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The paper describes the development, implementation, and benefits of a real-time statistical process control (SPC) data acquisition and response system. The system has been installed on four production CNC riveters and provides enhanced, in-process control of automated fastening machine performance. Each system employs commercially available SPC components. These components, coupled with real-time data acquisition computers, have been integrated with the riveter's controllers and sensors to detect process anomalies as they occur. Real-time knowledge of fastening machine performance is the benefit of this system's approach to SPC. Fastener quality is ensured during the fastening cycle, not after sequences (and perhaps hundreds of rivets) have been completed.

This paper is focusing on considerations pertaining to riveting/fastening systems and assembly methodology currently in use for large aircraft fuselage structures. Discussion of process principles on which current systems are based is addressing distribution of rivets along the aircraft structure, riveting/fastening systems and equipment flexibility. An attempt was made to predict the most probable future equipment development trends based on the need for more efficiency in all aircraft structural assembly and in high level and final assembly areas.