Abstract: A clinching tool is provided. A further aspect of the present application locates an anvil and/or movable die members closer to one lateral outside surface of a die body than the opposite lateral outside surface. In another aspect, an offset clinch die and pneumatic tool are employed. Another aspect includes a die body having an anvil and two linearly movable die members which essentially surround a lateral outside surface of the anvil when in inward positions.

Abstract: An apparatus and method is described to form and join a short flange on a periphery of a sheet material supported in a nest (30). The apparatus includes a positional pressure forming steel (PPFS) assembly (50) located on the end of a robotic arm (42). The PPFS assembly (50) includes a hub (52) slidably supported in a cylinder (56). At least one tool steel (70, 70?, 70?) is located on an extension (68, 68?) from the hub (52). A biasing element (58) interposed between the cylinder (56) and the hub (52) enables precise control of the forming pressure by defining a tool path control program which maintains a relative relationship between the PPFS assembly (50) and the nest (30).

Abstract: A method and an apparatus for the attachment of a fastener element to a component, for example a sheet metal part, wherein the fastener element has an axis of symmetry, a head part having a contact surface which enters into contact with the component, a fastening section having a thread and also at least one undercut which receives the material of the component, and wherein the material of the component is pressed against the contact surface and into the undercut by means of a first tool having a die button shape matching the design of the fastener element, are characterized in that a local force is exerted on the head part of the fastener element or onto the tool to the side of the axis of symmetry and is moved circularly around the axis of symmetry while simultaneously carrying out a relative feed movement between the tool and the fastener element between which the component is arranged in order to press the material of the component into the undercut.

Abstract: A sheet fastening apparatus and method are provided. In another aspect of the present invention, a die assembly for forming a joint between sheets of material is disclosed wherein the die assembly includes an anvil, at least one die blade disposed adjacent to and overlapping a punch-side of the anvil, a flexible retainer, and a shield that coaxially and radially surrounds a portion of the anvil and/or die blade.

Abstract: Double-action clinching includes establishing a first layer on a second layer, and securing the layers between a tool's punch and clinching punch. First layer has less ductility than second layer, and clinching punch diameter is smaller than punch diameter. Layers are secured so: a tool support receives a portion of a second layer surface; clinching punch, slidably positioned in the support, is adjacent another portion of the second layer surface; and punch, positioned opposed to clinching punch, is adjacent a portion of a first layer surface. Pressing the punch into the first layer surface portion forms an aperture through the first layer. Pressing the clinching punch, in a direction opposite to the punch pressing, into the other portion of the second layer surface forces portion(s) of the second layer into the aperture, and forms a micro-interlocking flush-back joint between an aperture side wall and the second layer portion(s).

Abstract: The sheet metal pry hooks are pry hooks having a hook end oriented in a manner to allow gripping and bending of an automotive sheet metal panel(s) in almost any situation encountered in the repair of such panel(s). As presently contemplated, the pry hooks will be made available either individually or as a kit of three pry hooks having different configurations of the hook, including at least one hook having the hook member offset from the longitudinal axis of the shank of the tool. The kit allows a user to have at hand a complete array of hooks needed for bending and orienting sheet metal panels in almost any repair situation.

Abstract: An device for crimping together adjacent edge portions of two building panels including a frame supporting a rotatable shaft protruding therethrough, a first crimping member attached to the frame, a gear train supported by the frame coupled to the rotatable shaft such that a rotation of the rotatable shaft imparts rotary motion to the gear train, a drive mechanism supported by the frame and rotatably coupled to the gear train, and a second crimping member supported by the frame and coupled to the drive mechanism, wherein the second crimping member is configured to move toward and then away from the first crimping member in a repeating, reciprocating motion under influence of the drive mechanism while rotation of the rotatable shaft is maintained, such that the second crimping member is configured to bend an edge portion of a first building panel over an edge portion of a second building panel.

