With Interrelated Clamp Closer And Tool Mover Patents (Class 72/312)
  • Publication number: 20020170332
    Abstract: A hemming machine for sheet metal is disclosed having a base adapted to be supported on a ground support surface. A cradle is vertically slidably mounted to the base while a nest is mounted to the cradle and adapted to support the part to be hemmed. Hemming tooling is mounted to the base and movable between an extended position in which the hemming tooling overlies the nest, and a retracted position in which the hemming tooling is spaced laterally outwardly from the nest. A pair of spaced ball screws are rotatably mounted to the base and threadably connected to the cradle on opposite sides of the nest so that rotation of the ball screws vertically displaces the cradle relative to the base. A single drive motor is drivingly connected through a two speed gear box to both ball screws to rotatably drive the ball screws in synchronism with each other.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 18, 2001
    Publication date: November 21, 2002
    Inventors: Kenneth Saint Denis, Ray Cote, Louis Raffin, Lee Harrison
  • Publication number: 20020170333
    Abstract: A hemming machine having a stationary base and defining a work station. A lifting beam is vertically movably mounted to the base at the work station while a motor assembly moves the lifting beam between a raised and a lowered position. Two die cartridges, each having hemming tooling and a nest vertically movably mounted to the die cartridge, are horizontally movable relative to the base by a conveyor assembly. A conveyor motor selectively moves the die cartridges between a position laterally spaced from the work station and the work station. With the die cartridge positioned at the work station, a first clamp releasably secures the nest to the lifting beam while a second clamp assembly releasably secures the die cartridge to the base. With the nest secured to the lifting beam and the die cartridge secured to the base, hemming operations are performed at the work station in the conventional fashion.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 24, 2001
    Publication date: November 21, 2002
    Inventors: Kenneth Saint Denis, Ray Cote, Louis Raffin, Lee Harrison
  • Publication number: 20020157441
    Abstract: A hemming assembly and method for joining the edges of a pair of panels together includes a main die supporting edges of the two panels. The main die-containing hemming fixture can be stationary with the pre-hem and final hem dies moving, or the main die can move and the pre-hem and final hem dies can remain stationary during hemming. A pre-hem slide supporting a pre-hem tool at an angle to the tool fixture supporting both the final die holder and the slide. For table top applications, the hemming fixture uses guide mechanisms to control travel of the pre-hem slide and tool fixture. The hemming fixture is also movable with respect to an assembly drive to facilitate different hemming operations.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 12, 2002
    Publication date: October 31, 2002
    Inventor: William Patrick
  • Patent number: 6467324
    Abstract: A hemming assembly and method for joining the edges of a pair of panels together includes a main die supporting edges of the two panels, a pre-hem slide supporting a pre-hem tool, a final die holder supporting a final die, and at least one drive to move the tool and die for pre-hemming and final hemming, respectively. A mechanism guides the pre-hem slide first vertically for at least partial pre-hemming, and then at an angle to expose the pre-hemmed edges for final hemming. Vertical travel of the pre-hem tool against the edges produces a superior and less distorted joint, and pre-hemming and final hemming can be performed in one overall stroke. A number of assemblies can be arranged to pre-hem and final hem a number of edges.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 27, 2001
    Date of Patent: October 22, 2002
    Inventor: William Patrick
  • Publication number: 20020124619
    Abstract: A slight pivoting movement makes a rotary cam out of a predetermined forming position, making an unwanted step in a curved surface of the work or making unable to form into an accurate curve. Sometimes, providing a product of accuracy in the order of {fraction (1/100)} mm was difficult, or it was impossible to provide a formed sheet metal product of a high quality. The present invention aims to maintain the rotary cam at a predetermined forming position thereby providing a formed sheet metal product of a high quality.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 7, 2001
    Publication date: September 12, 2002
    Inventor: Mitsuo Matsuoka
  • Publication number: 20020124620
    Abstract: The present invention aims to simplify the negative-angle forming die as much as possible thereby reducing price, and at the same time aims to improve accuracy thereby making possible to provide a high-quality sheet-metal formed product.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 14, 2001
    Publication date: September 12, 2002
    Inventor: Mitsuo Matsuoka
  • Publication number: 20020121122
    Abstract: A slight pivoting movement makes a rotary cam out of a predetermined forming position, making an unwanted step in a curved surface of the work or making unable to form into an accurate curve. Sometimes, providing a product of accuracy in the order of {fraction (1/100)} mm was difficult, or it was impossible to provide a formed sheet metal product of a high quality. The present invention aims to maintain the rotary cam at a predetermined forming position thereby providing a formed sheet metal product of a high quality.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 7, 2001
    Publication date: September 5, 2002
    Inventor: Mitsuo Matsuoka
  • Publication number: 20020121123
    Abstract: The present invention aims to eliminate the need for the timing adjustment of the air cylinder operation at the time of pressing operation and to simplify the piping necessary for the air cylinder.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 7, 2001
    Publication date: September 5, 2002
    Inventor: Mitsuo Matsuoka
  • Publication number: 20020116976
