Abstract: A receptacle which is configured to receive a fastener element having a hexagon, or some other polygonal profile, and which is configured to rotationally or angularly orientate the insert fastener element. One version of the receptacle provides that the receptacle is in the open position as a fastener element is dropped therein. Then, a jaw cylinder closes the receptacle, thereby orientating the fastener element. Another version of the receptacle uses springs instead of a jaw cylinder, and orientates the fastener element upon rotation of a threaded shaft of a pulling head.

Abstract: Aspects of the invention relate to a fixture and a method to assist in the alignment of the inlet end of a transition duct and a combustor component in a turbine engine. The fixture includes a plurality of pressure transducers spaced on a mandrel so as to correspond to the target alignment location of the transition. The plurality of pressure transducers produce signals, which can be converted by a signal processor into an actual alignment location signal. A display can be provided for presenting graphical images of the target alignment location and the actual alignment location responsive to the actual alignment location signal received from the signal processor. Thus, a user can view the movement of the graphical image of the actual alignment location relative to the graphical image of the target alignment location such that the user can adjust the transition's position until the graphical images are substantially aligned.

Abstract: A method intended for manufacturing a bicycle spoked wheel is described. By inserting the nipples or barrels for the attachment of the spokes in the spoke attachment seats from the inside of the spoke attachment chamber instead of from the outside, after having inserted them in the chamber from a suitably sized opening, the rim of the bicycle wheel can be manufactured even without additional openings, still using conventional nipples or barrels.

Abstract: A method includes the steps of (1) wrapping a shock absorbent member around a columnar member, (2) supporting one end portion of a cylindrical housing on a support member, (3) arranging the columnar member in a cylindrical guide member formed with the tapered portion inside thereof, (4) inserting the shock absorbent member and the columnar member into the cylindrical housing through the tapered portion, (5) pressing a pushing member to the columnar member so as to be moved along the longitudinal axis thereof relative to the cylindrical housing, to accommodate the shock absorbent member and the columnar member in the cylindrical housing, (6) moving the support member and a shrinking mechanism relative to each other, and (7) actuating the shrinking mechanism to reduce the diameter of a part of the cylindrical housing.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for assembling motorcycle frames includes a conveyor defining a path of travel and a pallet movable along the conveyor through a workstation. The pallet supports a rotatable frame for receiving individual components and/or sub-assemblies in fixed relationship with respect to one another in a geometry fixture. The angular position of the rotatable frame and supported geometry fixture can be reoriented about an axis of rotation by engagement with a drive motor. The rotatable frame is normally locked in an angular orientation with respect to the pallet until released by engagement with a lock release actuator or key. The pallet is supported on a movable section of the conveyor, which can be guided between raised and lowered positions with respect to the workstation to accurately and repeatably position the support pallet with respect to the workstation for automated processing operations at the workstation.

Abstract: A surgical blade package facilitates the mounting of a surgical blade on to the forwardly-projecting cleat on a scalpel handle; and following use in the O.R., the surgical blade package facilitates stripping the used blade off the scalpel for disposal in a sharps container. The cleat is inserted beneath the rear end portion of the blade, and between the blade and the bottom wall of the blade package; and forward and upward movement of the scalpel snaps the blade on to the scalpel in a continuous movement. The opposite procedure is used to demount the used blade from the scalpel and encase it in the original blade package for disposal in a sharps container.

Abstract: The present invention generally relates to a method and programmable apparatus for the assembly of body components to an automotive body that has undergone a progressive series of framing and welding steps so as to produce a structurally rigid body frame, termed a body-in-white. More specifically, this invention relates to creating a new net locating scheme (X-Y and Z Cartesian coordinate system) for a body-in-white to direct associated tooling to create net attachment features on a rigid body frame with respect to a new net locating scheme so that components may be attached to an automotive body at a net location eliminating the need for any slip plane attachment techniques.

Abstract: Methods for forming a support frame for flexible leaflet heart valves from a starting blank include converting a two-dimensional starting blank into the three-dimensional support frame. The material may be superelastic, such as NITINOL, and the method may include bending the 2-D blank into the 3-D form and shape setting it. A merely elastic material such as ELGILOY may be used and plastically deformed in stages, possibly accompanied by annealing, to obtain the 3-D shape. Alternatively, a tubular blank could be formed to define a non-tubular shape, typically conical. A method for calculating the precise 2-D blank shape is also disclosed. A mandrel assembly includes a mandrel and ring elements for pressing the blank against the external surface of the mandrel prior to shape setting.

