Removable peg and method of removing the peg

CN122603230APending Publication Date: 2026-08-18NEWFREY LLC
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Patent Information

Application Number
CN202580009685.2
Authority / Receiving Office
CN · China
Patent Type
Applications(China)
Current Assignee / Owner
Priority Date
2024-01-11
Filing Date
2025-01-10
Publication Date
2026-08-18

AI Technical Summary

Technical Problem

然而,用于无预成型孔部件的接合方法大多局限于常规强度的部件,因为此类接合装置的最大作用力降低,并且它们无法刺穿或穿透任何类型的材料,或者接合元件的强度可能不足,和/或仅限于允许双侧接近的方法

Benefits of technology

[0027] More specifically, plasma allows for punctual heating of the joint area before the pins are installed. The strength of the first component decreases in the heat-affected zone, thus allowing the use of pins with reduced cross-sections to join high-strength materials. Further heat-affected zones may form in the lower sheet (or lower component) due to heat conduction. Furthermore, the pins remain substantially dimensionally stable during and after the joint. Therefore, the joint is reliable.

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Abstract

Method for removing a pin from an arrangement and pin for establishing a removable connection between at least two components, comprising a pin shank extending along a longitudinal axis, a pin head, the diameter of which expands in a further direction orthogonal to the longitudinal axis, wherein the pin head comprises an upper side, a side edge and a transition portion arranged between the side edge and the pin shank, a pointed ogival pin tip formed on one end side of the pin shank, an end portion of the pin head formed at the other end side, wherein the pin shank comprises a first portion having a constant cross section and a second portion having an expanded cross section relative to the first portion, wherein the second portion extends between the transition portion and the first portion, and wherein the first portion extends between the pin tip and the second portion, wherein a thread is provided on the first portion, the second portion being at least partially a smooth portion.
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Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a pin for establishing a removable connection between at least two components without the need for pre-formed holes. Background Technology

[0002] It is known in the prior art to join at least two components made of conventional materials (e.g., ordinary steel of conventional strength) without pre-formed holes, for example by press-fitting, punch riveting, self-piercing riveting, flow drilling, or direct screwing. However, joining methods for components without pre-formed holes are mostly limited to components of conventional strength because the maximum force of such joining devices is reduced, and they cannot pierce or penetrate any type of material, or the strength of the joining elements may be insufficient, and / or they are limited to methods that allow access from both sides.

[0003] In recent years, particularly in the automotive industry, the use of single-sided joining technologies that do not require pre-formed holes is increasing. For example, US8375549 discloses a method for establishing a nail connection between two parts by means of a nail driven into the parts at high speed by an installation device. US7520710 discloses a pin that is drilled into a structural component at a high drive speed (particularly by a combustion-driven installation tool). However, to accommodate the expanding range of materials, especially high-strength materials, further development of new fasteners and / or methods is still needed to ensure strong and reliable joining of workpieces made of high-strength materials.

[0004] Manufacturing methods for joining high-strength materials or limiting stress and cracks in workpieces to be joined have been further developed. For example, the applicant's DE102016118109A1 discloses a method for joining at least one component to a second component without the need for pre-forming (e.g., pre-drilling or pre-punching) holes in the component before joining.

[0005] EP4253771A1 specifically discloses a fastening element applicable to the joining method disclosed in DE102016118109A1, and particularly suitable for joining high-strength materials. More specifically, the fastening element disclosed in EP4253771A1 is a pin comprising a head, a tapered hole portion, and a shank having a specific cross-section. This pin is satisfactory, but further development of such fastening elements is still needed.

