Multi-Fastener End-Effector With Self-Aligning Retainers
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing manufacturing processes are limited by the ability of machines to insert fasteners into workpieces one at a time, and the number of machines that can be used is constrained by workpiece and machine size, leading to inefficiencies in fastener installation.
Innovation Solution
A fastener installation assembly and end-effector tool that includes a container with retainer assemblies and actuators to eject and self-align multiple fasteners into holes, utilizing compliance apparatuses for independent finger movement to ensure precise insertion.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If multiple machines are used to insert fasteners simultaneously, then productivity is improved, but device complexity and manufacturing cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple fastener insertion functions into a single automated assembly system. The assembly includes a container holding multiple retainers, each with fingers that can eject fasteners simultaneously through a single actuator mechanism, eliminating the need for multiple separate machines while achieving parallel fastener installation.
Solution Approach 2:
The system segments the fastener insertion process into multiple independent retainer units within a single assembly. Each retainer with its fingers can independently eject and insert fasteners into different holes, allowing parallel operation while maintaining a unified system architecture that reduces overall complexity.
2Loss of time
If traditional single-fastener insertion is used, then device complexity is minimized, but manufacturing time increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary actions by pre-positioning multiple fasteners in retainers within the container before the insertion process begins. The fingers are pre-configured to grasp and eject fasteners simultaneously, eliminating sequential operations and reducing total manufacturing cycle time while maintaining high productivity.
3Manufacturing precision
If rigid finger structures are used to hold fasteners, then manufacturing precision is improved, but adaptability to hole position variations decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs dynamic finger structures that can move and adjust their positions during the fastener ejection and insertion process. The fingers are connected to the retainer through joints or flexible connections, allowing them to adapt to variations in hole positions while maintaining precise fastener alignment through controlled motion during insertion.
Data Source
AI summary
A fastener installation assembly, an end-effector tool, and a method for installing fasteners into respective holes of a workpiece includes a container and retainer assemblies supported by the container. Each of the retainer assemblies include fingers configured to retain a respective one of the fasteners between the fingers in a pre-installed position. A first actuator is configured to move the respective fasteners to an installed position by ejecting the respective one of the fasteners out of the respective retainer assemblies and inserting the respective one of the fasteners into one of the holes of the workpiece. Each of the retainer assemblies include a compliance apparatus configured to allow the respective fasteners and the respective fingers to move independently of each other to self-align the respective fasteners with the respective one of the holes as the first actuator moves the respective fasteners from the pre-installed position to the installed position.