weld nut feed pin

Abstract

Weld nut feed pin (100), comprising: a first end of the stem (120) opposite a second end of the stem (122); a pin body (124) extending from the first pin end (120) to the second pin end (122); a pin fluid line (128) defined by the second pin end (122) to extend to the first pin end (120) and through the pin body (124), wherein the pin fluid line (128) is configured to receive a pressurized fluid; and a plurality of outlet lines (134) defined by the pin body (124) such that they are connected to the pin fluid line (128), each of the plurality of outlet lines (134) being spaced apart around a circumference of the pin body (124) and extending along an axis (A), the axis (A) being oblique to a longitudinal axis (L) of the weld nut feed pin (100); wherein the first pin end (120) tapers to a first connection end (120a), the second pin end (122) comprises a second connection end (122a), wherein a plurality of threads (130) is defined on the weld nut feed pin (100) from the second connection end (122a) to the pin body (124) and the plurality of threads (130) is spaced apart from the pin body (124) by a threadless area (132).

Description

[0001] The technical field generally refers to nut feeding systems and in particular to a weld nut feeding pin for use with a weld nut feeding system.

[0002] In certain industries, such as automotive manufacturing, it may be desirable to weld a fastener, such as a nut, to a component to facilitate assembly. For example, a weld nut can be welded to a component like a sheet metal panel, and the weld nut can then accommodate a fastener to connect the panel to another component. In one example, the weld nut can be welded to the component by resistance welding. In this example, the weld nut can be transported by a feeder to an electrode used for resistance welding the weld nut to the component. In certain cases, the nut feeder may fail to hold the weld nut on its way to the electrode, causing the weld nut to fall off before reaching the electrode.

[0003] US 2009 / 0162182A1 describes a nut feeder with a piston to which a rod is attached, arranged in a chamber of a cylinder. An air channel extends through the rod between a rear opening in a groove circumferential to the rear end of the rod and a front end of the rod. A ring is arranged in the groove and is able to slide axially within the groove to cover and expose the rear opening. An air nozzle is located at the front end of the rod. One or more piston air channels extend through the piston to the groove. A stop at the front end of the chamber is positioned to halt the forward movement of the ring and cause the ring to cover the rear opening. The air nozzle includes one or more rearward-facing openings and may be contained within a pin at the front end of the rod.

[0004] US 6,315,342 B1 describes a device and method for feeding parts with open internal geometries using compressed gas. The device enables the automated feeding and transport of parts with open internal geometries using compressed gas. It comprises a tip with a plurality of holes, one or more part supports, and a conduit for supplying a stream of compressed gas. A part with an open internal geometry is inserted onto or through the tip. A stream of compressed gas enters the internal cavity of the tip in a first direction. The holes extend from the inner surface of the tip to the outer surface of the tip at an angle. This angle is sufficient to deflect the incoming gas stream into a second direction, the vector component of which is substantially opposite to the first direction.The compressed gas stream exits the holes in the tip and is then directed onto the inner surface of the part to be transported and / or fed. This compressed gas stream presses the part against the part support, allowing the part to be transported and fed onto the workpiece. As soon as the compressed gas stream is reduced or removed, the part falls into position on the workpiece due to gravity.

[0005] US 2024 / 0042542A1 describes a component feeder configured to feed a component with a through-hole to a target position. The component feeder comprises: a rod having a retaining section at its distal end that is inserted into the through-hole; an actuator; a valve attached to the rod; and a mounting section through which the valve, advancing with the rod, passes. The rod includes a gas outlet located on the outer circumference of the retaining section, configured to expel gas to the rear, and a gas passage extending inside the rod, configured to direct gas supplied from a gas source to the gas outlet.The valve includes a pressure switch configured to toggle between a forward and a retracted position, and a biasing unit configured to bias the pressure switch into the retracted position. The mounting section includes a pressure wall section facing the pressure switch.

[0006] Accordingly, the object of the present invention is to provide a weld nut feeder pin for a nut feeder system which holds a weld nut during movement to an electrode.

[0007] The problem is solved by the subject matter of the independent claim.

[0008] Furthermore, other desirable features and characteristics of the present invention will become apparent from the following detailed description and the attached claims in conjunction with the attached drawings and the aforementioned technical field and background.

[0009] According to the invention, a weld nut feed pin is provided. The weld nut feed pin comprises a first pin end opposite a second pin end and a pin body extending from the first pin end to the second pin end. The weld nut feed pin includes a pin fluid line defined by the second pin end to extend to the first pin end and through the pin body, and the pin fluid line is configured to accommodate a pressurized fluid. The weld nut feed pin includes a plurality of outlet lines extending through the pin body to communicate with the pin fluid line. Each of the multiple outlet lines is spaced apart around a circumference of the pin body and extends along an axis. The axis is inclined to the longitudinal axis of the weld nut feed pin.The first pin end tapers to a first connection end, and the second pin end comprises a second connection end, with a plurality of threads defined on the weld nut feed pin from the second connection end to the pin body. The multiple threads are spaced from the pin body by a threadless area.

