Verification assembly method
Patent Information
- Authority / Receiving Office
- CN · China
- Patent Type
- Applications(China)
- Current Assignee / Owner
- Filing Date
- 2026-02-11
- Publication Date
- 2026-08-11
AI Technical Summary
不正确的安装可能会导致错位、结构缺陷和潜在的故障
Smart Images
Figure CN122540288A_ABST
Abstract
Description
[0001] Related applications This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 756,882, filed February 11, 2025, entitled “Verification Assembly Method,” which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. Background Technology
[0002] Automotive components require fastening technologies that are easy to manufacture and assemble. First and foremost, the fastening technology must be reliable and efficient. In some cases, objects must be secured to a vehicle to mitigate movement and / or displacement during operation, which could lead to the object's release, damage, or kinking. For example, airbags, tubes, hoses, wires, and other objects are typically secured to vehicle components via fasteners. When fasteners are not installed correctly, such as when they are not fully inserted into the opening, they may come loose and / or the fastened object may be damaged or loosened. Similarly, when an object is improperly attached to a fastener, it may detach from the fastener or be damaged or loosened.
[0003] During manufacturing and assembly, particularly in automotive and structural component assembly, it is essential to ensure that each fastener is correctly positioned and securely tightened relative to the connected components. Incorrect installation can lead to misalignment, structural defects, and potential malfunctions. Visual inspection systems and automated inspection systems are commonly used to address these issues; however, these systems may not guarantee complete accuracy or reliable verification of proper installation. Therefore, a fastening system incorporating a built-in verification mechanism is needed to confirm safe and correct installation.
[0004] Therefore, it is desirable to provide an installation indicator configured to enhance the proper installation of the fastener assembly relative to the associated parts during assembly. Summary of the Invention
[0005] This disclosure generally relates to a fastening system for forming a connection between components. More specifically, this disclosure relates to a fastener having an installation indicator configured to indicate the proper installation of the fastener assembly relative to the components during assembly, substantially as illustrated and described in conjunction with one or more accompanying drawings and as set forth in the claims. Attached Figure Description
[0006] As shown in the accompanying drawings, the above and other objects, features, and advantages of the apparatus, systems, and methods described herein will become apparent from the following description of examples thereof; wherein like or similar reference numerals denote like or similar structures. The drawings are not necessarily drawn to scale, but rather focus on illustrating the principles of the apparatus, systems, and methods described herein.
[0007] Figure 1a The illustration shows a perspective assembly view of a fastening system including fastener components according to various aspects of this disclosure.
[0008] Figure 1b The diagram shows the fully assembled position. Figure 1a A perspective view of the fastener assembly.
[0009] Figure 1c The illustration shows a second perspective view of the fastener assembly.
[0010] Figure 2a The illustration shows a perspective front view of the fastener assembly in the disassembled position.
[0011] Figure 2b The diagram illustrates the following: along Figure 1b A perspective sectional view of the fastener assembly in the disassembled position, taken along section line A–A.
[0012] Figure 2c The illustration shows a side view of the fastener assembly in the disassembled position.
[0013] Figure 2d The illustration shows a perspective view of the assembly verification insert of the fastener assembly in the disassembled position.
[0014] Figure 2e The illustration shows a top view of the assembly verification insert of the fastener assembly in the disassembled position.
[0015] Figure 3a The illustration shows a perspective front view of a fastener assembly in a first assembly position (e.g., shipping position).
[0016] Figure 3b The diagram illustrates the following: along Figure 1b A perspective sectional view of the fastener assembly in the first assembly position, taken by section line A–A.
[0017] Figure 3c The illustration shows a side view of the fastener assembly in its first assembly position.
[0018] Figure 3d The illustration shows a perspective view of the assembly verification insert of the fastener assembly in the first assembly position.
[0019] Figure 3e The illustration shows a top view of the assembly verification insert of the fastener assembly in the first assembly position.
[0020] Figure 4a The illustration shows a perspective front view of a fastener assembly in a second assembly position (e.g., a fully assembled position).
[0021] Figure 4b The diagram illustrates the following: along Figure 1b A perspective sectional view of the fastener assembly in the second assembly position, taken by section line A–A.
[0022] Figure 4c The illustration shows a side view of the fastener assembly in the second assembly position.
[0023] Figure 4d The illustration shows a side sectional view of the fastener assembly in the second assembly position.