    Abstract: A hemming assembly and method for joining the edges of a pair of panels together includes a main die supporting edges of the two panels, a pre-hem slide supporting a pre-hem tool, a final die holder supporting a final die, and at least one drive to move the tool and die for pre-hemming and final hemming, respectively. A mechanism guides the pre-hem slide first vertically for at least partial pre-hemming, and then at an angle to expose the pre-hemmed edges for final hemming. Vertical travel of the pre-hem tool against the edges produces a superior and less distorted joint, and pre-hemming and final hemming can be performed in one overall stroke. A number of assemblies can be arranged to pre-hem and final hem a number of edges.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 27, 2001
    Publication date: August 29, 2002
    Inventor: William Patrick
  • Publication number: 20020116977
    Abstract: A flange bending apparatus for bending an upstanding flange on an inside perimeter of an automotive window opening. A flanging steel drive reciprocally drives a flanging steel between retracted and extended positions on a frame. The retracted position of the first flanging steel allows a metal panel workpiece to be positioned on the frame with the flanging steel extending through an opening in the workpiece. When in the extended position the flanging steel overlies a portion of an inside perimeter of the opening. As it moves toward the extended position the flanging steel engages an inner surface of an upstanding workpiece flange that extends upward from around the inside perimeter of the workpiece opening. The flanging steel then bends the flange radially outward as the drive continues to move the steel to the extended position. The flanging steel bends the workpiece flange radially outward such that a lateral bend line is formed along the flange where no breakline was present before bending.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 28, 2001
    Publication date: August 29, 2002
    Inventors: Philip V. Wiens, Michael J. Ross, Kris R. Harper
  • Publication number: 20020078730
    Abstract: A hemming press that includes a crown and a base plate separated by four corner posts. A press ram is slidably mounted on the posts between the crown and base plate. A first die is mounted to a lower surface of the press ram and a second die is mounted to an upper surface of the base plate. Workpieces to be hemmed are placed in the second die, and the press ram is moved from an upper home position to a lower hem position to perform the hemming process. Pre-hemming and final hemming steps are performed by one continuous stroke of the press ram. A pre-hem pressure is provided to the press ram by at least one electric servomotor and roller screw assembly, and a final hem pressure is provided to the press ram by at least one hydraulic actuator.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 14, 2001
    Publication date: June 27, 2002
    Inventor: Thomas J. Hatty
  • Patent number: 6398096
    Abstract: A hydraulic drive mechanism to actuate a tool for joining at least two work-pieces of ductile material such as by self-piercing riveting or clinching. The drive mechanism comprises a punch drive for actuating a punch and a clamp drive for actuating a clamp which clamps the workpieces against an up-setting die during the joining operation. Both drives comprise piston cylinder assemblies. The piston cylinder assembly of the clamp drive is carried by the piston rod of the punch drive. The pressure chamber of the clamp drive communicates with one of the work chambers of the punch drive such that pressure within the work chamber of the punch drive is transmitted to the pressure chamber of the clamp drive in order to generate the clamping force. As a result thereof only a pair of fluid connections are required for operating both drives.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 26, 2000
    Date of Patent: June 4, 2002
    Assignee: Bollhoff GmbH
    Inventor: Hans Jörg Lang
  • Patent number: 6378348
    Abstract: A hemming apparatus for vertically moving an upper mold toward a lower mold to thereby compress the marriage panel whereby the marriage panel is hemmed is disclosed. The apparatus further comprises a mechanism for moving the lower mold in the horizontal direction to allow the lower mold to be movable from the position to be hemmed facing to the upper mold and a position for setting the panel where the marriage panel is set. Also disclosed in a hemming process comprising setting one panel on another panel to form a marriage panel, and unifying these panels with each other by claming the marriage panel between an upper mold and a lower mold.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 4, 2000
    Date of Patent: April 30, 2002
    Assignee: Hirotec Corporation
    Inventor: Hiroshi Katsube
  • Publication number: 20010029765
    Abstract: A bending and hemming apparatus configured to both bend and hem a sheet metal panel to form a body closure member at a single station. The apparatus includes a hemming machine movable between a retracted position spaced from a bending machine and advanced positions adjacent the bending machine to assist in the bending operation and to hem the body panel into a finished product. The apparatus also includes an anvil assembly pivotably supported on the hemming machine. The anvil assembly is movable between a lowered position where it engages the workpiece when the hemming machine is advanced to a bending position adjacent the bending machine. In the lowered position, the anvil assembly provides a fulcrum around which the workpiece is bent. The anvil assembly is pivotable to a raised position to allow the hemming machine to be advanced to a hemming position adjacent the bending machine from which the hemming machine can engage the bent workpiece to hem the workpiece.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 6, 2000
    Publication date: October 18, 2001
    Inventors: Joseph K. Schlafhauser, Philip V. Wiens
  • Publication number: 20010029766
