Methods for lapping using pneumatically actuated flexible coupling end effectors
AssigneeThe Boeing Company
InventorJeffrey H. Wood
Life of this patent
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Abstract
Methods for performing surface lapping using a robotic system are provided. In one embodiment, a method for lapping a surface includes providing a lapping assembly having a first base coupled to a second base by a flexible coupling member, and a lapping medium coupled to the second base, the flexible coupling member being configured to flex to allow the lapping medium to at least partially conform to the surface. The lapping medium is moveably applied to the surface using the lapping assembly. In another embodiment, the method further includes pneumatically controlling a pressure applied by the lapping medium to the surface using a pneumatic device operatively coupled to the second base.
Claims20
A method for lapping a surface, the method comprising:
- moveably applying an abrasive member to the surface;
- pneumatically controlling a pressure applied by the abrasive member to the surface;
- and
- applying an abrasive slurry to the surface at least proximate the abrasive member.
A method for lapping a surface, comprising:
- providing a lapping assembly having a first base coupled to a robotic arm, and a second base moveably coupled to the first base and to a lapping medium;
- moveably applying the lapping medium to the surface using the lapping assembly;
- and
- pneumatically controlling a pressure applied by the lapping medium to the surface using a pneumatic device operatively coupled to the second base,
- wherein moveably applying the lapping medium to the surface includes flexing a flexible, substantially cylindrical coupling member disposed between a support member and the lapping medium.
A method for lapping a surface, comprising:
- providing a lapping assembly having a first base coupled to a second base by a flexible coupling member, and a lapping medium coupled to the second base, the flexible coupling member being configured to flex to allow the lapping medium to at least partially conform to the surface;
- and
- moveably applying the lapping medium to the surface using the lapping assembly,
- wherein providing a lapping assembly includes providing a lapping assembly having a flexible coupling member that is further configured such that an axis of rotation of the lapping medium is non-normal to the surface during lapping.
A method for lapping a surface, the method comprising:
- moveably applying an abrasive member to the surface;
- and
- pneumatically controlling a pressure applied by the abrasive member to the surface,
- wherein moveably applying an abrasive member to the surface includes flexing a flexible, substantially cylindrical coupling member disposed between a support member and the abrasive member.
Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.