Clamp and method for integrating a component into a part

Abstract

Clamp and method for integrating a component into a part This clamp (1) comprises a frame (10), a blank holder arm (40) comprising a blank holder (41), an insertion arm (50) comprising a punch (51) intended to cooperate with a die (31) to integrate the component (6) into the part (5), and a counter-support arm (30) comprising the die (31). The insertion arm (50) and the blank holder arm (40) are movable relative to each other between an open position and a closed position. The insertion arm (50) and the counter-support arm (30) are movable relative to each other between an open position and a closed position. Drive means move, relative to each other, the insertion arm (50) and the counter-support arm (30) into the open or closed position. Figure 1B

Description

Title of the invention: Clamp and method for integrating a component into a part

[0001] The present invention relates to a clamp for placing a component through a workpiece, and to a method of placing a component through a workpiece using this clamp.

[0002] The riveting pliers of the state of the art generally comprise two upper and lower arms, in C, delimiting an access zone allowing the placement of a part between the two arms forming the C. These pliers, most often movable on an articulated arm to approach the part to be functionalized, comprise an actuator making it possible to tighten the arms of the pliers on the part and to develop the power necessary for the installation of the rivets. Given the mobility of the pliers, the actuator is conventionally positioned on the upper arm. A rivet supply system extends outside the arms to bring the rivets one by one to the end of the upper arm in contact with the part.

[0003] An important aspect of riveting pliers concerns their accessibility, that is to say their ability to accommodate in the working area, namely inside and around the C-shaped opening delimited by the two arms, parts of various dimensions and shapes.

[0004] There is indeed a need for riveting pliers that offer great accessibility. Great accessibility makes it possible to use a single pliers to functionalize different parts, the dimensions and shapes of which can be very diverse.

[0005] However, existing clamps sometimes offer relatively limited accessibility. This accessibility problem may be due to the arrangement of the power (actuator) in line with the working axis, i.e. on the upper arm just above the opening of the C. Accessibility may also be compromised by the external supply system which takes up space near the working area. In other words, the space around the arms of the clamp is not perfectly clear. In addition, the power on board the upper arm limits the length of the arms, and therefore the depth of the C.

[0006] There is also a need to increase the rate of riveting in order to improve productivity.

[0007] In this context, the invention aims to overcome all or part of the aforementioned drawbacks of the state of the art. In particular, the invention aims to propose a clamp and a method offering improved accessibility. In addition, the invention aims to to offer a clamp and a process offering improved productivity.

[0008] To this end, the invention relates to a clamp intended for the integration of a component into a part to be functionalized, the clamp comprising:

[0009] a frame,

[0010] a hold-down arm comprising a hold-down,

[0011] an insertion arm comprising a punch intended to cooperate with a die to integrate the component into the part to be functionalized,

[0012] a counter-support arm comprising the matrix,

[0013] the insertion arm and the blank holder arm being movable relative to each other between an open position in which the punch is arranged relative to the blank holder to allow the component to be armed in the blank holder and a closed position in which the punch is arranged relative to the blank holder to allow the component to be expelled from the blank holder in order to integrate the component into the part to be functionalized,

[0014] the insertion arm and the counter-support arm being movable relative to each other between an open position, in which the insertion arm and the counter-support arm are spaced apart from each other to allow the clamp to receive, between the blank holder and the die, the part to be functionalized, and a closed position in which the punch and the die are brought closer to each other to integrate the component into the part to be functionalized,

[0015] drive means configured to move, relative to each other, the insertion arm and the counter-support arm into the open or closed position.

[0016] Thus, the clamp according to the invention, by its three-arm architecture, offers significantly improved accessibility compared to the clamps of the state of the art.

[0017] By integration of a component into a part to be functionalized is meant incorporation of the component into a part to be equipped with this component, so that the component is part of this part. By part to be functionalized is meant part to be equipped with the component.

[0018] By proximal, or upstream, is meant the furthest from the opening of the clamp, and more particularly from the axis in which the punch, the blank holder and the die extend. By distal, or downstream, is meant the opposite, that is to say the closest to the opening of the clamp and to the axis in which the punch, the blank holder and the die extend.