[0010] In one embodiment, the pin-fluid line terminates within the first pin end at a flat end wall, and a radius is defined between the flat end wall and an inlet of each of the multiple outlet lines. The flat end wall extends along a second axis, and the second axis is substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal axis.

[0011] In one embodiment, each of the multiple outlet lines extends along the axis to be defined at an angle relative to the longitudinal axis, and the angle is an acute angle.

[0012] In one embodiment, the angle is less than fifty degrees.

[0013] In one embodiment, the multiple outlet lines are distributed essentially uniformly around the circumference of the pin body and have a uniform diameter along the axis.

[0014] In one embodiment, the weld nut feeder pin comprises a pin flange defined at one end of the pin body to be spaced apart from the first and second pin ends, and the pin flange is configured to provide a seat for a weld nut connected to a nut feeder system. The pin flange includes a pair of opposing tool flats configured to receive a tool.

[0015] In one embodiment, the pin body defines a side wall surrounding a central bore, the central bore defines a portion of the pin fluid conduit through the pin body, and a radius is defined between an inlet of each of the multiple outlet conduits and the side wall near the central bore.

[0016] In one embodiment, the pin fluid line is designed as a countersunk bore.

[0017] In one embodiment, the weld nut feed pin is additively manufactured from a polymer-based material.

[0018] The exemplary embodiments are described below in conjunction with the following figures, where identical numbers denote identical elements and where: Fig. Figure 1 is a schematic representation of a manufacturing system comprising a welding system and a nut feeding system with a weld nut feeding pin according to various embodiments; Fig. Figure 2 is a perspective view of the weld nut feed pin of Fig. 1, in which a weld nut is connected to the weld nut feed pin; Fig. Figure 3 is a perspective view of the weld nut feed pin of Fig. 1; Fig. Figure 4 is a cross-sectional view of the weld nut feed pin and the weld nut, extending along line 4-4 from Fig. 2 was recorded; Fig. 4A is a cross-sectional detail view of the weld nut feed pin, taken at 4A in Fig. 4; Fig. Figure 5 is an end view of the weld nut feed pin of Fig. 1, showing a multitude of outlet lines connected to the weld nut feed pin; Fig. Figure 6 is an end view of the weld nut feed pin of Fig. 1, showing a pair of tool planes connected to the weld nut feed pin; Fig. Figure 7 is a perspective rear view of another exemplary weld nut feeder pin for use with the nut feeder system of Fig. 1; Fig. 7A is a cross-sectional view of part of the weld nut feed pin, taken along line 7A-7A from Fig. 7; and Fig. Figure 8 is an end view of the weld nut feed pin of Fig. 7, which shows a multitude of outlet lines connected to the weld nut feed pin.

[0019] With reference to Fig. Figure 1 shows an exemplary weld nut feeder pin 100 for use with a nut feeder system 10 connected to a welding system 12 of a manufacturing system 8. In this example, the nut feeder system 10 is used to feed a weld nut 102 to a second, lower electrode 14 for welding to a component 16 by the welding system 12 during a manufacturing process. In this example, the welding system 12 is a resistance welding system and includes the lower electrode 14, which is positioned at a distance from a first, upper electrode 18. The lower electrode 14 and the upper electrode 18 work together to weld the weld nut 102 to the component 16. In this example, the component 16 is a plate made of metal or a metal alloy and is stamped, extruded, cast, forged, additively manufactured, etc.Component 16 has a bore 20, and the weld nut 102 is configured to be connected to component 16 in such a way that it surrounds the bore 20 to accommodate a mechanical fastener, such as a screw.

[0020] In one example, the welding system 12 includes or is connected to an electrical power source to supply current to the electrodes 14, 18. The electrodes 14, 18 can be held by a holder that allows them to exert pressure on the weld nut 102 and / or the component 16. In another example, the lower electrode 14 is substantially conical at least at one end near the component 16 and configured to be positioned within at least a portion of the weld nut 102 and the component 16 to align the weld nut 102 with the component 16. The upper electrode 18 is substantially cylindrical and at least partially hollow to fit over at least a portion of the weld nut 102. The electrodes 14, 18 can be made of a conductive material, including, but not limited to, copper.The electric current flows through the electrodes 14, 18, the weld nut 102, and the component 16 to form a weld pool between a portion of the weld nut 102 and the component 16, which solidifies to join the weld nut 102 to the component 16. It should be noted that in certain embodiments, the welding system 12 and the nut feeding system 10 may comprise a single system that feeds and welds the weld nut 102 to the component 16.