[0024] Figure 4e The illustration shows a perspective view of the assembly verification insert of the fastener assembly in the second assembly position.
[0025] Figure 4f The illustration shows a top view of the assembly verification insert of the fastener assembly in the second assembly position.
[0026] Figure 5a and 5b The diagrams accordingly illustrate both assembled and assembled isometric views of the fastener assembly, along with associated components and the verification system. Detailed Implementation
[0027] Unless otherwise stated or clear from the context, items referred to in the singular also include the plural, and vice versa. Unless otherwise indicated, parallel terms are intended to cover all disjunctive and conjunctive combinations of related elements. Unless otherwise specified, descriptions of ranges of values are not intended to be restrictive and include all individual values within that range. Terms such as “first,” “second,” “top,” “bottom,” “side,” “front,” and “back” are used for convenience and are not intended to be restrictive.
[0028] When accompanied by numerical values, the terms "approximately," "approximately," and "substantially" indicate deviations that will be understood by those skilled in the art, while still allowing for satisfactory operation for the intended purpose. The use of example or exemplary language is intended to illustrate embodiments and does not limit the scope of this disclosure. The terms "for example" and "such as" indicate non-limiting examples.
[0029] The term "processor" refers to one or more processing devices implemented in hardware, software, or a combination thereof, including but not limited to microprocessors, controllers, digital signal processors, application-specific integrated circuits (ASICs), field-programmable gate arrays (FPGAs), system-on-a-chip (SoCs), state machines, and combinations thereof. A processor may be coupled to or integrated with a memory device, which may include one or more suitable volatile or non-volatile storage media.
[0030] The term "and / or" refers to any one or more items in a list connected by "and / or". As an example, "x and / or y" refers to any element in the three-element set {(x), (y), (x, y)}. In other words, "x and / or y" means "one or both of x and y". As another example, "x, y and / or z" refers to any element in the seven-element set {(x), (y), (z), (x, y), (x, z), (y, z), (x, y, z)}. In other words, "x, y and / or z" means "one or more of x, y, and z".
[0031] An assembly verification system, a fastener assembly incorporating assembly verification, and a method for verifying proper assembly are disclosed. In prior art systems, assembly verification requires two distinct parts, with scannable codes on one part and blocking features on the other. This separation increases both system complexity and manufacturing cost. In contrast, the scannable features disclosed herein are integrated into a single part, thereby reducing overall complexity and cost.
[0032] The disclosed fastener assembly includes multiple components, including an assembly verification insert and a retainer. The assembly verification insert includes a planar surface configured to provide an installation indicator. The installation indicator may include a scannable verification feature, such as a QR code or barcode. This verification feature may be applied as a label, laser-engraved after molding, or otherwise formed using any suitable technology.
[0033] In some respects, the installation indicator is located on the surface of the movable plunger. The plunger can be pivotally attached to the insert, for example by a flexible movable hinge, so that the installation indicator is selectively exposed when properly assembled.
[0034] In one example, an assembly verification insert for use with a fastener assembly includes: a verification head; a pair of spring-loaded legs extending from the verification head; at least one blocking plate coupled to the verification head; and at least one movable piston coupled to the verification head, wherein the at least one movable piston includes an installation indicator, and wherein the at least one movable piston is movable relative to the verification head between a first position where the blocking plate obscures the installation indicator and a second position where the installation indicator is visible.
[0035] In some examples, the verification head includes a fixed body portion, and the at least one movable piston is coupled to the fixed body portion via a hinge.
[0036] In some examples, the hinge is a movable hinge.
[0037] In some examples, the blocking plate is hingedly coupled to the verification head and configured to pivot between a blocked position and an unblocked position.
[0038] In some examples, the movement of the movable piston biases the blocking plate from the blocked position to the unblocked position.
[0039] In some examples, the installation indicator is located on the protrusion of the movable piston.
[0040] In some examples, the installation indicator includes a baseline marker.
[0041] In some examples, the reference marker includes barcodes, quick response (QR) codes, AprilTags, or combinations thereof.
[0042] In some examples, each pair of spring legs includes a locking tab configured to engage a retainer.
[0043] In some examples, the locking piece is configured to secure the assembly verification insert relative to the retainer in a first assembly position and a second assembly position.
[0044] In some examples, the assembly verification insert is formed as a single plastic component.
[0045] In some examples, the movable piston is capable of moving between a pre-installed position and an installed position.
