Abstract: A method for automated installation of a semi-tubular fastener rivet is provided. The method includes controlling a numerical control drilling and riveting machine having an upper head and a lower head, to control movement of a lower pressure bushing, to apply a clamping force to hold a workpiece against an upper pressure bushing. The method includes controlling an upper drill spindle on the upper head, to drill a rivet-receiving hole from an upper side of the workpiece and to countersink the rivet-receiving hole. The method includes controlling a lower drill spindle on the lower head, to countersink the rivet-receiving hole from a lower side of the workpiece. The method includes controlling movement of an upper anvil from a retracted position to an installation position, and controlling movement of a lower anvil, to apply an upset force to a tail portion of the semi-tubular fastener rivet installed in the rivet-receiving hole.

Abstract: A robotic forming system and method for forming a tapered hole in a workpiece include a housing and a nose extending from the housing. The housing defines an internal chamber. A vacuum gate is in fluid communication with an internal cavity of the nose. A seal is within the nose. A first spindle includes a first operative head. The first spindle is retained within the internal chamber. The first spindle is configured to be moved between a first stowed position within the housing and a first operating position in which the first operative head extends into the nose. The first operative head is configured to form an initial hole within the workpiece. A second spindle includes a second operative head. The second spindle is retained within the internal chamber. The second spindle is configured to be moved between a second stowed position within the housing and a second operating position in which the second operative head extends into the nose.

Abstract: A method for automated installation of a semi-tubular fastener rivet is provided. The method includes controlling a numerical control drilling and riveting machine having an upper head and a lower head, to control movement of a lower pressure bushing, to apply a clamping force to hold a workpiece against an upper pressure bushing. The method includes controlling an upper drill spindle on the upper head, to drill a rivet-receiving hole from an upper side of the workpiece and to countersink the rivet-receiving hole. The method includes controlling a lower drill spindle on the lower head, to countersink the rivet-receiving hole from a lower side of the workpiece. The method includes controlling movement of an upper anvil from a retracted position to an installation position, and controlling movement of a lower anvil, to apply an upset force to a tail portion of the semi-tubular fastener rivet installed in the rivet-receiving hole.

Abstract: There is provided an automated rivet apparatus for installing a semi-tubular fastener rivet. The apparatus includes a numerical control (NC) drilling and riveting machine and a controller. The NC drilling and riveting machine includes a lower head having a lower pressure bushing, a lower drill spindle, and a lower anvil to apply an upset force to a tail portion of the semi-tubular fastener rivet. The NC drilling and riveting machine further includes an upper head having an upper pressure bushing, an upper drill spindle, and an upper anvil that holds the semi-tubular fastener rivet to insert the semi-tubular fastener rivet in a rivet-receiving hole. The lower drill spindle countersinks the rivet-receiving hole from a lower side of a workpiece. The controller directs movement of a nose of the lower anvil to apply the upset force and form a predetermined flare contour in the tail portion within a lower countersink.

Abstract: A robotic forming system and method for forming a tapered hole in a workpiece include a housing and a nose extending from the housing. The housing defines an internal chamber. A vacuum gate is in fluid communication with an internal cavity of the nose. A seal is within the nose. A first spindle includes a first operative head. The first spindle is retained within the internal chamber. The first spindle is configured to be moved between a first stowed position within the housing and a first operating position in which the first operative head extends into the nose. The first operative head is configured to form an initial hole within the workpiece. A second spindle includes a second operative head. The second spindle is retained within the internal chamber. The second spindle is configured to be moved between a second stowed position within the housing and a second operating position in which the second operative head extends into the nose.

Abstract: There is provided an automated rivet apparatus for installing a semi-tubular fastener rivet. The apparatus includes a numerical control (NC) drilling and riveting machine and a controller. The NC drilling and riveting machine includes a lower head having a lower pressure bushing, a lower drill spindle, and a lower anvil to apply an upset force to a tail portion of the semi-tubular fastener rivet. The NC drilling and riveting machine further includes an upper head having an upper pressure bushing, an upper drill spindle, and an upper anvil that holds the semi-tubular fastener rivet to insert the semi-tubular fastener rivet in a rivet-receiving hole. The lower drill spindle countersinks the rivet-receiving hole from a lower side of a workpiece. The controller directs movement of a nose of the lower anvil to apply the upset force and form a predetermined flare contour in the tail portion within a lower countersink.

Abstract: A grommet installation device consisting of an installation tool and a backup tool. The backup tool incorporates a retractable rod for guiding and aligning the grommet sleeve throughout installation. The installation tool flares and swages the grommet sleeve over a grommet spacer, affixing the grommet assembly in the workpiece aperture.