    Abstract: A sheet metal hemming method and apparatus for securing inner and outer sheet metal panels together by forming a generally flat hem along respective peripheries of the two panels. A fixture receives and holds an outer sheet metal panel that is formed to include an upstanding border flange. An inner sheet metal panel is stacked on top of the outer panel. A hemming tool movably supported adjacent the fixture bends the upstanding border flange of the outer sheet metal panel over a periphery of the inner panel and into a position forming an acute angle relative to an underlying portion of the outer panel. The hemming tool also bends an outer portion of the border flange down onto the periphery of the inner panel and into a position over and generally parallel to the underlying portion of the outer sheet metal panel.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 30, 2001
    Publication date: October 18, 2001
    Inventor: Philip V. Wiens
  • Publication number: 20010022101
    Abstract: A C-type frame is movable in a direction in which the C-type frame is adjacent to and away from a workpiece having an outer panel and an inner panel assembled with each other. After the C-type frame is advanced and a pre-hemming punch is advanced by a swing cylinder provided at the C-type frame, a hemming die is raised by a lifter hydraulic cylinder provided on a lower portion of the C-type frame and a flange of the outer panel is provisionally hemmed. Then, after retreat of the pre-hemming punch following lowering of the hemming die, the hemming die is raised again and final hemming is conducted between the hemming die and the hemming punch.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 14, 2001
    Publication date: September 20, 2001
    Applicant: Nissan Motor Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Hidehiko Hario, Yasuyuki Matsumoto
  • Patent number: 6189360
    Abstract: A metal forming machine includes a moveable central pillar, a slidable blade assembly mounted to the pillar for reciprocating movement therewith, and a fixed slide plate mounted to a stationary block secured to the pillar. A moveable or slideable blade holder of the blade assembly and having a ramped wall carries a blade or forming element mounted thereto. Respective wear plates mounted to the slide plate and blade holder contact each other during movement of the pillar. A blade or forming element secured to the slidable holder contacts metal to be formed or pierced. The stop block assembly associated with the slidable blade holder limits movement of the blade in a first direction such that continued force applied thereto during movement of the pillar causes movement of the blade or forming element in a second direction transverse to that of the first direction.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 14, 1999
    Date of Patent: February 20, 2001
    Assignee: Sanyo Machine America Corp.
    Inventor: Thomas J. Hatty
  • Patent number: 6170313
    Abstract: A process by which it is possible to make a sharp-angled indentation on hollow tubes without removing any material, maintaining a constant thickness of tube and also without deforming the external diameter and conserving the fiber orientation of the metal, characterized by the fact that a riveting machine is used, which itself is a well-known type of machine, comprising a riveting head fitted to a spindle operating in conjunction with pressing devices and a fixed half-clamp. The riveting head of this machine is replaced by a former adapted to the profile of the indentation required and in particular to its sharp angle. The tube in which indentations are required (1) is positioned between the former and the fixed half-clamp and the pressure devices are operated, causing movement of the spindle in order to allow indentation of the tube (1).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 18, 1999
    Date of Patent: January 9, 2001
    Assignees: Etablissements Garconnet
    Inventors: Jean-Pierre Vasseur, Claude Garconnet, Dominique Garconnet
  • Patent number: 6098440
    Abstract: A device for hemming of sheet metals, particularly of coachwork sheet metals for small-lot production series in automobile manufacture is disclosed. A ram with a superimposed hemming bed is arranged in a base rack presses the sheet metals to be hemmed against the hemming jaws of the pre-hemming and/or finish hemming tools. One or more hemming jaws (8, 8') are affixed to a rotary head (4) lying opposite to the ram (2) and are swingable by turning the rotary head (4) in working position. Moreover, the invention provides for that the hemming bed (5) is linearly traversable or swingable in horizontal plane between a loading point (B) and a working point (A).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 14, 1998
    Date of Patent: August 8, 2000
    Assignee: Thyssen Krupp AG
    Inventor: Josef Gorgen
  • Patent number: 6029493
    Abstract: A device for hemming of sheet metals, particularly of coachwork sheet metals in automobile manufacture, wherein a driven ram with superposed hemming bed arranged in a base rack presses the sheet metals to be hemmed against stationary hemming tools. The working stroke and the force for hemming of sheet metals is pneumatically transmitted to ram by the aid of a compressed-air cushion arranged between base rack and ram.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 23, 1998
    Date of Patent: February 29, 2000
    Assignee: Thyssen Industrie AG
    Inventors: Josef Maier, Andreas Schmidt, deceased
  • Patent number: 5970766
    Abstract: A bending machine for closing channels which simultaneously bends both side walls of a "U" shaped metal channel, comprising: a support frame; a lower male member slide mounted on the support frame, having a normally closed two-halves male member, each half having a notch in lateral wall thereof, and is associated with driving means for opening the halves of the male member when receiving a channel and for releasing the channel once its side walls thereof have been bent inside each notch, allowing to remove it therefrom; and two lateral bending inserts each slide mounted on the support frame, and associated with driving means, for bending both side walls of the channel into the notches. If desired an upper member, mounted on lowering and lifting means, is provided, having a blank holder to retain a channel on the lower male member when it is closed and/or a die member for simultaneously bend a plate forming a channel, and then close both side walls thereof forming a closed channel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 22, 1998
    Date of Patent: October 26, 1999
    Assignee: Metalsa S de R.L.