Abstract: Apparatus and a method for assembly of panels into a composite structure are provided. The structure includes a form jig (1) having form boards (3, 4, 5) defining forming edges (6, 7, 8) against which a composite panel to be precisely formed may be drawn by a number of edge clamps (12), usually in combination with suction devices (26, 27, 28, 29, 30). The edge clamps (12) are able to extend around edges of the panel (13) for initial location of the panel against the form boards and subsequent more powerful drawing action to draw the panel into intimate contact with the forming edges of the form boards.

Abstract: A machine for assembling enclosure including a shell and a base includes a support base (12), a pair of first brackets (20) movably attached to opposite ends of the support base, and a pair of second brackets (40) pivotably attached to the first brackets respectively. A pair of first engagement assemblies (50) is arranged on opposite ends of the second bracket, each comprising a movable engagement part for engaging inside of the shell. A second engagement assembly (70) is arranged between the first engagement assemblies, and comprises a movable engagement plate for engaging outside of the shell. A controller (80) is provided for controlling the first and second brackets, the first and second engagement assemblies to act properly and sequentially, for engaging pins of the shell in corresponding holes of the base to form the enclosure.

Abstract: A device for applying a scale element to a first body, in relation to which a second body can be moved in a measuring direction, the device includes an alignment element displaceable on a scale element in a measuring direction, and applied transversely thereto in a defined position, and includes a reference surface, which is adapted for interaction with a second reference surface on a second body and otherwise is loose in relation to the second body.

Abstract: An engine seal installing tool, system and method for facilitating installation of engine seals in a simplified process includes a main screw engageable to an engine shaft. An engine seal is mounted on a seal guide assembly slidably mounted on the main screw. A pressure nut is used to urge the seal guide assembly towards the engine shaft to insert the engine seal into the seal housing surrounding the engine shaft.

Abstract: An apparatus for horizontally actuating hemming and stamping die sets includes a horizontal base support and a roller device horizontally mounted thereon. A linear guidance system is set in and a drive support is vertically attached to the base support. A drive mechanism is supported and an anvil die set is held by the drive support. A vertical platen rests on top of the base support and is loosely guided by the linear guidance system. A punch die set is held by the vertical platen and a plurality of bushings are set therein. At least three guide shafts are secured to the anvil die set and each is engaged to one of the bushings of the punch die set. A plurality of link bars are attached to the vertical platen via link bar attachments and coupled to the drive mechanism. Actuation of the drive mechanism horizontally moves the vertical platen.

Abstract: A method of adjusting the position of a first object relative to a second object, the first object being releasably secured to the second object by a bolt. The method includes providing a precision movement tool comprising an L-shaped bracket having a base portion and a flange portion extending substantially perpendicularly from the base portion adjacent one end thereof, the base portion having an aperture adjacent an opposite end thereof, and a threaded adjustment bolt extending through a threaded aperture in the flange portion. The bolt is removed and the base portion of the precision movement tool is positioned so that the aperture in the base portion is aligned with apertures in the first and second objects from which the bolt has been removed. The precision movement tool is also positioned so that the flange portion overlies the first object such that the adjustment bolt can engage the first object.

Abstract: A conductor torquing system is provided for large diameter threaded conductor casing which comprises a lower chain vise or fixed grip head adapted to grip a first joint of conductor casing, a plurality of movable arms operable to apply a retaining force to a second joint of conductor casing to maintain the latter in rotational contact with a spinning means. The spinning means is operable to rotationally make-up the second joint of conductor casing to the first joint of conductor casing to an initial make-up torque valve. The apparatus also includes an upper chain vise or rotary grip head for gripping the second joint of conductor casing and applying a final make-up torque to the threaded connection. The apparatus will allow a conductor connection to be made-up in a safe and efficient manner and generally assist in reaching the final torque stage more rapidly.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for making and breaking tubular connections at the surface of a well by utilizing a pipe joining system. The pipe joining system includes a movable support frame for supporting and integrating on a rig floor the tools associated with making and breaking the connection between two tubulars. Tools incorporated in the pipe joining system include combinations of a wrenching assembly for gripping the tubulars and applying torque to the connection, a spinner for spinning the joints of the tubulars into connection, a positioning tool for vertically and/or horizontally aligning the tubulars in the system, a cleaning and doping device for cleaning and doping the threads of the tubulars, a stabbing guide for properly aligning the tubulars before joining, a mud bucket for handling mud spillage during the breaking of the tubulars, and a control system that remotely operates the entire automated system.

