Clamping device of a joining device and joining device

Abstract

Clamping device of a joining device with a beam generating unit, with a receptacle for a first joining part, a clamping part and a first clamping jaw, wherein in an operating position of the clamping device the first clamping jaw is in force transmission connection with the clamping part and exerts a first joining force on a second joining part such that the second joining part is pre-tensioned with a second joining surface against a first joining surface of the first joining part, and wherein the force transmission connection between the clamping part and the first clamping jaw is designed as a magnetic force connection and the magnetic force acting between the clamping part and the first clamping jaw is greater than the first joining force, and wherein the magnetic force of the magnetic force connection can be generated at least partially by means of at least one electromagnet, characterized in that the clamping part (6.2) is a second clamping jaw (6.2) is designed to exert a second joining force on the second joining part (10) in the operating position of the clamping device (6), and that the clamping device (6) has a guide for the first clamping jaw (6.3), wherein the guide is substantially perpendicular to the main force direction of the magnetic force and the main force direction of the magnetic force is at an angle of at least 45°, in particular 90°, to the first joining force.

Description

[0001] The present invention relates to a clamping device of a joining device and a joining device.

[0002] Such clamping devices and joining devices are already known in numerous design variants from the prior art.

[0003] EP 2 136 959 B1 discloses a laser welding device with a clamping device comprising a receptacle for a first joining part, a clamping element designed as a clamping head, and a first clamping jaw designed as an inner clamping jaw, wherein the clamping head and the inner clamping jaw are connected to each other by means of narrow connecting webs in a force-transmitting manner. In the operating position of the clamping device, a second joining surface of a second joining part is pressed against a first joining surface of the first joining part by means of the clamping head and the inner clamping jaw with a first joining force.

[0004] This is where the present invention comes in.

[0005] The present invention is based on the objective of providing a clamping device for a joining device in which connecting struts or the like between the clamping part and the first clamping jaw are unnecessary.

[0006] This problem is solved by a clamping device having the features of claim 1. The dependent claims relate to advantageous embodiments of the invention.

[0007] A significant advantage of the clamping device according to the invention lies in the fact that a connecting structure of any kind between the clamping element and the first clamping jaw is eliminated, thus creating a much greater scope for design in the construction of the clamping device as well as in the joining parts clamped with the clamping device.

[0008] In beam-supported joining devices, such as laser welding systems, a further significant advantage arises from the fact that the clamping device does not obstruct the beam path. Accordingly, the beam-supported joining process can be designed much more simply. The clamping device according to the invention thus also promotes high joining quality and thereby reduces costly scrap.

[0009] The magnetic force of the magnetic connection can, in principle, be generated using at least one permanent magnet or at least one electromagnet. The advantage of permanent magnets is that they are easy to use and inexpensive.

[0010] The advantage of using electromagnets, however, is that the magnetic force of the magnetic connection is adjustable. For example, during operation of the clamping device, the strength of the electric current supplied to the electromagnet(s) can be manually adjusted and / or controlled or regulated depending on the operating parameters of the clamping device and / or the rest of the joining device. For example, the initial joining force can also be set as desired in this way.

[0011] In addition, a combined use of permanent and electromagnets is also conceivable.

[0012] In principle, the at least one magnet used to generate the magnetic force of the magnetic connection can be freely selected within wide suitable limits with regard to type, shape, dimensions, and arrangement. However, an advantageous further development of the embodiment according to claim 2 or 3 provides that the permanent magnet and / or the electromagnet is arranged on or in the first clamping jaw.

[0013] This simplifies the conversion of the clamping device, as the clamping element, designed, for example, as a clamping head or external clamping jaws, is generally not replaced during a conversion. The first clamping jaw, with the magnet(s) attached to or within it, can be designed as desired, depending on the application. For example, different first clamping jaws, adapted to specific joining components, can be kept on hand and then easily and quickly integrated into the rest of the clamping device as needed.