    Inventors: Tiburcio Sosa-Razon, Ramiro Montero-Cantu
  • Patent number: 5960664
    Abstract: A simultaneously channel forming and punching machine, which forms a channel from a flat metal sheet and punches the side walls of the formed channel, comprising: a lower member, including a support frame and a die member mounted on the support frame having a sheet receiving surface and two side walls, each having perforations at a desired height; an upper member, mounted on a lowering and lifting mechanism, actuating on a lower member; a female member, retained by a support frame, having an upper wall and two depending side walls, each having perforations at a height coinciding with the perforations of the die member, and forming a channel housing receiving the die member when the upper member is lowered to form a channel; a retaining plate, resiliently retained into the channel forming housing of the female member for retaining a metal sheet to be bent; and punching elements coupled at the ends of the female member, for punching the side walls of a formed channel, passing through the perforations of the fem
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 21, 1998
    Date of Patent: October 5, 1999
    Assignee: Metalsa S. de R.L.
    Inventors: Ramiro Montero-Cantu, Tiburcio Sosa-Razon
  • Patent number: 5941110
    Abstract: Method and apparatus for TWB forming with adaptive control of movable punch and/or die segments in a manner to maintain a holding force at the weld line by the punch and die segments during at least initial forming of the blank in a manner to control and limit movement of the weld line. A tailor welded metal blank having a weld line is positioned between a punch and a die with the weld line spanning a cavity defined between the punch and the die. One or more individual segments of the punch and of the die are moved in a manner to engage opposite side regions of the weld line to apply a holding force to the weld line. Relative movement of the punch and/or die segments is adaptively controlled during at least initial deformation of the blank by the punch in a manner to maintain the holding force applied to weld line at a selected holding force value to retain the weld line in a plane defined by the punch and die segments, thereby reducing weld line movement.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 12, 1997
    Date of Patent: August 24, 1999
    Assignee: Northern University
    Inventors: Jian Cao, Brad L. Kinsey
  • Patent number: 5752405
    Abstract: An automatic crimping tool having a crimping mechanism and a carrier strip feed mechanism where the crimping mechanism includes a vertically slidable ram with crimping dies and a spring loaded terminal clamping bar mechanism that has a slidable spring loaded clamping bar that presses a terminal against an anvil during the downward stroke of the ram by way of a pivotable hook mechanism attached to the clamping mechanism that engages with a pin of the bar to lift the bar off the terminal during the upward ram stroke after crimping, thereby considerably increasing the crimping cycle speed, the crimping mechanism further includes a depressor attached to the ram that depresses the carrier strip feeding mechanism in sync with the movement thereof, such that the carrier strip is pushed below the height of the anvil just prior to crimping so that bending of the carrier strip and tilting of the terminal is avoided, ensuring a high crimp quality, the feeder mechanism having a double acting motor that effectuates advanc
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 1, 1995
    Date of Patent: May 19, 1998
    Assignee: The Whitaker Corporation
    Inventors: Michael Gerst, Tilo Sasse, Jaroslav Zajicek
  • Patent number: 5746083
    Abstract: A hemming machine adapted to externally and internally hem a sheet metal fabrication comprising an anvil which itself is apertured so as to register with an aperture in the metal fabrication which is to be internally hemmed, wherein additional hemming apparatus is provided mounted at the upper end of a drive, and support means is located below and protruding up through the opening in the anvil so as to protrude the opening in the fabrication, further comprising a hemming tool displaceable vertically and horizontally having a chamfered lower leading edge, a slidable block carrying the tool at one end, drive means for positioning the slide vertically, and further drive means for positioning the block within the slide for positioning the tool horizontally, a second anvil resiliently displaceable and engaging the underside of the tool or normally raise the latter relative to its lowermost position, and wherein the upper surface of the block is adapted to withstand an impact force and transmit same to the tool to
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 7, 1996
    Date of Patent: May 5, 1998
    Assignee: Western Atlas U.K. Limited
    Inventors: Josef Kovarovic, John Ralph Kowalewsky
  • Patent number: 5647243
    Abstract: An operation for hemming two sheet metal elements is carried out by two subsequent bending operations respectively carried out by two hemming tools which come in operation in sequence and are driven by cams mounted on a rotating driving shaft.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 1, 1996
    Date of Patent: July 15, 1997
    Assignee: Comau S.p.A.
