Method and apparatus for the hydraulic forming of workpieces

US6354124B1 · kind B1 · utility

Assignee

• KUKA Werkzeugbau Schwarzenberg GmbH · DE

Inventors

• Lonka Bürgel · Fischbachau, DE
• Frank Schieck · Lauter, DE

Key dates

• Filing date: Dec 3, 1999
• Grant date: Mar 12, 2002
• Expiry date: Dec 3, 2019

Classification

• Technology area (CPC Y): Emerging Cross-Sectional Technologies
• CPC primary: Y10T29/49805
• WIPO field: Machine tools
• WIPO sector: Mechanical engineering

Abstract

Internal high pressure forming at present takes place by exerting a pressure between sheet metal blanks fixed by a marginal weld. It has already been proposed to deform under high internal pressure sheet metal blanks merely placed on one another in a combined clamping and sealing die. Problems arise with regards to the sealing and material flow. Thus, to overcome the aforementioned disadvantages, the invention proposes a method for forming at least one workpiece under high liquid or hydraulic pressure, in which the workpiece, during pressure build-up, is initially marginally clamped in per se known manner and in the final phase of forming to the desired final shape of the workpiece (sizing) the marginal area of the workpiece is freed. It also proposes an apparatus (1) for the hydraulic forming of at least one workpiece by means of a forming die (21) having an upper and a lower part (26, 24), which clamp the workpiece in marginal areas whilst allowing an also differing material flow, the forming die (21) being surrounded by a pressure casing (2) separate therefrom.