Abstract: An apparatus for press-fitting a bearing cap into a cylinder block includes a frame. A first cylinder is connected to the frame. A guide rod is coupled to an operating rod of the first cylinder to ascend or descend in response to an operation of the first cylinder and configured to be inserted into bolt holes respectively formed in the bearing cap and the cylinder block in response to a descending thereof. A second cylinder is connected to the frame. A pressure detection sensor detects an operating pressure generated by the second cylinder. A press pad is coupled to an operating rod of the second cylinder to ascend or descend in response to an operation of the second cylinder and configured to press the bearing cap so that the bearing cap is press-fitted into the cylinder block.

Abstract: A process, apparatus, and kit for horizontally assembling a cryogenic pump with an apparatus generally including a workstand, a plurality of support stands longitudinally spaced apart from the workstand and a roller transport structure. The kit includes the apparatus and a beam crane for attachment to the apparatus for assembling and disassembling the cryogenic pump at the point of use.

Abstract: Engine loader and transporter apparatus and methods are disclosed. In one embodiment, an engine handling assembly includes a motorized drive assembly engageable with a floor surface, and an engagement unit positioned proximate the drive assembly and partially surrounding a working space. The engagement unit includes a pair of coupling assemblies positioned on opposing lateral sides of the working space that are adapted to be selectively coupleable to the aircraft engine assembly when the aircraft engine assembly is positioned at least partially within the working space. A lifting assembly is operatively coupled to the drive assembly and to the engagement unit and is operable to selectively raise and lower the engagement unit and the aircraft engine assembly with respect to the floor surface.

Abstract: Embodiments of the invention generally provide an in situ method for assembling and measuring optical characteristics of an optical component. The method generally includes pressing an optical source or lens into an optical housing while simultaneously measuring the optical output of the device. The measured optical output is used to determine and control when the optical source or lens is pressed to an optical position within optical housing. Once the source or lens is pressed into the optical housing, the method includes measuring the optical offset and/or pointing angle of the assembled component in the same apparatus that assembled the component. The measured optical offset and/or pointing angle information is used to determine how to mechanically alter the optical housing to correct or compensate for the optical offset and pointing angle.

Abstract: In a preferred embodiment, an expendable alignment ring is adapted for centering opposing conical surfaces of a transmission torque converter and an engine crankshaft. The ring has an annular body formed of a thermoplastic such as high density polyethelene. The body has first and second ends formed by axially spaced inner and outer coaxial conical surfaces extending between inner and outer peripheries. The ring is installed over a pilot of the torque converter so that the conical ends of the ring align the conical surfaces of the torque converter and the crankshaft during assembly to center the torque converter relative to the crankshaft. Upon assembly of the torque converter to the crankshaft, the alignment ring is slightly compressed and provides the mechanism for precise alignment of the torque converter to the crankshaft.

Abstract: A method of forming a fitting assembly in a filament-reinforced pressure vessel, and a pressure vessel having a fitting assembly secured therein. In the method, a first fitting portion is bonded to an inner surface of a thermoplastic liner in a fluid tight manner. A layer of commingled reinforcing filaments and plastic material is applied to an outer surface of the thermoplastic liner to form a vessel wall. A portion of the vessel wall adjacent to the opening bounded by the fluid-tight seal between the first fitting portion and the inner surface of the thermoplastic liner is removed. Then, a second fitting portion is bonded to the first fitting portion so as to define a port for access into the interior of the vessel.

Abstract: Small sheet metal reinforcement pieces are co-formed with a larger sheet metal part during a hot stretch forming against a heated forming tool surface. Locator holes are made in blanks for the reinforcing pieces so they can be precisely located on locator pins in the forming surface where the reinforcing pieces are ultimately to be attached to the formed sheet part. A preheated blank of the larger part is stretched against the trapped reinforcement blanks and both the part and reinforcing pieces are shaped against the hot tool. The part and reinforcing pieces are removed and cooled, and the closely fitting reinforcing pieces attached to the part at a suitable later time.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a method for forming positioning grooves on torsion wrench, which is not only able to overcome the problem of high cost in milling grooves on torsion wrench, but also able to reduce material cost, the method including the steps as: First, Forming a base body of a torsion wrench; Second, Extrusion-forming positioning sleeve; Third, cutting the positioning sleeve; Fourth, assembling the positioning sleeve to the base body of the torsion wrench: Fifth, assembling adjustable ring and adjustable bushing.

