Abstract: An automated apparatus for installing a sleeve on a cable includes a split funnel assembly, a cable feeding mechanism, a robot comprising a robot tool mounting flange and a plurality of robot motors, a sleeve gripper mounted to the robot tool mounting flange, a plurality of heaters, and a computer configured to output commands in accordance with a predetermined computer program. The split funnel assembly includes an actuator and a split funnel comprising a pair of funnel halves which are able to open and close in response to activation of the actuator. Each funnel half comprises a cable guide channel and a funnel extension. While the split funnel is in the funnel closed state, the funnel extensions form a seat for the sleeve and the cable guide channels form a repeatable path for the cable to follow through the funnel. The apparatus further includes a cable centering gripper, a cable clamp assembly, a slug puller assembly, and a ground lead management system.

Abstract: A system for processing a cable end of a cable. The system includes: a pallet delivery system; a cable processing module; a pallet supported by the pallet delivery system; an on-pallet dual-belt cable feed mechanism configured for linear feeding of the cable end into the cable processing module; and an off-pallet electric motor operatively coupled for driving circulation of a pair of belts of the dual-belt cable feed mechanism. The cable processing module includes cable processing equipment configured to perform an operation on the cable end and a computer.

Abstract: An infrared light source focuses infrared energy onto a work surface through the open end of a concentrator. The open end of the concentrator includes an elastomeric seal for sealably coupling the end of the concentrator directly to a work piece. Pneumatic pressure is applied through the concentrator and the seal to urge the work pieces together during the heating process to complete the weld. The method of infrared (IR) welding includes the steps of applying concentrated IR energy to at least one thermoplastic member while simultaneously applying pneumatic pressure to the work pieces for welding one member to another.

Abstract: An infrared light source focuses infrared energy onto a work surface through the open end of a concentrator. The open end of the concentrator includes an elastomeric seal for sealably coupling the end of the concentrator directly to a work piece. Pneumatic pressure is applied through the concentrator and the seal to urge the work pieces together during the heating process to complete the weld. The method of infrared (IR) welding includes the steps of applying concentrated IR energy to at least one thermoplastic member while simultaneously applying pneumatic pressure to the work pieces for welding one member to another.