Patents Assigned to Esterline & Sons, Inc.
  • Patent number: 6169268
    Abstract: A method and apparatus for forming constricted ends on tube products on an automatic continuous basis. The apparatus includes a feeding station including a spindle for supporting a metallic tube. A forming station is positioned downstream from the feeding station and includes a carriage supported for movement on a frame. A forming tool and a cutting tool are supported in spaced relation on the carriage. A welding unit, preferably a tungsten inert gas welder, is provided including a tip supported for movement with the carriage. The carriage is operably connected to a drive mechanism for driving the carriage in movement relative to the spindle. A controller is in communication with the drive mechanism for controlling movement of the carriage and is in further communication with the heat source for controlling activation thereof. A discharge conduit is supported on the carriage for discharging a plurality of successive formed tubes into a receiving bin.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 30, 1998
    Date of Patent: January 2, 2001
    Assignee: Esterline & Sons, Inc.
    Inventors: Dale F. Esterline, Michael J. Donovan