Patent ID: 7510109
Filing Date: 2009-03-31
Classification: B23K,B23Q,B62D,Y10T

Abstract:
1. A method of moving pairs of framing gates to a framing station on a motor vehicle assembly line where loosely preassembled vehicle bodies are clamped by the framing gate pairs while the bodies are welded to form a rigid vehicle body, the method comprising the steps of: providing linear track structures each having one end positioned proximate the framing station and a free end; providing a pair of carousels each having a plurality of substantially flat sides, at least one side of each carousel including a carousel track structure; positioning the carousels along and on opposite sides of the assembly line in spaced relation to the framing station; mounting the carousels for rotation to bring each carousel track structure into a discharge position proximate and in linear alignment with one of the linear track structures; positioning a pair of framing gates on the respective carousel track structures of the pair of carousels; rotating the carousels into the discharge position; discharging the framing gates from the carousels; and sliding the framing gates along the assembly line to opposite sides of the framing station.