Single Header Patents (Class 29/243.54)
  • Patent number: 11707790
    Abstract: A method and rivet apparatus to rivet a workpiece comprises an upper riveting portion and a lower riveting portion. The lower riveting portion comprising a fixed base, support member, and a pin assembly. The pin assembly comprises a center pin, a forming pin, a first biasing member, an outer shroud, and a second biasing member. The center pin pushes against a tail of a rivet to deform the tail of the rivet. The forming pin, fixedly coupled to the support member, pushes against the tail of the rivet to deform the tail of the rivet. The first biasing member, disposed below the center pin, biases the center pin through the forming pin and away from the support member. The outer shroud encircles the forming pin and the center pin. The second biasing member, disposed below the outer shroud, biases the outer shroud away from the support member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 8, 2021
    Date of Patent: July 25, 2023
    Assignee: JR Automation Technologies, LLC
    Inventors: Joseph Robert Russell, Jason R. Turman, Ryan Nathan Anderson, Marcos Merino, Gabriel C. Van't Land
  • Patent number: 10881452
    Abstract: A method of assembling an end effector for a surgical instrument includes: assembling first and second jaw members within a clevis disposed at a distal end of an outer drive shaft of a surgical instrument; inserting an end of a pivot pin including a stop on the opposite end thereof through a hole defined in a first outer wall of the clevis, through pivot bores defined within the first and second jaw members, and through a hole defined in a second outer wall of the clevis to expose a portion of the end of the pivot pin relative to the clevis; and melting the exposed portion of the end of the pivot pin to form a second stop and secure the first and second jaw members within the clevis.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 16, 2018
    Date of Patent: January 5, 2021
    Assignee: Covidien LP
    Inventor: Allen Honegger
  • Patent number: 10792728
    Abstract: A method and apparatus for installing a fastener. A reactive structural force is generated in a first direction during installation of the fastener. A new reactive structural force is generated in a second direction opposite to the first direction during the installation of the fastener.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 21, 2018
    Date of Patent: October 6, 2020
    Assignee: The Boeing Company
    Inventors: Harinder S. Oberoi, Melissa Ann Findlay, Branko Sarh, Alan S. Draper, Jorge Alberto Arriago, Jeffrey Lawrence Miller
  • Patent number: 10022782
    Abstract: An attachment for a rivet setting tool with a first plurality of jaws configured to clamp and pull a mandrel of a rivet comprises a flexible sheath and a flexible cable arranged within the flexible sheath. The flexible cable includes a first end configured to be clamped and pulled by the first plurality of jaws and a second end opposite the first end. A second plurality of jaws between which the mandrel is receivable is coupled to the second end of the flexible cable. The second plurality of jaws is configured to clamp and pull the mandrel in response to the first end of the flexible cable being clamped and pulled by the first plurality of jaws.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 11, 2018
    Date of Patent: July 17, 2018
    Assignee: MILAWUKEE ELECTRIC TOOL CORPORATION
    Inventor: Andrew J. Weber
  • Patent number: 9408427
    Abstract: The present invention includes a snap installation adaptor designed to be united with a handheld tool so that the union can permanently affix snaps onto fabric. The snap installation adaptor includes an upper portion with a cap node; a lower portion with a socket node; an intermediate portion connecting the upper and lower portions; and means for transferring external downward force from the handheld tool through the upper portion so that the cap node is forced to meet the socket node, thus permanently affixing a snap onto a piece of fabric between the upper and lower portions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 15, 2012
    Date of Patent: August 9, 2016
    Inventors: David Mills, William R. Deware
  • Patent number: 9254539
    Abstract: A manufacturing system is provided comprising a plurality of work stations having one or more tools for processing a work item, at least one carrier for moving a work item among the plurality of work stations, and a platform for connecting the plurality of work stations. In a further embodiment, at least one of the plurality of work stations is not on a line with the other work stations and may include a lift machine for raising and/or lowering the at least one carrier and the work item. The platform also may preferably comprise at least one rotator for changing the direction of movement of the at least one carrier on the platform. The system also may preferably comprise at least one conveyer for transporting the at least one carrier to the platform.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 20, 2015
    Date of Patent: February 9, 2016
    Assignee: Triumph Aerostructures, LLC
    Inventors: Laszlo Ferenczi, Gary Pekar
  • Publication number: 20150121679