[0014] The clamping element can be designed as a clamping head. Advantageously, the clamping element is designed as a second clamping jaw, which exerts a second clamping force on the second joining part in the operating position of the clamping device. This allows for more flexible use of the clamping device according to the invention.

[0015] Furthermore, a more homogeneous stress distribution can be achieved in the joining surfaces, the joining time is reduced, and more uniform clamping of additional parts is possible, for example, clamping a carrier equipped with electrical or electronic components between two first and second joining parts designed as housing halves. This also applies to beam-based joining devices, such as laser welding equipment, where energy consumption is additionally reduced.

[0016] An advantageous further development provides that the clamping device has at least one spring, wherein the spring exerts a counterforce to the first clamping force on the first clamping jaws in the operating position of the clamping device. This makes it possible, for example, with a clamping element designed as a second clamping jaw, for the first clamping force of the first clamping jaw to be less than the second clamping force of the second clamping jaw in the operating position of the clamping device; and this is also possible when using a permanent magnet. An electromagnet is not strictly necessary in this embodiment.

[0017] The strength of the magnetic force of the magnetic connection can be freely selected within wide suitable limits. Advantageously, the magnetic force should be at least 5 times greater, and in particular at least 10 times greater, than the initial joining force.

[0018] An advantageous further development provides that the clamping device has a shielding element which, in the clamping device's operating position, protects the first and / or second joining part from the magnetic radiation of the magnetic force of the magnetic connection, or from the magnetic radiation of the magnetic force of the magnetic connection and the electronic radiation of the electromagnet generating the magnetic force. In this way, joining parts sensitive to magnetic radiation and / or electromagnetic radiation, for example, housing parts with electronic components or the like, are effectively protected from harmful magnetic and / or electromagnetic radiation.

[0019] In principle, it is possible for the first clamping jaw to be positioned relative to the clamping element solely by magnetic force. An advantageous further development provides that the clamping device has a guide for the first clamping jaw, with the guide running essentially perpendicular to the main direction of the magnetic force. This makes the relative positioning of the first clamping jaw to the clamping element structurally easy to achieve.

[0020] Particularly advantageous is the main direction of the magnetic force running at an angle of 90° to the first joining force.

[0021] However, for example, when machining three-dimensional joining surfaces, it is advantageous if the main direction of the magnetic force and the first joining force are at an angle other than 90° to each other. In such cases, the main direction of the magnetic force is advantageously at an angle of at least 45° to the first joining force.

[0022] The invention also relates to a joining device according to claim 11.

[0023] A key advantage of the joining device according to the invention lies in its improved flexibility and thus in its expanded range of applications. The magnetic force of the magnetic connection between the clamping element and the first clamping jaw of the clamping device can be automatically adjusted to further operating parameters of the joining device without requiring any modification of the clamping device. This allows for a higher degree of automation and a corresponding reduction in costs.

[0024] The invention is explained in more detail below with reference to the attached, roughly schematic drawing. This drawing shows:

[0025] Fig. 1 an embodiment of a joining device according to the invention in a partial, cutaway front view and

[0026] Fig. 2 the clamping element and the first clamping jaw of the embodiment in a simplified representation in a top view.

[0027] The clamping device and joining device according to the invention will be explained in more detail below with reference to the figures.

[0028] Fig. Figure 1 shows an embodiment of a joining device according to the invention. 2 in a rough schematic representation. The joining device 2 features a beam generation unit designed as a laser welding head with scanner system 4 , a clamping device 6 and a first joining part 8 with a first joining surface 8.1 as well as a second joining part 10 with a second joining surface 10.1 open. Both joining parts 8 , 10 are shown here as flat slabs 8 , 10 trained.

[0029] The clamping device 6 consists of a recording 6.1 for the first joining part 8 , a clamping element designed as a second clamping jaw 6.2and a first clamping jaw 6.3 The second clamping jaw 6.2 is here referred to as an external clamping jaw 6.2 and the first clamping jaw 6.3 is here referred to as an internal clamping jaw 6.3 trained.

[0030] The first joining part 8 is laser beam absorbing and the second joining part 10 is partially laser beam transparent.

