Quality control structures for automated fastening machines

Abstract

To provide quality control structures that filter out undesirable structures while permitting only properly sized collars to pass through to a primary outlet.SOLUTION: Quality control structures (12) of automated fastening machines (10) comprise an elongate body (22) defining a passageway (24) and comprising one or more walls (23) and configured such that properly sized collars (14) are urged against one of the one or more walls (23) when passing through the passageway (24). The one or more walls (23) define a secondary outlet (30), and the secondary outlet is configured to restrict passage of the properly sized collars (14) through the secondary outlet (30) and permit passage of undesirable objects (20) through the secondary outlet (30).SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present disclosure relates to an automated fastening machine. [Background technology]

[0002] In the manufacture of large structures, such as aircraft, automated fasteners are used to install fasteners. These fasteners typically include a pin and a collar that is crimped or swaged onto the pin. The collars are typically delivered from a vibratory bowl by an air jet to a buffer, which delivers individual collars as needed. The vibratory bowl is manually filled by an operator. Occasionally, an operator may load the wrong size collar into the vibratory bowl. Additionally, bulk supplies of collars may contain incorrectly sized collars or so-called slugs (remnants from collar manufacturing). Undersized collars or slugs can clog the collar feed downstream of the vibratory bowl, resulting in downtime and significant technician workload. Summary of the Invention

[0003] The quality maintenance structure of the automatic fastening machine includes an elongated body that defines a passageway between an inlet and a primary outlet and includes one or more walls, the elongated body being configured to bias properly-sized collars against one of the one or more walls as they pass through the passageway from the inlet to the primary outlet. One or more of the walls each define a secondary outlet configured to restrict the passage of properly-sized collars while allowing improper objects, such as undersized collars and / or slugs, to pass. In other words, the quality maintenance structure functions to filter improper objects by preventing the improper objects from proceeding to the primary outlet and forcing them out of the secondary outlet, thereby allowing only properly-sized collars to pass through to the primary outlet. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0004] [Figure 1] 1 is a schematic diagram illustrating a quality maintenance structure and an automatic fastening machine according to the present disclosure. [Figure 2] FIG. 1 is an isometric view of one embodiment of a quality maintenance structure according to the present disclosure. [Figure 3] FIG. 3 is a side view of the embodiment of the quality maintenance structure of FIG. 2. [Figure 4] 3 is another side view of the embodiment of the quality maintenance structure of FIG. 2. [Figure 5] 3 is another side view of the embodiment of the quality maintenance structure of FIG. 2. [Figure 6] 3 is another side view of the embodiment of the quality maintenance structure of FIG. 2. [Figure 7] 7 is a cross-sectional view of the embodiment of the quality maintenance structure of FIG. 2 taken along line 7-7 of FIG. 3. [Figure 8] 8 is a cross-sectional view of the embodiment of the quality maintenance structure of FIG. 2 taken along line 8-8 of FIG. 4. [Figure 9] 9 is a cross-sectional view of the embodiment of the quality maintenance structure of FIG. 2 taken along line 9-9 of FIG. 6. [Figure 10] 1 is a flow chart that schematically illustrates a method according to the present disclosure. [Figure 11] 1 is a flow chart that schematically illustrates a method according to the present disclosure. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0005] An automated fastening machine 10 and a quality maintenance structure 12 for the automated fastening machine 10 are disclosed herein and are shown generally in Figure 1. Generally, elements that are likely to be included in a given embodiment are shown in solid lines, while elements that are optional in a given embodiment or that correspond to a particular embodiment are shown in dashed lines. However, elements shown in solid lines are not required for all embodiments of the present disclosure, and elements shown in solid lines may be omitted from a particular embodiment without departing from the scope of the present disclosure.

[0006] The quality maintenance structure 12 is installed in the automated fastening machine 10 to remove undesirable objects 20 from the stream of color being transported from the color supply source 16 to the installation tool 18 (e.g., a swaging tool). The undesirable objects 20 are, for example, undersized color and / or slugs that may cause blockages in the stream of color. The quality maintenance structure 12 may additionally or alternatively be referred to as a filter or color filter for filtering out the undesirable objects 20.

[0007] As shown generally in FIG. 1 , the quality maintenance structure 12 includes at least an elongated body 22 that defines a passageway 24 and includes one or more walls 23 configured so that an appropriately sized collar 14 abuts against one of the walls 23 during passage through the passageway 24. The one wall 23 against which the appropriately sized collar 14 abuts defines a secondary exit 30 that is configured to restrict the passage of the appropriately sized collar 14 through the secondary exit 30 while allowing the passage of the improper object 20 therethrough. As shown generally in the cross-sectional view of the elongated body 22 shown in FIG. 1 , in some embodiments, the wall 23 against which the appropriately sized collar 14 abuts includes a lip 46 that at least partially defines the secondary exit 30 and extends along the secondary exit. The lip 46 is configured to engage the appropriately sized collar 14 as it passes through the passageway 24.

