Scanning for Ideas: Rivet Gun Automates Assembly

April 10, 2008
Manufacturers have long wanted a rivet gun that was fast, light weight, and durable enough for the assembly line.

But the engineering challenges of building such a tool proved too difficult, until now. Engineers at Cheetah Tools, Waco Tex. (cheetahtool.com), developed an air-operated rivet gun, the Cheetah, that cuts in half the time it takes to install a rivet by automating the rivet feeding and installation, and the removal of the mandrel or pintail. Pintails are also whisked away to a collection jar, keeping the factory floor clean.

The 8-lb tool is said to be easy to use, and will install rivets in any orientation. Operators feel no recoil, thanks to a shock mitigation system, and this cuts carpal injuries and insurance claims. Still, it can deliver up to 4,400 lb of force, letting it install … and 3/16-in. high-strength Alcoa (Huck) blind rivets. Rivets can be manually fed into the gun, or an automatic feeder can be used. For the highest level of automation, a high-speed loader can feed rivets into a gun mounted on a robotic arm. Engineers at Cheetah are reluctant to talk in greater detail as they await approval on their patents.

Sponsored Recommendations

NEW Low Profile, Ultra Compact Power Supplies

March 13, 2024
Learn more HERE about Altech's Power supplies!

Altech's Liquid Tight Strain Relifs Catalog

March 13, 2024
With experienced Product Engineers and Customer Service personnel, Altech provides solutions to your most pressing application challenges. All with one thought in mind - to ensure...

Industrial Straight-Through Cable Gland

March 13, 2024
Learn more about Altech's cable glands and all they have to offer for your needs!

All-In-One DC-UPS Power Solutions

March 13, 2024
Introducing the All-In-One DC-UPS, a versatile solution combining multiple functionalities in a single device. Serving as a power supply, battery charger, battery care module,...

Voice your opinion!

To join the conversation, and become an exclusive member of Machine Design, create an account today!