[0006] The use of rechargeable and discharging batteries, or secondary batteries, as a power source for vehicles has attracted considerable attention. Such secondary batteries, when used as a power source, require high output and large capacity. Therefore, these batteries are typically composed of multiple smaller battery cells (cell batteries), which are interconnected in series or parallel to form battery modules. Multiple battery modules are interconnected to obtain a battery pack with the desired output and capacity characteristics. For the use of these types of battery packs in various applications, including mobile applications where the device electrically connected to the battery pack is subject to movement, such as various motor vehicles, aircraft, ships, trains, etc., it is generally desirable to establish a battery mounting bracket that can be used to secure the battery pack to the device electrically connected to it, and also to secure the battery modules constituting the battery pack relative to each other. Using the mounting bracket to secure the battery pack and modules in the manner described above allows for the electrical interconnection of the battery pack with the device electrically connected to it. In some applications, it is also desirable for the mounting bracket to provide physical protection for the battery pack, such as covering the battery modules. Various types of battery mounting brackets for mounting individual cells are known, including some cover-type mounting brackets. However, there is a need for a system that can remove individual battery modules from the battery pack housing, both during battery pack assembly and during subsequent maintenance throughout the battery pack's lifespan. For example, the upper wall of the battery pack housing should be removable.

[0007] To this end, EP2293362 discloses a battery tray that accommodates multiple battery modules to form a battery pack, while providing a combination of fixed and removable retainers that enable the insertion of individual battery modules into the battery pack and the removal of individual battery modules from the battery pack. Summary of the Invention

[0008] However, the demand for removable single-sided engagement technology is increasing, and this invention aims to provide a fastener that is easy to install in components (e.g., in vehicle battery subassemblies) and enables a removable, secure engagement for easy maintenance. More specifically, this invention provides a pin that can be used in many different applications (particularly in the automotive industry) to provide a secure engagement and easy repair or maintenance. For example, this pin can be used in battery pack carriers or housings and enables the removal of individual battery modules from the battery pack during assembly and subsequent maintenance throughout its lifespan.

[0009] Therefore, the present invention provides a pin for establishing a removable connection between at least two components. More particularly, the pin is adapted to be stamped to establish a removable connection between at least two components, comprising a pin shank extending along a longitudinal axis; a pin head, the diameter of which expands in another direction orthogonal to the longitudinal axis, wherein the pin head includes an upper side, a side edge, and a transition portion disposed between the side edge and the pin shank; a pin tip formed on one end side of the pin shank, the pin head being formed at an end portion on the other end side; wherein the pin shank includes a first portion having a constant cross-section and a second portion having an expanded cross-section relative to the first portion, wherein the second portion extends between the transition portion and the first portion, and wherein the first portion extends between the pin tip and the second portion, wherein the first portion is threaded, and the second portion is at least partially smooth. The pin head includes, for example, an engagement portion adapted to engage with a removal tool.

[0010] These pins can be manufactured in small sizes and fastened by automated joining machines. The different sections allow the pins to be removed even after stamping without compromising the strength of the joint formed between the parts. Therefore, a robust joint can be achieved with minimal material preparation.

[0011] In one embodiment, the second portion includes a first segment having a non-constant cross-section and a second segment having a constant cross-section, the second segment extending between the first segment and the transition portion.

[0012] In one embodiment, the cross-section of the first segment increases from the first portion to the second segment. Therefore, the outer cross-section gradually increases.

[0013] In one embodiment, the thread on the first portion is a first thread, and the second segment is provided with a second thread.

[0014] In one embodiment, the external cross-sectional dimension of the pin increases from the pin tip to the pin head.

[0015] In one embodiment, the pin head includes an engagement portion capable of engaging with a rotary tool. The pin is easily removed using this tool.

[0016] In one embodiment, the engagement portion is formed by a recess that extends through a portion of the pin head and the pin shank.

[0017] In one embodiment, the engagement portion is adapted to support a rotary tool torque of up to 8 Nm.

[0018] In one embodiment, the pin tip is a pointed arched pin tip.

[0019] In one embodiment, the transition portion includes a smooth surface.

[0020] In one embodiment, the pin head is flat. In another embodiment, the transition portion includes an annular groove. The annular groove may, for example, have a rounded circumferential surface, one side of which extends tangentially into the pin shank, and the other side extends tangentially into a tapered surface. The annular groove may also be an annular recess located at a non-zero distance from the pin shank. When the pin is installed, the annular groove beneath the flat head enhances the seal with the workpiece, ensuring a more secure and leak-proof connection. Other advantages are further described below.