    Inventor: Antonio Zampini
  • Patent number: 5632178
    Abstract: A method and apparatus is described for forming a T-shaped slot a sheet of material. The sheet of material is clamped to a top surface of an arbor. The arbor has a uniform T-shaped cross section having two undersides of the T-shape. The sheet of material is first formed into an inverted U-shape and then the sheet of material is bent to conform to the undersides of the arbor forming the T-shaped slot. The arbor is withdrawn from an open end of the formed T-shaped slot.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 5, 1995
    Date of Patent: May 27, 1997
    Inventors: Karl Uhlemann, Walter Rudnisky, Peter Chiodo
  • Patent number: 5333482
    Abstract: A method and apparatus is provided for crushing a portion of a corrugated plate in a selected area of the corrugations without blocking the grooves. In accordance with the method teeth are inserted into grooves on opposite sides of the corrugated plate and the corrugation ridges associated with such grooves are, axially adjacent such insertion, crushed to a predetermined thickness. The teeth are then withdrawn, the corrugated plate is indexed a desired number of ridges/grooves and the die members are again engaged with the opposite sides of the plate. The apparatus for crushing a plate includes a frame for supporting the plate, a feed apparatus for moving the plate at the desired time in the desired direction, and a forming apparatus for crushing plate ridges in a zone and obstructing, in a transition zone between the crushed ridges and the uncrushed ridges, ridge transverse movement into adjacent grooves.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 30, 1992
    Date of Patent: August 2, 1994
    Assignee: Solar Turbines Incorporated
    Inventors: Donald L. Dunlap, Douglas R. Ervin
  • Patent number: 5134872
    Abstract: A hydraulic chuck device for enlarging the end of a tube, which includes a chuck body having first and second inlets for a source of fluid under pressure. The device has a tube receiving end where the tube to be enlarged is inserted. Also included is a piston mounted in the body which is adapted to move toward the tube receiving end upon introduction of fluid under pressure to the first inlet and away from the tube receiving end upon introduction of fluid under pressure to the second inlet. The piston has a tube engaging sizing ball on one end for enlarging a tube inserted into the tube receiving end of the body when the piston moves toward that end. Also provided are collets mounted in the body at the receiving end to engage the tube and prevent movement thereof with respect to the body. The collets are cooperatively attached to the piston to engage and release the tube as the piston moves toward and away from the tube receiving end.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 28, 1991
    Date of Patent: August 4, 1992
    Assignee: Air-Mo Hydraulics Inc.
    Inventor: Paul N. Ose
  • Patent number: 5123270
    Abstract: The bending unit includes a fixed counterblade, a metal sheet holder which, pressing on counterblade, holds one of the edges of metal sheet and a blade arranged on the same side of the metal sheet holder as the metal sheet. This blade, translating with respect to the counterblade and to the metal sheet holder, causes the displacement outside the plane of the edge of the metal sheet which is not held by counterblade and metal sheet holder. The counterblade and blade are made in a plurality of segments parallel and side by side to one another in a direction orthogonal to the plane of the metal sheet, and the metal sheet holder is so flexible as to follow the counterblade in its deflections.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 6, 1991
    Date of Patent: June 23, 1992
    Assignee: Salvagnini S.p.A.
    Inventor: Guido Salvagnini
  • Patent number: 5086638
    Abstract: A drive mechanism for a hemming apparatus includes a pneumatic cylinder pivotally mounted to a frame which is suspended from a bed on which the workpiece can be positioned. The reciprocating shaft of the pneumatic cylinder is pivotally connected to the knee of a toggle joint. One end of the toggle joint is pivotally connected to the frame, and the other end of the toggle joint is pivotally connected to a lever. The fulcrum of the lever is pivoted on the frame, and the other end of the lever is connected to a draw rod. The draw rod is adapted to pull a movable member into operative engagement with the workpiece in one or two stages to complete the hem.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 9, 1991
    Date of Patent: February 11, 1992
    Assignee: Link Special Machinery, Inc.