[0021] The nut feeder 10 transports or delivers the weld nut 102 to the lower electrode 14 for welding. The nut feeder 10 can include any suitable nut feeder 10, including, but not limited to, a Seki Air Rod Feeder commercially available from Seki Feeder, Inc. of Erlanger, Kentucky. In short, the nut feeder 10 comprises an actuation system 30 and a nut feed source 32. The nut feeder 10 can include a human-machine interface 34 and a controller 36 for controlling the actuation system 30.The control unit 36 ​​includes, for example, a processor 37 and a memory 38 in which instructions for operating the actuator system 30 and, optionally, the nut supply source 32 are stored to transport the weld nut 102 to the lower electrode 14, based on the receipt of an input, for example, an input from the human-machine interface 34 and / or an input from the welding system 12. The human-machine interface 34 can, for example, include a button, a switch, a lever, a touchscreen displayed on a screen, etc., which can be operated by a user to cause the actuator system 30 and / or the nut supply source 32 to supply the welding system 12 with the weld nut 102.

[0022] In one example, the actuating system 30 is a pneumatic actuator comprising a cylinder 40, a rod 42, and a pressure medium source 44, such as compressed air. The pressure medium source 44 can be a pressure medium reservoir, etc. The rod 42 is movable relative to the cylinder 40 at least between a retracted position, in which the weld nut 102 can be loaded onto the rod 42, and an extended position, in which the weld nut 102 is dispensed from the rod 42 onto the lower electrode 14. In one example, the cylinder 40 is in fluid communication with and coupled to the pressure medium source 44 to receive the pressurized fluid and actuate or move the rod 42 between the retracted and extended positions.In this example, the rod 42 comprises a first rod end 46, which is connected to and arranged within the cylinder 40, and an opposing second rod end 48, which is connected to the weld nut feeder pin 100. In this example, the second rod end 48 includes a countersink 50 that defines a plurality of rod threads 52. As will be discussed later, the weld nut feeder pin 100 is threaded to the plurality of rod threads 52, so that the weld nut feeder pin 100 can be removed and replaced as needed during operation of the nut feeder system 10. Furthermore, the rod 42 includes a rod fluid passage 54 that extends from the first rod end 46 to the second rod end 48. The rod passage 54 allows the pressure medium from the pressure medium source 44 to flow through the weld nut feed pin 100 when the weld nut feed pin 100 is connected to the rod 42.As will be discussed later, the weld nut feed pin 100 works together with the rod fluid passage 54 of the nut feed system 10 to hold the weld nut 102 on the weld nut feed pin 100 during the transport of the weld nut 102 to the lower electrode 14.

[0023] The nut supply source 32 delivers the weld nuts 102 to the second rod end 48. The nut supply source 32 can comprise a hopper 56 or other container that receives the weld nuts 102 in bulk, as well as a line or guide 58 that transports the weld nuts 102 from the nut supply source 32 to the nut supply system 10. The guide 58 can be supplied with a pressurized fluid, such as air, from the pressure medium source 44 to generate a force that moves the weld nuts 102 through the guide 58. It should be noted that other techniques can also be used to bring the weld nuts 102 close to the second rod end 48.In one example, a flange or bracket can be connected to the nut feed system 10 near the second rod end 48 and coupled to the guide 58 so that one of the weld nuts 102 can be positioned and aligned so that the weld nut feed pin 100 can receive the weld nut 102 when the rod 42 moves from the retracted position to the extended position.

[0024] In Fig. 2. The weld nut 102 is connected to the weld nut feed pin 100. The weld nut feed pin 100 is in Fig. Figure 2 shows the weld nut 102 decoupled from the rod 42 of the nut feed system 10. In this example, the weld nut 102 is made of metal or a metal alloy and can be cast, forged, additively manufactured, etc. The weld nut 102 can be any specified size for use with the component 16, including but not limited to metric 10 millimeters (mm) (M10), metric 8 millimeters (mm) (M8), etc. The weld nut 102 is essentially cylindrical. The diameter of the weld nut feed pin 100 is dimensioned to correspond to the size of the weld nut 102 to be used with the component 16, so that a corresponding size of weld nut feed pin 100 can be assigned to a specific size of weld nut 102. In one example, the weld nut 102 has a first weld nut end 104 facing a second weld nut end 106.An internal bore 108 extends through the weld nut 102 from the first weld nut end 104 to the second weld nut end 106. The internal bore 108 may be provided with an internal thread, and in other embodiments the weld nut 102 may not have an internal thread. The internal bore 108 is dimensioned such that it can be received on the weld nut feed pin 100, and the weld nut feed pin 100 extends through the weld nut 102 to transport the weld nut 102 to the lower electrode 14. Fig. 1) The first end of the weld nut 104 comprises a weld flange 110 and a plurality of weld tongues 112. The weld flange 110 extends circumferentially around the weld nut 102 and is designed to contact the component 16 when the weld nut 102 is picked up onto the lower electrode 14. The weld tongues 112 extend axially outward from the weld flange 110 and are designed to melt to form the weld pool and join the weld nut 102 to the component 16. The second weld nut end 106 is annular and configured to contact a portion of the weld nut feeder pin 100 when the weld nut feeder pin 100 transports the weld nut 102 to the lower electrode 14 ( Fig. 1).