[0019] The insertion arm and the hold-down arm can be movable in translation relative to each other along a Z axis. The insertion arm and the counter-support arm can be movable in translation relative to each other along the Z axis.

[0020] The insertion arm, the blank holder arm and the counter-support arm are aligned in the same XZ plane. Similarly, the punch, the blank holder and the die are aligned along the Z axis. Thus the movement of one relative to the other or others is linear, straight.

[0021] The clamp according to the invention may also comprise one or more of the characteristics described below.

[0022] According to one embodiment, the drive means are supported by the frame, or any one of the arms, among the counter-support arm, the side clamp arm and the insertion arm, which is fixed relative to the frame.

[0023] Thus, the drive means are offset relative to the axis in which the punch, the blank holder and the die extend. The drive means are arranged at a distance from the insertion arm, the blank holder arm and the counter-support arm. The drive means are not in line with the axis of the punch, the blank holder and the die; the drive means are offset relative to this axis.

[0024] The drive means may be arranged on a side of the frame which is distinct from that from which the side clamp arm, the insertion arm and the counter-support arm extend.

[0025] According to one embodiment, the drive means on the one hand, and the side clamp arm, the insertion arm and the counter-support arm on the other hand are arranged on either side of a proximal face of the frame.

[0026] The drive means may comprise a power actuator extending parallel to the Z axis.

[0027] According to one embodiment, the insertion arm is movable relative to the frame and the drive means are configured to move the insertion arm relative to the frame.

[0028] The insertion arm can be movable along the Z axis relative to the frame.

[0029] According to one embodiment, the insertion arm, or the side clamp arm, comprises a cavity configured to receive the side clamp arm, or respectively the insertion arm, in the closed position.

[0030] Thus, the side clamp arm can be superimposed or retracted into the insertion arm.

[0031] According to one embodiment, the side clamp arm is arranged between the insertion arm and the counter-support arm.

[0032] The blank holder arm and the counter-support arm are advantageously movable in translation relative to each other along a Z axis between a first open position in which the blank holder is at a first distance from the die to allow the placement of a part to be functionalized between the blank holder and the die, a second open position in which the blank holder is at a second distance from the die to allow the placement of a part to be functionalized between the blank holder and the die, where the second distance is greater than the first distance, and a position closed in which the distance between the blank holder and the die is less than the first distance, and in particular substantially equal to the thickness of the part to be functionalized so that the blank holder and the die clamp the part to be functionalized. The first open position may be a standard open position, corresponding to a standard operating mode in which all the movements of the clamp are the consequence of the sole movement of the power actuator (the movement sequence of the clamp is controlled solely by the power actuator). The second open position may be a maximum access open position, corresponding to a maximum access operating mode, in which the displacement member is controlled to first move the blank holder arm towards the insertion arm, in order to open the opening of the clamp as much as possible.

[0033] According to one embodiment, the hold-down arm is movable relative to the frame.

[0034] The hold-down arm can be movable in translation along the Z axis relative to the frame.

[0035] According to one embodiment, the clamp comprises a displacement member configured to control the displacement of the side clamp arm relative to the insertion arm or, where appropriate, to the counter-support arm.

[0036] According to one embodiment, the displacement member connects the side clamp arm to the one, among the insertion arm and the counter-support arm, which is moved relative to the frame by the drive means.

[0037] The displacement member makes it possible to transmit the forces of the drive means to the hold-down arm via the insertion or counter-support arm. The drive means therefore indirectly cause the hold-down arm to move relative to the frame.

[0038] According to one embodiment, the clamp comprises a clamping member configured to push the blank holder towards the die.

[0039] Thus, the part can be held firmly against the die.

[0040] According to one embodiment, the blank holder arm comprises a device for supplying one or more components configured to supply a component to the end of the punch.

[0041] The feed device advantageously extends along the hold-down arm. The feed device may be carried by the hold-down arm. According to a preferred embodiment, the feed device extends inside the hold-down arm. The feed device is part of the hold-down arm and moves with it.

[0042] Thus, there are no obstacles around the hold-down clamp. This improves the accessibility of the clamp. It will be noted that the feed device is fully arranged in the hold-down arm and, if applicable, in the frame. In other words, the feed device does not comprise any external part. The guide duct of the feed device can extend in a straight line, along the X axis, from the preparation area to an arming area and the flank holder.

