mounted to the first mounting plate (19) such that a predetermined gap is maintained. The plurality of spacers (27) are provided in-between the first mounting plate and the second mounting plate to maintain the predetermined gap. This configuration of the first mounting plate (19) and the second mounting plate (20) act as guiding members, to guide the workpiece out of the interchangeable cartridge assembly (100). In an embodiment, a second inclined plate (24) is mounted adjacent to the guide plate (17) which forms a ramp for the workpiece to exit the press tool (101).

[099] In an embodiment, supporting brackets (23) may be provided adjacent to the guide plate (17) for supporting the guide plate (17) at the outlet section (101b).

[100] In an embodiment, the predetermined gap between the first mounting plate (19) and the second mounting plate (20) may range from about 0.5mm to about 2mm.

Equivalents:
[101] With respect to the use of substantially any plural and/or singular terms herein, those having skill in the art can translate from the plural to the singular and/or from the singular to the plural as is appropriate to the context and/or application. The various singular/plural permutations may be expressly set forth herein for sake of clarity.

[102] It will be understood by those within the art that, in general, terms used herein, and especially in the appended claims (e.g., bodies of the appended claims) are generally intended as "open" terms (e.g., the term "including" should be interpreted as "including but not limited to," the term "having" should be interpreted as "having at least," the term "includes" should be interpreted as "includes but is not limited to," etc.). It will be further understood by those within the art that if a specific number of an introduced claim recitation is intended, such an intent will be explicitly recited in the claim, and in the absence of such recitation, no such intent is present. For example, as an aid to understanding, the following appended claims may contain usage of the introductory phrases "at least one" and "one or more" to introduce claim recitations. However, the use of such phrases should not be construed to imply that the introduction of a claim recitation by the indefinite articles "a" or "an" limits any particular claim containing such introduced claim recitation to inventions containing only one such recitation, even when the same claim includes the introductory phrases "one or more" or "at least one" and indefinite articles such as "a" or "an" (e.g., "a" and/or "an" should typically be interpreted to mean "at least one" or "one or more"); the same holds true for the use of definite articles used to introduce claim recitations. In addition, even if a specific number of an introduced claim recitation is explicitly recited, those skilled in the art will recognize that such recitation should typically be interpreted to mean at least the recited number (e.g., the bare recitation of "two recitations," without other modifiers, typically means at least two recitations or two or more recitations). Furthermore, in those instances where a convention analogous to "at least one of A, B, and C, etc." is used, in general such a construction is intended in the sense one having skill in the art would understand the convention (e.g., "a system having at least one of A, B, and C" would include but not be limited to systems that have A alone, B alone, C alone, A and B together, A and C together, B and C together, and/or A, B, and C together, etc.). In those instances, where a convention analogous to "at least one of A, B, or C, etc." is used, in general, such a construction is intended in the sense one having skill in the art would understand the convention (e.g., "a system having at least one of A, B, or C" would include but not be limited to systems that have A alone, B alone, C alone, A and B together, A and C together, B and C together, and/or A, B, and C together, etc.). It will be further understood by those within the art that virtually any disjunctive word and/or phrase presenting two or more alternative terms, whether in the description, claims, or drawings, should be understood to contemplate the possibilities of including one of the terms, either of the terms or both terms. For example, the phrase "A or B" will be understood to include the possibilities of "A" or "B" or "A and B."

[103] While various aspects and embodiments have been disclosed herein, other aspects and embodiments will be apparent to those skilled in the art. The various aspects and embodiments disclosed herein are for purposes of illustration and are not intended to be limiting, with the true scope and spirit being indicated by the following claims.