[0046] In another example, a fastener assembly for coupling a first component relative to a second component includes: an assembly verification insert comprising: a verification head, a pair of spring-loaded legs extending from the verification head, at least one stop plate supported by the verification head, and at least one movable piston coupled to the verification head and including an installation indicator; and a retainer having a body portion defining a retainer opening and a pair of retainer legs resiliently coupled to the body portion, wherein the retainer opening is configured to receive the pair of spring-loaded legs, and wherein engagement between the retainer and the movable piston moves the movable piston to make the installation indicator visible.
[0047] In some examples, each of the pair of spring-loaded legs includes a locking plate.
[0048] In some examples, each of the pair of retainer legs defines a first cutout configured to receive the locking tab to secure the assembly verification insert in a first assembly position.
[0049] In some examples, each of the pair of retainer legs further defines a second cutout configured to receive the locking tab to secure the assembly verification insert in a second assembly position.
[0050] In some examples, the first assembly position is the assembly part (PIA) position, and the second assembly position is the fully installed position.
[0051] In some examples, the verification head includes a fixed body portion, and the at least one movable piston is coupled to the fixed body portion via a hinge.
[0052] In some examples, the movable piston is configured to pivot relative to the fixed body portion between a recessed position and a mounted position.
[0053] In some examples, the blocking tab is configured to prevent the installation indicator from being detected before the fastener assembly is fully installed.
[0054] In some examples, the retainer comprises a stamped metal part.
[0055] In some examples, the assembly verification insert includes a molded plastic part.
[0056] In some examples, the fastener assembly further includes a load plate located between the fastener assembly and the first component.
[0057] In some examples, the load plate defines a plate opening configured to receive the pair of spring legs and the pair of retainer legs.
[0058] Figures 1a to 1c The illustration shows a fastening system 100 according to various aspects of the present disclosure, which is configured to secure two or more components via a fastener assembly 102. Figure 1a The illustration shows a perspective assembly view of a fastening system 100 having a fastener assembly 102 according to various aspects of the present disclosure. The fastening system 100 shown typically includes a fastener assembly 102 for mounting in a first component 104 and a second component 112. Figure 1b The diagram shows the fully assembled position. Figure 1a Perspective view of fastener assembly 102. Figure 1c The illustration shows a second perspective view of the fastener assembly 102.
[0059] As shown, fastener assembly 102 typically includes an assembly verification insert 108 and a retainer 116. The assembly verification insert 108 and retainer 116 of fastener assembly 102 are configured to engage and securely hold each other, thereby facilitating a reliable connection between the first component 104 and the second component 112. This engagement ensures that the first component 104 and the second component 112 remain properly aligned and connected throughout the assembly and installation process.
[0060] The first component 104 defines an A-side surface 104a (e.g., a first surface, such as an outer surface) and a B-side surface 104b (e.g., a second surface, such as an inner surface). The second component 112 similarly defines an A-side surface 112a (e.g., a first surface, such as an outer surface) and a B-side surface 112b (e.g., a second surface, such as an inner surface). For example, the first component 104 and / or the second component 112 may be automotive panels or structural components of a vehicle, such as doors, pillars (e.g., A-pillars, B-pillars, C-pillars, etc.), airbags, dashboard components (e.g., beams, brackets, frames, etc.), seat frames, center consoles, fenders, sheet metal frames, etc. Depending on the application, the first component 104 and / or the second component 112 may be made of metal (or metal alloys), synthetic or semi-synthetic polymers (e.g., plastics, such as acrylonitrile-butadiene-styrene (ABS) and polyvinyl chloride (PVC)), composite materials (e.g., glass fiber), or combinations thereof.
[0061] Each of the first component 104 and the second component 112 includes, defines, or otherwise provides one or more openings (e.g., holes or cuts), said openings being formed during the manufacture of the first component 104 and the second component 112 (as applicable). Figure 1a As best illustrated in the diagram, a first component 104 defines a first opening 106, and a second component 112 defines a second opening 140, each configured to receive and retain the fastener assembly 102 relative to the first component 104 and the second component 112.
[0062] In the example shown, the first component 104 provides a first opening 106 as a rectangular opening sized to receive a portion of the fastener assembly 102, while the second component 112 provides a second opening 140 as a rectangular opening sized to receive a portion of the fastener assembly 102.