[0008] 1 , the quality maintenance structure 12 may additionally or alternatively be described as including an elongated body 22 defining a passageway 24, an entrance 26 to the passageway 24 sized to receive the properly sized collars 14, a primary exit 28 from the passageway 24 sized to discharge the properly sized collars 14, and one or more secondary exits 30 from the passageway 24 disposed between the entrance 26 and the primary exit 28. The one or more secondary exits 30 are sized to discharge the improper objects 20 and restrict passage of the improper sized collars 14. In some embodiments, the quality maintenance structure 12 is configured to be operatively installed with the secondary exits 30 located in an area immediately adjacent to and vertically below the passageway 24. This allows gravity to pass the improper objects 20 through the one or more secondary exits 30 as the improper objects 20 pass through the passageway 24.

[0009] In this specification, the inlet 26 may be referred to as upstream and the primary outlet 28 may be referred to as downstream with respect to the quality maintenance structure 12 and the elongated body 22 .

[0010] In some embodiments, the inlet 26 is sized and shaped to accommodate a particular size of collar, for example, the diameter and height of an appropriately sized collar 14. The inlet 26 can thus act to restrict oversized structures from entering the passageway 24, so that the quality maintenance structure 12 need only remove or filter out undersized improper objects.

[0011] 1 , each secondary outlet 30 has a secondary outlet length 32 and a secondary outlet width 34 that is smaller than the secondary outlet length 32 and smaller than the diameter 36 of an appropriately sized collar 14, thereby restricting an appropriately sized collar 14 from passing through one or more of the secondary outlets 30 during passage through the passage 24. Furthermore, having the secondary outlet length 32 longer than the secondary outlet width 34 increases the opportunity for the undesired object 20 to pass through the secondary outlet 30 and out of the passage 24, reducing the likelihood that the undesired object 20 will become stuck within the secondary outlet 30. In some embodiments, the secondary outlet length 32 is 2-5 times or more the secondary outlet width 34.

[0012] Continuing to refer to FIG. 1 , in some embodiments, the elongated body 22 includes a first floor 38 facing the passageway 24 and configured to allow the appropriately sized collar 14 to roll or slide thereon during passage through the passageway 24. In such embodiments, the elongated body 22 may also include a first sidewall 40 including a first sidewall outer surface 42 facing away from the passageway 24 and a first sidewall inner surface 44 facing the passageway 24 and extending from the first floor 38. A first secondary outlet 30′ of the one or more secondary outlets 30 extends through the first sidewall 40. In some such embodiments, as perhaps best seen in the schematic cross-sectional view of the elongated body 22 shown in solid lines in FIG. 1 , the first sidewall inner surface 44 includes a first sidewall lip 46 extending along the first secondary outlet 30′ opposite the first floor 38. In some embodiments, the first sidewall inner surface 44 has a first sidewall maximum inner surface width 48 that is greater than the secondary outlet width 34. Therefore, first sidewall maximum inner surface width 48 is sized to accommodate diameter 36 of appropriate-sized collar 14. As a result, when appropriate-sized collar 14 slides or rolls along first floor 38 while passing through passageway 24 and strikes first sidewall 40, first sidewall lip 46 engages with appropriate-sized collar 14, restricting the appropriate-sized collar 14 from exiting passageway 24 through first secondary outlet 30'.

[0013] As best seen in the dashed cross-section of FIG. 1 , in some embodiments of the quality maintenance structure 12, the elongated body 22 further includes a second floor 50 facing the passageway 24 and configured for the appropriately sized collar 14 to roll or slide on. In such embodiments, the elongated body 22 may also include a second sidewall 52 including a second sidewall outer surface 54 facing away from the passageway 24 and a second sidewall inner surface 56 facing the passageway 24 and extending from the second floor 50. In such embodiments, a second secondary outlet 30″ of the one or more secondary outlets 30 extends through the second sidewall 52. In some such embodiments, as perhaps best seen in the dashed cross-section of the elongated body 22 in FIG. 1 , the second sidewall inner surface 56 includes a second sidewall lip 58 extending along the second secondary outlet 30″ opposite the second floor 50. In some embodiments, the second sidewall inner surface 56 has a second sidewall maximum inner surface width 60 that is greater than the secondary exit width 34. Accordingly, the second sidewall maximum inner surface width 60 is sized to accommodate the diameter 36 of the appropriately sized collar 14. As a result, as the appropriately sized collar 14 slides or rolls along the second floor 50 during passage through the aisle 24 and strikes the second sidewall 52, the second sidewall lip 58 engages the appropriately sized collar 14, restricting the appropriately sized collar 14 from exiting the aisle 24 through the second secondary exit 30''. While FIG. 1 schematically illustrates two secondary exits 30, any number of secondary exits 30, such as three or more secondary exits 30, may be used in the quality maintenance structure 12.

