Method and apparatus for impacting metal parts for aerospace applications

US8997545B1 · kind B1 · utility

Assignee

• The Boeing Company · US

Inventors

• Lauren K. Lundquist · Maple Valley, US
• James E. Pillers · Seattle, US
• McKay A. Kunz · Buckley, US
• Michael D. McGraw · Bonney Lake, US
• Gregory L. Ramsey · Erlands Point-Kitsap Lake, US
• Nate Speer · Bonney Lake, US

Key dates

• Filing date: Sep 19, 2013
• Grant date: Apr 7, 2015
• Expiry date: Sep 19, 2033

Classification

• Technology area (CPC Y): Emerging Cross-Sectional Technologies
• CPC primary: Y10S72/705
• WIPO field: Machine tools
• WIPO sector: Mechanical engineering

Abstract

An apparatus and method are provided for changing physical characteristics of a workpiece which may have been pre-loaded before being further processed. The workpiece is supported in a fixed position during processing. A driven member applies multiple impacts to one surface of the workpiece. The driven member is operated within adjustable parameters. A controller, having the adjustable parameters, is operatively connected to the driven member for causing the driven member to apply multiple impacts against a surface of the workpiece while under the control of the pre-adjustable parameters for changing physical characteristics of the workpiece.