Abstract: A method and tool for producing a press joint connection, in which portions of the radial lateral walls of an opening of a die are configured as flexible displaceable segments, whereas other sections, when viewed from a periphery of the opening, remain rigidly connected to the die.

Abstract: A bending head for bending the peripheral edge of a sheet of material, the bending head being usable with a power source. The bending head includes an anvil member, the anvil member defining a substantially elongated anvil surface. A hammer member is movable relatively to the anvil member substantially perpendicularly to the anvil surface. An actuator is provided for receiving power from the power source, the actuator being operatively coupled to the hammer member for moving the hammer member relatively to the anvil member when the power source powers the actuator. The hammer member defines a hammer surface, the hammer surface being substantially elongated, the hammer surface substantially opposing the anvil surface so as to define a gap therebetween. The gap defines an entry point and a substantially longitudinally opposed exit point. The sheet of material is movable along the gap between the entry and exit points.

Abstract: At least a portion of a first plate and at least a portion of a second plate are arranged to have an overlapping portion, a first deformation unit is formed at the overlapped portion, and a second deformation unit is formed in the first deformation unit. The first deformation unit and the second deformation unit protrude in opposite directions from each other, and the second deformation unit has a smaller cross-sectional width than the first deformation unit. Such a joining structure may be utilized to couple elements together in a display device, such as a plasma display device.

Abstract: Insertion die tooling for the installation of a flange into a drum end embossment according to one embodiment of the present invention comprises a stationary work station constructed and arranged to receive an internally-threaded metal flange and a portion of a metal drum end, the metal drum end being formed with an embossment to be positioned over the metal flange and a movable pressure unit including a closing collet constructed and arranged with a plurality of collet segments, a punch holder attached to a closing ring, and a pilot that is constructed and arranged to be movable with movement of the punch holder, the pilot including a frustoconical portion constructed and arranged for engagement with the embossment for forming a tapered inner drum end wall adjacent an inner surface of the flange.

Abstract: The tool, for bonding two plates together, has a punch (1) and a die (2) each as two-part structures with a positive fit between the two parts. One part (8, 13), as a tool which acts directly on the plate workpieces (3), is of a harder material than the other part (7, 12) which acts as a tool holder. The punch and die are divided into their two parts across the working direction.

Abstract: A method of installing an open seal (13) on a flange (31) provided at a door installation opening (11) of a vehicle, the installation being made by pressing the seal (13) against the flange (13) by a roller (42). A side face (13e) of the open seal temporarily installed on the flange is pressed by a flange (46) formed at one end of the roller. Then, a back face (13d) of the open seal is pressed by the roller towards the flange (31). The roller is moved along the flange (31) with constant pressing force.

Abstract: An apparatus and method for a metal clad facade includes a thin metal cladding having at least one edge. The facade or the object with which it is associated has at least one edge around which the metal cladding edge can be wrapped. The wrapped edge could optionally be crimped. Optionally, exposed edges of the cladding could be covered by raised bosses or ribs on the façade. Optionally, a projection or extension of the cladding, oblique to other parts of the cladding, could extend into an opening in or near a surface of the facade or its underlying object. Wrapping of at least one edge with the metal cladding provides the appearance of a more substantial metal part than if the edge were not wrapped and provides for a more securement and durable attachment between the cladding and the underlying object.

Abstract: The punching and riveting tool includes a pipe shaft, an energy storage spring, a weight control rod, a front cap, a collision head, a punching head, a rear cap, a pressing button, a binding spring and a lock nut. The pipe shaft is in the shape of a hollow pipe, and two ends of the energy storage spring are linked with the weight control rod and the collision head respectively. The collision head is configured with a collision part on the upper end, and a binding slot on the lower end, and the punching head is configured on the bottom end of the collision head. The pressing button is configured with a go-through part and a binding part, and the binding spring with the pressing button are configured in the counterbore of the rear cap. The lock nut is linked onto the tail end of the weight control rod.

