Tool Storage and Support System

The main objective of the tool storage and support system is to prepare the tools for the production in a timely manner. The functions carried out in the tool storage system are:

(1) Tool identification,

(2) Tool storage, and

(3) Tool presenting.

Other support functions carried out in the tool storage and support system involve buildup of tool assemblies returned from the machine and tear down of tool assemblies.

Figure: Tool Stockers (a) Rack Stockers; and (b) Disk Stockers

Two types of generally used tool stockers are displayed in above figure (a) the rack stocker and disk stockers in figure (b). They can be automated in a way identical to an automated storage and retrieval system.