Rotational assembly method and apparatus
AssigneeApple Inc.
InventorsFabio T. Campos, Keith J. Hendren, Laura M. DeForest, Michelle R. Goldberg, Kelsey J. MacMillan, Bryan J. Licata
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Abstract
The described embodiments relate generally to methods of assembly of electronic devices. In particular, a rotationally induced pressure is used to activate a securing mechanism positioned between a component and an enclosure. The component and the securing mechanism may be located in an inaccessible region of the enclosure such that traditional, direct, assembly processes may not be feasible. The securing mechanism may take the form of a layer of pressure sensitive adhesive or a fastener between the component and an interior surface of the enclosure.
Claims20
A method of rotational assembly, comprising:
- providing an enclosure, a component, and a securing mechanism;
- positioning the component within the enclosure and positioning the securing mechanism between the component and the enclosure to define a product in a partially assembled configuration;
- and
- rotating the product in the partially assembled configuration about an axis to activate the securing mechanism.
A non-transitory computer readable medium for storing computer instructions executed by a processor in a controller configured to assemble an enclosure, a component, and a securing mechanism, the non-transitory computer readable medium comprising:
- computer code for positioning the component within the enclosure and positioning the securing mechanism between the component and the enclosure to define a product in a partially assembled configuration;
- and
- computer code for rotating the product in the partially assembled configuration about an axis to activate the securing mechanism.
An assembly apparatus, comprising:
- a rotary table;
- a motor coupled to the rotary table via a shaft;
- and
- one or more fixtures coupled to the rotary table and respectively configured to engage a product comprising a component, a securing mechanism, and an enclosure in a partially assembled configuration,
- the motor being configured to rotate the rotary table to activate the securing mechanism and secure the component to the enclosure.
The assembly apparatus of claim 17, wherein the displaceable member comprises a spring.
Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.