[0025] In Fig. Figure 3 shows the weld nut feeder pin 100 in more detail. In this example, the weld nut feeder pin 100 is made of a polymer-based material, including but not limited to glass fiber-reinforced nylon 12. The use of glass fibers to reinforce the nylon improves the abrasion resistance of the weld nut feeder pin 100. However, it should be noted that different polymer-based materials and / or different reinforcing materials can be used to manufacture the weld nut feeder pin 100, depending on the specific nut feeding system or manufacturing system. The weld nut feeder pin 100 is additively manufactured, for example, by selective laser sintering (SLS). Additive manufacturing of the weld nut feeder pin 100 allows for easy replacement and simplification to accommodate different sizes of weld nuts 102.The weld nut feed pin 100 comprises a first pin end 120, a second pin end 122, a pin body 124, a pin flange 126 and a pin fluid line 128 (. Fig. 4) As will be discussed later, the pin fluid conduit 128 extends from the second pin end 122 through the pin body 124 and terminates in the first pin end 120.

[0026] The first pin end 120 is opposite the second pin end 122. The first pin end 120 is essentially frustoconical and tapers from the pin body 124 to a first terminal end 120a. The taper along the first pin end 120 assists in positioning the weld nut feed pin 100 through the inner bore 108 of the weld nut 102 ( Fig. 2), if the rod 42 of the nut supply system 10 ( Fig. 1) is being promoted. In other words, with reference to the Fig. 4 and Fig. 4A, the first pin end 120 extends from the first connecting end 120a along a conical axis TA to the pin body 124, and the conical axis TA runs obliquely to the longitudinal axis L of the weld nut feed pin 100. In one example, the conical axis TA forms an angle γ with the longitudinal axis L. The angle γ is an acute angle and, in one example, lies between approximately 40 degrees and approximately 50 degrees, for example, at approximately 48.5 degrees. By shaping the first pin end 120 to extend along the conical axis TA at the angle γ, the first pin end 120 guides the weld nut 102 onto the weld nut feed pin 100, thus ensuring that the weld nut 102 is seated on the weld nut feed pin 100 when the rod 42 moves into the extended position. A chamfer is provided between the first pin end 120 and the pin body 124, which further supports the seat of the weld nut 102 on the weld nut feed bolt 100.

[0027] Back to Fig. 3: The second pin end 122 contains a plurality of pin threads 130. The pin threads 130 are defined from a second connecting end 122a of the second pin end 122 towards the pin flange 126 via a threaded section D. The pin threads 130 are defined around an outer surface of the weld nut feed bolt 100 and are configured to engage with the rod threads 52 of the rod 42 ( Fig. 1) fit together or engage with each other to connect the weld nut feed stud 100 to the rod 42. In this example, the stud threads 130 are defined such that they extend from the second connection end 122a across the thread spacing D around the circumference of the weld nut feed stud 100, thus spacing them away from the stud flange 126. This results in a threadless area 132 defined between the stud threads 130 and the stud flange 126. The threadless area 132 ensures the correct distance between the rod 42 and the weld nut 102 when the weld nut feed stud 100 is connected to the rod 42. The unthreaded section 132 also increases the strength of the weld nut feed pin 100 between the pin threads 130 and the pin flange 126. In this example, the pin threads 130 are metric 6 mm threads (M6), but other thread spacings can also be used.

[0028] The pin body 124 is cylindrical and connects the first pin end 120 and the pin flange 126. In this example, the pin body 124 defines at least one or a plurality of outlet lines 134 and an inner central bore 135, which defines part of the pin fluid line 128. The outlet lines 134 are in fluid communication with the pin fluid line 128 via the inner central bore 135 and, as will be discussed later, distribute the pressurized fluid from the pin body 124 to the weld nut 102 during transport of the weld nut 102 to the lower electrode 14 ( Fig. 1) to hold on the pen body 124. Fig. Figure 4 shows a cross-section through the weld nut 102, which is connected to the weld nut feed pin 100. In this example, the pin body 124 has three outlet lines 134 ( Fig. 5) The outlet lines 134 each communicate with the pin fluid line 128 via the inner central bore 135, which passes through the center of the weld nut feed pin 100. Generally, the pin fluid line 128 extends along the longitudinal axis L of the weld nut feed pin 100, which also includes a centerline for the inner central bore 135 and the pin fluid line 128. In this example, each of the outlet lines 134 extends along an axis A that is substantially oblique to the longitudinal axis L. The axis A is essentially a centerline for each of the outlet lines 134. In other words, with additional reference to Fig. 4A, each of the outlet lines 134 is defined along axis A such that it runs at an angle α relative to the longitudinal axis L. In one example, the angle α is an included angle and an acute angle. In another example, the angle α is between approximately 40 degrees and approximately 50 degrees, and in this example, the angle α is approximately 46 degrees. The angle α of each of the outlet lines 134 is different from and smaller than the angle γ of the taper of the first pin end 120. In general, the angle α and the angle γ remain approximately the same regardless of the size (or diameter) of the weld nut feed pin 100. By having the outlet lines 134 run along axis A at an angle α, each of the outlet lines 134 directs the compressed air flow substantially in the direction of arrows 136 at an angle onto the weld flange 110.This holds the weld nut 102 on the weld nut feed pin 100 while the rod 42 moves to position the weld nut 102 on the lower electrode 14 ( . Fig. 1).