[0043] According to one embodiment, the feed device comprises a retractable distal stop and a retractable proximal stop, a preparation zone configured to store one or more components upstream of the distal stop, a dead zone devoid of components and located between the distal stop and the proximal stop, and a pre-arming zone configured to store one or more components between the proximal stop and the side clamp.

[0044] According to one embodiment, the feed device comprises a preparation pusher configured to engage in the preparation zone in order to push the component(s) located in the preparation zone to the pre-arming zone, and an arming pusher configured to engage in the dead zone in order to push the component(s) located in the pre-arming zone to an arming zone.

[0045] The arming zone is configured to accommodate a single component and is located in the Z axis between a bearing face of the punch and an exit opening of the blank holder.

[0046] Having a double pusher allows a continuous supply of components to the blank holder so as not to interrupt production of the clamp.

[0047] According to one embodiment, the die comprises a stripper configured to release the part from the die after integration of the component.

[0048] The invention may also relate, according to another aspect, to a clamp intended for the integration of a component into a part to be functionalized, the clamp comprising:

[0049] a hold-down arm comprising a hold-down,

[0050] a punch and a die, intended to cooperate to integrate the component into the part to be functionalized,

[0051] a feed device configured to feed the component into the blank holder, the feed device being arranged inside the blank holder arm.

[0052] This clamp may further comprise all or part of the characteristics mentioned in the present description.

[0053] The invention may also relate, according to another aspect, to a clamp intended for the integration of a component into a part to be functionalized, the clamp comprising:

[0054] a frame,

[0055] an insertion arm comprising a punch intended to cooperate with a die to integrate the component into the part to be functionalized,

[0056] a counter-support arm comprising the matrix,

[0057] the insertion arm and the counter-support arm being movable relative to each other between an open position, in which the insertion arm and the counter-support arm are spaced apart from each other to allow the clamp to receive the workpiece to be operated functionalize, and a closed position in which the punch and the die are brought closer to each other to integrate the component into the part to be functionalized,

[0058] drive means configured to move, relative to each other, the insertion arm and the counter-support arm into the open or closed position, the drive means being arranged elsewhere than on the insertion and counter-support arms.

[0059] The drive means are advantageously arranged on the frame.

[0060] This clamp may further comprise all or part of the characteristics mentioned in the present description.

[0061] According to another aspect, the invention also relates to a method of integrating a component into a part to be functionalized, the method comprising the steps of:

[0062] placement of the part to be functionalized between a blank holder and a die of a clamp having the aforementioned characteristics;

[0063] placement of a component in an arming zone located between a bearing face of the punch and an exit opening of the blank holder;

[0064] pressing the matrix against one side of the part to be functionalized,

[0065] pressing the blank holder against an opposite side of the part to be functionalized,

[0066] moving the punch towards the die to push in the component to the interior of the room to be functionalized,

[0067] separation of the blank holder and the die to release the functionalized part.

[0068] The functionalized part is the part equipped with the component. The component is integrated into the part; they are integral.

[0069] The method according to the invention may also comprise one or more of the following characteristics.

[0070] The step of separating the blank holder and the die to release the functionalized part is preceded by a step of pushing the functionalized part towards the punch by means of a stripper of the clamp.

[0071] The method comprises a step of moving the component from the arming zone to an end zone of the blank holder, and this step is concomitant with the movement of the punch towards the die. This makes it possible to place the component in the end zone in masked time during the closing of the clamp.

[0072] The method may comprise a step of checking the presence of a component in the terminal zone.

[0073] The method comprises a step of separating the punch and the blank holder, and a step of bringing a new component into the arming zone during the step of separating the punch and the blank holder. This makes it possible to place a new component in the arming zone in masked time during the opening of the clamp.

[0074] The method comprises supplying one or more components to a preparation zone of a gripper feed device during any one of the steps above. The supply of new components therefore takes place in hidden time.

[0075] The method comprises moving the one or more components from the preparation area to a pre-arming area of ​​the gripper feed device after the last component in the pre-arming area has been moved into the arming area.

[0076] The method comprises a draining step consisting of moving the punch into the hold-down clamp to expel any component which would be located in the hold-down clamp.