[0014] In some embodiments including two secondary outlets 30, the second floor 50 is not coextensive with the first floor 38, and the second sidewall inner surface 56 is not coextensive with the first sidewall inner surface 44. Specifically, as shown generally by the schematic breaks in the elongated body 22 in FIG. 1 , the second floor 50 is separate from, for example, the first floor 38, and the second sidewall 52 is separate from, for example, the first sidewall 40. In other words, the elongated body 22 can be shaped or configured such that an appropriately sized collar 14 rolls or slides along and abuts against the various walls of the elongated body 22 during passage through the passageway 24.

[0015] In some such embodiments, the second floor 50 is on the opposite side of the aisle 24 from the first floor 38, and the second sidewall inner surface 56 is on the opposite side of the aisle 24 from the first sidewall inner surface 44. For example, one or more walls 23 of the elongated body 22 may be configured to define one or more curves in the aisle such that, when the quality maintenance structure 12 is operatively installed, each of the first sidewall 40 and the second sidewall 52 is positioned generally below the quality maintenance structure 12 such that the undesired objects 20 pass by gravity through the first secondary exit 30′ or the second secondary exit 30″ while passing through the aisle 24.

[0016] Continuing to refer to FIG. 1 , in some embodiments, the passageway 24 can be said to have a longitudinal axis 62, and the elongated body 22 can be said to include an inlet region 64 in which the inlet 26 is formed, a primary outlet region 66 in which the primary outlet 28 is formed, and a first secondary outlet region 68 in which the first secondary outlet 30′ is formed. In some embodiments, the longitudinal axis 62 is curved and not straight along its entire length. In some embodiments, the longitudinal axis 62 is straight within the inlet region 64 and curved within the first secondary outlet region 68. This allows the inlet region 64 to be configured to operatively and easily receive properly sized collars 14 through the inlet 26 (e.g., by gravity), and then, due to the curvature of the longitudinal axis 62 within the first secondary outlet region 68, these properly sized collars 14 will strike the first sidewall 40 as they pass through the first secondary outlet region 68. Specifically, when the quality maintenance structure 12 is functionally installed, the longitudinal axis 62 curves away from the vertical within the first secondary outlet region 68, thereby enabling at least a portion of the first secondary outlet 30' to be oriented vertically downward.

[0017] In some embodiments, elongated body 22 can also be said to include a second secondary exit region 70 having a second secondary exit 30'' formed therein, and in some such embodiments, longitudinal axis 62 is curved within second secondary exit region 70. In some such embodiments, longitudinal axis 62 is curved toward vertical within second secondary exit region 70, thereby allowing at least a portion of second secondary exit 30'' to face vertically downward when quality maintenance structure 12 is operatively installed.

[0018] In some embodiments, the major axis 62 is linear within the primary outlet region 66, and in some such embodiments, the major axis 62 within the inlet region 64 is parallel or collinear with the major axis 62 within the primary outlet region 66.

[0019] By including two secondary outlets 30 through different walls 23 of the elongated body 22, with the longitudinal axis 62 curving away from and back toward the vertical along its length, the linear distance between the inlet 26 and the primary outlet 28 can be reduced when the inlet region 64 and the primary outlet region 66 are parallel or collinear with one another. This can be particularly useful when installing the quality maintenance structure 12 in an existing automated fastening machine 10, for example, by simply replacing the down tube with the elongated body 22.

[0020] In some embodiments, the first bed 38 twists within the first secondary outlet region 68 from near the inlet region 64 toward the primary outlet region 66, and in some such embodiments, the second bed 50 also twists within the second secondary outlet region 70 from near the first secondary outlet region 68 toward the primary outlet region 66.

[0021] In other embodiments, the major axis 62 is straight along its entire length.

[0022] In some embodiments, the first inner sidewall surface 44 slopes away from the longitudinal axis 62 toward the first secondary outlet 30′ at the opposite end of the exit region 66, i.e., the upstream end of the first secondary outlet 30′. Similarly, in some embodiments, the second inner sidewall surface 56 slopes away from the longitudinal axis 62 toward the second secondary outlet 30″ at the opposite end of the exit region 66, i.e., the upstream end of the second secondary outlet 30″. Such regions of the first inner sidewall surface 44 may be referred to as being sloped, angled, tapered, or tapered. In such embodiments, it may be easier for undesirable objects 20 to pass through each secondary outlet 30 than if the angled surface were not present.

[0023] In some embodiments, the first inner sidewall surface 44 slopes away from the first secondary outlet 30′ toward the longitudinal axis 62 at the opposite end of the inlet region 64, i.e., the downstream end of the first secondary outlet 30′. Similarly, in some embodiments, the second inner sidewall surface 56 slopes away from the second secondary outlet 30″ toward the longitudinal axis 62 at the opposite end of the inlet region 64, i.e., the downstream end of the second secondary outlet 30″. Such regions of the second inner sidewall surface 56 may be referred to as being sloped, angled, tapered, or tapered. In such embodiments, an appropriately sized collar 14 may be less likely to become stuck in the passageway 24 as it passes through one or more secondary outlets 30.