    Abstract: A punch-riveting die comprises a basic body, which has a recess for forming an underside of a punch-rivet joint, the recess having a base and an annular wall. In a central region of the base, the die includes an annular radial-flow inhibiting device, which inhibiting device limits a radial material flow out of the inner region of the annular radial-flow inhibiting device.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 12, 2015
    Publication date: May 7, 2015
    Inventors: Paul BARTIG, Marco WIESSNER
  • Publication number: 20150101175
    Abstract: A fastener carrier for fasteners for use in a riveting system, said carrier comprising at least one holding zone and at least one release zone, wherein said holding zone holds a fastener in a stored position and said release zone releases said fastener from said carrier, said holding zone having a diameter smaller than said release zone.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 15, 2013
    Publication date: April 16, 2015
    Inventors: Fengfeng (Jeff) Xi, Yu Lin, David Dakdouk, Mohamed Helal, Brien East
  • Patent number: 8950054
    Abstract: A manufacturing method employing a robotic assembly system includes first and second fastener system components that are positioned by a robotic assembly on opposite sides of at least two structural pieces that are to be fastened together. The first system component includes a particular tool of a plurality of different types of tools, where the particular tool installs a particular fastener of a plurality of different types of fasteners. Each tool includes a block or base of magnetic material with a passageway opening for the fastener associated with the tool passing through the base. The robotic assembly positions the tool against one side of the structural pieces to be fastened, and positions an electromagnet assembly on the opposite side of the structural pieces. Activating the electromagnet assembly clamps the structural pieces together. With the fastener positioned in a hole through the structural pieces, the tool is activated to install the fastener between the structural pieces.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 10, 2012
    Date of Patent: February 10, 2015
    Assignee: The Boeing Company
    Inventors: Branko Sarh, Harinder S. Oberoi, Rodney S. Wright, Jeffrey L. Miller
  • Publication number: 20150033523
    Abstract: A rivet binding and upsetting apparatus includes an operating platform, a feeding module, a pushing module, and a transmitting module. The operating platform includes a bottom plate. The feeding module includes a feeding portion for dispensing a rivet. The pushing module includes a receiving portion for receiving the rivet from the feeding portion. The transmitting module includes a rivet gun. The feeding module is moveable in a first direction substantially parallel to the bottom plate, to align the feeding portion with the receiving portion. The pushing module is moveable in a second direction substantially perpendicular to the first direction to align the receiving portion with the rivet gun for upsetting the rivet to bind the rivet in a mounting.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 4, 2014
    Publication date: February 5, 2015
    Inventors: GUI-CHU ZHOU, YI-LUN GAN, WEN-HUAN LIU
  • Patent number: 8898883
    Abstract: An apparatus and method are provided for feeding a connecting element into a processing position of a joining apparatus. The apparatus includes a singulation slide for separating and feeding a connecting element. The singulation slide has a through-hole running in an axial direction for accommodating the connecting element, and the through-hole is partially defined by two leg segments. The singulation slide includes a base segment and the transition from the base segment to each of the leg segments is designed so that the leg segments are flexible in a radial direction.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 5, 2011
    Date of Patent: December 2, 2014
    Assignee: Newfrey LLC
    Inventors: Joachim Moeser, Christopher Beil
  • Publication number: 20140259584
    Abstract: One illustrative embodiment of an end effector generally comprises a tip, a housing, and a main insert. The housing may include a housing neck, one or more housing sections, and an end section. A main insert may be positioned within the housing. One or more intermediate inserts may also be positioned in the housing, as may an end insert. During use, it is contemplated that the end effector will provide a user a more ergonomic and comfortable experience, requiring less effort from the user resulting in a less fatigue during use. Additionally, the illustrative embodiments of the end effector may be adjusted for optimal use in an infinite number of applications. Additionally, the locator ensures that the user properly locates the distal end of a rivet to create a uniform nugget as the distal end of the rivet is spread.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 12, 2014
    Publication date: September 18, 2014
    Applicant: Honsa Ergonomic Tech
    Inventors: Thomas W. Honsa, Richard Borcicky, Brett Casper
  • Publication number: 20140250649