[0063] Figures 2a to 2e The illustration shows a view of the fastener assembly 102 in the disassembled position. Figures 3a to 3e The illustration shows a view of the fastener assembly 102 in a first assembly position (e.g., shipping position, i.e., part-in-assembly (PIA) position). Figures 4a to 4fThe illustration shows a view of the fastener assembly 102 in a second assembly position (e.g., fully assembled position).
[0064] As shown in the various views, the fastener assembly 102 includes multiple components, including an assembly verification insert 108 and a retainer 116, which are configured to engage with each other at one or more locations, including a first assembly location ( Figures 3a to 3e ) and the second assembly position ( Figures 4a to 4f In some examples, a load plate (not shown) may be positioned between the fastener assembly 102 and the first component 104 to distribute the force from the fastener assembly 102 over a wider area of the first component 104, thereby mitigating potential damage to the component.
[0065] More specifically, Figure 2a The illustration shows a perspective front view of the fastener assembly 102 in the disassembled position. Figure 2b The diagram illustrates the following: along Figure 1b A perspective sectional view of the fastener assembly 102 in the disassembled position, taken along section line A–A. Figure 2c The illustration shows a side view of the fastener assembly 102 in the disassembled position. Figure 2d The illustration shows a perspective view of the assembly verification insert 108 of the fastener assembly 102 in the disassembled position. Figure 2e The illustration shows a top view of the assembly verification insert 108 of the fastener assembly 102 in the disassembled position.
[0066] Similarly, Figure 3a The illustration shows a perspective front view of the fastener assembly 102 in a first assembly position (e.g., shipping position). Figure 3b The diagram illustrates the following: along Figure 1b A perspective sectional view of the fastener assembly 102 in the first assembly position, taken by the section line A–A. Figure 3c The illustration shows a side view of the fastener assembly 102 in its first assembly position. Figure 3d The illustration shows a perspective view of the assembly verification insert 108 of the fastener assembly 102 in the first assembly position. Figure 3e The illustration shows a top view of the assembly verification insert 108 of the fastener assembly 102 in the first assembly position.
[0067] at last, Figure 4a The illustration shows a perspective front view of the fastener assembly 102 in a second assembly position (e.g., a fully assembled position, in which the assembly verification insert 108 is fully and properly positioned within the retainer 116). Figure 4b The diagram illustrates the following: along Figure 1b A perspective sectional view of the fastener assembly 102 in the second assembly position, taken by the section line A–A. Figure 4cThe illustration shows a side view of the fastener assembly 102 in the second assembly position. Figure 4d The figure shows a side sectional view of the fastener assembly 102 in the second assembly position. Figure 4e The illustration shows a perspective view of the assembly verification insert 108 of the fastener assembly 102 in the second assembly position. Figure 4f The illustration shows a top view of the assembly verification insert 108 of the fastener assembly 102 in the second assembly position.
[0068] The assembly verification insert 108 includes a verification head assembly 134 and a pair of spring-loaded legs 152 extending from the verification head assembly 134. The verification head assembly 134 includes one or more openings 160, one or more stop plates 126, and one or more movable pistons 110. Each movable piston 110 carries or supports at least one installation indicator 162. The stop plates 126 and the movable pistons 110 are supported by the verification head assembly 134 such that relative movement between the stop plates 126 and the movable pistons 110 selectively blocks or exposes the installation indicator 162. At least one of the openings 160 includes a stop plate 126 located therein. In some examples, each stop plate 126 is hingedly coupled within the opening 160 via a hinge (e.g., a movable hinge) and configured to pivot between a blocked position and an unblocked position.
[0069] Each of the one or more movable pistons 110 includes a base portion 110a and a protrusion portion 110b. The protrusion portion 110b is shaped to extend into or through a corresponding opening 160 of the verification head assembly 134 and engages a stop plate 126. The engagement between the protrusion portion 110b and the stop plate 126 allows the stop plate 126 to pivot, bend, or otherwise move between an obscured and unobscured position. The movable pistons 110 are coupled to the verification head assembly 134 via corresponding hinges 110c (e.g., active hinges) such that each movable piston 100 is movable relative to the verification head assembly 134 between a recessed position and an extended position.
[0070] Spring-loaded legs 152 extend generally perpendicular to the verification head assembly 134 (e.g., top surface 128a) and are resiliently connected to the verification head assembly 134. Each spring-loaded leg 152 includes at least one locking tab 136 configured to selectively engage a corresponding feature of the retainer 116 to secure the assembled verification insert 108 relative to the retainer 116 in one of a plurality of assembly positions. In the illustrated example, each spring-loaded leg 152 includes an outwardly oriented locking tab 136 pointing away from the central longitudinal axis 114 of the fastener assembly 102.
