Patent ID: 8839507
Filing Date: 2014-09-23
Classification: B62D,F16B,Y10T

Abstract:
1. A remote locking apparatus for use in securing an automotive vehicle body to a vehicle body support, the vehicle support including at least two pillars and is positionable at a process station along a progressive assembly line, the locking apparatus comprising: a locking arm connected to a vehicle support surface, the locking arm adapted to be accessible and engageable by an actuator positioned at the build station; an elongate axle having a first and a second end, the first end connected to the locking arm; an elbow connected to the axle second end; an elongate rod having a first and a second end, the rod connected to the elbow at the first end; a body clamp connected to the second end of the rod wherein on movement of the locking arm, the body clamp is articulated through a path of travel to engage a portion of the vehicle body to secure the vehicle body to the vehicle body support; and a crank body connected to the second end of the axle and having an axis of rotation, the crank body further having a crank pin radially positioned from the axis of rotation and connected to the elbow, wherein on rotation of the crank body about the axis of rotation, the crank pin linearly moves the elbow and rod in a substantially vertical direction with respect to the vehicle support.