Abstract: A punching tool for forming an attachment in a side-lapped seam of steel decking includes four cutting jaws each having a cutting edge. Two jaws are positioned against one side of the seam, and two jaws are positioned on the opposite side of the seam. An actuator selectively pivots the cutting edges of opposing jaws generally toward each other to a closed position, driving the cutting edges of a first pair of jaws partially past each other for cutting a first slot through the seam, and driving the cutting edges of a second pair of jaws partially past each other for cutting a second slot through the seam. Also disclosed are a method for forming such an attachment, as well as the attachment structure which results therefrom.

Abstract: A hemming system and method is taught. The system and method employs tool platen assemblies comprising an anvil and one or more beam assemblies which are configured on the tool platen assembly and which tool platen assembly can be removed and replaced in the hemming system without the need for reconfiguration of the tool platen components. This allows for relatively rapid change over for the hemming system to hem different components. Further, the lift table of the hemming system includes a lift plate which moves the anvil through a predefined constant vertical stroke, but the start and end positions of that constant stroke length can be changed by inserting and removing a set of spacers from the anvil lift path. When the spacers are in the lift path, the lowered position and the raised position of the anvil are both higher than the corresponding lowered position and raised position when the spacers are removed from the lift path.

Abstract: An office chair is provided having a contoured back assembly comprising a back frame and a suspension fabric. The fabric is attached to the back frame through a spline wherein the back frame has a three-dimensional contoured shape formed by overlapped frame rings with the fabric being joined thereto by a spline. The fabric is secured to the frame by a machine wherein the fabric is first stretched from the outer edge of the fabric and then is clamped to a frame surface in the pre-tensioned or pre-streched condition. The fabric edges are allowed to hang loose and then fixed in the frame by a spline. Once secured, the fabric is unclamped from the frame.

Abstract: A punching tool for forming an attachment in a side-lapped seam of steel decking includes four cutting jaws each having a cutting edge. Two jaws are positioned against one side of the seam, and two jaws are positioned on the opposite side of the seam. An actuator selectively pivots the cutting edges of opposing jaws generally toward each other to a closed position, driving the cutting edges of a first pair of jaws partially past each other for cutting a first slot through the seam, and driving the cutting edges of a second pair of jaws partially past each other for cutting a second slot through the seam. Also disclosed are a method for forming such an attachment, as well as the attachment structure which results therefrom.

Abstract: A hemming processing apparatus (10a, 10b) is provided with a hemming roller (30), a roller moving apparatus (74), a movable mold (18), and a mold moving apparatus (72). The roller moving apparatus (74) moves the hemming roller (30) on a flange (17) of a work (12). The movable mold (18) supports the work (12). The mold moving apparatus (72) adjusts a direction of the movable mold (18) in accordance with a movement of the hemming roller (30).

Abstract: An apparatus (10) of the present invention is designed for assembling a load floor (12) having a peripheral slot (22) and an overlaying layer (24, 28). The apparatus (10) tucks the overhang of the overlaying layer (24, 28) into the peripheral slot (22). At least one holding device (52) holds the load floor (12). At least one tucking tool (54) tucks the overhang of the overlaying layer (24, 28) into the peripheral slot (22) to fold the overhang over the peripheral slot (22) and thereafter tucking the overhang into the peripheral slot (22). The invention includes a method of sequentially folding and thereafter tucking the overhang of the overlaying layers (24, 28) into the peripheral slot (22).

Abstract: In a method for inserting a bolt element (10) having a head portion (12) and a shaft portion (16) into a sheet metal component (52) the bolt element is passed through the sheet metal component by means of a setting head (38), with its end (100) remote from the head portion at the front, and is riveted to the sheet metal component (52) in the region of its head portion (12) by the cooperation of the setting head with a die (54) arranged at the side of the sheet metal component remote from the setting head (38). The sheet metal component (52) is pierced either by a hole punch or by the specially shaped bolt element (10), by the end of the shaft portion (16) remote from the head portion (12) under the action of the setting head (38), to form a ring collar which is subsequently deformed radially into contact with a groove in the shaft portion. In this arrangement the end (100) of the bolt element (10) which performs the punching work is preferably executed in accordance with the Ka shape of DIN 78.