[0024] In some embodiments, elongated body 22 is a unitary structure, such as by additive manufacturing.

[0025] With continued reference to FIG. 1 , the automated fastening machine 10 may include a supply 16 of properly sized collars 14, an installation tool 18 configured to operatively install the properly sized collars 14, and a quality control structure 12 positioned to receive the properly sized collars 14 and the improper objects 20 from the supply 16 and deliver only the properly sized collars 14 to the installation tool 18.

[0026] Some embodiments of the automatic fastening machine 10 further include a collection structure 72, such as a bin or basin, that is positioned external to the quality maintenance structure 12 to collect the unsuitable objects 20 that exit the quality maintenance structure 12 through the secondary exit 30.

[0027] Some embodiments of the automatic fastening machine 10 further include a buffer 74 operatively disposed between the quality maintenance structure 12 and the installation tool 18 and configured to buffer and deliver the properly sized collar 14 to the installation tool 18.

[0028] In some embodiments of the automatic fastener 10, the supply source 16 includes a hopper 76, such as a vibratory bowl.

[0029] 2-9, a non-exclusive example of quality preservation structure 12 is shown in the form of quality preservation structure 300. Where appropriate, reference numerals from the schematic diagram of FIG. 1 are used to indicate corresponding portions of quality preservation structure 300. However, the examples of FIGS. 2-9 are non-exclusive and do not limit quality preservation structure 12 to the illustrated embodiment of quality preservation structure 300. That is, quality preservation structure 12 is not limited to the particular embodiment of quality preservation structure 300 illustrated, and quality preservation structure 12 can incorporate any number of the various aspects, configurations, features, properties, etc. of quality preservation structure 12 illustrated in and described with reference to the schematic diagram of FIG. 1 and / or the embodiments of FIGS. 2-9 and variations thereof, and need not include all such aspects, configurations, features, properties, etc. For purposes of brevity, each of the aforementioned components, parts, portions, aspects, regions, etc., or variations thereof, may not be described, illustrated, and / or labeled again with respect to quality preservation structure 300. However, it is within the scope of this disclosure that the aforementioned features, variations, etc. may be employed in quality preservation structure 300.

[0030] The quality preservation structure 300 is an embodiment of a quality preservation structure 12 in which the elongated body 22 is formed with two secondary outlets 30 that penetrate opposing walls 23 of the elongated body 22. Additionally, the elongated body 22 of the quality preservation structure 300 has a linear inlet region 64, a first secondary outlet region 68 that curves away from the vertical, a second secondary outlet region 70 that curves back toward the vertical, and a primary outlet region 66 that is linear and parallel to the inlet region 64. Additionally, within the first secondary outlet region 68, the profile of the elongated body 22 twists clockwise (as viewed from above) away from the inlet region 64, while within the second secondary outlet region 70, the profile of the elongated body 22 twists counterclockwise (as viewed from above) away from the inlet region 64. The quality preservation structure 300 is configured to be installed with the inlet 26 located above the primary outlet 28.

[0031] As best seen in FIGS. 7 and 8 , quality maintenance structure 300 is an embodiment of quality maintenance structure 12 in which first and second inner sidewall surfaces 44, 56 are sloped away from longitudinal axis 62 upstream of first and second secondary outlets 30′, 30″ and toward longitudinal axis 62 downstream of first and second secondary outlets 30′, 30″, respectively. It can be seen that the physical configuration of passageway 24 defined by wall 23 of quality maintenance structure 300 and the locations of secondary outlets 30′, 30″ causes both properly sized collars and improper objects dispensed from inlet 26 to impinge upon the wall defining secondary outlet 30 due to gravity. However, the dimensions of secondary outlet 30 allow undersized collars and / or improper objects, such as slugs, to pass through and exit passageway 24 before reaching primary outlet 28, while retaining properly sized collars within passageway 24 and directing them toward primary outlet 28.

[0032] 10 and 11 are schematic flow charts illustrating exemplary, non-exclusive examples of methods according to the present disclosure. In FIGS. 10 and 11, some steps are depicted in dashed boxes, indicating that these steps are optional or may correspond to any version of the methods according to the present disclosure. However, not all methods according to the present disclosure necessarily include steps depicted in solid boxes. Furthermore, the methods and steps depicted in FIGS. 10 and 11 are not limiting, and as will be understood from the description herein, other methods and steps are within the scope of the present disclosure, including methods having more or fewer steps than those depicted.

[0033] 10 , the method 100 includes receiving 102 properly sized collars 14 and improper objects 20 as a stream of collars, removing 104 the improper objects 20 from the stream of collars, and delivering 106 the stream of collars without the improper objects 20 to an installation tool 18. In some embodiments, receiving 102 includes receiving the properly sized collars 14 and improper objects 20 by gravity, and removing 104 includes removing the improper objects 20 by gravity. In some embodiments, removing 104 includes restricting 108 the properly sized collars 14 from exiting the stream of collars and allowing 110 the improper objects 20 to exit the stream of collars. Some methods 100 are performed by a quality maintenance structure 12 according to the present disclosure.

