Blue Origin

Temporary Aerospace Fastener Install Automated Tool

This project focused on the need for a simpler, lower-cost way to automate temporary fastener installation within robotic drilling and fastening systems used for launch vehicle structural assembly. The project aimed to design a compact installation tool for aero-structural components that can accept a temporary aerospace fastener, orient it correctly, insert it into a pre-drilled hole, and apply controlled torque to complete installation. The tool concept integrated mechanical, electrical, and controls hardware, including Siemens PLC-based torque control, and was designed to fit within a defined physical envelope for mounting on a larger automated robotic system. The design supports more cost-effective automated fabrication systems and provides a tool design that could potentially be replicated across automated assembly robots.