Abstract: A self-attaching fastener and panel assembly wherein the free end of the tubular barrel portion is coined and deformed axially and radially outwardly against a planar die face into an annular shape having a planar annular bearing surface supporting the panel and a flat end face. The die includes a central post and an annular planar die surface extending substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the die member. The method of installation includes coining and deforming the barrel portion axially and radially eliminating cracking of the barrel, frictional resistance and hoop-stress.

Abstract: In a method for joining at least two plate-shaped workpieces by a fastening tool and a device for operating the fastening tool, the fastening tool comprises a punch for exerting a punch force to perform a joining operation and a clamp for exerting a clamping force upon the workpieces at the joining area. During the joining operation the punch exerts a high punch force to perform the joining operation and the clamp exerts substantially no clamping force to allow for free material deformation in the joining area. After the joining operation both the punch and the clamp exert high forces at the same time to reduce any material deformations of the workpieces and to provide for compression of the workpieces in the joining area. Preferably the invention is used in a riveting tool for setting self-piercing rivets; as an alternative it may be used in a clinching tool.

Abstract: A tool that can be used to join adjacent deck sections along their side edges. The tool can include a handle portion that is used by the operator to maneuver the tool and a cutting and folding assembly that is at the base of the tool. The cutting and folding assembly can further include a driven punch that operates with a stationary die to simultaneously cut and shear the horizontal elements of a side lap, then folds those elements downward about 90 degrees from their original horizontal position, hemming the two individual side laps into a flattened vertical seam.

Abstract: A duct stretcher that is used to conveniently bring the joining ends of a sheet metal air carrying duct system together so that the two ends can be joined and essentially sealed.

Abstract: A method of attaching a functional element (10, 210), in particular a fastener element to a sheet metal part (12, 212), optionally in liquid and/or gas-tight manner, is characterized in that the functional element (10, 210, 410) is pressed against the sheet metal part (12, 210, 410) supported by a die (14, 114, 214, 414) and sheet metal material (13) is pressed by means of at least one movably mounted shaped part (16, 116, 216, 416) of the die (14, 114, 214, 414) into an undercut (18, 218, 418) of the functional element (10, 210, 410). The disclosure also claims a die, a functional element, and a component assembly comprising the functional element and a sheet metal part.

Abstract: Electromagnetic (EMF) trimming, flanging and hemming steps are performed at a single workstation in a combined fixture designed to form a hemmed panel assembly, such as a vehicle closure panel. Two or more formed sheets, outer and inner panels, are positioned together for hemming. The panels are clamped and EMF coils are activated to provide EMF force to retain the panels and trim off excess addendum material from the outer panel. The coils are then activated to bend the trimmed edge upward against a flanging member and form a 90 degree flange. Flanging and trimming members are retracted and a coil member positions EMF hemming coils opposite the flange. The hemming coils are then activated and apply EMF force to bend the flange of the outer panel to a 180 degree angle, overlaying the edge of the inner panel and forming a panel assembly having a hemmed edge. Optionally, if needed, the flanging member is then lowered against the flange to assure flatness of the hem.

Abstract: A locator stud including a shank and a flange portion integral and coaxially aligned with the shank and a bearing surface between the shank and the flange portion, a method of installation in a panel, including forming an opening in the panel, inserting the flange portion into the panel opening and driving a plunger having an opening receiving the shank, a first annular die surface deforming the bearing surface radially outwardly and a second projecting annular die surface deforming the panel radially inwardly into a concave outer surface of the flange portion and wherein the panel of the locator stud and panel assembly includes a V-shaped depression surrounding the locator stud.