    Inventor: Michael W. David
  • Patent number: 5019005
    Abstract: A method for fabricating a direct-heated cathode structure comprising a bending process wherein the bending is carried out by a plurality of hollow punches, those are assembled around a center shaft with each cushion springs of different elastic moduli inside the hollows thereof and press a filament material with time intervals between each punches thus making the filament material corrugate-ended; and a welding process wherein an end of corrugate-ended filament is put on an upper end of bended lead bar, then electrodes of an electric resistance welder are put on the filament end and beneath said lead bar end respectively to carry out the welding. Also, an apparatus which is suitable to carry out the method comprising a corrugate bender assembly and a welding jig assembly so being prepared to perform said bending process and said welding process respectively.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 15, 1989
    Date of Patent: May 28, 1991
    Assignee: Samsung Electron Devices Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Kyungseok Choi
  • Patent number: 4922742
    Abstract: A lower die assembly used in a bending machine to form pre-punched three-dimensional structures has a plurality of plungers located within the V-shaped bending slot of the lower die. As the upper die presses against the pre-punched sheet, the sheet is pinched between an upper end surface of the plungers and the rounded end of the upper die so as to maintain the prescribed position of the sheet during bending. The lower die may include a pin stop which cooperates with positioning holes pre-punched in the sheet in order to establish the desired position of the sheet prior to bending.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 3, 1988
    Date of Patent: May 8, 1990
    Assignee: Westinghouse Electric Corp.
    Inventors: Stephen N. Syrylo, Jr., Madison L. Deal
  • Patent number: 4891964
    Abstract: The present invention briefly relates to a tool for the synchronous operation of fastening a seal ring to a connector pipe, crimping of the flange-like portion resulting from the clamping, and forming of the end portion of the connector pipe. The tool comprises a calibration ring (11) into which the pipe end portion is inserted for calibration, a pull rod (1) extending centrally through the calibration ring (11) and a set of form chucks (5) around the pull rod (1). The form chucks (5) are prestressed against and in cooperation with a cone (2) provided at the pull rod end, so that when the pull rod (1) is displaced in such a way that the cone (2) moves toward the calibration ring (11), the form chucks (5) at first are being pressed radially outward by the cone (2) to engage the inner side of the connector pipe and then are pulling the connector pipe by means of the pull rod (1).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 4, 1988
    Date of Patent: January 9, 1990
    Assignee: C. Hallstroms Verkstader AB
    Inventor: Carl O. Hallstrom
  • Patent number: 4873858
    Abstract: A machine for transforming zig-zag wire to slotted tubular form ready for use as a binding element comprising means for feeding a strip of zig-zag wire longitudinally, means for momentarily arresting the feed of each prong of the wire strip as it reaches a shaping station, means for clamping each prong at that station and means for shaping each clamped prong into the desired configuration characterised in that the clamp is operated by clamp actuation means at least twice for each revolution of rotary feed means. This has the advantage that the clamping means may be operated at much lower speeds than the feed means and the shaping means thus allowing the output ot be increased by at least fifty percent over known machines with no danger of overheating.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 19, 1988
    Date of Patent: October 17, 1989
    Assignee: James Burn International Ltd.
    Inventor: Leonard W. N. Jones
  • Patent number: 4715210
    Abstract: A die for forming a Y-form rack portion of a steering rack bar from a blank by forging in which the die has at least three forming elements (44, 47, 48) relatively movable on application of forging pressure to the die to converge on a blank therein, a first of the forming elements (44) having in its cavities the shape of which corresponds to the shapes of the teeth to be formed, second and third forming elements (47, 48) having forming faces to form longitudinal guide faces (4, 5) on the Y-form rack portion on the side thereof opposite the teeth (8). The three forming elements (44, 47, 48) are shaped and arranged to move together to converge on the blank to transform it into the final form in such a manner as to inhibit escape of the material of the blank between the first and second or first and third forming elements up to substantially the last instant of closure of the die.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 16, 1986
    Date of Patent: December 29, 1987
    Inventors: Arthur E. Bishop, Klaus J. Roeske, David W. Scott
  • Patent number: 4706489
    Abstract: A single station hemming device for hemming the upstanding peripheral flange of an outer element to overlie the periphery of an inner element to thereby join the outer element to the inner element. The hemming device has a series of hemming tools positioned end to end around the periphery of the outer element, each hemming tool being actuated in unison by a single motor to simultaneously hem the peripheral flange of the outer part. Each hemming tool is cam operated through a system of links by a single actuator to move in a first arcuate direction generally transversely of the flange to do a first stage hemming operation of about 35.degree.-55.degree.; then in a second arcuate direction to lift it above the flange and then in a third arcuate direction generally parallel to the original orientation of the flange to complete the remaining approximately 55.degree.-35.degree. of hemming of the flange.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 5, 1985
    Date of Patent: November 17, 1987
    Assignee: Utica Enterprises, Incorporated
    Inventor: Ernest A. Dacey, Jr.
