Nozzle for mounting device, mounting device with a nozzle, and method for mounting a blind rivet element using a nozzle

Abstract

A nozzle (10) of a mounting device (1) for mounting a blind rivet element (50), the nozzle comprising a hollow, preferably hollow cylindrical body, the body comprising an abutment end (14) and a central through hole (12), in which a pulling member (3) of the mounting device (1) can move. In addition, a first annular seal (18) is arranged at the abutment end (14) and adjacent to the central through hole (12) for abutting against a head (52) of the blind rivet element (50). In addition, a second annular seal (22) is arranged at the abutment end (14) and radially outside the first annular seal (18) for abutting against a member (9). Finally, a flow channel (24) at least partially extends through the hollow, preferably hollow cylindrical body, such that a discharge opening (28) is arranged between the first annular seal (18) and the second annular seal (22), and an inlet opening (26) for supplying a test fluid is arranged preferably at a position remote from the abutment end (14).

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The invention relates to a nozzle of an installation device for installing a blind rivet element, an installation device for the blind rivet element and an installation method of the blind rivet element based on the installation device with the nozzle. Background Art

[0002] Typically, a blind rivet nut comprises a rivet shaft provided with an internal thread and a rivet head. The rivet shaft is inserted into the opening of the component to which the blind rivet nut is to be mounted. In general, a blind rivet bolt comprises a rivet shaft and a bolt provided with an external thread. These blind rivet elements are known in the art.

[0003] After the blind rivet element is positioned in the component opening, an axial force is applied to the shaft of the blind rivet element so that the rivet shaft is crimped in the component opening. Afterwards, the pulling component is unscrewed from the blind rivet element.

[0004] To install the blind rivet nut, a pulling shaft is used as a pulling element. To this end, the pulling shaft is screwed into the internal thread of the blind rivet nut.

[0005] To install the blind rivet bolt, a pulling nut is used as a pulling part. The pulling nut is exemplarily formed as a semi-hollow rod with an internal thread or as a hollow shaft with an internal thread. To install the blind rivet bolt, the bolt is screwed into the internal thread of the pulling nut.

[0006] EP 3 885 589 A1 describes an embodiment of such a blind rivet nut or insert. Here, the blind rivet insert comprises a support head forming an annular flange and a shank extending from the underside of the support head, the shank comprising a head end, a foot end and a cylindrical hole extending in the length direction from the head end to the foot end. In addition, the shank comprises a first hole section provided with an internal thread near the foot end and a second hole section near the head end, the diameter of the second hole section being greater than the diameter of the first hole section. The wall surrounding the second hole section forms a deformable area of ​​the shank. The underside of the support head comprises an annular under-head groove, which is arranged concentrically with the shank and is used to receive a sealing ring in the installed state of the blind rivet insert. In addition, only one annular retaining shank groove extends around the circumference of the shank and is arranged adjacent to the underside of the support head to hold the sealing ring in a preloaded position before the blind rivet insert is installed.

[0007] When such blind rivet nuts or inserts with sealing properties due to the sealing ring are installed in a component, all blind rivet inserts are currently first arranged in the corresponding component opening and then installed. Only after installation is the component checked for tightness or sealing properties. In other words, the sealing properties of the entire component are only checked at the end of the production process. This process is particularly time-consuming and leads to the reworking of the component or the entire component not being used in the event of a leak. This leads to a loss of time and costs in identifying the leak location and the risk of installing a defective blind rivet nut and / or a defective component.

[0008] For this purpose, and for the corresponding control program on the machine tool, see DE 10 2006 031 825 A1. Here, a machine for connecting workpieces such as plates, nuts or bolts to plates and the like is described. The machine includes a tool consisting of a stamp and a mold or a lower support that interacts with the stamp. In addition, the machine includes a test device, which is used in conjunction with a gaseous or liquid control medium that can be supplied to the point to be tested and a measuring device for detecting a change in the state of the control medium. For this purpose, a control medium space is provided in the test device to receive the control medium acting on the end face of the plunger. In addition, at least one control channel leads from the control medium space to a point of the tool at risk of fracture. Finally, in order to check the condition (pressure or flow) of the control medium, a sensor is arranged in the control medium space, in the control channel or in the space leading to its branch measurement channel, and these measured values ​​can be transmitted to the measuring device to be checked.

[0009] DE 10 2006 031 825 A1 describes a corresponding control method for use on a machine equipped with a punch, a die and / or a lower support as a tool, wherein the punch, the die and / or the lower support are used to connect workpieces (sheet metals, sheets, riveted parts, bolts) in a connection process. The tool control uses a liquid or gaseous control medium. For this purpose, a measuring device is provided for detecting changes in the state (pressure, flow or viscosity) of the control medium. The control medium is collected in a control medium space and can flow out of the control medium space in a targeted manner. The control medium is guided from the control medium space to the point to be detected by the tool. The state value of the pressure, flow or viscosity provided to the measuring device is based on the value of the control medium in the control medium space.