[0031] The first joining part 8 is in a way not shown in the recording 6.1 held and positioned. The second joining part 10 lies in the illustrated position of use of the clamping device according to the invention. 6 with its second joining surface 10.1 at the first joining surface 8.1 of the first joining part 8 on. During the transfer from a rest position (not shown) of the clamping device according to the invention. 6 in its position of use the inner clamping jaw 6.3by means of the external clamping jaw 6.2 to the second joining part 10 , relative to the leaf level, reduced.

[0032] The joining device indicates this. 2 a pneumatic drive (not shown) for the external clamping jaws 6.2 as a result of the combination of Fig. 1 and Fig. As can be seen from point 2, the two clamping jaws are 6.2 and 6.3 They are not physically connected, but separated by an air gap. Therefore, there is no connecting structure, such as connecting struts, between the clamping jaws. 6.2 and 6.3 .

[0033] The force is introduced from the pneumatically driven external clamping jaws 6.2 in the inner clamping jaws 6.3 is done via a magnetic force connection F M , which are marked with “F M The double arrows marked with a symbol represent the magnetic force F. Mcauses the inner clamping jaws to... 6.3 from the pneumatically moved external clamping jaws 6.2 is moved along with it.

[0034] The magnetic force F M This is achieved here by two jaws in the inner clamping jaws. 6.3 integrated electromagnets 12 generated. In Fig. 2 are the two electromagnets 12 symbolically represented. The external clamping jaws 6.2 It is made of a ferromagnetic material. Alternatively, it would also be possible to use it in the outer clamping jaw. 6.2 to provide at least one magnet, permanent magnet and / or electromagnet.

[0035] So that the two clamping jaws 6.2 and 6.3 both during the transfer from the rest position to the operating position and in the operating position of the clamping device 6 The clamping device is reliably aligned with each other. 6 a guide (not shown) for the inner clamping jaw6.3 on.

[0036] The guide is designed as two spaced-apart Teflon-coated bolts, along which the inner clamping jaws 6.3 can move linearly. In Fig. 2 are merely corresponding to the respective cross-sections of the bolts and in the first clamping jaw 6.3 trained passage openings 14 depicted.

[0037] In the illustrated position of use of the clamping device 6 The external clamping jaws are used 6.2 a second joining force Fa and the internal clamping jaws 6.3 a first joining force Fi on the second joining part 10 In the present example, both joining forces Fa and Fi are equal. The second joining part 10 The sum of the joining forces Fa + Fi = 2·Fa = 2·Fi is therefore applied against the first joining part. 8 pre-tensioned.

[0038] To ensure the stiffest possible force transmission connection between the external clamping jaws 6.2 trained clamping element 6.2 and the internal clamping jaws 6.3 trained first clamping jaws 6.3 To achieve this, the magnetic force F M by a factor of 10 greater than the first joining force Fi.

[0039] In this way, it is possible that the first joining force Fi is essentially equal in magnitude to the second joining force Fa.

[0040] In this embodiment, the first joining force Fi can be at most equal in magnitude to the second joining force Fa, since it is only applied via the outer clamping jaws. 6.2 Force in the inner clamping jaws 6.3 is initiated.

[0041] However, for other applications, it would also be conceivable for the first joining force Fi to be smaller than the second joining force Fa. This can be achieved by adjusting the current applied to the electromagnets. 12The value is changed, namely lowered. This leads to a certain elasticity in the magnetic connection F. M , which results in a reduction of the initial joining force Fi. The joining device is equipped for this purpose. 2 via a central control unit (not shown), by means of which the electromagnet 12 The applied current intensity is controllable.

[0042] Alternatively, the desired reduction of the first joining force Fi compared to the second joining force Fa, depending on the application, can be achieved by means of at least one spring (not shown). In the clamping device's operating position, this spring would exert a counterforce to the first joining force Fi on the inner clamping jaws. The type, material, arrangement, and dimensions of the spring can be freely selected within wide, suitable limits. For example, tension or compression springs would be equally suitable.

