The Boeing Company

Kevin Bowe

Chris Gren McInelly

Bret A Hoeksema

Aaron Coon

Gary K Allen

Ryan Lillibridge

Tom Allen

Steve Solack

Bret Hoeksema

Chris G Mcinelly

An automated fastener insert installation system for composite panels is provided. A first module receives and secures a composite panel with respect to an origin of a first coordinate system, wherein the composite panel has opposed major surfaces and defines an insert-receiving orifice extending through one of the major surfaces, and is secured such that one of the major surfaces is externally accessible. A second module engages each of a plurality of fastener inserts with an installation aide. Third module determines a configuration of the orifice defined by the composite panel, selects a corresponding one of the fastener inserts engaged with the installation aide, inserts the selected fastener insert into the orifice, and dispenses an adhesive material through the installation aide and into the orifice about selected fastener insert such that the adhesive material secures the selected fastener insert within the orifice. Associated systems are also provided.

Automated fastener insert installation system for composite panels

Growing community of inventors

Grand Rapids, MI, United States of America

Kevin Bowe