Abstract: A gripper/driver combination attached to a linear slide interfaces with a torque controller and an automation system. A fastener ready to be installed is presented and the gripper/driver combination is moved to capture the fastener. The fastener is held in place between the gripper and the driver. The captured fastener is then located over a hole where the fastener is to be inserted. Once in place, the fastener is inserted into the hole, and the driver will begin operating, for example, in the case of a screw fastener, the driver will be commanded to start thread engagement and rundown. Once the threads are engaged, the gripper will be removed, allowing the driver to complete the process.

Abstract: A method includes obtaining data associated with an electronic component. The method also includes conducting a multi-tier inspection process to verify a conformance of the electronic component. Each of the tiers includes a different type of identification test, and at least one of the tiers is configured to provide fuzzy outputs. The method further includes analyzing the data associated with the electronic component using one or more first tests associated with a first of the tiers to determine whether the electronic component conforms to a pre-specified requirement. In addition, the method includes generating an output based on the analysis and determining whether additional testing is required using one or more next-level tests associated with another of the tiers.

Abstract: A method includes obtaining data associated with an electronic component. The method also includes conducting a multi-tier inspection process to verify a conformance of the electronic component. Each of the tiers includes a different type of identification test, and at least one of the tiers is configured to provide fuzzy outputs. The method further includes analyzing the data associated with the electronic component using one or more first tests associated with a first of the tiers to determine whether the electronic component conforms to a pre-specified requirement. In addition, the method includes generating an output based on the analysis and determining whether additional testing is required using one or more next-level tests associated with another of the tiers.

Abstract: An apparatus includes an open-mouth inlet at a first end and an outlet at a second end distal from the inlet. The inlet is configured to receive at least one hardware fastener. The apparatus also includes a hollow channel that includes a stem portion and a tapered portion between the inlet and the outlet. The tapered portion includes tapered compliant fingers having an initial diameter. The hollow channel is configured to guide the at least one hardware fastener from the inlet to the tapered portion. The tapered compliant fingers are configured to stop the at least one hardware fastener from gravity feeding through the outlet and to retain the at least one hardware fastener within the hollow channel. The tapered portion is configured to radially spread the compliant fingers to an expanded diameter to permit the at least one hardware fastener to release through the outlet.