[0043] The figures are shown by the one marked with F M The main direction of the magnetic force F is shown by the marked double arrow. M Here it runs at an angle of 90° to the first joining force Fi.

[0044] In other applications, for example with three-dimensional joining surfaces, it would be conceivable to arrange the inner clamping jaw at an angle to the outer clamping jaw. With regard to Fig. 1. For example, it would be possible to tilt the inner clamping jaw about an axis perpendicular to the plane of the blade, an axis parallel and horizontal to the plane of the blade, or about both of the aforementioned axes.

[0045] Accordingly, it would be possible for the main direction of the magnetic force to run at a different angle to the first joining force Fi in order to achieve a good magnetic connection between the two clamping jaws.

[0046] The main direction of force is due to the fact that magnets are surrounded by a magnetic field that exerts magnetic forces in different directions on magnetized or magnetizable bodies located in the magnetic field.

[0047] As soon as the clamping device 6 in the depicted usage position and the joining parts 8 , 10 Once the two parts are pressed together, laser welding can begin.

[0048] During the laser welding of the two joining parts 8 , 10 The laser beam, symbolized by dashed lines, travels 16 of the laser head 4 , see Fig. 1. By means of the scanner system not shown in detail, the welding line symbolized by a dashed line is identified in a manner known to those skilled in the art. 18 , see Fig. 2, from.

[0049] In the Fig. 2. Welding zone symbolically represented and limited by two dotted lines20 the laser beam penetrates 16 the second joining part 10 partially up to the adjacent joining surfaces 8.1 and 10.1 The laser beam is used in this process. 16 by none between the outer clamping jaws 6.2 and the internal clamping jaw 6.3 shaded by connecting bridges or the like.

[0050] Alternative to the laser head with scanner system 4 A movable contour welding head or at least a semiconductor laser diode unit with or without an optical fiber would also be conceivable. Depending on the application, the expert selects from the available joining devices.

[0051] The invention is not limited to the present embodiment. For example, other joining devices are also conceivable in which the clamping device according to the invention can be advantageously used. In addition to other beam-based joining devices, for example an infrared welding device or a combined infrared / laser welding device, non-beam-based joining devices are also encompassed by the invention.

[0052] In contrast to the exemplary embodiment, the clamping element can also be designed as a clamping head with which a first clamping jaw, in particular an internal clamping jaw, is in magnetic force transmission connection. Unlike a clamping element designed as a second clamping jaw, in particular an external clamping jaw, the clamping head does not directly transmit force to a second joining part. For example, the use of a clamping element designed as a clamping head is advantageous if the second joining part does not offer a contact surface for a second clamping jaw.

[0053] The exemplary embodiment describes a continuous, i.e., tight, weld seam. However, partial welds, i.e., non-continuous and therefore non-tight welds, are also conceivable. The same applies to non-beam-assisted joining devices.

[0054] In contrast to the exemplary embodiment, it is possible that the at least one magnet is not arranged in the first clamping jaw, but in the clamping part, and that the first clamping jaw is made of ferromagnetic material.

[0055] Furthermore, it is conceivable that at least one magnet is arranged in the clamping part as well as in the first clamping jaw.

[0056] Any number, arrangement and combination of permanent and / or electromagnets is conceivable.

[0057] The clamping element can be driven not only pneumatically, but also hydraulically, servomotorically, or as a combination of the aforementioned drive types.

[0058] Alternatively, it is possible that instead of the clamping element and the first clamping jaw, the fixture for the first joining element is moved.

[0059] In the case of joining parts sensitive to magnetic radiation and / or electromagnetic radiation, for example electronic components, the clamping device according to the invention has a shielding means which, in the operating position of the clamping device, protects the first joining part and / or second joining part from the magnetic radiation of the magnetic force of the magnetic connection or from the magnetic radiation of the magnetic force of the magnetic connection and the electrical radiation of the electromagnet generating the magnetic force.

