Method and apparatus for forming varied strength zones of a vehicle component
US11141769B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Jun 16, 2017 |
| Grant date | Oct 12, 2021 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Dec 7, 2037 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC C)Chemistry; Metallurgy
- CPC primaryC21D2221/01
- WIPO fieldMaterials, metallurgy
- WIPO sectorChemistry
Abstract
A die apparatus including a first die element, a plurality of second die elements, a plurality of actuators, and a controller is provided. Each of the plurality of actuators is mounted to one of the plurality of second die elements. The controller is programmed to activate the actuators to contact and compress portions of a blank disposed between the die elements at separate pressures to influence microstructure forming for one of a geometry transition region, a deformation region, and a joining region. One of the separate pressures applied to one of the portions of the blank may be approximately 5 N/mm2 or less to form a soft strength zone. The pressure of approximately 5 N/mm2 or less may be applied to the one of the portions of the blank for approximately one to two seconds.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.