Abstract: An apparatus for passively aligning first and second substrates having micro-components disposed thereon when the substrates do not include patterned surfaces which face each other. The apparatus includes a first depression which cooperates with an alignment sphere to mechanically engage a corresponding depression disposed on the front surface of the first substrate and a second depression which cooperates with a second alignment sphere to mechanically engage a corresponding depression disposed on the front surface of the second substrate. The first and second depression of the alignment apparatus and the alignment spheres cooperate to passively align micro-components disposed on each of the substrates.

Abstract: A part is capable of being retained in a guide for retaining a plurality of such parts in such a manner so as to stack the parts in a direction in which gravity act on the parts and supplying parts to a predetermined position. The part has a plurality of abutment portions which come into abutment with an upper-side part in the guide and support the upper-side part, and a plurality of receiving portions with which a plurality of abutment portions provided on a lower-side part in the guide are brought into abutment. The center of gravity of the part is disposed inside a region surrounded by the plurality of abutment portions. Accordingly, it is possible to convey parts to an assembly line without causing damage to the regions of the parts that are required to have dimensional precision.

Abstract: The present application discloses gripping systems and various uses thereof. As one example, a gripping system including a gripping jaw and an extensible bar is disclosed. The gripping jaw includes two opposing members that are operable to grasp a gripped object between the opposing members. The system further includes a bar that includes an upper portion and a lower portion that are coupled via an extensible joint. A distance between the upper portion and the lower portion of the bar at the extensible joint is proportional to a distance between the opposing members when the gripping jaw is in a closed position. Various methods utilizing a gripping system similar to the aforementioned to select mailing inserts are also disclosed.

Abstract: An apparatus and method is provided for replacing a grille on a vehicle. The method comprises removing the first grille that has a pattern of openings and attaching a second grille that is different from the first grille in the same location in which the first grille was located.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a method of assembling a scrubber which includes a motor, a shaft rotatably coupled to and extending through the motor, a shaft pin detachably connected to the shaft, and a disk coupled to the shaft and having a notch located relative to the shaft pin at a predetermined angle with respect to a longitudinal axis of the shaft when properly assembled. In one embodiment, the method comprises providing a tool body configured to partially receive the scrubber, the tool body including a first recess and a protrusion; and placing the tool body adjacent the scrubber to at least partially receive the shaft pin into the first recess of the tool body and to at least partially insert the protrusion of the tool body into the notch of the disk. The first recess and the protrusion are arranged at the predetermined angle to position the notch of the disk and the shaft pin of the scrubber for proper assembly at the predetermined angle with respect to the longitudinal axis of the shaft.

Abstract: A method of producing an aircraft assembly tool for supporting an aircraft component comprising the steps of: determining the predetermined positions and orientations in space at which the component should be supported; designing a fixture frame to provide support at predetermined locations of the frame associated with said predetermined positions; constructing the fixture frame by selecting elongate members having predetermined lengths and connecting the elongate members together with releasable fasteners; constructing a plurality of pick-up devices, each having a receiving element for carrying the component; mounting the pick-up devices to the fixture frame at the predetermined locations; and moving each receiving element about/around the orthogonal axes to align the receiving element with a respective predetermined position and orientation.

Abstract: A method of aligning a crankcase to a non-orbiting scroll includes the steps of forming initial alignment surfaces on both the non-orbiting scroll and the crankcase. Further, when the non-orbiting scroll and the crankcase are machined, precision drilled holes are drilled into each of the two. These holes are drilled relative to datum surfaces on both the non-orbiting scroll and the crankcase. Thus, once the two have been pre-positioned, the precision drilled holes are aligned and a threaded bolt is inserted into the precision drilled holes. The threaded bolt ensures that the two will be radially positioned properly relative to each other.

Abstract: A method of assembling a grommet, comprising the steps of: providing a grommet assembling jig which has a mounting portion and a guide portion; providing a first division body which has a seal portion; providing a second division body which has a fixing portion, the first division body and the second division body constituting the grommet; mounting the first division body on the grommet assembling jig so that the seal portion is fitted on the mounting portion; arranging a wire harness on the first division body; and assembling the second division body with the first division body by guiding the guide portion to the fixing portion.

Abstract: A jigging device, for example, for positioning parts to facilitate assembly line procedures. The jigging device maintains a first element (10) in a desired spatial relationship with a second element (12). The jigging device has a first fastening means comprising fastener (20) which is connected to the first element (10). The jigging device also has a second fastening means comprising fastener insert (14) together with adjustable capsule (18). Locking pin (22) locks fastener (20) to the adjustable capsule (18).