  • Patent number: 4696327
    Abstract: A tool for finishing a banding operation with a metal band which includes an integral buckle bends the tip of the free end of the band and then folds such free end back into overlying relation with the band buckle in such manner that no sharp edges of the band or the buckle are exposed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 18, 1986
    Date of Patent: September 29, 1987
    Assignee: Electro Adapter
    Inventor: Wayne B. Wolcott
  • Patent number: 4606213
    Abstract: A tool for producing bends or steps in curved surfaces has an upper and a lower tool part arranged to work towards one another when in operation. The tool part surfaces conform in shape with the curved surface in which one or more bends are to be formed. The tool part surfaces are made as form tools resiliently mounted and guided in the upper and lower tool parts. The form tools also identify in shape with the original curved surface. The inventive tool is suitably arranged in a press.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 30, 1984
    Date of Patent: August 19, 1986
    Assignee: AB Volvo
    Inventor: Bengt G. Persson
  • Patent number: 4571982
    Abstract: A die for forming a Y-form rack portion of a steering rack bar from a blank by forging in which the die has at least three forming elements (44, 47, 48) relatively movable on application of forging pressure to the die to converge on a blank therein, a first of the forming elements (44) having in it cavities the shape of which corresponds to the shapes of the teeth to be formed, second and third forming elements (47, 48) having forming faces to form longitudinal guide faces (4, 5) on the Y-form rack portion on the side thereof opposite the teeth (8). The three forming elements (44, 47, 48) are shaped and arranged to move together to converge on the blank to transform it into the final form in such a manner as to inhibit escape of the material of the blank between the first and second or first and third forming elements up to substantially the last instant of closure of the die.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 4, 1984
    Date of Patent: February 25, 1986
    Inventors: Arthur E. Bishop, Klaus J. Roeske, David W. Scott
  • Patent number: 4535617
    Abstract: A stamping machine composed of a frame supporting a movable carriage having thereon a reciprocal operative punch and die for punching holes in material controllably fed to the die. The carriage movement is controlled by an eccentric mechanism within the confines of two barrier walls which limit the traverse of the carriage. The material is held firm by a clamp during the punching process and released for movement to permit the punch to pull the material a distance equal to the pitch of the stamping cycle, to await the next cycle of stamping.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 5, 1984
    Date of Patent: August 20, 1985
    Assignee: Forster-Willi Corporation
    Inventor: Arnold Ochsner, deceased
  • Patent number: 4487051
    Abstract: A press apparatus having a lower die, an upper die and a lateral pressing cam mechanism adapted to apply a lateral pressure to a work clamped between the upper and lower dies. The lateral pressing cam mechanism includes a slidable cam adapted to be slided towards the clamped work through cooperation with a fixed cam fixed to an actuator. The apparatus has a guide mechanism pivotally secured at its one end to a supporting member extended from the lower die and provided at its other end with a guide portion for locating the work on the lower die. A mutually cooperating cam is provided on the upper portion of the slidable cam and on the central portion of the guide mechanism, so that the guide mechanism is swung from the path of the slidable cam as it is moved towards the work clamped between the two dies.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 17, 1982
    Date of Patent: December 11, 1984
    Assignee: Toyota Jidosha Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventor: Kuniharu Iwamoto
  • Patent number: 4453396
    Abstract: A hemming apparatus comprising a body; a bottom form fixed to the body; a top-form ram provided above the bottom form and vertically movable against the bottom form; a bracket set up on the body at the side of the bottom form; a yoke rotatably pivoted to the bracket and pressable by the top-form ram; and a bending blade fixed to a tip end of the yoke and integrally formed therein with a preliminary bending blade surface for preliminarily bending a work and a primary bending blade surface for bending the preliminarily bent work to a finished state. By this structure, the hemming apparatus has novel features of simplifying the apparatus, preventing displacement of the work during bending-formation, and preventing an outer plate from being wrinkled, while the advantage of a conventional hemming apparatus of continuously carrying out preliminary and primary bending operations by lowering movement of a top-form ram is retained.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 15, 1982
    Date of Patent: June 12, 1984
    Inventor: Suehiro Takatsu
  • Patent number: 4211102
