Apparatus and method for hydroforming
US6006567A · kind A · utility
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | May 15, 1997 |
| Grant date | Dec 28, 1999 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | May 15, 2017 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC B)Performing Operations; Transporting
- CPC primaryB21D26/045
- WIPO fieldMachine tools
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
A apparatus and method for forming a complex-shaped frame member from a blank tube having opposed ends is provided. The blank tube is placed in a first cavity on a lower die. An upper die is lowered from an open position to a close proximity to the lower die. The upper die has a second cavity aligned with the first cavity. A pair of sealing units seal the opposing ends of the blank tube, and a fluid delivery means for communicates a fluid into the tube. A fluid control means pressurizes the fluid in the tube to a low pressure level. A position determining means determines a distance separating the upper die in the closed position from said lower die in the lowered position. A lower die lifting means raises the lower die from the lowered position the determined distance to the lifted position. The fluid control means then pressurizes the fluid in the tube to expand the tube to conform to the forming cavity.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.