(a) Field of the Invention
This invention relates to an alarm system for a machine tool and more particularly but not by way of limitation to a portable alarm system used with a CNC milling machine for alerting a machine operator that the milling of a particular work piece has been completed and the milling machine needs to be attended to and a new work cycle started.
(b) Discussion of Prior Art
Heretofore, there have been a number of patent applications filed on various types of audio and visual alarms used with milling machines for sounding an alarm related to a cutting fluid shortage, overheating of a machine tool or work piece, collisions of work pieces and moving of axes and tools. Also, in U.S. Pat. No. 6,717,514 to Stein et al., U.S. Pat. No. 5,579,884 to Appleyard et al, U.S. Pat. No. 5,563,581 to Kats, U.S. Pat. No. 5,486,691 to Dieterle, U.S. Pat. No. 5,148,053 to Dubois III, and U.S. Pat. No. 4,973,944 to Maletta, various types of machine tool safety devices, monitoring apparatus, and alarm devices are described for preventing operator injuries when using lathes, milling equipment, metal shears and the like.
None of the above mentioned prior art alarms have the particular unique features, objects and advantages of the subject portable alarm system used with a tool magazine and a CNC milling machine spindle.