Patent ID: 7827664

Claim:
An apparatus for automatically and simultaneously removing at least one connector clip of a workpiece from a gauge, comprising: at least one gauging fixture having at least one circular aperture extending therethrough in a predetermined position; said at least one aperture adaptable to receive said at least one connector clip of said workpiece between a disengaged position, wherein said at least one connector clip does not extend through said aperture and does not secure said workpiece against said gauging fixture, and an engaged position, wherein said at least one connector clip extends through said at least one aperture to secure said workpiece against said gauging fixture in order to gauge the position of said at least one connector clip relative to said workpiece; at least one linear actuator connected to said gauging fixture, and said linear actuator moving between a retracted position, wherein said linear actuator does not engage said at least one connector clip so said at least one connector clip remains in said engaged position, and an extended position, wherein said linear actuator engages and moves said at least one connector clip toward said disengaged position; said at least one linear actuator having a head extending therefrom, wherein said head provides an aperture that is engageable with said at least one connector clip in said extended position to compress and move said at least one connector clip toward said disengaged position; and a locating pin connectable to said gauge and moveable between a locating position, wherein said locating pin is adaptable to engage a locating hole in said workpiece and said gauge for properly positioning said workpiece relative to said gauge, and a non-locating position, wherein said locating pin is adaptable not to engage said locating hole in said workpiece and said gauge.