[0021] In one embodiment, the second portion has a circular cross-section, and the transition portion has a circular cross-section.

[0022] In one embodiment, the ratio of the diameter of the second segment to the minimum diameter of the first segment is between 1.02 and 1.3 or between 1.05 and 1.3, particularly between 1.1 and 1.2.

[0023] In one embodiment, the pin is made of steel, and the pin is coated with a ZnNi+B18 coating.

[0024] The present invention also relates to a removal method. More particularly, the present invention relates to a method for removing pins from an arrangement, comprising the following steps: - An arrangement is provided that includes at least two components and a pin, the pin establishing a connection; - Provides removal tools; - Use the removal tool to unscrew the pin from the arrangement.

[0025] In one embodiment, a new screw is provided in place of the pin in the arrangement.

[0026] This disclosure also relates to a method for joining at least two components without pre-formed holes using an installation tool with a punch and a pin, said method comprising the following steps: - Provide first and second components, which are at least partially stacked one on top of the other, the first component possibly being made of a high-strength material; - An installation tool is provided having a punch and a pin as disclosed above, wherein the pin is driven by the punch toward the first component along a joint axis, the pin first passing through the first component without a pre-formed hole in the joint region, and then reaching the second component without a pre-formed hole in the joint region, wherein prior to jointing, the first component is heat-treated in the joint region, particularly by plasma treatment, such that a heat-affected zone is formed on the joint region of the first component, and the first component is heated such that the strength of the first component in the heat-affected zone is reduced.

[0027] More specifically, plasma allows for punctual heating of the joint area before the pins are installed. The strength of the first component decreases in the heat-affected zone, thus allowing the use of pins with reduced cross-sections to join high-strength materials. Further heat-affected zones may form in the lower sheet (or lower component) due to heat conduction. Furthermore, the pins remain substantially dimensionally stable during and after the joint. Therefore, the joint is reliable. Attached Figure Description

[0028] Other features and advantages of the invention will readily become apparent from the following description of embodiments, which are non-limiting examples, with reference to the accompanying drawings: Figure 1 A first embodiment of a pin according to the present invention is shown, the pin comprising a countersunk head and a first thread; Figure 2A , Figure 2B and Figure 2C The second, third and fourth embodiments of the pin according to the present invention are shown, the pin having a flat head, a countersunk head with a second thread and a flat head with a second thread, respectively; Figure 3 The top surface of a head with a joining portion is shown according to one embodiment; Figure 4 A fifth embodiment of the pin according to the invention is shown, wherein an annular groove is provided below the head of the pin; Figure 5 It shows Figure 4 Details of the annular groove; Figure 6 The diagram schematically illustrates the two components to be joined. Figure 1 The pin and the installation tool with a punch suitable for setting the pin in the two parts; Figure 7A The illustration schematically shows the removal tool removing the components based on... Figure 1 The pin; Figure 7B schematically shown Figure 7AThe two components, in which new fasteners were installed to replace... Figure 1 The pins and installation tools.

[0029] Explanation of reference numerals in the attached figures: 10. Pins; 12, 14, Components; 16. Pin shank; X, longitudinal axis; 18, 18', pin head; 20. Transition section; 201. Annular groove; 22. Part One; 24. Part Two; 26. First thread; 241. First section; 242. Second section; 28. Second thread; 30. Outer surface; 32. Joint portion; 34. Remove tool; 321. Concave; 36. Pin tip; 38. Endpoint; 40. Installation tools; 42. Punch; 44. Pin retainer; 46. ​​Plasma torch; 48. Joint area; 50. Remove tool; 52. New fasteners. Detailed Implementation

[0030] In different figures, the same reference numerals denote the same or similar elements.

