Apparatus and method for forming an interference fit

A method of forming an interference fit between the outer surface of a flange, and an inner surface of a hollow cylindrical member having a first end and a second end, comprising:

• supporting the hollow cylindrical member so that the flange may be located with respect to the first end of the hollow cylindrical member;
• applying an assembly force with a force member to the flange such that the flange is inserted into the hollow cylindrical member to form the interference fit;
• sensing the distance the flange is inserted into the hollow cylindrical member with a displacement sensor;
• sensing the assembly force supplied by the force member with a force sensor;
• and
• determining whether the interference fit meets predetermined force and distance assembly specifications, wherein the flange has a length, an inner diameter, and an outer diameter, such that the outer diameter of the flange is sized with respect to the inner surface of the hollow cylindrical member and the length of the flange is such that an interference fit is formed between the flange and the inner surface of the hollow cylindrical member, the interference fit being maintained in the absence of an adhesive.

A method of forming an interference fit between the outer surface of a flange, and an inner surface of an electrostatographic hollow cylindrical member having a first end and a second end, comprising:

• supporting the hollow cylindrical member so that the flange may be located with respect to the first end of the hollow cylindrical member;
• applying an assembly force with a force member to the flange such that the flange is inserted into the hollow cylindrical member to form the interference fit;
• sensing the distance the flange is inserted into the hollow cylindrical member with a displacement sensor;
• sensing the assembly force supplied by the force member with a force sensor;
• and
• determining whether the interference fit meets predetermined force and distance assembly specifications, wherein the flange has a length, an inner diameter, and an outer diameter, such that the outer diameter of the flange is sized with respect to the inner surface of the hollow cylindrical member and the length of the flange is such that an interference fit is formed between the flange and the inner surface of the hollow cylindrical member, the interference fit being maintained in the absence of an adhesive.