[0010] A disadvantage of this process and the corresponding tool is that only the tool is checked. However, the resulting connection is not evaluated with regard to tightness or sealing properties.

[0011] The problem of the present invention is therefore to provide a nozzle of an installation device for installing blind rivet nuts, by means of which the sealing properties can be checked before and / or after installing a single blind rivet nut in a component opening. Furthermore, the problem of the present invention is to provide a corresponding installation device and a corresponding installation method. Summary of the invention

[0012] The above-mentioned problems are solved by a nozzle of an installation device for installing a blind rivet element (blind rivet nut or blind rivet bolt) according to the present application, an installation device for a blind rivet element according to the present application, and an installation method of a blind rivet element by means of an installation device with the nozzle according to the present application. Further preferred embodiments and developments result from the following description, the drawings and the dependent claims.

[0013] An innovative nozzle of a mounting device for mounting a blind rivet element, comprising: a hollow, preferably hollow cylindrical body, comprising an abutment end and a central through hole, in which a pulling member of the mounting device can move; a first annular seal, arranged at the abutment end and adjacent to the central through hole, for abutting the head of the top blind rivet element; a second annular seal, arranged at the abutment end and radially outside the first annular seal, for abutting the member; and a flow channel, extending at least partially through the hollow, preferably hollow cylindrical body, such that a discharge opening is arranged between the first annular seal and the second annular seal, and an inlet opening for supplying a test fluid is arranged preferably at a position remote from the abutment end.

[0014] In the following, the inventive nozzle will be described based on its use in an installation device for installing blind rivet elements. In addition to the nozzle of the invention, this installation device comprises an axially movable pulling member and a member driver for rotating the pulling member. The pulling member is made of a pulling shaft and comprises a working end with an internal thread that is screwed with a blind rivet nut and a driving end that can establish a releasable, torque-proof connection with the shaft driver.

[0015] For mounting the blind rivet bolt, the traction element is made of a traction nut with an internal thread that is screwed into the blind rivet bolt. The traction nut also comprises a drive end, which can establish a releasable torque-proof connection with a shaft drive. In addition, an axial traction device operatively connected to the traction element is provided, which can achieve an axial deformation displacement of the traction element in the direction of the drive end, thereby deforming the blind rivet element. As a blind rivet nut, for example, a type as described in EP 3 885 589 A1 is assumed to be used.

[0016] In a first step, the blind rivet element is arranged on the pulling component, for example, the blind rivet nut is screwed onto the working end of the pulling shaft until the head of the blind rivet nut abuts against the first annular seal. Alternatively, the blind rivet bolt is screwed into the internal thread of the pulling nut until the head of the blind rivet bolt abuts against the first annular seal.

[0017] Afterwards, the blind rivet element arranged on the pulling component is placed in the component opening with a predetermined force. The predetermined force is preferably at most 100 N, preferably less than 50 N. According to the blind rivet element without a sealing ring, such a force is sufficient to initially assess the sealing performance achieved by the preferably sealing ring of the blind rivet element. Furthermore, in this phase, the second annular seal abuts against the component. Due to this arrangement, a closed cavity is formed between the first annular seal abutting against the head of the blind rivet element, the second annular seal abutting against the component and the preferably sealing ring of the blind rivet element.

[0018] Afterwards, in order to test the sealing properties of the sealing ring of the blind rivet element, a test fluid is supplied to the space via a flow channel having a discharge opening between the first annular seal and the second annular seal. As the test fluid, pressurized air is preferably used. This supply is carried out, for example, either for a predetermined time period or until a predetermined pressure value is reached. Then, the relative pressure is measured.

[0019] If the relative pressure is almost constant, the blind rivet element, i.e. the blind rivet nut or the blind rivet screw, is arranged in a sealed manner in the component opening and can therefore be fastened therein by mounting in a subsequent step. Such a result will therefore lead to the completion of the mounting process. In this way, the blind rivet element will be crimped in the axial direction.

[0020] However, if a loss of relative pressure is detected, the blind rivet element is removed and the process is repeated with a new blind rivet element.

[0021] The advantage of this process is that each blind rivet element is tested for its sealing properties before installation. Thus, defective blind rivet elements, for example blind rivet elements without a sealing ring, can be identified before installation. Since such defective blind rivet elements can be identified before installation, they can be removed and the process repeated for a new blind rivet unit. Furthermore, it is not necessary to test the tightness of the entire component after production, and the number of rejects can be reduced. Furthermore, the corresponding method is time-efficient compared to known methods.

[0022] Another advantage is that the configuration of the mouthpiece can be used in conjunction with different existing mounting devices. Therefore, existing mounting devices can be retrofitted with the mouthpiece of the present invention.