[0077] The method comprises a maximum opening step consisting of moving the blank holder away from the die before the step of placing the part to be functionalized. This step may include at least partial superposition of a blank holder arm and an insertion arm of the clamp.

[0078] The method may comprise a step of calibrating a displacement member of the clamp. The force generated by the displacement member may thus be parameterized according to the conditions of use.

[0079] The method may comprise a step of calibrating a clamping member of the gripper. The force generated by the displacement member or the moment from which this force is exerted may thus be parameterized according to the conditions of use.

[0080] The method may comprise a step of controlling a thickness of the part to be functionalized.

[0081] The method may comprise a step of checking the compatibility of the component located in the side clamp with the part to be functionalized.

[0082] The method may comprise a step of controlling the misalignment or flushness of a head of the component relative to an upper surface of the functionalized part.

[0083] The invention may also relate to a method of integrating a component into a part to be functionalized, the method comprising the steps of:

[0084] placement of the part to be functionalized between a blank holder and a die of a clamp further comprising a punch;

[0085] placement of a component in an arming zone located between a bearing face of the punch and an exit opening of the blank holder;

[0086] pressing the matrix against one side of the part to be functionalized,

[0087] placing the side clamp against an opposite side of the part to be functionalized,

[0088] movement of the punch towards the die to push the component inside the part to be functionalized,

[0089] separation of the blank holder and the die to release the functionalized part.

[0090] The functionalized part is the part equipped with the component. The component is integrated into the part; they are integral.

[0091] The method may further comprise all or part of the characteristics mentioned. in this description.

[0092] Other characteristics and advantages of the present invention will emerge clearly from the detailed description below of an embodiment, given by way of non-limiting example, with reference to the appended drawings in which: - [Fig.lA] is a perspective view of a clamp according to one embodiment of the invention, the insertion and hold-down arms being in the open position relative to each other, the insertion and counter-support arms being in the open position relative to each other, and the hold-down and counter-support arms being in the standard open position relative to each other, - [Fig.lB] is a side view of the clamp illustrated in [Fig.lA], - [Fig.lC] is a side and sectional view of the interior of the clamp illustrated in Figures 1A and 1B, in which elements of the frame and a flange of the insertion arm have been removed, - [Fig.lD] is a detail of [Fig.lC], - [Fig.lE] is a sectional and side view of a side clamp of a clamp according to an embodiment of the invention, - [Fig.lF] is a sectional and side view of a device for feeding a clamp according to one embodiment of the invention, - [Fig.2A] is a side view of a clamp according to one embodiment of the invention, the insertion and hold-down arms being in the closed position relative to each other, the insertion and counter-support arms being in the closed position relative to each other, and the hold-down and counter-support arms being in the closed position relative to each other, - [Fig.2B] is a side and sectional view of the interior of the clamp illustrated in [Fig.2A], in which frame members and a flange of the insertion arm have been removed, - [Fig.2C] is a side and sectional view of the interior of the clamp illustrated in [Fig.2A], - [Fig.3] is a side view of a clamp according to an embodiment of the invention, the insertion and hold-down arms being in the closed position relative to each other, the insertion and counter-support arms being in the open position relative to each other, and the hold-down and counter-support arms being in the maximum open position relative to each other, - [Fig.4] is a perspective view of a clamp according to an embodiment of the invention, - [Fig.5] is a perspective view of a clamp according to an embodiment of the invention, in which elements of the frame have been removed, - [Fig.6] is a perspective view of part of the device for supplying a clamp according to one embodiment of the invention, - [Fig.7] is a perspective view of part of a clamp according to a method of embodiment of the invention, in which elements of the frame and a flange of the insertion arm have been removed, - [Fig.8] is a perspective view of a part of the device for feeding a clamp according to one embodiment of the invention, - [Fig.9A] is a side and sectional view of a counter-support arm of a clamp according to an embodiment of the invention, the stripper being in the receiving position, - [Fig.9B] is a side and sectional view of a counter-support arm of a clamp according to an embodiment of the invention, the stripper being in the ejection position, - [Fig. 10] is a sectional and perspective view of a counter-support arm of a clamp according to an embodiment of the invention, the stripper being in the ejection position, - [Fig.l 1] is a side and sectional view of a clamp according to one embodiment of the invention, - [Fig. 12] is a side view of a clamp according to one embodiment of the invention.