[0034] 11 , method 200 includes feeding 202 properly sized collars 14 and improper objects 20 into passageway 24, abutting 204 the properly sized collars 14 and improper objects 20 against walls 23 at least partially defining passageway 24, and allowing 208 the improper objects 20 through secondary exits 30 formed in walls 23 while restricting 206 the properly sized collars 14 from passing through secondary exits 30. In some embodiments, feeding 202, abutting 204, and allowing 208 are driven at least in part by gravity. Some methods 200 are performed by a quality maintenance structure 12 or automated fastening machine 10 according to the present disclosure.

[0035] Illustrative, non-exclusive examples of inventive subject matter according to this disclosure are set forth in the enumerated appendices below.

[0036] Appendix A. A quality maintenance structure (12) for an automatic fastening machine (10), A quality maintenance structure (12) comprising an elongated body (22) defining a passageway (24) and including one or more walls (23), the elongated body (22) configured to allow an appropriate-sized collar (14) to abut against one of the one or more walls (23) while passing through the passageway (24), the one or more walls (23) defining a secondary exit (30) configured to restrict the appropriate-sized collar (14) from passing through the secondary exit (30) while allowing an inappropriate object (20) to pass through the secondary exit (30).

[0037] Appendix A1. The quality preservation structure (12) of Appendix A, wherein the one or more walls (23) at least partially define and extend along the secondary outlet (30) and include a lip (46) configured to engage the properly sized collar (14) as the properly sized collar passes through the passage (24).

[0038] Appendix A2. A quality maintaining structure (12) according to any one of Appendices A to A1, further including the constituent features of any one of Appendices B to B3.8.

[0039] Appendix B. A quality maintenance structure (12) for an automatic fastening machine (10) for transporting properly sized collars (14) from a supply (16) of said properly sized collars (14) to an installation tool (18) and for removing improper objects (20) from said supply (16) of said properly sized collars (14), comprising: an elongated body (22) defining a passageway (24), an inlet (26) to the passageway (24) sized to receive the properly sized collar (14), a primary outlet (28) from the passageway (24) sized to discharge the properly sized collar (14), and one or more secondary outlets (30) from the passageway (24) disposed between the inlet (26) and the primary outlet (28), the one or more secondary outlets (30) sized to discharge the improper object (20) and to restrict passage of the properly sized collar (14); The quality maintenance structure (12) is configured to be operatively installed with the one or more secondary outlets (30) located in an area vertically below and immediately adjacent to the passageway (24).

[0040] Appendix B1. The quality maintenance structure (12) of Appendix B, wherein each of the one or more secondary outlets (30) has a secondary outlet length (32) and a secondary outlet width (34) that is smaller than the secondary outlet length (32) and smaller than the diameter (36) of the appropriately sized collar (14).

[0041] Appendix B2. The elongated body (22) is a first floor (38) facing the passage (24) and configured for the appropriate-sized collar (14) to roll or slide on; and a first sidewall (40) including a first sidewall outer surface (42) facing away from the passage (24) and a first sidewall inner surface (44) facing the passage (24) and extending from the first floor (38); A quality maintenance structure (12) according to any one of Appendices B to B1, wherein a first secondary outlet (30') of the one or more secondary outlets (30) extends through the first side wall (40).

[0042] Appendix B2.1. The quality maintenance structure (12) of Appendix B2, wherein the first sidewall inner surface (44) includes a first sidewall lip (46) extending along the first secondary outlet (30') opposite the first floor (38).

[0043] Appendix B2.2. A quality-maintaining structure (12) according to any one of Appendixes B2 to B2.1 when dependent on Appendix B1, wherein the first sidewall inner surface (44) has a first sidewall maximum inner surface width (48) that is greater than the secondary outlet width (34).

[0044] Appendix B2.3. The elongated body (22) is a second floor (50) facing the passage (24) and configured for the appropriate-sized collar (14) to roll or slide on; and a second sidewall (52) including a second sidewall outer surface (54) facing away from the passage (24) and a second sidewall inner surface (56) facing the passage (24) and extending from the second floor (50); A quality-maintaining structure (12) according to any one of Appendices B2 to B2.2, wherein a second secondary outlet (30'') of the one or more secondary outlets (30) extends through the second side wall (52).

[0045] Appendix B2.3.1. The quality maintenance structure (12) of Appendix B2.3, wherein the second sidewall inner surface (56) includes a second sidewall lip (58) extending along the second secondary outlet (30'') opposite the second floor (50).

[0046] Appendix B2.3.2. A quality-maintaining structure (12) according to any one of Appendixes B2.3 to B2.3.1 when dependent on Appendix B1, wherein the second sidewall inner surface (56) has a second sidewall maximum inner surface width (60) that is greater than the secondary outlet width (34).