[0029] Each of the outlet lines 134 is cylindrical and has an inlet, or first outlet end 134a, opposite an outlet, or second outlet end 134b. Since each of the outlet lines 134 is cylindrical, the first outlet end 134a and the second outlet end 134b are each circular. The outlet lines 134 are defined by a side wall 137 of the pin body 124. The side wall 137 surrounds the inner central bore 135, and in one example, the side wall 137 has a reduced thickness so that the inner central bore 135 can carry a larger volume of pressurized fluid to the outlet lines 134. The first outlet end 134a is located at least partially inside the first pin end 120, and the second outlet end 134b is located on an outer surface 124a of the pin body 124.In one example, each of the outlet lines 134 is uniformly configured with a constant diameter along its length from the first outlet end 134a to the second outlet end 134b. In this example, each outlet line 134 has a diameter ranging from approximately 1.5 millimeters (mm) to approximately 2.25 millimeters (mm). Generally, the diameter of each outlet line 134 is dimensioned as large as possible to direct the maximum amount of pressurized fluid onto the weld nut 102. It should be noted that in other examples, the first outlet end 134a may have a different diameter than the second outlet end 134b. Each of the outlet lines 134 is connected to the inner central bore 135, which defines the part of the pin fluid line 128 inside the pin body 124, to direct the pressure fluid through the side wall 137 of the pin body 124 to the outer surface 124a to contact the weld nut 102.

[0030] As in Fig. As shown in Figure 4, the fluid line 128 through the weld nut feed pin 100 is essentially cylindrical. In one example, the pin fluid line 128 is defined as a cylindrical depression extending from the second connection end 122a to near the first connection end 120a. In this example, the pin fluid line 128 terminates within the first pin end 120a along a flat end wall 138. In other words, with further reference to Fig. 4A, the end wall 138 extends along an axis A2 that is substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal axis L and substantially oblique to the axis A of each of the outlet lines 134. The pressurized fluid is directed into each of the outlet lines 134 through the termination at the end wall 138. In one example, the pin fluid line 128 has a diameter of approximately 4.0 millimeters (mm) to approximately 5.0 millimeters (mm). The pin fluid line 128 is in fluid communication with the rod fluid passage 54 to receive the pressurized fluid from the pressure medium source 44. In other words, the pin fluid line 128 is fluidically coupled to the pressure medium source 44.

[0031] It should be noted that the first outlet end 134a of each of the outlet lines 134 is integrally formed with the end wall 138 along a first radius R1, which helps to direct the pressurized fluid into the respective outlet line 134 by reducing losses during the transition of the flow from the end wall 138 into the respective outlet line 134. In one example, the first radius R1 is approximately 0.05 millimeters (mm) to approximately 0.25 millimeters (mm). Furthermore, the first outlet end 134a of each of the outlet lines 134 is integrally formed with the side wall 137 of the pin body 124 near the inner central bore 135 with a second radius R2. The second radius R2 also reduces losses in the pressurized fluid as it enters the respective outlet line 134. In one example, the second radius R2 is approximately 0.05 millimeters (mm) to approximately 0.25 millimeters (mm).Thus, radii R1 and R2 generally eliminate obstacles that could otherwise impede the ability of the pressurized fluid to flow into the outlet lines 134, and also prevent the formation of dead zones or areas with little to no airflow. It should be noted that the additive manufacturing of the weld nut feed pin 100 enables the formation of radius R2, which improves the flow of the pressurized medium onto the weld nut 102.

[0032] In Fig. Figure 5 shows an end view of the weld nut feed pin 100. The outlet lines 134 are distributed substantially uniformly around the circumference of the pin body 124 and, in this example, are spaced apart from each other at an angle β around the circumference. In one example, the angle β is approximately 120 degrees. The substantially uniform spacing of the outlet lines 134 around the circumference of the pin body 124 directs the pressurized fluid onto the welding flange 110 around one circumference of the welding flange 110, thereby ensuring that the weld nut 102 is held on the lower electrode 14 and fed in the correct orientation.