[0031] Figure 1 A first embodiment of a pin 10 for establishing a removable connection between two components 12, 14 is shown. The pin 10 includes a pin shank 16 extending along a longitudinal axis X and a pin head 18. The diameter of the pin head 18 increases in other directions orthogonal to the longitudinal axis X. The pin head 18 includes a first surface opposite the pin shank 16, side edges, and a transition portion 20. The transition portion 20 is disposed between the side edge and the pin shank 16. The transition portion 20 corresponds to the underside of the pin head 18.

[0032] like Figure 1 As shown in the first embodiment of the pin 10, the pin 10 has a countersunk head.

[0033] exist Figure 2AIn the second embodiment of the pin shown, pin 10 has a flat head. Unless otherwise stated, Figure 2A Other technical features of the pin and related to Figure 1 The features described in the first embodiment are the same or substantially the same.

[0034] exist Figure 4 In the fifth embodiment of the pin 10 shown, the pin head 18 is flat, and the transition portion 20 includes an annular groove 201. Figure 5 As shown in more detail, the cross-sectional shape of the annular groove can be similar to a semi-circle. However, in other embodiments, the annular groove can have other shapes. The annular groove 201 can pass tangentially into the pin shank 16 on one side. When the pin is set, the annular groove below the flat head enhances the seal with the workpiece, ensuring a more secure and leak-proof joint. Furthermore, the presence of the annular groove 201 prevents overpressure while providing head support for the component or workpiece. Additionally, the annular groove 201 improves corrosion resistance due to the closed gap. Other technical features of the fifth embodiment of the pin are related to... Figure 1 or Figure 2A The technical features described are essentially the same (unless otherwise stated).

[0035] In one embodiment, a sealing element (e.g., a sealing ring, not shown) may be arranged on the transition portion 20. The sealing element may be a plastic O-ring. The sealing element may be partially arranged within an annular groove (for pin embodiments with an annular groove) and / or may abut against the transition portion 20 (for all embodiments disclosed herein). Compared to assembling other components that require translational and rotational movements, assembling the current pin 10 into the workpiece using only translational movements causes less damage to the sealing element. Unlike other techniques or fasteners (such as flow drill screws), this method eliminates the risk of torsion on the sealing element.

[0036] like Figure 1 As shown, the pin shank 16 includes a first portion 22 having a constant cross-section and a second portion 24 having an enlarged cross-section relative to the first portion 22. The second portion 24 extends between the transition portion 20 and the first portion 22.

[0037] The first part 22 may, for example, have a circular cross-section. However, other cross-sections may also be implemented, such as a triabolic cross-section. The first part 22 has a constant cross-section along its length.

[0038] A thread, such as forming a first thread 26, more particularly a first external thread, is provided on the first portion 22. For example, the first thread 26 extends over a portion of the first portion 22. However, in other embodiments, the first thread 26 may extend over the entire length of the first portion 22. The first thread 26 may be a standard thread, a fine-pitch thread, or a thread with a reduced depth. For example, for a fine-pitch M3 thread, the outer diameter of the first thread 26 may be between 2.6 and 3.2 mm, particularly between 2.6 and 3.1 mm, even more particularly between 2.7 and 3.0 mm, with a pitch of 0.25 or 0.35, and an inner diameter between 2.2 mm and 2.9 mm, particularly between 2.5 and 2.7 mm. For example, for a thread close to standard M3, the pitch may be 0.50 mm, the outer diameter between 2.7 and 3.2 mm, and the inner diameter between 2.2 and 3.0 mm, particularly between 2.5 and 2.9 mm. Other thread profiles may also be implemented.

[0039] The second part 24 includes a first segment 241 and a second segment 242, with the second segment 242 extending from the first segment 241. The first segment 241 has a non-constant cross-section. The second segment 242 has a constant cross-section. The second segment 242 extends between the first segment 241 and the transition portion 20. For example, the cross-section (more particularly the outer cross-section) of the first segment 241 increases from the first part 22 to the second segment 242. This increase can be constant (e.g., the first segment can have a tapered shape) or non-constant. For example, as... Figure 1 As shown, the first section 241 can be a pointed arch. The pointed arch coefficient is, for example, between 0.3 and 3.1 (the sharpness of a pointed arch is represented by the ratio of its radius to the diameter of the cylinder, in other words, the ratio of the radius to the upper diameter at the tangential transition). For example, a coefficient of 0.75 can be used.