[0093] [Fig.1A] shows a device according to one embodiment of the invention. The The device according to the invention is a clamp 1 intended for the functionalization of a part by inserting a component 6 into the part. By functionalization of a part is meant the integration of the component 6 into the part 5 to be functionalized, the component 6 being subsequently intended to fulfill a predetermined function, such as the fixing of the functionalized part to another part. Thus, after functionalization of the part, it can be assembled to another part by means of the component, at another station, for example by electric resistance welding. The part 5 to be functionalized can comprise aluminum, magnesium or composite materials (glass fibers, carbon, etc.). As illustrated in [Fig.l 1], the part 5 to be functionalized can be formed from several parts or layers that are identical or different in terms of shape, thickness or material, such as for example a stack of several layers of aluminum, or layers including different steels and / or composite materials, or a combination of these materials.

[0094] The component 6 can be mechanically fixed in the part 5 to be functionalized, by means of the clamp 1 according to the invention. For example, the component 6 is crimped in the part 5 to be functionalized. The clamp 1 can be used to carry out crimping, shrinking, punching, riveting, or stamping of the component 6. The component 6 can be an insert, and more specifically an insert to be welded, such as for example an insert such as described in the patent document, or a rivet, such as for example an SPR rivet (“Self piercing rivet”), [Fig. 11]. The pliers 1 according to the invention are however not limited to this type of insert.

[0095] As illustrated in [Fig.1A], the clamp 1 may comprise a base 2, a functional part 4, and a connecting arm 3 connecting the base 2 to the functional part 4.

[0096] The base 2 may comprise a stand 7, and a user interface 8. The base 7 allows the clamp 1 to rest fixedly on a support, such as the ground or a platform which may be transportable. Thus, the clamp 1 is stationary; it is the part 5 to be functionalized which is moved to the clamp 1, and not the other way around. The part 5 to be functionalized may be brought to the clamp 1 manually by an operator, or automatically by a handling robot. The user interface 8 allows the operator to control the operation of the clamp 1. Alternatively, the base 2 and the connecting arm 3 could be replaced by a handling robot 100, [Fig. 12], configured to carry and move the clamp 1. In this case, the clamp 1 may comprise one or more lightweight materials such as aluminum, titanium, or one or more composite materials, for example based on carbon fibers.The use of a handling robot can be implemented to install inserts to be welded, for example when the part 5 is fixed relative to the clamp and the clamp 1 moves around it, or for example in a configuration where the clamp 1 and the part 5 are set in motion by a mechanical system which can be a robotic arm. When the components 6 are rivets, we can have a configuration which favors the integration of the rivets on the white body of the vehicles being built and therefore at the edge of the assembly line. In this configuration, as it is very complex to set the body in motion to orient it, the robot allows the active part of the clamp to be presented at the level of the work areas or assembly points.

[0097] The connecting arm 3 may be in the form of a connecting rod and may extend rectilinearly from an upper end of the base 2 to the functional part 4, in order to connect the base 2 to the functional part 4. The base 2 and the functional part 4 are arranged on either side of the connecting arm 3. One end of the connecting arm 3 may be connected to the functional part 4 at the height of the opening 90 of the clamp 1, as illustrated in [Fig. 1A], for example being closer to a counter-support arm 30 of the clamp 1 than to a side-holding arm 40 or an insertion arm 50 of the clamp 1. The connecting arm 3 may comprise a pivot connection at each of its ends, that is to say a pivot connection connecting the connecting arm 3 to the base 2 and a pivot connection connecting the connecting arm 3 to the functional part 4. two pivot links allow the clamp 1 to be raised or lowered, and can remain vertical.The pivot connections also allow, if necessary, an inclination of the clamp 1 relative to the vertical. Thus, the clamp 1 is movable in a vertical plane orthogonal to . its base 7. As a non-limiting example, the clamp 1 can be inclined by [0-90°] relative to the vertical, in one direction or the other. The mobility of the clamp 1 in the vertical plane improves the accessibility of the parts to be functionalized.

