Method of using an automatic rivet loading module
US7418774B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Dec 5, 2005 |
| Grant date | Sep 2, 2008 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Apr 20, 2027 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC Y)Emerging Cross-Sectional Technologies
- CPC primaryY10T29/53496
- WIPO fieldMachine tools
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
An automatic rivet loading module which includes a pusher mechanism, a gripper mechanism, a mandrel receptacle, mechanisms for moving mandrels in the mandrel receptacle, and a tool activation device. The gripper mechanism receives a rivet, and a mandrel is moved through the rivet such that the rivet threads onto the mandrel. The gripper mechanism moves out of the way while the pusher mechanism pushes the mandrel down. The pusher mechanism then retracts, and the gripper mechanism closes and is ready to receive another rivet. This process is repeated until the mandrel is full of rivets. The mandrel receptacle is rotatable such that the loaded mandrel swings to a position under the tool activation device to be loaded into a rivet tool. As the loaded mandrel is swung under the tool activation block, a new mandrel is swung under the gripper mechanism, in position for loading with rivets.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.