[0040] The first segment 241 and / or the second segment 242 have a circular cross-section. In other embodiments, the first segment 241 and / or the second segment 242 may have an elliptical cross-section, a polygonal cross-section, or a multi-leaf cross-section, such as a trilobal cross-section.

[0041] The second segment 242 may, for example, have a diameter between 3 and 3.5 mm, more particularly about 3.3 mm. The minimum diameter of the first segment 241 may be between 2.5 and 3.2 mm, more particularly about 2.9 mm or 3.0 mm. The second segment 242 may extend longitudinally by about 0.5 mm in length. The length of the second segment may vary depending on the thickness or number of the parts to be joined. In one possible configuration, the second segment may be absent.

[0042] The second section 242 can be threaded, especially with external threads, such as... Figure 2B and Figure 2CThe third and fourth embodiments of the pin are shown respectively. More specifically, the thread on the second section forms a second thread 28. The pitch of the second thread 28 may be the same as the pitch of the first thread 26. In another embodiment, the second thread 28 is different from the first thread 26. Other technical features of the third and fourth embodiments of the pin are related to... Figure 1 or Figure 2A The technical features described are essentially the same (unless otherwise stated).

[0043] The pin head 18 may have a circular cross-section with a diameter of approximately 5.5 mm. More specifically, the pin head 18 has a sufficiently large outer surface 30 so that the pin 10 can be stamped into a component or workpiece by an installation machine. The pin head 18 may be countersunk, such as... Figure 1 or Figure 2B As shown. In another embodiment, the pin head 18 can be a flat head, such as... Figure 2A , Figure 2C or Figure 4 As shown.

[0044] The pin head 18 includes an engagement portion 32 adapted to receive a removal tool 34, such as Figure 3 As shown. The removal tool 34 can be, for example, a rotary tool. The engagement portion 32 is formed, for example, by a recess 321 provided on the head. The recess 321 can be a square hole or a hexagonal hole or any other hole shape suitable for transmitting torque up to 8 Newton-meters (Nm). For example, a hexagonal star pattern can also be used.

[0045] In another embodiment (not shown), the engagement portion may be defined by the outer edge of the pin head.

[0046] like Figure 1 or Figure 2B As shown, the recess 321 forming the engagement portion extends partially into the second portion 24, and more specifically into the second segment 242 (and ultimately also into the first segment 241). The recess forming the engagement portion 32 begins in the pin heads 18, 18' and extends into a portion of the pin shank 16. This design allows the recess 321 to extend beyond the boundary between the pin heads 18, 18' and the pin shank 16, thus providing additional depth or functionality beyond the head. In particular, this configuration is advantageous in that it facilitates good removability, as the extended recess provides improved grip and torsional resistance to the tool, making it easier to remove the pin from its engagement position. Very small pin heads 18, 18' (especially countersunk heads) can be implemented or used while maintaining high torque transmission. This configuration can also be used for pin heads of different geometries or shapes (e.g., spring heads) and provides lighter pins.

[0047] In other embodiments, and for example in Figure 2A and Figure 2C As can be seen, the recess forming the joint extends only within the thickness of the pin head 18.

[0048] The transition portion 20 extends between the side edge of the pin head and the second portion 24, particularly the second section 242 of the second portion 24.

[0049] The transition portion 20 may extend substantially in a plane substantially orthogonal to the longitudinal axis (in cross-section), or may form an angle with it, or may have a radius of curvature. The transition portion is defined by the underside of the head (facing the handle), as described above.