Abstract: A fastener forming apparatus produces a fastener of metal having a rod-to-plate connection often found in such applications as an automotive door latch striker. The fastener is formed and assembled in a single operation and with only a rod and a stamped plate for parts. The forming apparatus has a die structure for securing the rod, a base for vertically aligning the rod, a compression pedestal for vertically aligning the plate and a suspended stamping structure. The stamping structure moves from a pre-staged position for loading of the rod and plate to the die structure, to an intermediate position wherein a head is substantially formed unitarily at the end portion of the rod on one side of the plate, and formation of a unitary protrusion is initiated from the same end portion but on an opposite side of the plate.

Abstract: A roller folding head is disclosed. Roller folding heads are used, for instance, when fixing the frame of a sliding roof in an opening in the roof of a vehicle. In order to do this quickly and automatically, the roller folding head is provided with at least two pairs of rollers, each pair of rollers consisting of a pressure roller and a counter-roller which interact in order to bend a flange along a folding line at a specific angle. The folding process is carried out in several stages, one flange being crimped around another flange in a series of partial steps at an angle of 180°. One pair of rollers is provided for each step, at least two thereof being arranged on a roller folding head.

Abstract: A tool for crimping work pieces to one another is disclosed. The tool is mounted on a power actuator having a reciprocating ram for effecting crimping. The tool includes a body engageable with the workpiece. A movable head is mounted on the body and receives the ram. A jaw is pivotably mounted on the body. A link connects the head to the jaw, which pivots in response to the ram engaging and moving the head. The jaw has a tooth that penetrates the work pieces upon pivoting of the jaw. Penetration of the work pieces by the tooth crimps the pieces to one another. A receiver is mounted on the body to permit its engagement with the actuator by means of an attachment device adapted to a particular actuator. The tool may be removably attachable to the actuator or permanently attached thereto.

Abstract: An apparatus for horizontally actuating hemming and stamping die sets includes a horizontal base support and a roller device horizontally mounted thereon. A linear guidance system is set in and a drive support is vertically attached to the base support. A drive mechanism is supported and an anvil die set is held by the drive support. A vertical platen rests on top of the base support and is loosely guided by the linear guidance system. A punch die set is held by the vertical platen and a plurality of bushings are set therein. At least three guide shafts are secured to the anvil die set and each is engaged to one of the bushings of the punch die set. A plurality of link bars are attached to the vertical platen via link bar attachments and coupled to the drive mechanism. Actuation of the drive mechanism horizontally moves the vertical platen.

Abstract: A portable tool used for installing fixing elements for assembling parts, which is particularly suitable for assembling machined parts or sheet metal by riveting. The portable tool includes a device for distributing fixing elements, one by one, according to a distribution axis; mechanism for holding a fixing element according to a placement axis; loading device for transferring a fixing element from the distribution device to the mechanism for holding; and a device for mounting a fixing element in a hole provided in the parts. The tool is characterized in that the loading device alternates between a loading movement for transferring a fixing element from the distribution device to the mechanism for holding and movement back to the initial position. During movements, the loading device describes the same path, alternating between one direction and the opposite direction.

Abstract: A metal sheet punch device for metal sheets which includes a longitudinally extended frame having forward and rearward ends and alignment devices for aligning the frame on a metal sheet. At least two metal punch devices are mounted on the frame, each including a metal punch support structure movably mounted on the frame and a metal punch having a pointed lower end, the metal punch mounted on the underside of the metal punch support arm structure. A support structure drive device such as a coiled spring is operatively connected to the metal punch support structure to rapidly move the metal punch support structure between a retracted position and an extended position and a trigger device is operatively connected to the metal punch devices to trigger each of them to drive the metal punch into the metal sheet to form at least two securement screw indentations therein.

