Dual laser homing sensor
AssigneeThe Boeing Company
InventorsDavid P. Banks, James N. Buttrick, Jr., Charles H. Glaisyer, Darrell D. Jones, Russell C. McCrum, Philip M. Wright
Life of this patent
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Abstract
The present invention relates to a tool position detection assembly that aligns a tool relative to a feature within a lap joint of a first panel and a second panel. The detection assembly includes an indexing device engageable to the feature. The indexing device includes a reflecting member having a width. The assembly also includes an end-effector movable along at least one axis parallel to the lap joint for positioning the tool. The end-effector has a dual laser device for detecting when the device is aligned with the reflecting member.
Claims4
Tool position detection assembly for aligning a tool relative to a feature within a lap joint of a first panel and a second panel, said detection assembly comprising:
- an indexing device engageable to the feature, said indexing device including a reflecting member having a width;
- and
- an end-effector movable along at least one axis parallel to the lap joint for positioning the tool, said end-effector including:
- a dual laser device for detecting when said device is aligned with the reflecting member.
A position homing sensor assembly for homing a bucking bar module relative to a coordination hole used in the alignment of a lap joint formed by a first aircraft fuselage skin panel and a second aircraft fuselage panel, said homing assembly comprising:
- an index pin inserted into the coordination hole, said index pin including a reflecting surface having a width (w);
- an end-effector suspended on a rail assembly coupled to the first aircraft fuselage skin panel and the second aircraft fuselage skin panel, wherein said end-effector supports the bucking bar module and is slideable along said rail assembly in alignment with said lap joint, said end-effector including:
- a first laser directing a first beam toward the lap joint;
- a second laser directing a second beam toward the lap joint, said second beam spaced from said first beam a distance ranging from w to w+5 mm;
- and
- a detector which indicates that the sensor is homed upon simultaneously receiving the first beam and the second beam reflected by said reflecting surface.
Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.