The patent badge is an abbreviated version of the USPTO patent document. The patent badge does contain a link to the full patent document.
The patent badge is an abbreviated version of the USPTO patent document. The patent badge covers the following: Patent number, Date patent was issued, Date patent was filed, Title of the patent, Applicant, Inventor, Assignee, Attorney firm, Primary examiner, Assistant examiner, CPCs, and Abstract. The patent badge does contain a link to the full patent document (in Adobe Acrobat format, aka pdf). To download or print any patent click here.
Patent No.:
Date of Patent:
Oct. 02, 2001
Filed:
May. 27, 1999
Bradly M. Roberts, Williamsville, NY (US);
Robert J. Kellner, Orchard Park, NY (US);
Thomas E. Burns, Williamsville, NY (US);
Kurt R. Kubanek, Tonawanda, NY (US);
General Electro Mechanical Corporation, West Seneca, NY (US);
Abstract
An automatic fastening machine and method which reduces fastener installation cycle time by virtue of unique tool movements, pressure foot operation and other features. The pressure foot plate is coupled to actuators for moving the same in a manner allowing tilting of the plate relative to the plane of the workpiece during movement from one fastener installation location to another. The actuators are independently operated by a servo control arrangement in conjunction with the machine control. As a result, it is not necessary for the system to seek a new down position thereby saving machine cycle time. Sensors operatively associated with the actuators in conjunction with the machine control cause movement of the pressure foot plate in reaction to force applied to the workpiece during fastener installation to maintain the workline established by the position of the workpiece prior to application of force. The clamp of the lower ram is driven positively during both upward and downward strokes so as to save cycle time. The lower ram tool is rotated in a manner which does not interfere with other components on the lower ram assembly. A new and improved slug riveting process also is provided by the machine and method.