Abstract: A device for loading a rivet and the like in a rivet holder belt which can continuously and securely load a large number of rivets and the like to the rivet holder belt includes: a hopper 11 for storing the rivets and the like at random; a chute 14 which is continuous from the hopper 11 to guide the rivets and the like that are contained in the hopper 11 to a delivery position of a rivet wheel 15; the rivet wheel 15 which rotates to receive the rivets and the like from the lower end of the chute 14 and store them one by one in each of plural grooves 29 that are formed in the rims of flange bodies; a pushing member 42 which is provided to face the circumference of the rivet wheel 15 to push the rivets and the like resting in the grooves 29 of the rivet wheel 15 into holding notches 37 of a rivet holder belt 36 that is guided along the rivet wheel 15; and a sprocket 35 which is provided in a trunk 27 of the rivet wheel 15 and feeds the rivet holder belt 36 while engaging with engagement holes 38 that are opened

Abstract: The present invention relates generally to a method and apparatus for temporarily reforming or deforming the lip portion of a resinous seal so that the seal may be readily installed in an intended application. The invention includes a method and apparatus that includes a fixed frame unit having two leg portions and a backbone portion, a slot in each position, an axle in each slot, and roller assemblies received over each axle, with adjustment means for each axle, the guide rollers being circumferentially spaced apart and the center or reforming roller being adjustable.

Abstract: A compact handheld tool for installing corner pieces in ductwork is disclosed. The tool has V-shaped jaws that surround a duct corner. A corner piece to be installed on a flange of the duct is placed against a first of the jaws, and a second jaw closes against the a first jaw, pressing the corner piece against the flange. A third jaw engages with an edge of the flange and presses the edge over the corner piece. The tool can install a corner piece in a single operation independent of the orientation of the duct or tool.

Abstract: The invention relates to a method for setting grommets around the perimeter of a tarp. The method uses an apparatus with a feed reel from which a rolled tarp may be unwound; a table, across which a said tarp may be drawn; a take-up reel, onto which a the tarp may be rolled; and a grommet setter positioned relative to the table to permit an operator to set grommets on a the tarp as the tarp is drawn across the table.

Abstract: A gas burner assembly includes in one embodiment a top plate having at least one port for discharging fuel and a downwardly-depending, peripheral edge having a plurality of spaced-apart slots, and a bottom base having a peripheral edge disposed within the downwardly-depending peripheral edge of the top plate. A gasket is disposed between the base and the plate. A venturi tube is attached to the base with a tube holder. The plate is attachable to the base by displacing and/or expanding a portion of the downwardly-depending, peripheral edge adjacent the slots to form a plurality of spaced-apart, inwardly-extending tabs disposed under the peripheral edge of the base. Methods for assembling and gas fired appliances employing gas burner assemblies are also disclosed. Further, attachment means and methods for attaching a first member to a second member using such displaceable and/or expandable tabs are also disclosed.

Abstract: A self-diagnosing pierce nut installation apparatus including an installation head attached to an upper die member of a die press having a reciprocating plunger driving a pierce nut against a panel, piercing a slug from the panel upon closing of the press and a rod telescopically received in the plunger resiliently biased through the nut bore if a slug is pierced from the panel or against the panel if not pierced, and a sensor sensing axial movement of the rod, stopping the press if the rod engages the panel. A die located in the lower die member includes a slug sensor confirming receipt of the panel slug through the die member.

Abstract: A self-attaching fastener installation head and feed mechanism including a spring-biased L-shaped feed pawl which feeds a first nut in the feed passage adjacent the plunger passage on the upstroke of the die press. The feed pawl is pivotally supported on a slide bracket which includes a roller in the longitudinal axis of the feed passage which is biased against a central cam surface on the base and the base is interconnected to the nose member by removable pins. A spring biased nut restrictor is pivotally supported on the nose member, simplifying removal of a nut strip from the head and the installation head is more rugged in design and has fewer parts, reducing costs.

Abstract: Seaming apparatus and method for seaming ends to cans are described. The seaming apparatus includes a seaming chuck received by the can end. The chuck includes an anvil portion and a peripheral upper anvil wall. The upper anvil wall is inclined at an angle ? of greater than or equal to 6 degrees. The seaming apparatus also includes a seaming roll having a seaming surface for engaging the peripheral curl of the can end in a seaming operation to compress the peripheral curl against the peripheral flange and the peripheral upper anvil wall of the seaming chuck. The seaming surface of the seaming roll is inclined relative to the longitudinal axis by an angle ?. The value of ? is selected to be greater than about 4 degrees, and more preferably from between about 8 and about 14 degrees. Additionally, the value of ? bears a close approximate relationship to the value of ?, and in particular the value of angle ?=?±up to about 4 degrees.

