Automatic fastener driving system, apparatus and method

An automatic fastener driving method, comprising:

• supplying a fastener in a head first orientation;
• transferring the fastener in the head first orientation to a fastener driving apparatus;
• depositing the fastener within a receiver of the automatic fastener driving apparatus;
• aligning the fastener with an associated work piece;
• and
• applying powered torque to the fastener to install the fastener into the associated work piece.

A fastener driving apparatus, comprising:

• a support;
• a receiver secured to the support, the receiver defines a chamber for receiving a fastener therein and includes a first opening and a second opening positioned opposite the first opening;
• a carriage;
• a torqueing device secured to the carriage, the torqueing device including a motor and a fastener engagement tool operably connected to the motor, the tool is received in the chamber through the first opening;
• and
• at least one linear actuator operably connected to the support and the carriage, the linear actuator is moveable between an extended position and a retracted position, wherein retraction of the actuator from the extended position moves the carriage with respect to the housing and advances the tool through the chamber toward the second aperture to engage the fastener positioned in the chamber and advance the fastener out of the second opening.