[0047] Appendix B2.3.3. A quality preservation structure (12) according to any one of Appendixes B2.3 to B2.3.2, wherein the second floor (50) is not coextensive with the first floor (38) and the second sidewall inner surface (56) is not coextensive with the first sidewall inner surface (44).

[0048] Appendix B2.3.4. A quality maintaining structure (12) according to any one of Appendixes B2.3 to B2.3.2, wherein the second floor (50) is on the opposite side of the passage (24) from the first floor (38), and the second side wall inner surface (56) is on the opposite side of the passage (24) from the first side wall inner surface (44).

[0049] Appendix B3. The passage (24) has a longitudinal axis (62); A quality-maintaining structure (12) according to any one of Appendices B to B2.3.4, wherein the elongated body (22) includes an inlet region (64) in which the inlet (26) is formed, a primary outlet region (66) in which the primary outlet (28) is formed, and a first secondary outlet region (68) in which a first secondary outlet (30') of the one or more secondary outlets (30) is formed.

[0050] Appendix B3.1. The quality-maintaining structure (12) of Appendix B3, wherein the longitudinal axis (62) is curved.

[0051] Appendix B3.2. A quality-maintaining structure (12) according to any one of Appendixes B3 to B3.1, wherein the longitudinal axis (62) is straight within the inlet region (64) and curved within the first secondary outlet region (68).

[0052] Appendix B3.2.1. The elongated body (22) further includes a second secondary outlet region (70) in which a second secondary outlet (30") of the one or more secondary outlets (30) is formed; The quality-maintaining structure (12) of clause B3.2, wherein the longitudinal axis (62) is curved within the second secondary exit region (70).

[0053] Appendix B3.2.2. The quality-maintaining structure (12) according to any one of Appendixes B3.2 to B3.2.1, wherein the major axis (62) is straight within the primary exit region (66).

[0054] Clause B3.2.2.1. The quality maintenance structure (12) of clause B3.2.2, wherein the longitudinal axis (62) in the inlet region (64) is parallel to or collinear with the longitudinal axis (62) in the primary outlet region (66).

[0055] Appendix B3.3. A quality maintenance structure (12) according to any one of Appendixes B3 to B3.2 when dependent on Appendix B2, wherein the first floor (38) is twisted within the first secondary outlet region (68) from near the inlet region (64) towards the primary outlet region (66).

[0056] Appendix B3.3.1. A quality maintenance structure (12) according to Appendix B3.3 when dependent on Appendix B3.2.1 and Appendix B2.3, wherein the second floor (50) is twisted within the second secondary outlet region (70) from adjacent the first secondary outlet region (68) towards the primary outlet region (66).

[0057] Appendix B3.4. The quality-maintaining structure (12) of Appendix B3, wherein the major axis (62) is straight along its entire length.

[0058] Appendix B3.5. A quality-maintaining structure (12) according to any one of Appendixes B3 to B3.4 when dependent on Appendix B2, wherein the first sidewall inner surface (44) slopes away from the longitudinal axis (62) toward the first secondary outlet (30') on the side opposite the outlet region (66).

[0059] Appendix B3.6. A quality maintenance structure (12) according to any one of Appendixes B3 to B3.5 when dependent on Appendix B2, wherein the first sidewall inner surface (44) slopes toward the longitudinal axis (62) on the side opposite the inlet region (64) as it moves away from the first secondary outlet (30').

[0060] Appendix B3.7. A quality-maintaining structure (12) according to any one of Appendixes B3 to B3.6 when dependent on Appendix B2.3, wherein the second sidewall inner surface (56) slopes away from the longitudinal axis (62) toward the second secondary outlet (30'') on the opposite side of the outlet region (66).

[0061] Appendix B3.8. A quality-maintaining structure (12) according to any one of Appendixes B3 to B3.7 when dependent on Appendix B2.3, wherein the second sidewall inner surface (56) slopes toward the longitudinal axis (62) on the side opposite the inlet region (64) as it moves away from the second secondary outlet (30'').

[0062] Appendix C. A source (16) of properly sized collars (14); an installation tool (18) configured to operatively install the properly sized collar (14); and a quality maintenance structure (12) according to any one of Appendices A to B3.8, arranged to receive the properly sized collars (14) and the improper objects (20) from the supply source (16) and deliver only the properly sized collars (14) to the installation tool (18).

[0063] Appendix C1. The automated fastening machine (10) of Appendix C, further comprising a recovery structure (72) positioned to recover the undesirable object (20) exiting the quality maintenance structure (12).

[0064] Appendix C2. The automatic fastening machine (10) of any one of Appendixes C to C1, further comprising a buffer (74) operatively disposed between the quality maintaining structure (12) and the installation tool (18) and configured to buffer and deliver the properly sized collar (14) to the installation tool (18).

[0065] Appendix C3. The automatic fastening machine (10) according to any one of Appendixes C to C2, wherein the supply source (16) includes a hopper (76).

[0066] C3.1. The automatic fastening machine (10) of C3, wherein the hopper (76) includes a vibratory bowl.