[0033] Back to Fig. 2: The pin flange 126 is defined at one end of the pin body 124 such that it is spaced apart from the first pin end 120 and the second pin end 122. The pin flange 126 provides a seat for the weld nut 102 when the weld nut 102 is coupled to the weld nut feed pin 100. In an example relating to Fig. With reference to Figure 6, the pin flange 126 generally extends radially over a distance D10 beyond the outer surface 124a of the pin body 124 and substantially perpendicular to it to define the seat. In one example, the pin flange 126 extends over a distance D10, which is approximately 0.25 millimeters (mm) to approximately 1.0 millimeter (mm). Generally, the diameter D10 is based on a diameter of the cylinder 40. In this example, the pin flange 126 also includes a pair of tool flats 150. The tool flats 150 are defined such that they face each other on the pin flange 126. The tool flats 150 are flat surfaces that allow a tool, such as a wrench, to engage the weld nut feed pin 100.It should be noted that in other examples the pin flange 126 may contain a variety of flat surfaces to define a surface for engagement with a predetermined tool around the circumference of the pin flange 126, or may be annular and without the tool flattening 150.

[0034] Furthermore, it should be noted that the weld nut feed pin 100 is located in the Fig. Although Figures 1-6 are shown and described with a pin body 124 defining three outlet channels 134 that are fluidically connected to the pin fluid line 128, the weld nut feed pin 100 may, in other embodiments, comprise a different number of outlet lines to hold the weld nut 102 on the weld nut feed pin 100. Fig. 7 is, for example, a weld nut feed pin 200 for use with the nut feed system 10 ( Fig. 1) shown. Since the weld nut feeder pin 200 contains components that are the same or similar to the components of the weld nut feeder pin 200, which is shown in relation to the Fig. 1, Fig. 2, Fig. 3, Fig. 4, Fig. 5 to Fig. As discussed in section 6, the same reference numerals are used to designate the same or similar components. The weld nut feeder pin 200 is made of a polymer-based material, including, but not limited to, glass fiber-reinforced nylon 12. The use of glass fibers to reinforce the nylon improves the abrasion resistance of the weld nut feeder pin 200. However, it should be noted that different polymer-based materials and / or different reinforcing materials may be used to manufacture the weld nut feeder pin 200, depending on the specific nut feeding system or manufacturing system. The weld nut feeder pin 200 is additively manufactured, for example, by selective laser sintering (SLS).The additive manufacturing of the weld nut feeder pin 200 allows for easy replacement and easy production to accommodate different sizes of weld nuts 102. The weld nut feeder pin 200 includes the first pin end 120 (. Fig. 8), the second pin end 122, a pin body 224, the pin flange 126 and a pin fluid line 228. As will be discussed later, the pin fluid line 228 extends from the second pin end 122 through the pin body 224 and terminates in the first pin end 120.

[0035] The first pin end 120 is opposite the second pin end 122. The first pin end 120 generally extends from the first connecting end 120a along the tapered axis TA, which runs obliquely to a longitudinal axis L2 of the weld nut feed pin 200 ( Fig. 7A). A chamfer is defined between the first pin end 120 and the pin body 224 to further support the seating of the weld nut 102 on the weld nut feed pin 200. The second pin end 122 contains a plurality of pin threads 130 along the threaded section D. The threadless area 132 is defined between the pin threads 130 and the pin flange 126.

[0036] The pin body 224 is cylindrical and connects the first pin end 120 and the pin flange 126. In this example, the pin body 224 defines a plurality of outlet lines 234 and an inner central bore 235, which defines part of the pin fluid line 228. The outlet lines 234 are in fluid communication with the pin fluid line 228 via the inner central bore 235 and distribute the pressurized fluid out of the pin body 224 to hold the weld nut 102 on the pin body 224 during transport of the weld nut 102 to the lower electrode 14. Fig. 1) In this example, the pin body 124 has four outlet lines 234 ( Fig. The outlet lines 234 are each connected to the pin fluid line 228 via the inner central bore 235, which passes through the center of the weld nut feed pin 200. Generally, the pin fluid line 228 extends along the longitudinal axis L2 of the weld nut feed pin 200, which also includes a centerline for the inner central bore 235 and the pin fluid line 228. In this example, with additional reference to Fig. 7A, each of the outlet lines 234 extends along axis A, which is substantially oblique to the longitudinal axis L2. Axis A is essentially a centerline of each of the outlet lines 234. In other words, each of the outlet lines 234 is defined along axis A such that it runs at an angle α relative to the longitudinal axis L2. By being arranged along axis A at the angle α, each of the outlet lines 234 directs the compressed air flow substantially in the direction of arrows 136 ( Fig. 8) onto the welding flange 110. This holds the weld nut 102 on the weld nut feed pin 200 while the rod 42 moves to position the weld nut 102 on the lower electrode 14 ( Fig. 1).