[0071] The retainer 116 includes a body portion 142 and a vertical fastener portion 144. The body portion 142 defines a retainer opening 138 through which spring-loaded legs 152 pass during assembly. The fastener portion 144 includes two retainer legs 150 that are resiliently attached below the body portion 142. These retainer legs 150 are bendable relative to the central longitudinal axis 114 when the fastener portion 144 is inserted through alignment openings 106 and 140 in the first and second parts 104 and 112. In some examples, the body portion 142 may include one or more leaf springs 148 configured to contact the first part 104 during installation to mitigate unwanted movement and / or rattling (i.e., humming, squeaking, and creaking, BSR).
[0072] In some examples, each retainer leg 150 includes an outer portion and an inner portion connected by a curved segment. Each of the outer and inner portions may be generally flat, parallel, and spaced apart to form a gap. Each retainer leg 150 may also include one or more guides bent at approximately 90 degrees to span the gap between the outer and inner portions.
[0073] Each of the retainer legs 150 defines one or more slits configured to selectively receive a locking tab 136 of the spring leg 152. In the illustrated example, each retainer leg 150 defines a first slit 146 and a second slit 154, the first slit 146 being configured to receive the locking tab 136 when the assembly verification insert 108 is in a first assembly position (e.g., PIA position), and the second slit 154 being configured to receive the locking tab 136 when the assembly verification insert 108 is in a second assembly position. The engagement of the locking tab 136 with the corresponding slits 146, 154 positively retains the assembly verification insert 108 relative to the retainer 116 in the corresponding assembly position. The retainer 116 can be manufactured as a single component using a metal stamping process. For example, the retainer 116 can be stamped from a sheet of metal using a die stamping process and subsequently bent via one or more bending steps to take the shape of the retainer 116. In the illustrated example, each of the pair of retainer legs 150 defines an outwardly facing clamping feature 166 configured to engage the first component 104 and / or the second component 112. The clamping feature 166 may be integrally formed with the retainer 116, for example, by a metal stamping process.
[0074] refer to Figures 3a to 3eThe locking tab 136 on the assembly verification insert 108 is configured to engage the first cutout 146 formed in the retainer 116, thereby securing the assembly verification insert 108 in a first or initial position (such as a shipping position, e.g., an assembly part (PIA) position) during the transport of the fastener assembly 102 to the end user. This locked position maintains the integrity of the assembly verification insert 108, thereby preventing premature movement or activation before final installation.
[0075] During installation, as indicated by arrow 118, when the fastener assembly 102 is inserted into the first opening 106 in the aligned first component 104 and the second opening 140 in the second component 112, the inner wall of the retainer 116 compresses the spring-loaded legs 152 of the assembly verification insert 108. This compression causes the locking tab 136 on the assembly verification insert 108 to release from the first notch 146 in the retainer 116, thereby allowing the assembly verification insert 108 to move in the direction indicated by arrow 118, thus facilitating proper engagement and assembly verification.
[0076] This allows the assembly verification insert 108 to be pushed into a second assembly position corresponding to the final assembly position. Before the assembly verification insert 108 is fully installed, the vision quality system 120 cannot read the installation indicator 162 (e.g., an assembly verification code, such as a barcode, QR code, or the like) engraved, adhered, or otherwise positioned on the protrusion 110b of the movable piston 110. Once the assembly verification insert 108 is fully in place, refer to... Figures 4a to 4f The locking tab 136 on the assembly verification insert 108 is configured to engage the second cutout 154 formed in the retainer 116, thereby securing the assembly verification insert 108 in a second or final position (such as the mounting position).
[0077] In other words, before full installation, the retainer 126 obscures the visibility of the installation indicator 162 carried by the movable piston 110. When the assembly verification insert 108 is fully positioned relative to the retainer 116 in the second assembly position, engagement between a portion of the retainer 116 and a portion of the movable piston 110 causes the movable piston 100 to pivot about its corresponding hinge 110c. This pivoting movement biases the protrusion 110b of the movable piston 110 into contact with the retainer 126, thereby displacing the retainer 126 from the obscured position to the unobscured position and exposing the installation indicator 162.
