Description
Following is a sample of the information contained on this CD: BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION This invention generally relates to a stamping die check assembly, and specifically to a die check assembly for checking clearances between an end tool of a workpiece transfer system and a stamping die. Conventional stamping operations include a series of stamping dies arranged such that a work piece is moved from one stamping die to another until a desired shape is obtained. Stamping operations are often employed for high volume applications such as are required in the automotive industry. At one time, stamping die operations employed human operators to transfer work pieces between stamping dies. Current stamping operations utilize custom designed and assembled workpiece transfer systems. Typically, a workpiece transfer system comprises an arm mounted to a shuttle. The shuttle moves between two stamping dies. An end tool disposed on the arm engages the workpiece. The end tool can include a gripper that clamps onto the workpiece or a passive holder known in the art as a shovel. The shovel corresponds to a feature on the workpiece to hold the workpiece during movement between stamping dies. Typically, each stamping die includes an upper and lower part. The upper part lifts away from the lower part to allow removal of the workpiece. Operation of the workpiece transfer system begins with the end tool in a retracted position. The arm advances toward the stamping die from the retracted position as the upper stamping die begins to lift from the lower die. Movement of the transfer system corresponds with movement and the cycle time of the stamping die. It is desirable to reduce the cycle time in order to speed production and increase efficiency. For this reason, the movement of the workpiece transfer system is optimized to begin movement as the stamping die begins to open. Movement of the end tool begins even before the upper die has fully cleared the lower