[0037] Each of the outlet lines 234 is cylindrical and has an inlet or first outlet end 234a opposite an outlet or second outlet end 234b. Since each of the outlet lines 234 is cylindrical, the first outlet end 234a and the second outlet end 234b are each circular. The outlet lines 234 are defined by a side wall 237 of the pin body 224. The side wall 237 surrounds the inner central bore 235, and the side wall 237 has a reduced thickness so that the inner central bore 235 can supply a larger volume of pressurized fluid to the outlet lines 234. The first outlet end 234a is defined at least partially within the first pin end 120, and the second outlet end 234b is defined on an outer surface 224a of the pin body 224.In one example, each of the outlet lines 234 is uniformly defined, with a constant diameter along a length of each outlet line 234 from the first outlet end 234a to the second outlet end 234b. In this example, each of the outlet lines 234 has a diameter of approximately 2.0 millimeters (mm) to approximately 2.5 millimeters (mm). It should be noted that in other examples, the first outlet end 234a may have a different diameter than the second outlet end 234b. Each of the outlet lines 234 is connected to the inner central bore 235, which defines the pin fluid channel 228, to direct the pressurized fluid through the side wall 237 of the pin body 224 to the outer surface 224a to contact the weld nut 102. In general, the pin fluid channel 228 is defined by the weld nut feed pin 200 such that it is substantially cylindrical.In one example, the pin fluid line 228 is defined as a cylindrical recess extending from the second terminal end 122a to near the first terminal end 120a. In this example, the pin fluid line 228 terminates within the first pin end 120a along the flat end wall 138. The end wall 138 extends along axis A2, which is substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal axis L2 and substantially oblique to axis A of each of the outlet lines 234. The pressurized fluid is directed through the end of the end wall 138 into each of the outlet lines 234. In this example, the pin fluid line 228 has a diameter of approximately 4.0 millimeters (mm) to approximately 5.0 millimeters (mm).

[0038] It should be noted that the first outlet end 234a of each of the outlet lines 234 is integrally formed with the end wall 138 along radius R1, which helps to direct the pressurized fluid into the respective outlet line 234. Furthermore, the first outlet end 234a of each of the outlet lines 234 is integrally formed with the side wall 237 of the pin body 224 at radius R2. Radius R2 reduces losses in the pressurized fluid as it enters the respective outlet line 234. Because the weld nut feed pin 200 is provided with the four outlet lines 234, the weld nut feed pin 200 can be used to attach larger weld nuts 102 to the weld nut feed pin 200.For example, the weld nut feed pin 200 can be used to fasten metric 12 mm weld nuts 102 (M12) or metric 16 mm weld nuts 102 (M16), while the weld nut feed pin 100 can be used to fasten metric 6 mm weld nuts 102 (M6) or metric 8 mm weld nuts 102 (M8). The fluid line 228 of the pin is in fluid communication with the fluid channel 54 of the rod to receive the pressurized fluid from the pressure medium source 44. In other words, the pin's fluid line 228 is fluidically connected to the pressure medium source 44.

[0039] In Fig. Figure 8 shows an end view of the weld nut feed pin 200. The outlet lines 234 are distributed substantially uniformly around the circumference of the pin body 224 and, in this example, are spaced apart from each other at an angle β2 around the circumference. In one example, the angle β2 is approximately 90 degrees. By spacing the outlet lines 234 substantially uniformly around the circumference of the pin body 224, the pressurized fluid is directed onto the weld flange 110 around one circumference of the weld flange 110, thereby ensuring that the weld nut 102 is held on the lower electrode 14 and fed in the correct orientation.

[0040] The pin flange 126 provides a seat for the weld nut 102 when the weld nut 102 is coupled to the weld nut feed pin 200 (as in Fig. 2 shown). In one example, the pin flange 126 generally extends radially beyond the outer surface 224a of the pin body 224 over the distance D10 and essentially perpendicular to it to define the seat, and in this example includes the pair of tool flats 150.

[0041] As with reference to the Fig.As explained in sections 1-3 and 7, the weld nut feed pin 100, 200 is additively manufactured using SLS. Generally, the weld nut feed pin 100, 200 is formed or manufactured along a build direction that is essentially parallel to the longitudinal axis L, L2. This allows the weld nut feed pin 100, 200 to be self-supporting during additive manufacturing, eliminating the need for supports and their removal after additive manufacturing. Furthermore, the formation of the first outlet end 134a, 234a with radii R1, R2 allows for easy removal of the deposit powder remaining in the weld nut feed pin 100, 200 after additive manufacturing. Due to the use of SLS, no additional processing, such as surface treatment, is required for the weld nut feed pin 100, 200.After the weld nut feed pin 100, 200 has been formed, it is connected to the second rod end 48 via the engagement of the pin threads 130 with the rod threads 52. The tool flats 150 can be used with a suitable tool, such as a wrench, to assist in connecting the weld nut feed pin 100, 200 to the rod 42. Once the weld nut feed pin 100, 200 is connected to the rod 42, the nut feeding system 10 within the manufacturing system 8 is ready for use.