    Abstract: A blind rivet fastening tool in which the jaws are open at the original position, and at a return step in which the tool is returned to the original position after a blind rivet is fastened the fastened blind rivet is pushed out. The tool comprises a hollow nose housing for housing a mandrel; a nose piece provided at a front end of the nose housing and having an opening; a floating piece provided at a front end of the inside of the nose piece; the floating piece having a though hole in which the mandrel is inserted; a jaw guide provided at the back side of floating piece and having an inside surface which has a smaller diameter toward the front end thereof; jaws provided inside the jaw guide for holding the mandrel; a pulling head and a jaw pusher for respectively pulling back and pushing forward the jaws.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 22, 2014
    Publication date: September 11, 2014
    Inventor: Hiroyuki Masugata
  • Patent number: 8769788
    Abstract: A fastener machine is provided. In another aspect, a rivet machine employs a rivet feeding mechanism. A further aspect includes a guide located at an intersection between a feed track and a feed rail with the guide having an angular offset orientation relative to both in order to deter ricocheting of the rivet back into the feed track when the rivet enters the feed rail. Moreover, an aspect of the present machine employs a rocker arm.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 17, 2011
    Date of Patent: July 8, 2014
    Assignee: BTM Corporation
    Inventors: William M. Faitel, Robert W. Weaver, Jr.
  • Publication number: 20140182103
    Abstract: A riveting apparatus for riveting a fastener to a mounting board, with a diameter after riveting which is not greater that that of the fastener, includes a housing and a sliding member. The fastener includes a mounting portion secured to the mounting board and a latching groove to be flared. The sliding member includes a sliding portion and a riveting portion and the sliding portion is slidably mounted to the housing. The riveting portion is forced into the latching groove, and the riveting portion flares out the mounting portion to secure the rivet in the mounting board.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 21, 2013
    Publication date: July 3, 2014
    Applicants: HON HAI PRECISION INDUSTRY CO., LTD., HONG FU JIN PRECISION INDUSTRY (ShenZhen) CO. LTD.
    Inventor: ZHAN-YANG LI
  • Patent number: 8713772
    Abstract: A fastening device for manufacturing a fastening system is disclosed. The fastening system includes a first connecting member, a second connecting member, a rivet riveting the first connecting member and the second connecting member together, and an elastic member compressed by the rivet. The fastening device includes a rivet head forming tool, a positioning assembly positioning the first connecting member, a first driving assembly driving the rivet head forming tool to move, a second driving assembly driving the second connecting member to rotate, and a force measuring module. The force measuring module is configured for measuring the positive pressing force between the first connecting member and the second connecting member, and generating a control signal to stop the first driving assembly and the second driving assembly when the positive pressing force between the first connecting member and the second connecting member reach the predetermined force.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 15, 2011
    Date of Patent: May 6, 2014
    Assignees: Hong Fu Jin Precision Industry (ShenZhen) Co., Ltd., Hon Hai Precision Industry Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Ying-Jun Peng, Xiu-De Zhang, Zuo-Lin Gao, Zhi-Cai Guo, Xue-Hua Lei
  • Patent number: 8689431
    Abstract: An apparatus for the connection of articles via at least one connection element plasticizable by heat includes a heatable cap, which is movable toward and away from the connection element and which has a shaft, for the forming of a rivet head at the connection element and having means for the direct heating of the cap. In this respect, the means for the direct heating of the cap include at least one ceramic heating element.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 29, 2010
    Date of Patent: April 8, 2014
    Assignee: Maschinenfabrik Spaichingen GmbH
    Inventor: Bernd Prirsch
  • Patent number: 8641028
    Abstract: A holding assembly for an edge of a flexible film sheeting where the assembly comprises an elongate flexible channel member for extending along the edge and an elongate locking strip detachably engagable within the channel member for clamping the associated film sheeting therebetween has the locking strip moved into place by a guide body arranged for sliding movement across a support surface such as the ground on which the film sheeting is located. The guide body having a slot therein for receiving the channel member and carries a pivotal lever including a pair of rollers for guiding and forcing the locking strip into place. The guide body is carried on a skid and moves underneath the edge of the film across the width of the opening to be closed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 19, 2010
    Date of Patent: February 4, 2014
    Inventors: Walter John Curry, Michael Francis Curry
  • Publication number: 20130205574
    Abstract: A method of riveting comprising using a punch (1) to push a rivet (9) through a workpiece (5) such that a shank (10) of the rivet (9) is received in a die (3) defined by a die body (3) which is in contact with the workpiece, a slug of material (16) being removed from the workpiece (5) by the rivet (9) and being received in the die, the method further comprising closing or substantially closing the die using a rod (4) and using the rod to upset the shank of the rivet.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 10, 2011
