Robert B Wilcox

Title: **Innovative Contributions of Robert B. Wilcox in Welding Technologies**

Introduction

Robert B. Wilcox, an accomplished inventor from Woodstock, NY, has significantly impacted the field of welding with his twelve patented inventions. His innovative approaches to joining materials have marked him as a notable figure in engineering, specifically in resistance welding technologies.

Latest Patents

Among his latest patents, Wilcox has developed a groundbreaking apparatus and method for joining dissimilar materials. This invention features a rivet that extends through a primary sheet and is resistance welded to a secondary sheet. Notably, the rivet's head includes a cavity and vents that allow adhesive to be extruded from a pilot hole, enhancing its functional capability. The design enables the rivet to be deformed into an hourglass shape that optimally fills the pilot hole, while also displacing the primary sheet into the cavity. Particularly advantageous is the rivet dimension that allows it to be held by a robotic gripper, which can be withdrawn prior to the welding process.

Additionally, Wilcox's patent on a rivet feeding apparatus showcases a novel fastener feed mechanism. This apparatus comprises a mounting portion associated with a movably attached feeding portion, which houses a feed body with an internal track tailored to facilitate the conveyance of fasteners. The unique design incorporates feed fingers that retain the fasteners at a designated retention point, demonstrating a sophisticated approach to feeding systems in welding applications.

Career Highlights

Throughout his career, Robert B. Wilcox has worked with esteemed companies, including Huck International, Inc. and Arconic Corporation. His expertise and innovative spirit have led him to become a prominent figure in the development of welding technologies, contributing to advances that enhance manufacturing efficiency and joint reliability.

Collaborations

Wilcox has also collaborated with talented industry professionals such as Donald J. Spinella and Daniel Bergstrom. These collaborations have undoubtedly enriched his work, allowing for the exchange of ideas and fostering innovation within the field.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Robert B. Wilcox's inventions exemplify the spirit of innovation and creativity in the field of welding technologies. With his prolific contributions and patents, he continues to influence the way materials are joined and manipulated, proving that his impact will resonate within engineering for years to come.