Multipart punch for hydro piercing
US8201428B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Oct 20, 2006 |
| Grant date | Jun 19, 2012 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Sep 5, 2028 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC Y)Emerging Cross-Sectional Technologies
- CPC primaryY10T83/0596
- WIPO fieldMachine tools
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
A novel multipart punch and system allows apertures to be formed in hydroformed members with the slug which would otherwise result being divided into two or more smaller slugs. These smaller slugs can be folded back into the hydroformed member and held captive therein or removed if desired. The multipart punch and system provides a flush surface in the hydroforming mold when the punch is in its initial position to allow easy loading and unloading of the mold and to allow additional blank to be fed into the mold during the hydroforming operation, if desired. Also, the hydraulic ram used with the multipart punch need develop less force than an equivalent prior art stepped punch.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.