    Publication date: August 15, 2013
    Applicant: Henrob Limited
    Inventors: Roger Stanton Doo, Wojciech Gostylla, Neal Sean Williams, Christopher James Clarke, Russell John Trinick, Stuart Edmund Blacket
  • Publication number: 20130104359
    Abstract: A tool includes a transfer mechanism transferring a fastener row supported in a supply channel in one direction; a cutoff mechanism cutting off a weakened portion of the fastener row supported in the supply channel; a loading member holding one piece of fastener which has been cut off by the cutoff mechanism in a loading portion located in front in a transfer direction of the transfer mechanism, and positioned by abutting against the front-most row of the supply channel; a slide mechanism moving the loading member forward and backward; and a push-in mechanism expanding an outer diameter of a leg portion by pushing a male member of the fastener loaded in the loading member. The cutoff mechanism cuts off the weakened portion of the fastener in a second row, positioned in the next row by counting the fastener in the front-most row as the first row, and in subsequent rows.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 10, 2011
    Publication date: May 2, 2013
    Inventor: Shouji Ishikawa
  • Publication number: 20130055549
    Abstract: The invention relates to a method for installing a rivet (R, R?, R?, R2) for the purpose of assembling at least two elements (300, 400) through which a hole passes, in which the rivet (R) is positioned in said hole and is of the type comprising a head (100) coming to rest on the edge of the hole and a tubular or semi-tubular rod (200) of which the free open end (220) is deformed, for the purpose of creating a bearing surface, in which a snap (B, B?) ensures the deformation of said free end (220) by bringing the snap (B, B?) toward the first tool, remarkable in that it consists of interposing a film (500, 600, 700) of material between the snap (B, B?) and the end to be deformed during installation. The invention also relates to a corresponding rivet and installation tool. Applications: rivet installation.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 2, 2012
    Publication date: March 7, 2013
    Inventors: Pierre Auriol, Jean-Marc Auriol
  • Patent number: 8365376
    Abstract: An apparatus may comprise a rail system, a multi-axis carriage, a tool module, and a controller. The rail system may be capable of being attached to a surface on a structure. The multi-axis carriage may be coupled to the rail system. The multi-axis carriage may be capable of moving along the rail system and moving a riveting tool in axes relative to the surface. The tool module may be capable of being removably coupled to the multi-axis carriage. The tool module may comprise a frame and may be capable of receiving the riveting tool. The controller may be capable of controlling movement of the riveting tool to a number of locations on the surface of the structure and may be capable of causing the riveting tool to install a number of rivets in the number of preselected locations in response to a signal.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 18, 2008
    Date of Patent: February 5, 2013
    Assignee: The Boeing Company
    Inventors: Eric M. Reid, Brent F. Craig, Riley Harrison HansonSmith
  • Patent number: 8327514
    Abstract: A riveting apparatus includes a hot air pipe; a connection pipe coupled to the hot air pipe; a forming tool having a configuration in which peripheral and center portions project downward and portions existing therebetween are curved upward, defined with discharge holes which extend in axial and radial directions, and coupled to a lower end of the connection pipe so that hot air having passed through the connection pipe can be discharged through the discharge holes to heat an end of a rivet to thereby allow the forming tool to form the end of the rivet into the shape of a head; a moving unit coupled to the hot air pipe or the connection pipe to move the forming tool upward and downward; and a guide surrounding the forming tool so that hot air discharged through the discharge holes can be directed toward the end of the rivet.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 9, 2009
    Date of Patent: December 11, 2012
    Assignee: Gunyang Trunet, Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Taek-hyun Kim
  • Patent number: 8146891
    Abstract: Powered tools and interchangeable driver assemblies for removal of fasteners from a host material are disclosed. The tool includes a housing having a chamber operatively associated with an actuator assembly. Interchangeable driver assemblies may be provided that include a plurality of interchangeable particularly configured drive pins and a plurality of interchangeable guide elements, each guide element selectively adapted for use with a different one of the drive pins. The guide element has an elongate central passage therethrough, is receivable by a mount releasably maintained at the housing adjacent the chamber, and may be configured for slidable retention thereat. In such case, the guide element is biased toward a fully extended position and is slidable between the fully extended position and a retracted position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 10, 2008
    Date of Patent: April 3, 2012
    Assignee: Reconnx, Inc.