[0067] Appendix D. Additively manufacturing a quality-maintaining structure (12) according to any one of Appendixes A-B3.8.

[0068] Appendix E. Receiving (102) the correct size colors (14) and the incorrect objects (20) as a color stream; removing (104) the unwanted object (20) from the color flow; and delivering (106) the stream of collars free of the inappropriate object (20) to an installation tool (18).

[0069] CLAIM E1. The receiving (102) includes receiving the properly sized collar (14) and the improper object (20) by gravity; The method (100) of Appendix E, wherein the removing (104) comprises removing the object (20) by gravity.

[0070] Appendix E2. The method (100) of any of Appendixes E-E1, wherein the removing (104) includes restricting (108) the properly sized collars (14) from exiting the collar stream and allowing (110) the inappropriate objects (20) to exit the collar stream.

[0071] Appendix E3. A method (100) according to any one of Appendixes E to E2, carried out by a quality maintaining structure (12) according to any one of Appendixes A to B3.8 or an automatic fastening machine (10) according to any one of Appendixes C to C3.1.

[0072] Appendix F. Feeding (202) properly sized collars (14) and improper objects (20) into passageways (24); abutting (204) the properly sized collar (14) and the improper object (20) against a wall (23) at least partially defining the passageway (24); allowing (208) the inappropriate object (20) to pass through a secondary exit (30) formed in the wall (23), while restricting (206) the properly sized collar (14) from passing through the secondary exit (30).

[0073] Clause F1. The method (200) of Clause F, wherein the feeding (202), the abutting (204), and the allowing (208) are driven at least in part by gravity.

[0074] Appendix F2. A method (200) according to any one of Appendixes F to F1, carried out by a quality maintaining structure (12) according to any one of Appendixes A to B3.8 or an automatic fastening machine (10) according to any one of Appendixes C to C3.1.

[0075] Appendix G. Using a quality maintenance structure (12) according to any of Appendixes A-B3.8 to remove improper objects (20) from said source (16) of properly sized collars (14).

[0076] As used herein, the terms "adapted" and "configured" mean that an element, component, or other entity is designed and / or intended to perform a certain function. Thus, use of the terms "adapted" and "configured" should not be interpreted to mean that an element, component, or other entity is merely "capable of" performing a certain function, but rather that the element, component, and / or other entity has been specifically selected, fabricated, implemented, utilized, programmed, and / or designed to perform that function. It is also within the scope of this disclosure for elements, components, and / or other entities described as being adapted to perform a particular function to also or instead be described as being configured to perform that function, and vice versa. Similarly, entities described as being configured to perform a particular function may also be described as operating to perform that function, either in addition to or instead of it.

[0077] As used herein, the term "and / or" between a first entity and a second entity means one of: (1) the first entity, (2) the second entity, or (3) the first entity and the second entity. Listings of multiple entities with "and / or" should be construed in the same manner, i.e., "one or more" of the contiguous entities. Optionally, entities other than those specifically identified by "and / or" may be present, whether or not related to those specifically identified entities. Thus, as a non-limiting example, "A and / or B" used in conjunction with open-ended language such as "comprising" may refer, in one instance, to A only (optionally including entities other than B), in another instance to B only (optionally including entities other than A), and in yet another instance to both A and B (optionally including other entities). These entities may refer to elements, acts, structures, steps, operations, values, and the like.

[0078] Not all of the various apparatus elements and method steps disclosed herein are required for all apparatus and methods according to the present disclosure; the present disclosure includes all novel and non-obvious combinations and subcombinations of the various elements and steps disclosed herein. Furthermore, one or more of the various elements and steps disclosed herein may define independent inventive subject matter separate from the entirety of the disclosed apparatus or method. Accordingly, such inventive subject matter need not be associated with the particular apparatus and methods expressly disclosed herein, and may find utility in apparatus and / or methods not expressly disclosed herein.

Claims

1. A quality maintenance structure for an automatic fastening machine, 1. A quality maintenance structure comprising: an elongated body defining a passageway and including one or more walls, the elongated body being configured to allow an appropriate-sized collar to abut one of the one or more walls while passing through the passageway, the one or more walls defining a secondary exit configured to restrict the appropriate-sized collar from passing through the secondary exit while allowing an undesirable object to pass through the secondary exit.

2. 2. The quality maintenance structure of claim 1, wherein the one or more walls at least partially define and extend along the secondary outlet and include a lip configured to engage the properly sized collar as the properly sized collar passes through the passage.

3. A source of collars of the correct size; an installation tool configured to operatively install the properly sized collar; and a quality maintenance structure as defined in claim 1 arranged to receive the properly sized collars and the improper objects from the supply source and to deliver only the properly sized collars to the installation tool.

4. 4. The automatic fastening machine of claim 3, further comprising a collection structure positioned to collect the unsuitable objects exiting the quality maintenance structure.