[0078] Once installed, the movable piston 110 pivots to its final insertion position, allowing the visual quality system 120 to read and confirm correct and complete installation. As shown, a scannable installation indicator 162 on a protrusion 110b on one or more movable pistons 110 and the fixed body portion 128 becomes readable only when the movable piston 100 is biased upward to remove the stop plate 126. This configuration ensures that the installation indicator 162 of the movable piston 110 is only available for scanning after correct installation, confirming that the retainer leg 150 is properly engaged and the fastener assembly 102 is securely installed. That is, in the second assembly position, the movable piston 110 presents an orientation in which the installation indicator 162 is visible and readable. Conversely, when the assembly verification insert 108 is in the disassembled position or the first assembly position, the movable piston 110 is recessed or angled relative to the verification head assembly 134, such that the installation indicator 162 is obscured by the stop plate 126 or oriented at an angle that the visual quality system 120 cannot read.
[0079] In the example shown, to aid tracking, fastener assembly 102 includes an assembly verification insert 108 having a head assembly 134 coupled to a spring leg 152. In the installed position, head assembly 134 defines a generally planar surface with an opening 160 that supports and / or is configured for use with one or more installation indicators 162, which can be determined by a visual quality system 120 (such as...). Figure 5a and 5b (As shown and described) tracking and / or manual inspection. When in the fully installed position, the head assembly 134 is a generally flat structure consisting of a fixed body portion 128 (fixed relative to the spring-loaded leg 152) and one or more movable pistons 110. In the illustrated example, the head assembly 134 includes the fixed body portion 128 and a movable piston 110 located on one side of the fixed body portion 128. The fixed body portion 128 may also include a gripping feature 164 (e.g., a flange, clamp, or similar feature) to allow an operator or robot to better grip the assembly verification insert 108 during assembly.
[0080] Head assembly 134, stop plate 126, and movable piston 110 may be integrated with fastener assembly 102. Head assembly 134 includes or provides stop plate 126 and movable piston 110, which carries mounting indicator 162. Stop plate 126 is illustrated as a generally planar tab configured to conspicuously obscure mounting indicator 162 when in a disassembled or first assembled position. Mounting indicator 162 may be a two-dimensional reference mark (e.g., barcode, quick response (QR) code, AprilTag, or the like) located on movable piston 110 of head assembly 134. Exemplary barcode 162a and QR code 162b reference marks are located on... Figure 5a Details are illustrated in B1 and B2. Although the head assembly 134 is illustrated as a generally flat structure, other shapes can be used to orient the mounting indicator 162 at an appropriate angle relative to the reader 122 when the fastener assembly 102 is properly inserted and positioned within the first opening 106 of the first component 104 and the second opening 140 of the second component 112. In another example, the mounting indicator 162 may include a three-dimensional reference mark formed on the head assembly 134.
[0081] To facilitate movement, the verification head assembly 134 includes one or more hinges 156 and 110c that allow the stop plate 126 and the movable piston 110 to pivot accordingly relative to the fixed body portion 128 of the verification head assembly 134. The movable piston 110 is configured to pivot between a disassembled position, a first assembled position, and a second assembled position. The second assembled position corresponds to a fully installed state in which the assembled verification insert 108 is properly positioned within the retainer 116 and the installation indicator 162 is exposed.
[0082] When the assembly verification insert 108 is properly inserted into the retainer 116, the interaction between the retainer 116 and the movable piston 110 causes the movable piston 100 to pivot to a second assembly position. When the assembly verification insert 108 is not fully inserted or properly positioned, the movable piston 110 remains in a first assembly position or presents a third intermediate position in which the installation indicator 162 remains obscured or unreadable.
[0083] In the first assembled position of the movable piston 110, the movable piston 110 is recessed and angled such that the mounting indicator 162 cannot be read by the visual quality system 120. Once the head assembly 134 has reached its final fully in place mounting position after the push-in process in the direction indicated by arrow 118, wherein the movable piston 110 has pivoted relative to the fixed body portion 128 as shown by arrow 158 due to contact with a portion of the retainer 116, the fixed body portion 128 and the movable piston 110 are located in a single plane or parallel plane. When the stop plate 126 is removed, the mounting indicator 162 can then be read by the visual quality system 120.
