Patent ID: 6141861
Filing Date: 2000-11-07
Classification: B21L,B23P,B30B,Y10T

Abstract:
An assembly apparatus comprising: a drive linkage for applying a load to workpieces, the drive linkage including a linearly movable ram and a rotatable drive train for moving the ram between a plurality of positions toward and away from the workpieces during an assembly cycle,the drive linkage further including means for translating rotational movement of the rotatable drive train into the linear movement of the ram;the assembly apparatus further including at least one additional linearly movable element mechanically tied to said rotatable drive train for movement between a plurality of positions during the assembly cycle, movement of the at least one additional linearly movable element being coordinated with movement of said ram;a motor for rotation of said rotatable drive train for movement of said ram and said, additional linearly movable element;means for determining the load existing in the drive linkage by detecting a characteristic of an element other than said motor;means for determining the stage of the assembly cycle; andmeans for communicating information related to the existing load as determined.