[0023] In addition, since the mouthpiece of the present invention mainly lies in the design of the abutting end or the abutting surface, the design of the remaining parts can meet other standards.

[0024] In a preferred embodiment of the nozzle, the first annular seal is arranged in the first part at a first axial position, the second annular seal is arranged in the second part at a second axial position different from the first axial position, wherein there is a transition or a step between the first part and the second part. With regard to this embodiment, it is particularly preferred that the second part is arranged at a greater distance from the mounting device than the first part. This is because the head of the blind rivet element is usually arranged in the first component and a corresponding protrusion is therefore present. Therefore, the abutment end of the nozzle should be formed to complement this arrangement.

[0025] In this respect, it is further preferred that the inner diameter of the first portion is greater than the diameter of the head of the blind rivet element. Thus, there is a gap into which the test fluid can be supplied, so that the tightness of the arrangement can be assessed in a reliable manner.

[0026] It is further preferred that the first part and / or the second part is formed in an annular shape, and / or the inlet opening of the flow channel is arranged in the first part. Since the blind rivet element and its head are usually formed in an annular shape, the preferred shape of the first part and / or the second part is annular. Thus, the closed cavity into which the test fluid must be supplied can be effectively limited. Therefore, preferably, the outlet opening of the flow channel is arranged in the first part, preferably in a position adjacent to the second part, so that it is preferably not arranged on the head of the blind rivet element during use, which facilitates the supply of the test fluid.

[0027] Furthermore, according to a preferred embodiment of the nozzle, there is only one said flow channel. Since a closed chamber is formed between the first annular seal, the second annular seal and the sealing ring of the blind rivet element and the closed chamber is not interrupted by any blockage or further sealing, the use of only one flow channel is particularly useful, which reduces the workload of producing the nozzle.

[0028] An innovative installation arrangement for a blind rivet element, comprising the following features: an axially movable traction member and a member driver for rotating the traction member, wherein the traction member is formed as a traction shaft, comprising a working end having an external thread screwed with the blind rivet nut; or, the traction member is formed as a traction nut, comprising a working end having an internal thread screwed with the blind rivet bolt, the traction member comprising a driving end, which can establish a releasable torsion-proof connection with the shaft driver; an axial traction device operably connected to the traction member, the axial traction device can realize an axial deformation displacement of the traction member in the direction of the driving end, thereby deforming the blind rivet element; and a nozzle according to any of the preceding embodiments.

[0029] In the innovative installation device, the innovative mouthpiece as described above is used. Therefore, in order to avoid repetition, reference is made to the above description of the technical effects and advantages.

[0030] In a preferred first alternative embodiment of the mounting device, the mounting device is a handheld device. According to a preferred second alternative embodiment of the mounting device, the mounting device is an automatic mounting device. For the handheld mounting device, safety measures are easy to implement, thereby protecting employees and improving the process flow. For the automatic mounting device, the process chain becomes more efficient because the test results of the sealing performance can be recorded and the blind rivet nut or blind rivet bolt can be automatically provided to the next component opening.

[0031] Further preferably, the mounting device comprises a control device for controlling the supply of the test fluid through the flow channel in the nozzle, measuring the relative pressure and assessing whether the blind rivet element is mounted in the component opening in a sealed manner based on the measured relative pressure. By this feature, the control unit is integrated into the mounting device, which makes the entire system compact.

[0032] An innovative method for mounting a blind rivet element, implemented by a mounting device with an innovative nozzle, preferably an innovative mounting device, comprises the steps of: screwing a blind rivet element to a working end of a pulling component until the head of the blind rivet element abuts a first annular seal; placing the blind rivet element in a component opening with a predetermined force, wherein a second annular seal abuts the component; supplying a test fluid through a flow channel and measuring the relative pressure; assessing based on the measured relative pressure whether the blind rivet element is arranged in the component opening in a sealed manner, and if so, mounting the blind rivet element in the component opening by crimping the blind rivet element in the axial direction; or, if not, removing the blind rivet element and repeating the method for a new blind rivet element. Preferably, pressurized air is used as the test fluid. By means of the innovative method using an innovative nozzle, the above technical effects and advantages can be achieved. Therefore, in order to avoid repetition, reference is made to the above description.

[0033] According to a preferred embodiment of the mounting method, based on the relative pressure measured in repeated cycles, it is assessed whether the new blind rivet element is arranged in the component opening in a sealing manner and, if so, the new blind rivet element is mounted in the component opening by crimping the new blind rivet nut in the axial direction; or, if not, an inspection of the component and / or a component failure is indicated. By means of these additional steps, defective components or at least defective component openings, for example due to burrs or excessively large holes, can be identified. In case a corresponding indication is presented to the user, for example via a display, the user can directly inspect the component. Otherwise, the system may completely reject the component for inspection at a later time.