[0060] The shielding agent can be designed as a coating of the clamping element and / or the first clamping jaw, but also as a separate component. Reference symbol list 2 Joining device, designed as a laser welding device 4 Beam generation unit, designed as a laser head with scanner system 6 Clamping device 6.1 Recording 6.2 Clamping element, designed as external clamping jaws 6.3 First clamping jaw, designed as internal clamping jaws 8 First joining part 8.1 First joining surface of the first joining part 8 10 Second joining part 10.1 Second joining surface of the second joining part 10 12 Electromagnet 14 Through opening, for guiding the first clamping jaw 6.3 16 Laser beam 18 welding lines 20 welding zones QUOTES INCLUDED IN THE DESCRIPTION

[0061] This list of documents cited by the applicant was automatically generated and is included solely for the reader's convenience. The list is not part of the German patent or utility model application. The DPMA accepts no liability for any errors or omissions. Cited patent literature

[0062] EP 2136959 B1

[0003]

Claims

[1] Clamping device of a joining device, in particular a beam-supported joining device, comprising a receptacle for a first joining part, a clamping part and a first clamping jaw, wherein in an operating position of the clamping device the first clamping jaw is in force transmission connection with the clamping part and exerts a first joining force on a second joining part such that the second joining part is pre-tensioned with a second joining surface against a first joining surface of the first joining part, characterized by that the power transmission connection between the clamping part ( 6.2 ) and the first clamping jaw ( 6.3 ) is designed as a magnetic connection and the connection between the clamping part ( 6.2 ) and the first clamping jaw ( 6.3 ) the acting magnetic force is greater than the first joining force. [2] Clamping device ( 6 ) according to claim 1, characterized bythat the magnetic force of the magnetic connection can be generated at least partially by means of at least one permanent magnet. [3] Clamping device ( 6 ) according to claim 1 or 2, characterized by that the magnetic force of the magnetic connection is at least partially achieved by means of at least one electromagnet ( 12 ) can be produced. [4] Clamping device ( 6 ) according to one of claims 2 or 3, characterized by that the permanent magnet and / or the electromagnet ( 12 ) on or in the first clamping jaw ( 6.3 ) is arranged. [5] Clamping device ( 6 ) according to any of the preceding claims, characterized by that the clamping part ( 6.2 ) as a second clamping jaw ( 6.2 ) is formed, which is in the operating position of the clamping device ( 6 ) onto the second joining part ( 10 ) exerts a second joining force. [6] Clamping device ( 6 ) according to any one of claims 1 to 5, characterized by that the clamping device ( 6 ) has at least one spring, wherein the spring is in the operating position of the clamping device ( 6 ) on the first clamping jaws ( 6.3 ) exerts a counterforce to the first joining force. [7] Clamping device ( 6 ) according to any of the preceding claims, characterized by that the magnetic force is greater than the first joining force by at least a factor of 5, in particular by at least a factor of 10. [8] Clamping device ( 6 ) according to any of the preceding claims, characterized by that the clamping device ( 6 ) has a shielding means which, in the operating position of the clamping device ( 6 ) the first joining part ( 8 ) and / or second joining part ( 10) protects against the magnetic radiation of the magnetic force of the magnetic force connection or against the magnetic radiation of the magnetic force of the magnetic force connection and the electronic radiation of the electromagnetic force generating the magnetic force. [9] Clamping device ( 6 ) according to any of the preceding claims, characterized by that the clamping device ( 6 ) a guide for the first clamping jaw ( 6.3 ) exhibits, wherein the guide runs essentially perpendicular to the main direction of the magnetic force. [10] Clamping device ( 6 ) according to any of the preceding claims, characterized by that the main direction of the magnetic force runs at an angle of at least 45°, in particular 90°, to the first joining force. [11] Joining device, in particular laser welding and / or induction welding device, comprising a control unit and a clamping device, characterized by that the clamping device ( 6) according to claim 3 or according to a claim 4 to 10 relating back to claim 3 and the current strength of the electromagnet ( 12 ) depending on further operating parameters of the joining device, it can be controlled or regulated by means of the control unit.

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