    Inventors: Jon X. Giltner, Wayne G. Johannes
  • Publication number: 20100319173
    Abstract: An apparatus for the connection of articles via at least one connection element plasticizable by heat includes a cap, in particular a heatable cap, which is movable toward and away from the connection element and which has a shaft, for the forming of a rivet head at the connection element and having means for the cooling of the cap by means of a cooling fluid, in particular air. A first variant is characterized in that the shaft of the cap has a central cooling fluid supply passage preferably reaching up to and into the cap body and a plurality of respective at least generally radially outwardly directed cooling fluid passages starting from the central cooling fluid supply passage are provided within the cap body. Provision can alternatively be made that the cap is manufactured at least partly from porous, air-permeable material, in particular ceramic material, and the shaft of the cap is provided with a cooling fluid supply bore preferably reaching up to and into the cap body.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 29, 2010
    Publication date: December 23, 2010
    Applicant: Maschinenfabrik Spaichingen GmbH
    Inventors: Clemens Balle, Thomas Baumeister, Armin Beck, Hartmut Jundt, Bernd Prirsch, Joachim Wein
  • Patent number: 7797920
    Abstract: A drive chain includes two end chain components and a connecting plate. Each of the end chain components has a pin hole and a connecting pin. The connecting pin includes a main segment inserted into the pin hole and having a diameter, an anchoring end segment axially spaced apart from the main segment and having a diameter, and a constricted neck extending between the main segment and the anchoring end segment. The connecting plate has two spaced anchoring holes each having a diameter that is originally smaller than the diameter of the main segment and larger than the diameter of the anchoring end segment. The main segment of the connecting pin is force-fitted in a corresponding one of the anchoring holes so that the end chain components are joined to each other. A tool device to assemble or disassemble the drive chain is also disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 14, 2008
    Date of Patent: September 21, 2010
    Assignee: AMC Chain Industrial Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Tzu-Feng Wang
  • Patent number: 7729796
    Abstract: The invention concerns an industrial robot (4) comprising a machining tool (2) attached to one hand (3) of the robot, designed to perform a hydraulic-driven movement relative to the hand (3) and connected therefor to a hydraulic unit (10). The hydraulic unit (10) is placed directly on a mobile part of the robot, in particular directly on the robot hand (3). Therefore there is no more need for hydraulic supply lines along the arm of the robot. Further, when the robot hand (3) changes tool, no separation of hydraulic lines is required. The machining tool (2) is in particular a device for placing blind rivets, thereby enabling an entirely automated process for placing blind rivets.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 21, 2007
    Date of Patent: June 1, 2010
    Assignee: Richard Bergner Verbindungstechnik GmbH & Co. KG
    Inventors: Gerd Hartrampf, Christian Böhner, Klaus Dehlke
  • Publication number: 20100122444
    Abstract: An apparatus may comprise a rail system, a multi-axis carriage, a tool module, and a controller. The rail system may be capable of being attached to a surface on a structure. The multi-axis carriage may be coupled to the rail system. The multi-axis carriage may be capable of moving along the rail system and moving a riveting tool in axes relative to the surface. The tool module may be capable of being removably coupled to the multi-axis carriage. The tool module may comprise a frame and may be capable of receiving the riveting tool. The controller may be capable of controlling movement of the riveting tool to a number of locations on the surface of the structure and may be capable of causing the riveting tool to install a number of rivets in the number of preselected locations in response to a signal.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 18, 2008
    Publication date: May 20, 2010
    Inventors: Eric M. Reid, Brent F. Craig, Riley Harrison HansonSmith
  • Patent number: 7681293
    Abstract: A C-frame for use in association with a fastener setting machine, such as a rivet setting machine. The C-frame is configured such that it can be used as a suspended C-frame or as a pedestal mounted C-frame. Specifically, the C-frame is configured such that it can be easily mechanically mounted on and electrically connected to a pedestal. The pedestal has a docking mechanism and the C-frame has corresponding structure which mates with the docking station to mechanically mount the C-frame to the pedestal. In addition, the pedestal includes an electrical connector which connects to, or mates with, a corresponding electrical connector on the C-frame. Preferably, buttons are provided on both the C-frame and the pedestal and docking the C-frame on the pedestal works to effectively transfer control of the rivet setting machine from the buttons on the C-frame to the buttons on the pedestal.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 23, 2006