[0034] Further preferably, the predetermined force is at most 100 N. This pressure is relatively low and can be applied by a robot, in particular a robot equipped with an automatic mounting device. Thus, the process can be further automated.

[0035] In an advantageous embodiment, the supply of the test fluid through the flow channel is within a predetermined supply cycle and / or until a predetermined pressure value is reached; and thereafter, the relative pressure is measured within a predetermined measurement cycle and / or after the end of the predetermined measurement cycle, so that the evaluation is based on: a comparison of the relative pressure value reached at the beginning with the relative pressure value measured at the end of the predetermined measurement cycle; and / or a process of measuring the relative pressure within a predetermined measurement cycle. The evaluation of whether the sealing performance is sufficient can be carried out in other ways. On the one hand, the test fluid is supplied through the flow channel within a predetermined supply cycle. After this supply cycle, the relative pressure is measured; and after a period of time, the relative pressure is measured again. The two values ​​can be compared and if the deviation is small enough, i.e. within a predetermined range, the sealing performance is classified as normal. In an alternative, the relative pressure can be monitored over the entire time period.

[0036] On the other hand, the test fluid can be supplied until a predetermined relative pressure value is reached. Thereafter, after a period of time, the relative pressure is measured again and the two values ​​are compared. Here, too, the relative pressure can be monitored over the entire test time period.

[0037] The above method steps can be repeated after the blind rivet nut or the new blind rivet element has been installed in the component opening. This provides a double check whether the installation process has resulted in a defective connection. If such a defective connection is identified after the installation process, the system can inform the user accordingly and directly indicate the defective connection. The user can thus focus on this defective connection, thereby saving time for finding and identifying the defective connection.

[0038] Further preferably, after the blind rivet element or the new blind rivet element has been mounted in the component opening, the steps of supplying the test fluid through the flow channel and measuring the relative pressure and of assessing whether the blind rivet nut is mounted in the component opening in a sealed manner based on the measured relative pressure are repeated. To this end, it is additionally advantageous that if the blind rivet element or the new blind rivet element has been mounted in the component opening in a sealed manner, the connection is classified as good; or if the blind rivet unit or the new blind rivet unit has not been mounted in a sealed manner, the result is indicated. The indicated result may be a component failure or a component rework. As described above, through this process, the user can directly focus on the defective connection, thereby saving time in finding and identifying the defective connection. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0039] Hereinafter, the present invention will be described in detail based on the accompanying drawings. In the accompanying drawings, the same reference numerals represent the same elements and / or components, wherein:

[0040] Figure 1 is a partial cross-sectional view of a component opening, wherein a blind rivet nut is inserted into the component opening and is in a first position, abutting against a prior art sleeve;

[0041] Figure 2 is a partial cross-sectional view of a component opening, wherein a blind rivet nut is inserted into the component opening and is in a second position, abutting against a prior art sleeve;

[0042] Figure 3a is a schematic cross-sectional view of a mounting device with an innovative mouthpiece of a first embodiment;

[0043] Figure 3b is a schematic cross-sectional view of the mounting device with the innovative nozzle of the second embodiment;

[0044] Figure 4 is a perspective view of the mounting device with the mouthpiece shown in Figure 3;

[0045] Figure 5 is a schematic diagram of a blind rivet nut with a sealing ring and a mounting device with a nozzle as shown in FIG3 in a test position;

[0046] Figure 6 for Figure 5 A magnified view of the configuration shown;

[0047] Figure 7 is a schematic diagram of a blind rivet nut with a sealing ring and a mounting device with a nozzle as shown in FIG. 3 in an installed position;

[0048] Figure 8 for Figure 7 A magnified view of the configuration shown;

[0049] Fig. 9 A schematic diagram of the installation with controls; and

[0050] Fig.10 is a flow chart of one embodiment of the innovative installation method. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0051] First, refer to Figure 1 and Figure 2, describes the behavior of a blind rivet nut 50 with a head 52 and a sealing ring 54 during installation. A corresponding blind rivet nut 50 is described, for example, in EP 3 885 589 A1. In each case, an axially movable traction shaft 3 with an external thread 5 is arranged in the blind rivet nut 50.

[0052] During installation, the installation behavior of the blind rivet nut 50 is similar to the installation behavior of the blind rivet bolt 50 ′. The blind rivet bolt 50 ′ is exemplarily shown in FIG. Figure 3b In the embodiment of the present invention, a preferred innovative mouthpiece 10 is combined.

[0053] The preferred blind rivet bolt 50' comprises a screw 51. The screw 51 extends from a rivet shaft, which is deformed during installation. The rivet shaft has a head 52, which comprises the same construction as the head 52 of the blind rivet nut 50. In addition, the rivet shaft also has a sealing ring 54, which is configured and dimensioned in the same way as the blind rivet nut 50. In order to deform or crimp the blind rivet bolt 50' during installation (see below), the pulling nut 3 is screwed to the external thread of the bolt 51. For this purpose, the pulling nut 3 has a matching internal thread. It is also preferred that the pulling part 3' provided is formed as a hollow shaft with an internal thread.

