A Novel Reconfigurable Assembly Jig Based on Stable Agile Joints and Adaptive Positioning-Clamping Bolts

This paper presents a novel reconfigurable assembly jig called Agile Joint Jig (AJJ) which consists of three main parts: framework, locators and auxiliary components. This framework is not a welded one, but is bolted together using three modular construction kits which include stable agile joints, hollow steel beams and adaptive positioning-clamping bolts (PC bolts). Anti-sheering forces and self-centring provided by PC bolts are keeping the joints and beams in firm position. The modules of this AJJ can be reused to quickly configure other jigs for new products. It can significantly shorten the manufacturing cycle and guarantee the repositioning accuracy of jig. A case study of AJJ has been conducted for a vertical stabilizer assembly and the results demonstrate the advantages of the new reconfigurable assembly jig.