Abstract: The present invention provides an apparatus for attachment to pipe handling arm, comprising a clamp for gripping a tubular and a guide for aligning said tubular with another tubular prior to connection thereof, characterized in that said clamp and said guide are movable relative to each other in a direction longitudinal of the tubular, the arrangement being such that said tubular can be brought closer to said another tubular in a direction longitudinal of the tubular.

Abstract: A door hinge mounting system includes a first multi-sided rotating member and a second multi-sided rotating member that are provided with at least two mounting surfaces. Each of the mounting surfaces of the first and second multi-sided rotating member is provided with a door hinge mounting unit.

Abstract: A method for assembling a linked suspension and an assembly tool for assembling a linked suspension are provided. The method includes positioning at least one bushing within a bracket, the bushing including an outer sleeve and a tube extending therethrough, the tube being rotatable with respect to the outer sleeve of the bushing against a counter-torque; rotating the tube with respect to the outer sleeve of the bushing; and tightening the bushing to the bracket after rotating the tube with respect to the outer sleeve.

Abstract: A method of securing a flexible donor sheet, before or after organic material has been transferred to such sheet to facilitate its mounting, includes forming a plurality of spaced apart openings in the sheet adjacent to opposite edges of the sheet, and providing a rigid frame for receiving the sheet having a plurality of tabs, each one of the tabs corresponding to an opening in the sheet and arranged so that an edge portion of the sheet adjacent to the opening is placed under its corresponding tab.

Abstract: The present invention provides an assembling method facilitating building-in work of a door and tensile coil spring in a cartridge case. In an assembling of a magnetic tape cartridge, hold the door and coil spring with a component holding jig, grip a part of the door with a robot hand of an assembling apparatus, engage the other end of the coil spring in a spring engaging portion, elongate the coil spring with moving the spring engaging portion in a closing direction, make a state in which the coil spring can be attached to the case-side spring hooking portion as it is when fitting the door in a closing position of the guide groove, then fit in the door, and attach the other end of the coil spring to the case-side spring hooking portion, thereby being able to simultaneously build the door and coil spring in a lower half.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for assembling a shaft to a golf club head is disclosed. The club head is positioned in a club head alignment device of the apparatus, which further includes a holding device and a press device with a jaw mechanism. A ferrule and a sleeve are placed on the tip end of the shaft, and the butt end is inserted into the holding device. The tip end of the shaft and the sleeve are inserted into a tapered bore in the hosel of the club head. The jaw mechanism of the press device is then enclosed around the shaft, and the press device is operated to force the sleeve further into the tapered hosel bore. The club head and partially attached shaft are then removed from the apparatus, and the ferrule is secured to the hosel to completely attach the shaft.

Abstract: A mold fixture 20 for safe and efficient extraction, insertion and storage of mold inserts 26, 28 is provided. The mold fixture 20 includes a lower receiving area 24 for fixedly receiving a lower mold insert 28, an upper receiving area 22 for fixedly receiving an upper mold insert 26. The mold fixture 20 facilitates insertion or extraction of the upper and lower mold inserts 26, 28 into/from a molding machine 1 in a safe and secure manner. Furthermore, the upper and lower mold inserts 26, 28 can be securely stored within the mold fixture 20 at a storage location.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for aligning opposed telescopically engageable cut ring and blank and draw die when mounted in a can body forming press to form non-round disc-shaped blanks which are subsequently formed into container bodies. A pair of opposed precision formed notches are formed in the peripheries of the spaced press components and a precision formed key is inserted into the notches. The key is then slidably removed from the notches. The notches are precisely located with respect to each other and to major and minor axes of the press components so that said major and minor axes align with each other when the key is seated in the notches.

Abstract: A fastener delivery and installation method is provided that comprises an end effector mounted on an automated machine and operable to drill a hole through a workpiece and insert a fastener through the hole, and a fastener feed unit and method operable with the automated machine to deliver the fasteners through the end effector and into the workpiece. Further, a hand-held tool is positioned against a second surface of the workpiece and is aligned with the end effector. Once the hand-held tool is positioned properly, a magnetic field is generated and the workpiece is clamped to enable the end effector to drill a hole through the workpiece and insert a fastener therethrough. Additionally, a detector is located on the hand-held tool for generating guidance information to inform an operator where to move the hand-held tool so as to align the hand-held tool with the end effector.