[0084] One or more components of the fastener assembly 102 may be formed as an integral structure. For example, the assembly verification insert 108 may be manufactured using die-cutting tools and injection molding processes. In another example, the assembly verification insert 108 may be a printed thermoplastic part manufactured with high precision and fine detail, which is particularly advantageous for creating parts requiring complex and / or precise features. Additive manufacturing eliminates the need for die-cutting tools typically associated with injection molding, thereby reducing upfront manufacturing costs, which is particularly advantageous in low-volume production. In some examples, the fastener assembly 102 may be manufactured using material extrusion (e.g., fused deposition modeling (FDM)), stereolithography (SLA), selective laser sintering (SLS), material jetting, binder jetting, powder bed melting, directed energy deposition, VAT photopolymerization, and / or any other suitable additive manufacturing or 3D printing process.
[0085] Additive manufacturing technology prints objects in three dimensions. Therefore, the overall printer resolution considers both the minimum feature size in the XY plane (i.e., resolution) (horizontal resolution) and the layer height along the Z-axis (vertical resolution). Horizontal resolution is the minimum movement the printer's extruder can make along the X and Y axes within a single layer, while vertical resolution is the minimum layer thickness produced in a single pass. Printer resolution can be expressed in dots per inch (DPI) or micrometers (µm). The particle (3D dot) diameter associated with horizontal resolution can be approximately 50 to 100 µm (approximately 510 to 250 DPI).
[0086] Typical layer thickness (vertical resolution) is approximately 100 µm (about 250 DPI), but layers can be as thin as 16 µm (about 1,600 DPI). Smaller grains result in higher horizontal resolution and more detail the printer can produce. Similarly, smaller layer thickness along the Z-axis results in higher vertical resolution and a smoother printed surface. However, printing at higher vertical resolution typically requires longer build times because the printer must generate more layers. In some examples, fastener assembly 102 may be manufactured at different resolutions during the printing operation.
[0087] Figure 5a and 5b Accordingly, isometric views of the fastener assembly 102 combined with the first component 104 (where the second component 112 is not shown) and the verification system are illustrated, as well as assembled and assembled isometric views. For illustrative purposes, from Figure 5a and 5b The retainer 116 is omitted in the fully assembled view. As shown, the fastening system 100 can be used with a vision quality system 120 having a reader 122 and a computer 124. The vision quality system 120 or its components can be positioned adjacent to the fastener assembly 102 and / or the first component 104 to monitor the assembly of the fastener assembly 102 with the first component 104 and / or the second component 112. In the illustrated example, the vision quality system 120 specifically includes a reader 122 communicatively coupled to the computer 124. The reader 122 can be communicatively coupled to the computer 124 via a wired or wireless link. The reader 122 is arranged to image and / or otherwise track the stopper 126 associated with the fastener assembly 102.
[0088] In some examples, the head assembly 134 is configured such that one or more mounting indicators 162 are invisible to the visual quality system 120 until the assembly verification insert 108 is fully inserted or assembled. That is, the mounting indicator 162 becomes scannable and visible when the assembly verification insert 108 is properly positioned in the retainer 116 and / or when the fastener assembly 102 is properly positioned within the first opening 106 of the first component 104. For example, if the assembly verification insert 108 is not fully inserted, the movable piston 110 will not pivot to the fully in place position to bias or displace the one or more stoppers 126. In such a situation, the visual quality system 120 may fail to detect the stoppers 126 or determine that the mounting indicator 162 or the one or more stoppers 126 are incorrectly oriented or angled. In either case, the visual quality system 120 may indicate an error or anomaly.
[0089] If the computer 124 determines, at least in part based on the one or more blocking tabs 126, that the fastener assembly 102 is not properly installed on the first component 104, an alarm may be communicated to the operator (e.g., via a portable communication device). Additionally or alternatively, when robotic assembly is employed, the robot may automatically repeat the assembly process to correct errors.
[0090] Although a single movable piston 110 and a single mounting indicator 162 are illustrated, the assembly verification insert 108 may include multiple movable pistons 100, each carrying a corresponding mounting indicator 162. The movable pistons 110 may be positioned symmetrically or asymmetrically with respect to the verification head assembly 134 to provide redundancy and improve verification accuracy by providing multiple independent position data points. For example, in addition to or instead of the illustrated gripping feature 164, a second movable piston 110 may be positioned relative to the illustrated movable piston 110 to engage with another opening 160.