[0098] The functional part 4 may comprise a frame 10, a power unit 20, a counter-support arm 30, a side-holding arm 40, an insertion arm 50, a clamping member 60 for holding the part in place before functionalization, a displacement member 70 for moving the side-holding arm 40 relative to the insertion arm 50, and a component feed device.

[0099] The frame 10 is intended to support and house all or part of the aforementioned elements of the functional part 4. The frame 10 may be in the form of a block extending longitudinally along an axis Z.

[0100] The frame 10 may comprise a proximal face 11, or front face, where the opening 90 of the clamp 1 is located, as well as an opposite distal face 12, or rear face, where a power unit 20 may be located. The frame 10 may comprise two lateral faces 13, one of which may be connected to a proximal end of the connecting arm 3, by means of a pivot connection. The frame 10 may comprise translational guide means for guiding the side clamp arm 40 and the insertion arm 50, as well as a collection device for collecting cutouts or scrap resulting from the functionalization of the part.

[0101] The guide means are configured to guide the hold-down arm 40 and the insertion arm 50 along the Z axis. The guide means may comprise one or more rails 14a, 14b and one or more sliders 15a, 15b slidably engaged in the one or more rails 14a, 14b. The one or more rails 14a, 14b may be fixed to the frame 10, while the one or more sliders 15a, 15b may be integral with the hold-down arm 40 or the insertion arm 50. Alternatively, the rails 14a, 14b may be mounted on the hold-down arm 40 and the insertion arm 50 while the sliders 15a, 15b may be fixed to the frame 10.

[0102] The rail(s) 14a, 14b may include a dovetail groove, the slide(s) 15a, 15b including a rib of complementary shape. According to the illustrated example, the guide means comprise two proximal rails 14a and two distal rails 14b extending parallel on either side of the side clamp arm 40 and the insertion arm 50. The hold-down arm 40 may be connected to the distal rails 14b, and preferably only to the distal rails 14b, for example by two pairs of sliders 15b, while the insertion arm 50, which supports the load necessary for the integration of the components, may be connected both to the proximal rails 14a, in particular by three pairs of sliders 15a, and to the distal rails 14b like the hold-down arm 40, in particular by a pair of sliders 15a.

[0103] The collection device may be in the form of a bin or container configured to contain the cuttings or scraps that may result from the integration of the component 6 into the part 5 to be functionalized. The cuttings or scraps may be conveyed from the counter-support arm 30 to the collection device by gravity or by suction-type drive means. The collection device may be arranged at the lower end of the frame 10. Alternatively, the collection device may be arranged in the counter-support arm 30. The collection device may comprise a hatch and / or be removable to facilitate the evacuation of the collected cuttings and scraps. It will be noted that in the case of SPR rivet type components, the clamp 1 may be without a collection device given the absence of formation of material cuttings.

[0104] The power unit 20 is intended to provide the energy necessary for actuating the clamp 1. In particular, the power unit 20 is configured to move the insertion arm 50 and thus allow the insertion of the component 6 into the part 5 to be functionalized.

[0105] The power unit 20 may comprise drive means such as a power actuator 21, and a transmission device 24 for transmitting the power from the power actuator 21 to the insertion arm 50.

[0106] The power actuator 21 is intended to provide the energy necessary for the entire process of integrating the component 6 into the part 5 to be functionalized. The power actuator 21 may be a cylinder, for example an electric or oleo-pneumatic cylinder, carried by the frame 10, and not by the insertion arm 50. Thus, in the clamp 1 according to the invention, the power is offset relative to the insertion arm 50. In particular, according to the embodiment illustrated in Figures 1A-10, the power actuator 21 is arranged neither above, nor below, nor to the side, but distally relative to the opening 90 of the clamp 1, that is to say here at the rear of the frame 10, opposite the opening 90 of the clamp 1. This arrangement frees up space all around the opening 90 of the clamp 1, and more specifically all around the insertion arm 50.The absence of clutter around the opening 90 of the clamp 1 allows the clamp 1 to accommodate parts of non-flat, complex shape, having reliefs, returns or cavities. Accessibility is significantly improved.