5. 1. A quality maintenance structure for an automatic fastening machine for transporting properly sized collars from a supply of properly sized collars to an installation tool and for removing improper objects from the supply of properly sized collars, the quality maintenance structure comprising: an elongated body defining a passageway, an inlet to the passageway sized to receive the properly sized collar, a primary outlet from the passageway sized to dispense the properly sized collar, and one or more secondary outlets from the passageway disposed between the inlet and the primary outlet, the one or more secondary outlets sized to dispense the improper matter and to restrict passage of the properly sized collar; the quality maintenance structure is configured to be operatively installed with the one or more secondary outlets located in an area vertically below and immediately adjacent to the passageway.

6. 6. The quality maintenance structure of claim 5, wherein each of the one or more secondary outlets has a secondary outlet length and a secondary outlet width that is less than the secondary outlet length and less than a diameter of the properly sized collar.

7. The elongated body includes: a first floor facing the passageway and configured for the appropriate size collar to roll or slide on; and a first sidewall including a first sidewall outer surface facing away from the passageway and a first sidewall inner surface facing the passageway and extending from the first floor; The quality maintenance structure of claim 5 , wherein a first secondary outlet of the one or more secondary outlets extends through the first side wall.

8. 8. The quality maintenance structure of claim 7, wherein the first sidewall inner surface includes a first sidewall lip extending along the first secondary outlet opposite the first floor.

9. The elongated body includes: a second floor facing the passageway and configured for the appropriate size collar to roll or slide on; and a second sidewall including a second sidewall outer surface facing away from the passageway and a second sidewall inner surface facing the passageway and extending from the second floor; 8. The quality maintenance structure of claim 7, wherein a second secondary outlet of the one or more secondary outlets extends through the second side wall.

10. 10. The quality maintenance structure of claim 9, wherein the second sidewall inner surface includes a second sidewall lip extending along the second secondary outlet opposite the second floor.

11. each of the one or more secondary outlets has a secondary outlet length and a secondary outlet width that is less than the secondary outlet length and less than a diameter of the properly sized collar; The quality maintenance structure according to any one of claims 7 to 10, wherein the second sidewall inner surface has a second sidewall maximum inner surface width that is greater than the secondary outlet width.

12. 10. The quality maintenance structure of claim 9, wherein the second floor is not coextensive with the first floor and the second sidewall inner surface is not coextensive with the first sidewall inner surface.

13. 10. The quality maintenance structure of claim 9, wherein the second floor is on an opposite side of the aisle from the first floor, and the second sidewall inner surface is on an opposite side of the aisle from the first sidewall inner surface.

14. the passageway has a longitudinal axis; 11. The quality maintenance structure of claim 5, wherein the elongated body includes an inlet region in which the inlet is formed, a primary outlet region in which the primary outlet is formed, and a first secondary outlet region in which a first secondary outlet of the one or more secondary outlets is formed.

15. 15. The quality maintenance structure of claim 14, wherein the major axis is curved.

16. 15. The quality maintenance structure of claim 14, wherein the major axis is straight in the inlet region and curved in the first secondary outlet region.

17. the elongated body further includes a second secondary outlet region having a second secondary outlet of the one or more secondary outlets formed therein; 17. The quality maintenance structure of claim 16, wherein the major axis is curved within the second secondary exit region.

18. 17. The quality maintenance structure of claim 16, wherein the major axis is straight within the primary exit region.

19. 20. The quality maintenance structure of claim 18, wherein the longitudinal axis in the inlet region is parallel or collinear with the longitudinal axis in the primary outlet region.

20. The elongated body includes: a first floor facing the passageway and configured for the appropriate size collar to roll or slide on; and a first sidewall including a first sidewall outer surface facing away from the passageway and a first sidewall inner surface facing the passageway and extending from the first floor; a first secondary outlet of the one or more secondary outlets extends through the first sidewall; 15. The quality maintenance structure of claim 14, wherein the first bed twists within the first secondary outlet region from adjacent the inlet region toward the primary outlet region.

21. The elongated body includes: a second floor facing the passageway and configured for the appropriate size collar to roll or slide on; and a second sidewall including a second sidewall outer surface facing away from the passageway and a second sidewall inner surface facing the passageway and extending from the second floor; a second secondary outlet of the one or more secondary outlets extends through the second sidewall; the elongated body further includes a second secondary outlet region having a second secondary outlet of the one or more secondary outlets formed therein; the longitudinal axis is curved within the second secondary exit region; 21. The quality maintenance structure of claim 20, wherein the second floor twists within the second secondary outlet region from adjacent the first secondary outlet region toward the primary outlet region.

22. The elongated body includes: a first floor facing the passageway and configured for the appropriate size collar to roll or slide on; and a first sidewall including a first sidewall outer surface facing away from the passageway and a first sidewall inner surface facing the passageway and extending from the first floor; a first secondary outlet of the one or more secondary outlets extends through the first sidewall; 15. The quality maintenance structure of claim 14, wherein the first sidewall inner surface slopes toward the longitudinal axis away from the first secondary outlet opposite the inlet region.

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