Importance

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Abstract

A fastener clinching press includes a frame that supports a die having a hole that cooperates with the fastener to produce a slug from the workpiece. A ram has a head assembly that engages the fastener. A first sensor determines a ram position relative to the die. A pin is slidably supported within the head assembly and extends out of the head assembly to a tip that locates a fastener relative to the die. The pin is movable between multiple pin positions including a slug-eject position. A second sensor is arranged in the head assembly and is operatively connected to the pin. The sensor monitors the multiple pin positions that relate to a pin travel distance signature. A controller is in communication with the first and second sensors and determines an outcome of the clinching operation based upon the ram position and the pin travel distance signature.

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First Claim