Automated Frangible Collar Installation End Effector
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for installing frangible collars are manual, time-consuming, and generate foreign object debris, which can cause undesired effects in manufacturing environments, and do not efficiently automate the process, especially in industries like aerospace where precision and automation are crucial.
Innovation Solution
An end effector with an element loader and installer is used to automate the installation of frangible collars onto fasteners, restricting rotation to apply torque and shear off the frangible portion, while a removal system captures and discards the nut portion, reducing debris and improving efficiency.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If manual installation methods are used, then operators can install frangible collars, but the process is time-consuming and labor-intensive
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual mechanical installation with an automated end effector system that uses a motor-driven drive shaft to install frangible collars. The system automatically positions the collar, applies torque, and removes the nut portion, eliminating manual labor and significantly increasing installation speed while reducing installation time.
Solution Approach 2:
The end effector system is designed to perform the entire installation process autonomously without human intervention. The automated positioning, torque application, and nut portion removal are all executed by the system itself, making the process self-service and dramatically improving productivity.
2Object-generated harmful factors
If frangible collars are installed manually, then the process can be completed, but the nut portion breaks off in an uncontrolled manner creating foreign object debris
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a retention member as an intermediary component that temporarily holds the nut portion after it breaks off from the collar. This retention member captures the nut portion and prevents it from becoming uncontrolled foreign object debris, while still allowing the collar to remain installed on the fastener.
Solution Approach 2:
The system converts the potentially harmful uncontrolled break-off of the nut portion into a beneficial controlled process. By using the retention member to capture the broken nut portion, the system transforms what would be harmful debris into a managed byproduct that can be easily removed, eliminating the harmful effects while maintaining the frangible collar's torque-limiting function.
3Productivity
If automated systems are introduced, then productivity increases, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The end effector is designed as a multi-functional device that combines collar installation, torque application, and nut portion removal capabilities in a single tool. This universal design allows one device to perform multiple operations that would otherwise require separate tools, managing system complexity while maintaining high productivity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent merges the functions of collar installation, torque control, and debris removal into a single integrated end effector system. By combining these functions, the system achieves high productivity without proportionally increasing complexity, as the components work together in a coordinated manner within one tool.
4Reliability
If the nut portion is allowed to break off freely, then the frangible collar functions as intended, but the broken portion impacts equipment creating harmful effects
Solution Approach 1:
The retention member serves as an intermediary that intercepts the broken nut portion before it can impact surrounding equipment. This component maintains the reliability of the frangible collar's torque-limiting function while simultaneously preventing the harmful effects of uncontrolled debris impact on nearby equipment.
Solution Approach 2:
The system converts the potentially harmful uncontrolled impact of broken nut portions into a beneficial controlled containment process. The retention member captures the broken portions, transforming what would be harmful equipment impact into a manageable situation where debris is contained and can be easily removed, thus protecting equipment while maintaining system reliability.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The solution automates the installation of frangible collars, reducing manual labor, minimizing debris, and enhancing manufacturing efficiency, particularly in industries requiring high precision like aerospace.
Implementation Method 1
A frangible portion of the frangible collar may be sheared off by torqueing the frangible portion using the end effector
Implementation Method 2
A frangible portion of the frangible collar may be sheared off by torqueing the frangible portion using the end effector
Data Source
AI summary
A method and apparatus for installing a frangible collar onto a fastener installed in a hole using an end effector in which rotation of the fastener is not restricted by the hole. Rotation of the fastener may be restricted using the end effector. A frangible collar may be installed onto the fastener by an element installer of the end effector while the while restricting rotation of the fastener. A frangible portion of the frangible collar may be sheared off by torqueing the frangible portion using the end effector.