[0054] exist Figure 1 In the embodiment, the blind rivet nut 50 is arranged in the opening of the component 9 so that the sealing ring 54 is arranged at a surface position adjacent to the component. The abutment end of the nozzle 7 of the mounting device 1 abuts against the surface opposite the head 52 of the blind rivet nut 50. To this end, the known nozzle 7 comprises a hollow cylindrical body including an abutment end and a central through hole in which the traction shaft 3 of the mounting device 1 can move.

[0055] exist Figure 2 In the embodiment, the blind rivet nut 50 is arranged in the component opening so that the underside of the head 52 abuts against the surface of the component. As a result of the force applied to press the blind rivet nut 50 into the component opening, the sealing ring 54 is pressed into the under-head groove in the blind rivet nut 50. Therefore, due to the sealing ring 54, the blind rivet nut 50 provides sealing performance.

[0056] After all blind rivet nuts 50 or each blind rivet bolt 50' has been installed in the component, i.e. at the end of the production process, each blind rivet nut or each blind rivet bolt 50' installed in the component 9 is checked for its satisfactory sealing properties. This can lead to component rejection and involves a time-consuming process of identifying defective connections, and is therefore disadvantageous.

[0057] Now refer to Figures 3 to Fig. 9 , an embodiment of the mouthpiece 10 is described in conjunction with the corresponding mounting device 1.

[0058] The installation device 1 can be a handheld device or an automatic installation device. For handheld installation devices, it is easy to implement safety measures, thereby protecting employees and improving the process. For automatic installation devices, such as Figure 3a , 3b to Fig. 9 In the illustrated embodiment, the process chain becomes more efficient because the test results of the sealing performance can be recorded and the blind rivet nut 50 or the blind rivet bolt 50 ′ can be automatically supplied to the next component opening.

[0059] according to Figure 3a In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the installation device 1 comprises an axially movable traction shaft 3 and a shaft driver for driving the traction shaft 3 to rotate. The traction shaft 3 comprises a working end and a driving end, wherein the working end has an external thread 5 that is threadedly engaged with the blind rivet nut 50, and the driving end can establish a releasable torsion-proof connection with the shaft driver. In addition, an axial traction device operatively connected to the traction shaft 3 is provided, which can realize the axial deformation displacement of the traction shaft 3 in the direction of the driving end, thereby deforming the blind rivet nut 50.

[0060] A preferred installation device 1 for installing a blind rivet bolt 50 ′ is as follows Figure 3b As shown, its structure and function are similar to Figure 3a The installation equipment in is similar. Figure 3b The installation device of the present invention is suitable for installing blind rivet bolts 50'. For this purpose, the pulling component is made of a pulling nut 3'. The pulling nut 3' has an internal thread, which is to be screwed with the external thread of the bolt 51. The internal thread constitutes the working end of the pulling nut 3'. Except for the above-mentioned differences in structure, the pulling nut 3' has the same structure and operation method as the pulling shaft 3. Therefore, the details of the pulling shaft 3 and the corresponding sleeve 7 and the installation device 1 are similarly applicable to the installation device using the pulling nut 3' combined with the sleeve 10.

[0061] The sleeve 10 according to the embodiment of the present invention comprises a hollow cylindrical body, which comprises an abutment end 14 and a central through hole 12, in which the traction shaft 3 of the mounting device 1 can move. Compared with the sleeve of the prior art, the sleeve 10 comprises a first part 16 having a first annular seal 18 and a second part 20 having a second annular seal 22. Preferably, one or both of the first part 16 and the second part 20 are formed in an annular shape. To this end, the first annular seal 18 is arranged at the abutment end 14 and adjacent to the central through hole 12, for abutting against the head 52 of the blind rivet nut 50; the second annular seal 22 is arranged at the abutment end 14 and radially outside the first annular seal 18, for abutting against the component 9.

[0062] In addition, the first portion 16 is arranged in a first axial position, and the second portion 20 is arranged in a second axial position different from the first axial position. Due to this arrangement, and generally the head 52 of the blind rivet nut 50 protrudes from the surface of the component 9, the abutment end 14 is formed to match this structure, so that a closed cavity can be formed, which is explained below. Specifically, the second portion 20 is further arranged in the direction of the component 9, so that when the blind rivet nut 50 is arranged in the first portion 16 in an abutting manner, the second portion 20 surrounds the blind rivet nut 50.

[0063] Between the first portion 16 and the second portion 20 there is a transition or a step. In the embodiment shown there is a step between the two portions 16, 20. However, depending on the field of application, an inclined transition may be used as an alternative or in addition to the inclined transition.

