Importance

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Abstract

A programmable or flexible fixture for holding a plurality of details comprising an assembly during assembly processes thereon comprising an elongated base supported in a predetermined position, a plurality of positioning units located at spaced locations along the base, each of the positioning units having a clamp adapted to engage the details, the positioning units being located to allow access to the details from two directions of movement of tools of assembly apparatus moving with respect to the workpiece during assembly processes thereon, a robot operatively associated with the positioning units for moving the positioning units relative to the base for accepting the various members of a family of details which all have the same configuration and differ by increments in size and for holding the details together as an assembly and holding the assembly in the proper detail location and assembly position for assembling, and an actuator for moving the clamp into and out of engagement with the details. The fixture is used in an automatic assembly method wherein at least one automatic assembly machine has operational parameters determined by the nature of the details to be assembled, wherein the robot adjusts the fixture positioning units and places details and assemblies in the fixture and removes details and assemblies from the fixture, and wherein a conveyor transports details to the cell and transports assemblies from the cell. A cell controller monitors information pertaining to the details and assemblies, monitors operation of the assembly machine and controls operation of the robot.

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First Claim