Abstract: An insertion machine of the type used to form and insert the lead-wires of an electronic component into openings of a printed circuit board insertion machine comprising a frame and a head assembly. The head assembly receives an electronic component and includes means for forming the lead-wires into a predetermined shape and means for inserting the lead-wires into the openings of the printed circuit board. A clinching assembly is positioned below the head assembly and includes means for trimming the lead-wires and means for clinching the lead-wires. A work-support table for holding the printed circuit board is rotatable about a vertical axis and is positioned between the clinching assembly and the head assembly.

Abstract: A clinching assembly for use with an insertion machine of the type used to form and insert the lead-wires of an electronic component into openings of a printed circuit board insertion machine. The clinching assembly includes two clinch heads that are selectively movable along a U-axis, parallel to the circuit board. Each clinching assembly is further selectively movable along a Z-axis, perpendicular to the circuit board. A single pneumatic actuator is used to raise and lower both clinch heads simultaneously. A T-shaped linkage attaches each clinch head with the single pneumatic actuator. Vertical movement of the pneumatic actuator is translated through the T-shaped linkage to vertically displace both clinch heads, and simultaneously, allow horizontal displacement of each clinch head, independent of the vertical location of the T-shaped linkage.