[0064] In addition, the mouthpiece 10 includes a flow passage 24 extending at least partially through the hollow cylindrical body. An inlet opening 26 is provided at a position remote from the abutment end 14 for supplying a test fluid, preferably pressurized air. An outlet opening 28 of the flow passage 24 is provided between the first annular seal 18 and the second annular seal 22, preferably in the first portion 16. In addition, as shown, there is only one flow passage 24.

[0065] The advantage of the mouthpiece 10 is that the mouthpiece 10 is configured to be used with different known mounting devices. Therefore, existing mounting devices can be retrofitted with the mouthpiece 10 of the present invention.

[0066] Furthermore, since the mouthpiece 10 of the present invention mainly lies in the design of the abutment end 14 or abutment surface, the design of the remaining portion thereof may meet other standards.

[0067] For this purpose, it is particularly preferred that the mounting device comprises a control device 30 for evaluating whether the blind rivet nut 50 is arranged in a sealed manner in the component opening. Figure 5 , Figure 7 as well as Fig. 9 The control device 30 shown. The control device 30 is designed and used to control the supply of a test fluid through the flow channel 24 of the nozzle 10. To this end, a test fluid line 32 connects the inlet opening 26 of the flow channel 24 to the control device 30, preferably to a control unit 34. Thereafter, the relative pressure is measured by the control device 30, in particular the control unit 34. Similarly, the control device 30, in particular the control unit 34, can assess whether the blind rivet nut 50 is arranged in a sealed manner in the component opening based on the measured relative pressure.

[0068] Now further reference Fig.10 , Fig.10The flowchart of the embodiment of the installation method of the present invention is shown, and the use process of the nozzle 10 is described in detail. The installation process of the preferred blind rivet nut 50 is similar to the installation process of the preferred blind rivet bolt 50'. Therefore, the installation method of the present invention is also applicable to the installation process of the blind rivet bolt 50'.

[0069] In a first step A, the blind rivet nut 50 is screwed onto the working end of the traction shaft 3 until the head 52 of the blind rivet nut 50 abuts against the first annular seal 18. Thereafter, in a step B, the blind rivet nut 50 arranged on the traction shaft 3 is arranged in the component opening with a predetermined force. As mentioned above, the predetermined force is preferably at most 100 N. Such a force is sufficient to initially assess the sealing performance achieved by the sealing ring of the blind rivet nut. Furthermore, such a force can be applied by a robot, for example, used in combination with the mounting device 1, such as Fig. 9 At the end of this step, the second annular seal 22 abuts against the component 9 and a closed cavity is formed between the first annular seal 18 abutting against the head 52 of the blind rivet nut 50 , the second annular seal 22 abutting against the component 9 and the sealing ring 54 of the blind rivet nut 50 .

[0070] Next, in order to test the sealing performance of the sealing ring 54 of the blind rivet nut 50, a test fluid is supplied to the closed chamber through the flow channel 24 having the discharge opening 28 between the first annular seal 18 and the second annular seal 22. Preferably, pressurized air is used as the test fluid. This supply is performed, for example, either for a predetermined time period or until a predetermined pressure value is reached. Afterwards, the relative pressure is measured.

[0071] Subsequently, based on the measured relative pressure, it is assessed in step D whether the blind rivet nut 50 is arranged in a sealing manner in the component opening.

[0072] In particular, the supply of the test fluid through the flow channel 24 is performed within a predetermined supply period and / or until a predetermined pressure value is reached, the relative pressure is measured within a predetermined measurement period and / or after the predetermined measurement period has elapsed, such that the evaluation is based on a comparison of the relative pressure value reached initially with the relative pressure value measured at the end of the predetermined measurement period, and / or, based on the process of measuring the relative pressure within a predetermined measurement period.

[0073] The assessment of whether the sealing performance is adequate can be performed in other ways. On the one hand, the test fluid is supplied through the flow channel during a predetermined supply period. After this supply period, the relative pressure is measured; and after a certain period of time, the relative pressure is measured again. The two values ​​can be compared and if the deviation is small enough, i.e. within a predetermined range, the sealing performance is classified as normal. In an alternative, the relative pressure can be monitored over the entire time period.

[0074] On the other hand, the test fluid can be supplied until a predetermined relative pressure value is reached. Thereafter, after a period of time, the relative pressure is measured again and the two values ​​are compared. Here, too, the relative pressure can be monitored over the entire test time period.

[0075] Thus, for example, if the relative pressure is almost constant, it is assumed that the blind rivet nut 50 is arranged in a sealed manner in the component opening. In this way, the blind rivet nut 50 can be fastened therein by the subsequent mounting step D1. This result will then complete the mounting process. Afterwards, the blind rivet nut 50 will be crimped in the axial direction (see Figure 7 and Figure 8 ), the installation process of this connection position is completed. Therefore, the user or the robot with the installation device 1 fixed can move to the next connection position of the same component and start the process or method again at the new position.