    Date of Patent: March 23, 2010
    Assignee: Acument Intellectual Properties, LLC
    Inventors: Victor A. Lanni, Philip Szuba
  • Publication number: 20090265906
    Abstract: A riveting apparatus includes a hot air pipe; a connection pipe coupled to the hot air pipe; a forming tool having a configuration in which peripheral and center portions project downward and portions existing therebetween are curved upward, defined with discharge holes which extend in axial and radial directions, and coupled to a lower end of the connection pipe so that hot air having passed through the connection pipe can be discharged through the discharge holes to heat an end of a rivet to thereby allow the forming tool to form the end of the rivet into the shape of a head; a moving unit coupled to the hot air pipe or the connection pipe to move the forming tool upward and downward; and a guide surrounding the forming tool so that hot air discharged through the discharge holes can be directed toward the end of the rivet.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 9, 2009
    Publication date: October 29, 2009
    Applicant: Gunyang Trunet Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Taek-hyun Kim
  • Publication number: 20090205184
    Abstract: The present invention provides a hydro-pneumatically operated fastener installation tool (2), including a head (4) having hydraulically driven gripping and pulling means for gripping and pulling the stem of a fastener, thereby to install the fastener, and a hydraulic inlet port (6) provided in the head (4) for supplying hydraulic fluid to a cylinder (8) to drive the gripping and pulling means, wherein the cross-sectional shape of the hydraulic inlet port (6) is non-circular, such that a cross section of the inlet port (6) has a longitudinal axis and lateral axis, wherein the longitudinal axis runs widthways across the tool head (4).
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 28, 2008
    Publication date: August 20, 2009
    Applicant: Avdel UK Limited
    Inventors: Angraj Kumar Seewraj, Peter Michael Beecherl
  • Publication number: 20090070983
    Abstract: The present invention discloses a self-piercing element, that can be fastened to a structural component by means of piercing and beading. Additionally, the present invention discloses an apparatus for seating the self-piercing element and a corresponding method. The self-piercing element comprises a functional head, a seat geometry and a cutting geometry, while the cutting geometry has a radially outwards arranged, centering exterior bevel, a radially inward arranged interior bevel and a cutting edge arranged in between.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 17, 2008
    Publication date: March 19, 2009
    Inventors: Michael Stumpf, Andreas Marxkors, Stephan Bachmeier, Christoph Pekal, Jorg Simon, Matthias Langer
  • Publication number: 20090025196
    Abstract: A machine-tool module for inserting and staking very small and lightweight contacts in a support member such as an electrical switch finger is disclosed and claimed. The device comprises a rotatable escapement element having a transporter adapted to receive a contact at an escapement receiving position from a first guide. The escapement element bearing the contact then rotates between the receiving position and an escapement delivery position to deliver the contact to a second guide. An impeller system urges the contact along the second guide to the contact installation point. A fluid pressure differential across the contact when the contact is in the guide impels the contact to move along the guide.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 24, 2007
    Publication date: January 29, 2009
    Inventor: Mitchell J. Zaleski
  • Publication number: 20080307624
    Abstract: A riveting structure comprises a connector and a metal plate. The proposed riveting structure differs from the prior art in that the connector has an even number of parallel positioning sides and the shape of an opening on the metal plate corresponds to that of a connection member on the connector so that the connector can be positioned in the opening. Moreover, the width of parallel sides of the opening can be properly adjusted to meet the requirement of various different torques.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 12, 2007
    Publication date: December 18, 2008
    Inventor: Hsiao-Lung Lee
  • Publication number: 20080250622
    Abstract: A head for a riveting machine for applying shear rivets, the head comprising a plate and a body that have both a hole and are slidable relative to each other, and a sliding chuck equipped with jaws and arranged within a sliding chamber, defined inside said body, so as to engage a stem of the rivet, said chuck being capable of taking a first, engagement position and a second, disengagement position, wherein a control member controlling the sliding movement of the chuck is provided, said control member being in turn controlled by the plate sliding. The invention further concerns the method of controlling the head.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 11, 2008
