Apparatus and method for forming a joint between adjacent members
US7698797B2 · kind B2 · utility
15Cited by
22References
16Claims
0Family size
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Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Feb 2, 2005 |
| Grant date | Apr 20, 2010 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Oct 25, 2028 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC Y)Emerging Cross-Sectional Technologies
- CPC primaryY10T403/4966
- WIPO fieldMachine tools
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
An apparatus and method for joining adjacent members, wherein the members are placed in an overlapping layered relationship. The members are clamped between a die and a blank holder. Once clamped, a clinching operation is performed on the members to create at least a partial bond between them. In addition to the clinching operation, a level of vibrational energy is imparted to at least one of the members to reduce clamping force requirements, promote material flow and deformation and provide increased joint strength.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.