Reconfigurable tools and/or dies, reconfigurable inserts for tools and/or dies, and methods of use
US7188498B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Dec 2, 2005 |
| Grant date | Mar 13, 2007 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Dec 2, 2025 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC Y)Emerging Cross-Sectional Technologies
- CPC primaryY10T29/49805
- WIPO fieldMachine tools
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
A reconfigurable tool and/or die geometry and methods of use generally comprise forming at least a portion of a shape defining surface with a shape memory material. In response to an activation signal, the shape memory material changes geometry of the shape defining surface to provide a means for forming parts with different geometries from the same tool and/or die. In an alternative embodiment, an insert for a tool and/or die can be used, wherein the insert has at least a portion of its shape defining surface formed of a shape memory material. Also disclosed are processes for forming a first part with a defined geometry and a second part with a defined geometry different from the first part defined geometry using a reconfigurable tool and/or die as well as a reconfigurable insert with a standard tool and/or die.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.