    Publication date: October 16, 2008
    Inventor: Bruno BISIACH
  • Patent number: 7313852
    Abstract: A riveting yoke assembly (11) comprises a yoke (30), a force applying mechanism (22) and a rivet forming device (34, 36). The yoke has a first end (38), a second end (40), and a middle section (42) coupled between the first and second ends (38, 40). An opening (44) is formed through the yoke between the first and second ends. The force applying mechanism (22) is coupled to the first end (38) of the yoke (30). The lower rivet forming device (36) is removably coupled to the second end (40) of the yoke. The lower rivet forming device (36) has a base end (46) attached to the second end (40) of the yoke (30) and a forming end (48) with a recess (50) to form rivets (17). The recess (50) has a concave, interior surface (52) having an annular step (54) positioned between a top edge (56) of the interior surface (52) and a bottom-most point (58) of the interior surface (52) in order to properly align the rivet (17).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 10, 2006
    Date of Patent: January 1, 2008
    Assignee: Magna Structural Systems, Inc.
    Inventors: David Peckham, Peter Greengrass, Renee Gregory Scheele
  • Patent number: 7200909
    Abstract: A riveting yoke assembly (11) comprises a yoke (30), a force applying mechanism (22) and a rivet forming device (34,36). The yoke has a first end (38), a second end (40), and a middle section (42) coupled between the first and second ends (38,40). An opening (44) is formed through the yoke between the first and second ends. The force applying mechanism (22) is coupled to the first end (38) of the yoke (30). The lower rivet forming device (36) is removably coupled to the second end (40) of the yoke. The lower rivet forming device (36) has a base end (46) attached to the second end (40) of the yoke (30) and a forming end (48) with a recess (50) to form rivets (17). The recess (50) has a concave, interior surface (52) having an annular step (54) positioned between a top edge (56) of the interior surface (52) and a bottom-most point (58) of the interior surface (52) in order to properly align the rivet (17).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 26, 2002
    Date of Patent: April 10, 2007
    Assignee: Magna Structural Systems Inc.
    Inventors: David Peckham, Peter Greengrass, Renee Gregory Scheele
  • Patent number: 7076864
    Abstract: A riveting tool for heading rivets includes a riveter die and strike rod which, in use, engages the portion of the rivet shaft which projects beyond the components to head the rivet and produce the formed rivet head. The riveter die includes a head cavity open to a forward end thereof and which has a cavity profile which generally corresponds to a desired geometry of the formed rivet head to be produced. A bore extends longitudinally through the riveter die and opens into a rearward portion of the head cavity. The riveter die bore has a lateral cross-sectional profile corresponding to that of the rivet shaft. The strike rod comprises a longitudinally extending rod which has a lateral cross-sectional shape generally corresponding to that of the rivet shaft. The strike rod is slidably disposed within the riveter die bore so as to be selectively movable relative to the riveter die into engagement with the distal end of the rivet in heading operations.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 24, 2003
    Date of Patent: July 18, 2006
    Assignee: GBM Rivet & Fasteners Inc.
    Inventor: Mark D. Malaka
  • Patent number: 7024742
    Abstract: A rivet setting tool having a remote intensifier and autofill/recharge system is provided. The rivet setting tool has a hydraulic pulling head which is coupled to an intensifier. The intensifier has a mechanism for providing hydraulic pressure to the hydraulic rivet head to set a rivet tool. The intensifier further has a mechanism for refilling/recharging the hydraulic system of the rivet setting head.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 22, 2003
    Date of Patent: April 11, 2006
    Assignee: Newfrey LLC
    Inventors: James N. Woyciesjes, David S. Calkins
  • Patent number: 6928851
    Abstract: A riveting apparatus has a support die with a support surface. The support surface supports a rivet that extends through a circuit board and an electrical connector. The support surface has a first inclined surface, a second inclined surface, and a depression positioned therebetween. The depression receives a head of the rivet and positionally aligns the rivet with an upper tool unit as the rivet is guided across the first inclined surface toward the second inclined surface. The upper tool unit fastens the rivet to the circuit board.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 20, 2002
    Date of Patent: August 16, 2005
    Assignee: Tyco Electronics AMP K.K.
