Patent attributes
A die head retaining mechanism for installing or removing a die head in a power drive for thread cutting operations is described. The mechanism comprises a cam and follower arrangement with a face gear having at least one locking jaw disposed in a slot provided on the face of the face gear oriented away from the housing. The mechanism also comprises a drive ring having a collection of cam profiles to control the movement of the locking jaws. The mechanism also comprises at least one compression spring disposed in corresponding groove(s) on the face gear. The compression spring is typically preloaded to keep the locking jaws in a locked position. The mechanism also comprises a bearing provided between the housing and the face gear. The bearing is locked in place by a retaining ring. A locking plate, spring washers, and screws are used to secure the assembly of the die head retaining mechanism on the power drive.
