Abstract: To enable a high-speed machine to process (for instance interconnect and reel) only acceptable, predeterminedly ordered electronic components after appropriate test, velocity changing mechanism actuatable by a continuously operable conveyor of the machine is provided to shift components to and from a testing unit and relative to their respective successive locations along the conveyor. Only failure of a component to qualify at the test unit automatically stops the conveyor, and that enables an operator to take corrective action by satisfactory completion of a test on a replacement component which then is preferably manually located in its proper sequence on the conveyor prior to re-starting of the machine. Accordingly, except for the usually uncommon short interval when an attendant may need to make substitution for an unsatisfactory component which has been detected, the invention enables rapid processing of assuredly reliable components and their intended sequence is verified.

Abstract: Intermediate a component inserting machine and its lead clinching mechanism, a turret-type work support carries one or more detachable circuit boards and is rotatable about a vertical axis as well as movable in their general plane under the control of programmed power means. The latter is effective to cause a pivot means on the support and a cooperative surface or stop means to shift the support and its boards angularly at predetermined times and to a predetermined extent. Accordingly, without need to angularly reposition the inserter or clinching means, the automatically positioned work support enables the boards to receive components in various predetermined angular relations (most commonly at right angles), and boards may be loaded and unloaded on the turret while other boards thereon are concurrently having components mounted therein.The arrangement avoids the hazard present when boards are manually repositioned, and generally enhances productivity.

Abstract: Electronic components, such as DIP's, which have at least one row of generally right angular or generally linear leads projecting from their bodies, are dispensed from their respective columns in a magazine of the machine, one by one, and as predeterminedly selected by a picker controlled by computer means. Due to occasional obstructive slight irregularities in the formation of the bodies and/or their leads, means is provided to insure exact registration of each selected component with a component inserting mechanism. Improved means for rapid, reliable release and transfer of the successive selected components from the magazine, and between the delivery ends of its respective columns and, a lead conditioning means at the locality of such registration, enable efficient coordination with the inserting mechanism whereby continuous output at a higher rate is attainable.

Abstract: Mechanism for cutting and clinching leads projecting from circuit boards or the like is operable in two alternative modes: (1) clinching them inwardly, i.e. toward one another, and (2) clinching outwardly. Shifting of one part, a pin, for example, from one operating position in its cut-clinch assembly to another position conveniently converts the device to the operating mode desired.