[0050] A pin head 18 is disposed at the end portion of the pin 10, wherein a pin tip 36 is formed at the other end of the pin. A first portion 22 is disposed between the pin tip 36 and a second portion 24. The pin tip 36 may be, for example, a pointed arched tip. The pin tip 36 may be provided with a thread run-out. For example, the pin tip has a pointed arched surface with a rounded end 38. The arch coefficient is, for example, between 4.2 and 5.6.

[0051] In one embodiment, pin 10 can be a perforated and threaded screw. The pin can also be a cold-formed, flow-formed, or flow-stamped screw. Pin 10 is a single-piece component made of steel, particularly low-alloy steel, and more particularly 37MnB4 (DIN / EN materials 45B2, C60, or C65 are also possible materials). The pin can be coated, for example, with an electroplated coating, such as ZnNi+B18.

[0052] For the first and second embodiments, the total length of the pin 10 from the outer surface of the pin head 18, 18' to the end point 38 of the pin end along the longitudinal axis is approximately 15 mm, and for the third and fourth embodiments it is approximately 14 mm.

[0053] Pin 10 is specifically used to join at least two parts 12, 14 without pre-formed holes using an installation tool 40 with a punch 42, such as... Figure 6Schematic illustration. In one possible configuration, the first component may be made of aluminum or advanced high-strength steel (AHSS), and the second component may be made of aluminum. For example, the lower component 14 may be made of aluminum or ultimately low-carbon steel, and the upper component 12 may be made of high-strength steel (AHSS). However, other configurations and materials are also possible. The mounting tool includes, for example, a punch and a plasma torch or other equivalent device. The mounting tool 40 also includes a pin retainer 44 to retain and guide the pin. To achieve the joint between the two components, the mounting tool is arranged above the mating area of ​​the first component (upper component). For example, the plasma torch 46 is partially pointed towards the mating area. The heat energy supplied to the upper component by the plasma torch heats the mating area 48 of the first component 12 (and potentially the second component), causing a decrease in the strength of the first component 12 (and optionally the strength of the second component) and / or an increase in the ductility of the material. Once the strength of the first component 12 is reduced, the pin 10 is pressed through the punch into the first component toward the second component 14. The feed motion stops when the pin is fully inserted into at least both components to form the joint. The lower component is the screw-in portion, and the upper component is the clamping portion. The size of the engagement region 48 and the locally reduced strength of at least the first component 12 allow for reduced engagement force and maintain the pin's dimensions substantially stable during and after the engagement step. In one embodiment (not shown), the pin can be positioned in the workpiece assembly by rotation or a combination of rotation and translation.

[0054] Thermal shrinkage around pin 10 can compensate for localized strength reduction in the component. This method and this pin allow for the joining of components made of materials with tensile strengths, for example, 2000 MPa.

[0055] Figure 7A The diagram schematically illustrates the removal of pin 10 from two components 12, 14 by removal tool 50. The drill bit of removal tool 50 engages with the mating portion to apply torque to the pin disposed in the two components 12, 14. Thus, pin 10 is unscrewed from the holes formed in the first and second components. Once pin 10 is removed, maintenance or repair of the components can be performed. For example, the first and second components 12, 14 can be separated. The upper component 12 can be, for example, a cover or plate of a housing. The cover can be removed, allowing repairs to be performed inside the housing (or any other housing). The cover or plate can then be replaced so that the holes originally formed by the pin in the first and second components are aligned. A new fastener 52 (e.g., a screw adapted to fit the holes left by the pin, particularly an M3 screw) can then be used and screwed into the holes left by the pin to re-engage the first and second components.

[0056] Pin 10 can be used, for example, for a battery pack housing, where the upper part is a cover or plate. Once opened, module maintenance or replacement can be performed inside the battery pack housing. Afterward, the cover is replaced, and the housing is closed with a new screw. Due to the enlarged portion of the original pin, the hole formed in the workpiece is larger on the upper or top part of the workpiece. Therefore, the new screw will clamp the workpiece, such as... Figure 7B As shown.

