Stabilization devices and methods for component assembly, especially aircraft component assembly

Abstract

Devices and methods for stabilizing a structural component are provided. The devices may include a main body component, a pair of opposed stabilization feet engageable with opposed regions of the structural component, a pair of coaxially disposed and reciprocal rectilinearly movable support shafts coupling the stabilization feet to the main body component, and an actuator assembly for rectilinearly moving the support shafts opposite to one another which in turn moves the stabilization feet between retracted and extended positions relative to the main body component. In use, the device may be positioned between opposed flanges of a structural component so as to stabilize the component and facilitate automated assembly processes.

Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.