Abstract: A method for bonding a plurality of magnetized blocks together includes providing at least two magnetized blocks, and bonding at least two magnetized blocks together using a door translatable in two orthogonal directions.

Abstract: A material application system for applying a panel of material to a framework with a shoe for retaining the framework, a nest, opposed mechanisms for retaining opposite portions of the panel of material traversing between the shoe and the nest, an arrangement for selectively moving the shoe and the nest into and out of an engaged position wherein the panel of material is sandwiched between the shoe and the nest and a disengaged position, and an arrangement for inducing an attachment of the panel of material to the framework. The opposed mechanisms can be clamping mechanisms, which can be segmented and individually moveable to enable variable pretensioning. A contoured deflection control member can alternatively produce variable pretensioning. A pressing arrangement with a tooth member can press a locking spline into a groove in the framework to secure the material.

Abstract: A device for the directional attachment of a scale element of a linear position measuring system to an installation face of a first body. The device includes a first body, a second body comprising a scanning head, which is movable in a measuring direction in relation to said first body, and a scale element is aligned parallel with respect to the measuring direction and a profiled alignment device is provided on the second body, which works together with a complementary tape profile on the scale element for aligning the scale element.

Abstract: Multiple cutting blades (56) are fabricated from a wafer (130). This wafer (130) is disposed on a blade handle mounting fixture (224) such that a blade handle (24) maybe mounted on each of the individual blades (56). A cutting edge (80) of each blade (56) is maintained in spaced relation to the fixture (224) as these blade handles (24) are being mounted. Thereafter, the wafer (130) is transferred to a blade separation fixture (300). Each blade 56 is suspended above the fixture (300). An appropriate force is transmitted to the individual blades (56) to separate the same from the wafer (130). Separation preferably occurs before the blade (56) contacts the fixture (300). Thereafter, the blade (56) in effect pivots into an inclined position where its cutting edge (80) projects at least generally upwardly. Preferably, at no time does the cutting edge (80) of any blade (56) contact either the blade handle mounting fixture (224) or the blade separation fixture (300).

Abstract: A means and method for inserting drivers into a surgical stapling cartridge, including a pallet that holds the cartridge firmly. The pallet has a central slot and laterally positioned lip members that are biased toward the slot. The cartridge is positioned in the slot and the lip members are released to extend their lips over the lateral flanges on the cartridge, thereby holding the cartridge in position. A finger extends into a recess formed at one end of the cartridge, thereby positively positioning the cartridge in the slot. The cartridge is released for removal by a tongue inserted between the lip members, thereby separating them by displacement.

Abstract: Embodiments of the invention generally provide a fixture for assembling an optical component. The fixture includes a substantially rigid base member having an upper surface and a lower surface with a base aperture connecting the two surfaces and a component mounting plate positioned on the upper surface and having an aperture formed therein corresponding to the base aperture. The fixture further includes at least one pivotally mounted component disengagement member positioned on the upper surface and being configured to disengage a component from the mounting plate and a component securing member slidably positioned on the upper surface and being configured to secure a component to the mounting plate. Additionally, a differential press screw assembly is positioned on the lower surface, wherein the differential press screw assembly is configured to press a lens into a component mounted on the component mounting plate via extension of a press nut through the base aperture.

Abstract: To align the edges of plates prior to joining them, a generally cylindrical anchor member is spot welded at one location on one of its rims to a plate. A mounting element of a clamp body member slidably engages the anchor member. A force applicator element of the clamp body member is generally laterally spaced from the mounting element. The mounting element includes a generally arcuately extended semi-cylindrical socket portion of such a diameter that it slidably and snugly mounts the socket portion thereon. The rim portions of the anchor member provide a plurality of spot mounting locations for breakably spot welding, brazing or otherwise temporarily attaching the anchor member to a plate or other substrate. At least one of the force applicator or mounting elements is adapted to the incremental application of aligning force on adjacent plates. The body of the clamp bridges between the respective plates that are to be brought into line with one another.

Abstract: A production system for manufacturing a workpiece comprises an index system including a plurality of index devices removably mounted on the workpiece at known longitudinally spaced locations therealong, and a longitudinally extending index member releasably engaged with at least two of the index devices such that a position and orientation of the index member are fixed relative to the workpiece by the index devices, the index member having position-indicating features distributed therealong. The production system further comprises a machine module mounted for longitudinal movement along the index member and operable to perform an operation, the machine module being operable to detect the position-indicating features on the index member and thereby determine a position of the machine module relative to the workpiece.