Abstract: A lid liner for a chemical vapor deposition chamber includes an annular portion having an inner surface for surrounding a reaction volume within the chemical deposition chamber; a mounting tab formed on an outer surface of the annular portion; and a hole formed in the mounting tab for receiving a fastener wherein the hole does not penetrate the inner surface of the annular portion.

Abstract: An apparatus and method for retaining a poppet seal with respect to a housing of an integrated pressure management system. The integrated pressure management system includes an aperture near a mouth of a housing, and the mouth includes a tip that is deformable so as to retain the poppet seal in the aperture. The apparatus includes a die and a collet. The die moves along an axis, and includes a face adapted to engage the mouth. The face includes a forming-over section adapted to engage the tip. The collet surrounds the die and extends along the axis between first and second axial ends. The collet includes first and second portions. The first portion extends between the first axial end and an intermediate axial position. The second portion extends between the intermediate axial position and the second axial end, and includes a plurality of segments positioned about the axis.

Abstract: A spin-pull blind insert tool utilizes a control system that generates a stop signal based on the relationship between the force values and the motion values derived from the action of the tool mandrel. The improved control system utilizes the shape of the force-deformation curve and not just a given pre-set force value or pull distance. Hence, the control system of the present invention does not require any set-up for changes in panel thickness unless the mandrel is also changed to install a different thread size. This control system develops a force-deformation curve as the fastener is being installed. The stop signal is generated when a pre-set deformation point has been exceeded and the shape of the force curve can be characterized by either of two types. For either type, an algorithm is followed which establishes an optimum stopping point for the installation tool regardless of the panel thickness into which the blind rivet is being installed.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for joining together two or more superimposed generally planar sheets by setting a fastener in engagement with the sheets at a predetermined location. The sheets are superimposed and placed in a fastener setting and sheet deforming assembly. The assembly is then operated to set a fastener into the sheet and to deform the sheets out of their planes around the predetermined locations. The sheets may be deformed before the fastener is set, after the fastener is set, or simultaneously with setting of the fastener. Sheet deformation may be achieved using appropriate clamping arrangements or by providing recesses into which the sheets are deformed during the course of rivet insertion. The invention also relates to a rivet for use in the method.

Abstract: A fastener installation assembly having a base, a first support member mounted to the base to slide upon the base and a second support member mounted to the first support member to the slide upon the first support member. The first and second support members have opposed engagement surfaces, one of the engagement surfaces has a stationary member and a moveable member mounted thereon and the other engagement surface has a die member mounted thereon. The fastener installation assembly has first and second power cylinders, the first power cylinder is operatively coupled to the first support member and the second power cylinder is operatively connected to the support member, the power cylinders move the engagement surfaces together to install a fastener into a panel.

Abstract: The method of the present invention is intended to be used in association with a headed fastener such as a tee nut, but not limited to a tee nut. The present method contemplates embodiments of a riveting pin having protuberances that cause the flared end of the shaft to be flared in one or more discontinuous portions of the circumference of the shaft, whereby “push out” and “spin-out” are deterred. Where the length of the fastener shaft is no longer than the thickness of the material through which it is inserted, a first design of flaring pin is provided. Where the length of the shaft of the fastener employed is greater than the thickness of the material through which it extends, a second embodiment of flaring pin is employed. In the former case, at least one discrete portion of the circumference of the shaft is flared into the wall of the passageway through which the shaft extends.

Abstract: A driving mechanism for operating a shaping die to join stacked plates by a deep-drawing and swaging operation is implemented as an electric drive, such as a linear motor or a rotary motor, which is operatively connected to the shaping die.