[0057] The following provisions define further embodiments that may be combined with any of the appended claims: Clause 1. A pin suitable for being stamped to establish a removable connection between at least two parts, comprising: The pin shank extending along the longitudinal axis, The pin head has a diameter that increases in other directions orthogonal to the longitudinal axis, wherein the pin head includes an upper side, a side edge, and a transition portion disposed between the side edge and the pin shank. A pin tip is formed on one end side of the pin shank, and the pin head is formed at the end portion on the other end side. The pin shank includes a first portion having a constant cross-section and a second portion having an enlarged outer cross-section relative to the first portion, wherein the second portion extends between the transition portion and the first portion, and wherein the first portion extends between the pin tip and the second portion. The first part is provided with threads, and the second part is at least partially a smooth part.

[0058] Clause 2. The pin according to Clause 1, wherein the transition portion includes an annular groove, and wherein a sealing element, in particular a sealing O-ring, is partially arranged in the annular groove.

[0059] Clause 3. The pin as described in Clause 1, wherein the external dimensions of the cross-section of the pin substantially increase from the pin tip to the pin head.

[0060] Clause 4. The pin as described in Clause 1, wherein the engagement portion adapted to cooperate with the removal tool is provided only in the head of the pin.

Claims

1. A pin (10) adapted to be stamped to establish a removable connection between at least two parts, comprising: The pin shank (22) extends along the longitudinal axis. A pin head (18, 18'), the diameter of which increases in other directions orthogonal to the longitudinal axis, wherein the pin head includes an upper side, a side edge, and a transition portion disposed between the side edge and the pin shank. The pin tip (38) is formed on one end side of the pin shank, and the pin head is formed at the end portion on the other end side. The pin shank includes a first portion having a constant cross-section and a second portion having an enlarged outer cross-section relative to the first portion, wherein the second portion extends between the transition portion and the first portion, and wherein the first portion extends between the pin tip and the second portion. The first portion is provided with threads, and the second portion is at least partially a smooth portion, wherein... The pin head (18, 18') includes an engagement portion (32) adapted to mate with a removal tool (34).

2. The pin (10) according to claim 1, wherein the second portion comprises a first segment (241) having a non-constant outer cross-section and a second segment (242) having a constant outer cross-section, the second segment (242) extending between the first segment and the transition portion.

3. The pin (10) according to claim 2, wherein the cross-section of the first section increases from the first portion to the second section.

4. The pin (10) according to claim 3 or 3, wherein the second segment has a circular outer cross-section, and wherein the first segment has a circular outer cross-section.

5. The pin (10) according to claim 4, wherein the ratio of the diameter of the second segment to the minimum diameter of the first segment is between 1.05 and 1.3, particularly between 1.1 and 1.

2.

6. The pin (10) according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the thread on the first portion is a first thread, and wherein the first or second section is provided with a second thread.

7. The pin (10) according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein the engagement portion (32) is capable of engaging with a rotary tool.

8. The pin (10) according to any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein the engagement portion (32) is formed by a recess extending through a portion of the pin head and the pin shank.

9. The pin (10) according to any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein the engagement portion (32) is adapted to support a rotary tool torque of up to 8 Nm.

10. The pin (10) according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the pin tip is a pointed arched pin tip.

11. The pin (10) according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the pin head (18, 18') is countersunk or flat.

12. The pin (10') according to any one of claims 1 to 11, wherein the transition portion includes an annular groove (201').

13. The pin (10) according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the pin is made of steel and wherein the pin is coated with a ZnNi+B18 coating.

14. A method for removing a pin (10) from an assembly, comprising the following steps: - An arrangement is provided comprising at least two components and a pin according to any of the preceding claims, the pin establishing a connection; - Provides removal tools; - Use the removal tool to unscrew the pin from the arrangement.

15. The method of claim 14, wherein a new screw is provided in place of the pin (10, 10') in the arrangement.

Citation Information

Patent Citations

  • Joining method for connecting at least one first component to a second component without pre-drilling

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