Automatic sequential production of potentiometer - forming subassemblies as continuous bands with die formed terminals whose configuration includes slider-holder, slider and collector

摘要

The process comprises feeding a continuous laminar band (2) of electrically conductive material to a die-cutting station (1) where the band is die-cut to form terminals in the band. The terminals are bent at a forming station (7), and the band is bent at a station (9) to obtain a double row of terminals on the band. A casing (11) is inserted at a station (10) and then parts of the terminals are folded onto the casing to hold the latter in position at subsequent stations (13). Engraving takes place at a following station (16) and then a resistance (18) is introduced at the next subsequent station (17). The resistance is secured to the band at folding stations (19). A similar band (22) is fed to a die-cutting station (23) and a third band (28) is fed to a die-cutting station (41) where sliders are formed in the band. This band then passes through a station (42) to a rotary unit (25) where it is joined by the band (22) which has slider-holders fitted to the sliders by feeding units (26). These bands are then joined by the band (2c) leaving the folding stations (19) and are advanced to an assembling station (30) and thermal coupling station (31). Further processing takes place at the stations (32-36) and the formed and tested potentiometers are cut from the combined band at the final station (37).