[0076] However, if a loss of relative pressure is detected and it is therefore assessed that the blind rivet nut 50 is not arranged in a sealed manner in the component opening, the blind rivet nut is removed in step D2 . Thereafter, the process is repeated with a new blind rivet nut 50 .

[0077] The advantage of this process is that each blind rivet nut 50 is tested for sealing properties before installation. Therefore, a defective blind rivet nut 50, for example a blind rivet nut 50 without a sealing ring 54, can be identified before installation. Since such a defective blind rivet nut 50 can be identified before installation, it can be removed and the process can be repeated for a new blind rivet nut 50. In addition, it is not necessary to test the tightness of the entire component 9 after manufacturing is completed, and the number of defective products can be reduced. In addition, the corresponding method is time-effective compared to the known methods.

[0078] Assuming that the sealing performance of the blind rivet nut 50 has been classified as good before installation, after the blind rivet nut 50 is arranged in the component opening, the above steps of supplying the test fluid through the flow channel and measuring the relative pressure and evaluating whether the blind rivet nut 50 is arranged in the component opening in a sealed manner based on the measured relative pressure are repeated in step F. This provides a double check on whether the installation process has resulted in a defective connection.

[0079] If the blind rivet nut 50 or a new blind rivet nut 50 has been installed in a sealed manner in the component opening and has not thereby lost its sealing properties, the connection is classified as good in step F1 .

[0080] On the other hand, if a defective connection is identified after the installation process, this result is indicated in step F2. Therefore, since the defective connection can be indicated, the user can focus on the defective connection, thereby saving time in finding and identifying the defective connection. Therefore, the indicated result can be a component rework or a component failure.

[0081] In case the process has to be repeated for a new blind rivet nut 50, an assessment is made in step E based on the relative pressures measured in the repeated cycles whether the new blind rivet nut 50 is arranged in a sealed manner in the component opening. Similarly for the blind rivet nut 50, if the assessment result is that the blind rivet nut is arranged in a sealed manner in the component opening, this also applies to the new blind rivet nut 50, i.e. the new blind rivet nut 50 is then installed in the component opening in step E1 by crimping it in the axial direction.

[0082] If the result shows that the new blind rivet nut 50 is also not installed in a sealed manner in the component opening, an indication is given in step E2, preferably to the user, to check the component 9. Alternatively or additionally, an indication is given in step E2 that the component 9 is unacceptable. By means of these additional steps, defective components or at least defective component openings, for example due to burrs or excessively large holes, can be identified. In case a corresponding indication is presented to the user, for example via a display, the user can directly check the component. Otherwise, the system may reject the component completely for inspection at a later time.

[0083] Assuming again that the sealing performance of the new blind rivet nut 50 has been classified as good before installation, after the blind rivet nut 50 has been arranged in the component opening, the above steps of supplying the test fluid through the flow channel 24 and measuring the relative pressure and assessing whether the blind rivet nut 50 is arranged in the component opening in a sealed manner based on the measured relative pressure are repeated in step F. This provides a double check on whether the installation process has resulted in a defective connection.

[0084] If the new blind rivet nut 50 has been installed in the component opening in a sealed manner and has not thereby lost its sealing properties, the connection is classified as good in step F1 .

[0085] On the other hand, if a defective connection is identified after the installation process, this result is indicated in step F2. Therefore, since the defective connection can be indicated, the user can focus on the defective connection, thereby saving time in finding and identifying the defective connection. Therefore, the indicated result can be a component rework or a component failure.

[0086] List of Reference Numerals

[0087] 1 Install the device

[0088] 3 Traction shaft

[0089] 3' draw nut with internal thread

[0090] 5External thread

[0091] 5' internal thread

[0092] 7 sets of mouthpieces

[0093] 9 parts

[0094] 10 sets of mouthpieces

[0095] 12 center through hole

[0096] 14 abutment end

[0097] 16 Part 1

[0098] 18 First annular seal

[0099] 20 Part 2

[0100] 22 Second annular seal

[0101] 24 runners

[0102] 26 Enter the opening

[0103] 28 discharge opening

[0104] 30 Control device

[0105] 32 test fluid pipeline

[0106] 34Control Unit

[0107] 50 blind rivet nuts

[0108] 50' Blind Rivet Bolt

[0109] 51 Screw with external thread

[0110] 52 Head of blind rivet nut, head of blind rivet bolt

[0111] 54 Sealing ring for blind rivet element

Claims

1. A nozzle (10) of an installation device (1) for installing a blind rivet element (50, 50'), comprising: a. A hollow body, the body comprising an abutment end (14) and a central through hole (12), wherein the traction member (3) of the mounting device (1) can move in the central through hole (12); b. a first annular seal (18) disposed at the abutment end (14) and adjacent to the central through hole (12) for abutting against the head (52) of the blind rivet element (50); c. a second annular seal (22) disposed at the abutment end (14) and located radially outward of the first annular seal (18) for abutting against the member (9); d. A flow passage (24) extends at least partially through the hollow body such that an outlet opening (28) is provided between the first annular seal (18) and the second annular seal (22), and an inlet opening (26) for supplying a test fluid is provided at the abutment end (14).