    Inventor: Hiroshi Yagawa
  • Patent number: 6546613
    Abstract: The present invention provides a novel anvil for a rivet setting machine configured to drive a rivet into a workpiece within a riveting process. The anvil has a cavity therein configured to accommodate a deformation of the rivet and the workpiece during the riveting process. The cavity is defined by a main portion configured to support the workpiece during the riveting process and a relief portion that is proximate to the main portion. The relief portion is configured to provide an area into which the workpiece and the rivet deform during the riveting process. The relief portion includes at least one relief pocket configured to maintain an area which remains unoccupied by the workpiece and the rivet throughout the entire riveting process. The relief portion does not substantially hinder the workpiece and rivet during the riveting process and allows the workpiece and rivet to freely deform during the riveting process.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 29, 2001
    Date of Patent: April 15, 2003
    Assignee: Textron Inc.
    Inventor: Steven P. Donovan
  • Patent number: 6546618
    Abstract: A rivet coupling device 1 has a connector holder unit 250 which carries connectors 200 and a board 50. A supporting die 150 is disposed beneath the connectors 200, and an upper tool unit 92 is disposed above the connectors 200. The upper tool unit 92 can be lowered in order to couple rivets 220. In conjunction with this movement, a link mechanism 30 is actuated to move a cam plate 80, whereby the supporting die 150 is raised slightly by cam projections 148, so that the rivets 220 extending through the connector 200 are deformed between crimpers 134 on the upper tool unit 92 and the supporting die 150. Prior to rivet coupling, a slight gap is formed by the spring terminals between the board 50 and the connector 200. After rivet coupling is performed, this gap is eliminated without deforming the board 50.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 23, 2000
    Date of Patent: April 15, 2003
    Assignee: Tyco Electronics AMP K.K.
    Inventor: Hiroshi Yagawa
  • Patent number: 6405421
    Abstract: A die assembly (20) for riveting includes an upper die (200), a base die (230), a pair of clamps (270), and a pair of springs (280). The upper die includes a fixing block (202), and a pair of pressing protrusion (204) at opposite sides of the fixing block and having first slanted surfaces (206). The base die includes a sizing block (232) to position a workpiece. Two supporting blocks (234) are formed at opposite sides of the sizing block, each defining a through hole for accommodating the clamp. Two positioning blocks (240) are at opposite sides of the supporting blocks. Each clamp includes an end block (276) having a second slanted surface (278) corresponding to the first slanted surface of the pressing protrusion, and a connecting portion (272) slidable in the through hole of the supporting block. The springs connect the clamps to the positioning blocks.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 3, 2001
    Date of Patent: June 18, 2002
    Assignee: Hon Hai PrecisionInd. Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Zhi Neng Tang
  • Patent number: 6298533
    Abstract: A disc cartridge assembling apparatus in which a protuberance formed on the inner surface of one of cartridge halves of a thermoplastic resin making up a main cartridge body unit is passed through a through-hole formed in the other cartridge half in register with the protuberance, and in which the distal end of the protuberance is thermally deformed to interconnect the cartridge halves. The upper and lower cartridge halves are stacked together, with a protuberance formed on the upper cartridge half being passed through the through-hole formed in the upper cartridge half, and are held by a holding mechanism. In this state, the distal end of the protuberance is thermally deformed by a caulking head, heated by a heater, and which is provided with a recess in its surface adapted to compress against the protuberance. Then, as the caulking head is moved away from the thermally deformed protuberance, the caulking head and the protuberance are cooled by a cooling mechanism.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 30, 1999
    Date of Patent: October 9, 2001
    Assignee: Sony Corporation
    Inventors: Kimitaka Nishimura, Kenichi Kano, Takahiko Fukushima