[0091] Each movable piston 110 and each stop plate 126 may be coupled to the head assembly 134 via movable hinges (e.g., hinges 156 and 110c). An installation indicator 162 may be printed directly on the movable piston 110, applied as an adhesive label, or otherwise attached to the movable piston 110. The movable piston 110 is coupled to the fixed body portion 128 of the head assembly 134 via hinge 110c. The movable piston 110 is configured to pivot between a disassembled position, a first assembled position, and a second assembled position. Specifically, the head assembly 134 and the movable piston 110 present the second assembled position when the assembly verification insert 108 is properly positioned within the retainer 116 of the body portion 142. A reader 122, detached from and operatively coupled to a computer 124, is configured to track the installation indicator 162 via a processor 124a during the installation of the fastener assembly 102.
[0092] While this method and / or system has been described with reference to certain embodiments, those skilled in the art will understand that various changes and substitutions can be made without departing from the scope of this method and / or system. Furthermore, many modifications can be made to adapt particular situations or materials to the teachings of this disclosure without departing from its scope. For example, the blocks and / or components of the disclosed examples may be combined, separated, rearranged, and / or otherwise modified. Therefore, this method and / or system is not limited to the specific embodiments disclosed, but instead includes all embodiments falling within the scope of the appended claims, whether literally or according to the principle of equivalence.
Claims
1. An assembly verification insert for use with a fastener assembly, the assembly verification insert comprising: Verify header; A pair of spring-loaded legs extending from the verification head; At least one blocking piece coupled to the verification head; as well as At least one movable piston coupled to the verification head, Wherein, the at least one movable piston includes a mounting indicator, and The at least one movable piston is movable relative to the verification head between a first position where the mounting indicator is obscured by the blocking plate and a second position where the mounting indicator is visible.
2. The assembly verification insert of claim 1, wherein, The verification head includes a fixed body portion, and the at least one movable piston is coupled to the fixed body portion via a hinge.
3. The assembly verification insert of claim 2, wherein, The hinge is a movable hinge.
4. The assembly verification insert of claim 1, wherein, The blocking plate is hingedly coupled to the verification head and configured to pivot between a blocked position and an unblocked position.
5. The assembly verification insert of claim 4, wherein, The movement of the movable piston biases the blocking plate from the blocked position to the unblocked position.
6. The assembly verification insert of claim 1, wherein, The installation indicator is located on the protruding portion of the movable piston.
7. The assembly verification insert of claim 1, wherein, The installation indicator includes a reference mark.
8. The assembly verification insert of claim 7, wherein, The reference markers include barcodes, quick response (QR) codes, AprilTags, or combinations thereof.
9. The assembly verification insert of claim 1, wherein, Each of the pair of spring legs includes a locking tab configured as an engagement retainer.
10. The assembly verification insert of claim 9, wherein, The locking tab is configured to secure the assembly verification insert relative to the retainer in a first assembly position and a second assembly position.
11. The assembly verification insert of claim 1, wherein, The assembly verification insert is formed as an integral plastic component.
12. The assembly verification insert of claim 1, wherein, The movable piston is capable of moving between a pre-installed position and an installed position.
13. A fastener assembly for coupling a first component relative to a second component, the fastener assembly comprising: Assemble and verify the insert, which includes: Verify header, A pair of spring-loaded legs extending from the verification head, At least one blocking plate supported by the verification head, and At least one movable piston, coupled to the verification head and including an installation indicator; and A retainer having a main body portion defining a retainer opening and a pair of retainer legs resiliently coupled to said main body portion. The retainer opening is configured to receive the pair of spring legs, and The engagement between the retainer and the movable piston causes the movable piston to move, making the installation indicator visible.
14. The fastener assembly of claim 13, wherein, Each of the pair of spring-loaded legs includes a locking plate.
15. The fastener assembly of claim 14, wherein, Each of the pair of retainer legs defines a first cutout, the first cutout being configured to receive the locking tab to secure the assembly verification insert in a first assembly position.
16. The fastener assembly of claim 15, wherein, Each of the pair of retainer legs further defines a second cutout configured to receive the locking tab to secure the assembly verification insert in a second assembly position.
17. The fastener assembly of claim 16, wherein, The first assembly position is the assembly part (PIA) position, and the second assembly position is the fully installed position.
18. The fastener assembly of claim 13, wherein, The verification head includes a fixed body portion, and the at least one movable piston is coupled to the fixed body portion via a hinge.
19. The fastener assembly of claim 18, wherein, The movable piston is configured to pivot relative to the fixed body portion between a recessed position and a mounting position.
20. The fastener assembly of claim 13, wherein, The barrier tab is configured to prevent detection of the installation indicator until the fastener assembly is fully installed.