    Abstract: Method of processing metal sheets which includes the steps of applying tensile stress to an intermediate region of a sheet of metal by engaging the sheet on opposite sides of the region, deforming the intermediate region of the sheet and removing the tensile stress applied to the sheet. The intermediate region of the sheet may be deformed by embossing and the tensile stress can be applied to the intermediate region of the sheet by forming a bead on opposite sides of the region. The means for processing metal sheets comprises first means including die members for forming beads on opposite sides of a metal sheet, and second means for deforming the intermediate region of the sheet while the stress is applied thereto by the first means.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 3, 1978
    Date of Patent: July 8, 1980
    Inventor: Arnold Hurvitz
  • Patent number: 4138875
    Abstract: A bending machine for bending longitudinally elongated channel-shaped sheet metal members according to the present invention consists of a frame and a die set including a female die assembly and a male die assembly and drive means for driving the die set to and fro between an open and closed position. The female die assembly consists of two members, one of which is held stationary relative to the frame and the other of which is movable relative to the first for movement towards and away from the male die element. The first member of the female die assembly serves to clamp the channel-shaped member with respect to the male die element and the second member of the female die assembly serves to form corrugations in the elongated channel-shaped members.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 28, 1977
    Date of Patent: February 13, 1979
    Assignee: Arnold Davis
    Inventor: Peter E. Hooper
  • Patent number: 4103530
    Abstract: The disclosure relates to apparatus for center punching a hot metal billet preparatory to a piercing operation, in the production of seamless tubing. The apparatus provides a simple, reliable, mechanical arrangement effective to automatically compensate for normal variations in the diameter of successive hot metal billets, such that the center punching operation is carried out with greater accuracy than has heretofore been attained in regular production operations. The apparatus includes means for mechanically clamping a hot metal billet preparatory to center punching, and means for axially advancing a center punching tool into the end of the clamped billet. The center punching tool itself is mounted for limited transverse movement in relation to its advancing means, and is mechanically coupled to the clamping means by a compensating mechanism.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 18, 1977
    Date of Patent: August 1, 1978
    Assignee: Aetna-Standard Engineering Company
    Inventor: James W. Schuetz
  • Patent number: 4102173
    Abstract: A high speed end forming apparatus for elongated work pieces, such as coated tube, includes two selectively variably spaced C-shape heads having feed openings therein to receive the two ends of the advancing work piece, the two ends sequentially being clamped and formed in such position, respectively, by relatively movable chuck jaws and forming apparatus carried by such C-shape heads. The work piece is advanced to the C-shape heads by a walking beam transfer conveyor that is simultaneously operative to deliver an unformed work piece to the C-shape heads and to remove a formed work piece from the C-shape heads.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 30, 1977
    Date of Patent: July 25, 1978
    Assignee: Wheatland Tube Company
    Inventor: Joseph T. Saloom
  • Patent number: 4096727
    Abstract: A hydraulic punch press having a base adapted to receive a workpiece and a cylinder axially disposed opposite to the base. The cylinder includes a first and second piston slidable defining within its interior, a first chamber formed between the surface of said first piston and one end of said cylinder and a second chamber formed between the first and second pistons. The pistons have coaxial rods extending outwardly of the other end of the cylinder in opposition to said base. The rod of the first piston extends axially through the rod of said second piston and carries at its end a tool while the rod of the second piston is tubular and is adapted to carry at its end holding means for the workpiece blank.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 29, 1976
    Date of Patent: June 27, 1978
    Inventor: Daniel Pierre Gargaillo
  • Patent number: 4092840
    Abstract: Apparatus for bending the outer edge of sheet metal members includes a yoke having a substantially C-shaped contour. The sheet metal member is supported to be engaged with one of the legs of the yoke. A movable tool carrier is mounted on the yoke and includes a clamping member for retaining the sheet metal member against the support member and a bending member for engaging the edge of the sheet metal member to bend it about the support member in the desired shape. A reciprocating drive is connected to the yoke for actuating the clamping member and the bending member, and to move the tool carrier relative to the support member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 10, 1976
    Date of Patent: June 6, 1978
    Assignee: Paweck AG
    Inventors: Gerd-Jurgen Eckold, Hans Maass
  • Patent number: 4091652
    Abstract: A device is disclosed for conforming a blank metal sheet, preferably aluminum, to the shape of a die which includes pressure means for holding the blank metal sheet firmly against the die surface while actuating cam members to conform the blank metal sheet into a final desired shape as defined by the die member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 28, 1977
    Date of Patent: May 30, 1978
    Assignee: Alumax, Inc.
    Inventor: Clinton H. Wilcox