[0042] For example, the nut feed system 10 can be activated to feed the weld nut 102 to the component 16 for welding by the welding system 12. In this example, the nut feed source 32 is activated to feed the weld nut 102 to the rod 42 in the retracted position. The hydraulic fluid source 44 is activated to supply the cylinder 40 with hydraulic fluid, and the hydraulic fluid causes the rod 42 to move from the retracted position towards the extended position, so that the weld nut feed pin 100, 200 is received by the weld nut 102 and the weld nut 102 is seated on the pin flange 126. Essentially simultaneously, the hydraulic fluid flows from the hydraulic fluid source 44 through the rod fluid passage 54 and the pin fluid line 128, 228 and exits through the outlet lines 134, 234 onto the welding flange 110.The pressurised fluid acting on the welding flange 110 holds the weld nut 102 on the weld nut feed pin 100, 200, while the rod 42 moves from the retracted position to the extended position to position the weld nut 102 on the lower electrode 14.

[0043] In this way, the weld nut feed pin 100, 200 securely holds the weld nut 102 on the weld nut feed pin 200, while the rod 42 transports or moves the weld nut 102 to the lower electrode 14. The use of multiple outlet lines 134, 234 spaced around the circumference of the respective weld nut feed pin 100, 200 ensures that the pressurized fluid is directed onto the weld flange 110 around the circumference of the weld nut 102, which helps to hold the weld nut 102 and also ensures its alignment. The pin flange 126 also acts as a seat, further securing the weld nut 102 on the weld nut feed pin 100, 200 as the rod 42 moves toward the lower electrode 14.By shaping the first pin end 120 to extend along the cone axis TA at an angle γ, the first pin end 120 guides the weld nut 102 onto the weld nut feed pin 100, 200, ensuring that the weld nut 102 is seated on the weld nut feed pin 100 when the rod 42 moves into the extended position.

Claims

[1] Weld nut feed pin (100), comprising: a first end of the stem (120) opposite a second end of the stem (122); a pin body (124) extending from the first pin end (120) to the second pin end (122); a pin fluid line (128) defined by the second pin end (122) to extend to the first pin end (120) and through the pin body (124), wherein the pin fluid line (128) is configured to receive a pressurized fluid; and a plurality of outlet lines (134) defined by the pin body (124) such that they are connected to the pin fluid line (128), each of the plurality of outlet lines (134) being spaced apart around a circumference of the pin body (124) and extending along an axis (A), the axis (A) being oblique to a longitudinal axis (L) of the weld nut feed pin (100); wherein the first pin end (120) tapers to a first connection end (120a), the second pin end (122) comprises a second connection end (122a), wherein a plurality of threads (130) is defined on the weld nut feed pin (100) from the second connection end (122a) to the pin body (124) and the plurality of threads (130) is spaced apart from the pin body (124) by a threadless area (132). [2] Weld nut feed pin (100) according to claim 1, wherein the pin fluid line (128) terminates within the first pin end (120) at a flat end wall (138), a radius (R1, R2) is defined between the flat end wall (138) and an inlet (134a, 134b) of each of the multiple outlet lines (134), the flat end wall (138) extends along a second axis (A2) and the second axis (A2) is substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal axis (L). [3] Weld nut feed pin (100) according to claim 1, wherein each of the multiple outlet lines (134) extends along the axis (A) to be defined at an angle (α) relative to the longitudinal axis (L) and the angle (α) is an acute angle. [4] Weld nut feed pin (100) according to claim 3, wherein the angle (α) is less than fifty degrees. [5] Weld nut feed pin (100) according to claim 1, wherein the multiple outlet channels (134) are distributed substantially uniformly over the circumference of the pin body (124) and have a uniform diameter along the axis (A). [6] Weld nut feeder pin (100) according to claim 1, further comprising a pin flange (126) defined at one end of the pin body (124) such that it is spaced apart from the first pin end (120) and the second pin end (122), wherein the pin flange (126) is configured to be a seat for a weld nut (102) connected to a nut feeder system (10), and the pin flange (126) comprises a pair of opposing tool flats (150) configured to receive a tool. [7] Weld nut feed pin (100) according to claim 1, wherein the pin body (124) defines a side wall (137) surrounding a central bore (135), the central bore (135) defining a part of the pin fluid line (128) through the pin body (124) and defining a radius between an inlet (134a, 134b) of each of the multiple outlet lines (134) and the side wall (137) near the central bore (150). [8] Weld nut feed pin (100) according to claim 1, wherein the pin fluid line (128) is designed as a countersunk bore. [9] Weld nut feed pin (100) according to claim 1, wherein the weld nut feed pin (100) is additively manufactured from a polymer-based material.

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