2. The mouthpiece (10) according to claim 1, characterized in that: The first annular seal (18) is disposed in the first portion (16) at a first axial position, and the second annular seal (22) is disposed in the second portion (20) at a second axial position different from the first axial position, wherein a transition portion or step exists between the first portion (16) and the second portion (20).

3. The mouthpiece (10) according to claim 2, characterized in that: The first portion (16) and / or the second portion (20) are formed in a ring shape; and / or the discharge opening (28) of the flow channel (24) exists in the first portion (16).

4. A mouthpiece (10) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that There is only one said flow channel (24).

5. A mounting device (1) for a blind rivet element (50, 50'), comprising the following features: a. An axially movable traction member (3) and a member driver for rotating the traction member (3), wherein the traction member (3) is formed as a traction shaft, comprising a working end having an external thread (5) screwed into a blind rivet nut (50); or, the traction member (3) is formed as a traction nut, comprising a working end having an internal thread screwed into a blind rivet bolt (50'), the traction member (3) comprising a drive end and by means of which a releasable torque-proof connection with the shaft driver can be established; b. an axial traction device operably connected to the traction member (3), wherein the axial traction device can realize the axial deformation displacement of the traction member (3) in the direction of the driving end, thereby deforming the blind rivet element (50); and c. A mouthpiece (10) according to any one of the preceding claims.

6. The mounting device (1) according to claim 5, characterized in that The installation device (1) is a handheld device.

7. The mounting device (1) according to claim 5, characterized in that The installation device (1) is an automatic installation device.

8. The installation device (1) according to any one of claims 5 to 7, further comprising a control device (30) for: a. controlling the supply of a test fluid through the flow passage (24) in the nozzle (10); b. measure relative pressure; and c. Assessing, based on the measured relative pressure, whether the blind rivet element (50) is installed in a sealed manner in the component opening.

9. A method for mounting a blind rivet element (50) by means of a mounting device (1) having a nozzle (10) according to any one of claims 1 to 4, comprising the steps of: A. Screwing the blind rivet element (50) onto the working end of the pulling member (3) until the head (52) of the blind rivet element (50) abuts against the first annular seal (18); B. placing the blind rivet element (50) in the component opening with a predetermined force, wherein the second annular seal (22) abuts against the component (9); C. supplying a test fluid through the flow channel (24) and measuring the relative pressure; D. evaluating, based on the measured relative pressure, whether the blind rivet element (50) is arranged in the component opening in a sealing manner; and D1. If yes, installing the blind rivet element (50) in the component opening by crimping the blind rivet element (50) in the axial direction; or D2. If no, remove the blind rivet element (50) and E. Repeat the method for the new blind rivet element (50).

10. The installation method according to claim 9, characterized in that: Based on the relative pressures measured in repeated cycles, assessing whether the new blind rivet element (50) is arranged in the component opening in a sealing manner, and E1. If yes, installing the new blind rivet element (50) in the component opening by crimping the new blind rivet nut (50) in the axial direction; or E2. If no, it indicates that the component (9) is checked and / or the component (9) is not used.

11. The installation method according to claim 9 or 10, characterized in that: The test fluid is supplied through the flow channel (24) within a predetermined supply period and / or until a predetermined pressure value is reached; and thereafter, the relative pressure is measured within a predetermined measurement period and / or after the end of a predetermined measurement period, so that the evaluation is based on: a1. comparison of the relative pressure value reached initially with the relative pressure value measured at the end of a predetermined measurement period; and / or a2. The process of measuring relative pressure within a predetermined measurement period.

12. The installation method according to claim 9, characterized in that: Further steps include: F. After the blind rivet element (50) or the new blind rivet element has been mounted in the component opening, repeating step C of supplying a test fluid through the flow channel (24) and measuring the relative pressure, and step D of assessing whether the blind rivet element (50) is mounted in the component opening in a sealed manner based on the measured relative pressure.

13. The installation method according to claim 12, characterized in that: F1. If the blind rivet element (50) or the new blind rivet unit (50) has been installed in the component opening in a sealed manner, the connection is classified as good; or F2. If the blind rivet element (50) or the new blind rivet element is not installed in a leaktight manner, indicate the result.

14. The installation method according to claim 9 or 10, characterized in that: Pressurized air was used as the test fluid.

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