[0107] The power actuator 21 comprises a cylinder 22, fixed to the frame 10, and a rod 23 movable in translation relative to the cylinder 22 and to the frame 10 in the longitudinal direction Z. The movement of the rod 23 is linear, parallel to the direction Z which corresponds to the closing axis of the clamp 1. According to the embodiment illustrated in Figures 1A-10, the rod 23 is at the bottom relative to the cylinder 22. The rod 23 can be guided by a first bore of a slide 17 secured to the frame 10.

[0108] The transmission device 24 may comprise a power tie rod 25 and a coupling 26 configured to connect the power actuator 21 to the power tie rod. power 25.

[0109] The power tie rod 25 is intended to transmit the force generated by the power actuator 21 to the insertion arm 50 in order to move the insertion arm 50 along the Z axis relative to the frame 10. The power tie rod 25 may be in the form of a rectilinear rod extending along the Z axis. The power tie rod 25 extends along the Z axis, and may be positioned parallel to the power actuator 21, in the immediate vicinity thereof. Like the power actuator 21, the power tie rod 25 can be arranged distally relative to the opening 90 of the clamp 1, i.e. distant from the opening 90 of the clamp 1, at the rear of the frame 10. The power tie rod 25 can comprise an upper end fixed to the insertion arm 50, and a lower end fixed to the coupling 26. The power tie rod 25 is movable in translation along the Z axis relative to the frame 10.The translation of the power rod 25 is caused by the power actuator 21. The power rod 25 can be guided in translation along the Z axis by a second bore, parallel to the first bore, of the slide 17 of the frame 10.

[0110] The coupling 26 securely connects a lower end of the rod 23 of the power actuator 21 to a lower end of the power tie rod 25. Thus, a movement of the rod 23 of the power actuator instantly causes an equivalent movement of the power tie rod 25, and consequently of the insertion arm 50.

[0111] The insertion arm 50 is configured to punch the part 5 to be functionalized by means of the component. It is therefore the insertion arm 50 which presses the component 6 against the part and inserts it inside the latter.

[0112] The insertion arm 50 is movable in translation along the Z axis relative to the frame 10, between a closed position, [Fig.2A], and an open position, [Fig.1B]. In the closed position, the gap between the lower end of the punch 51 and the upper end of the die 31 is minimal. This position corresponds to the end of insertion of the component 6 into the part 5 to be functionalized. In the open position, the gap between the lower end of the punch 51 and the upper end of the die 31 is maximum. This position allows the opening 90 of the clamp 1 in order to provide great accessibility to the parts to be functionalized, as well as the resetting of the clamp 1, that is to say the engagement of a new component 6 in the blank holder 41, as will be described in more detail below. The movement of the insertion arm 50 between these positions is caused by the power actuator 21.As explained previously, the insertion arm 50 is guided in translation relative to the frame 10 by means of rails 14a, 14b and sliders 15a.

[0113] With reference to Figures 4 and 5, the insertion arm 50 may comprise a drive portion 50c attached to the power tie rod 25, a connecting portion 50a for connecting the insertion arm 50 to the frame 10 so that the insertion arm 50 can translate along the Z axis relative to the frame 10, an extension 50b which extends above or which contributes to forming the opening 90 of the clamp 1, a punch, and fixing means for fixing the punch 51 to the extension 50b in a removable manner. The insertion arm 50 can also delimit a cavity 54 configured to receive the side clamp arm 40. Alternatively, in an embodiment not shown, it is the side clamp arm 40 which can delimit a cavity configured to receive the insertion arm 50.

[0114] The drive portion 50c is intended to enable the power rod 25 to pull or push the insertion arm 50 in order to move it along the Z axis. The drive portion 50c may take the form of two parallel flanges 55a, 55b between which the upper end of the power rod 25 is fixed. The drive portion 50c is arranged at the rear of the frame 10. The connecting portion 50a is intended to connect the insertion arm 50 to the frame 10. According to the embodiment illustrated in [Fig. 5], it is fixed to sliders 15a engaged with the proximal rail 14a and to sliders 15b engaged with the distal rail 14b. The connecting portion 50a is in the form of a triangular plate; it extends in the XZ plane, inside the frame 10. It is interposed between the drive part 50c and the extension 50b. The extension 50b is intended to move the punch 51 to the end of the opening 90 of the clamp 1.It may be in the form of a triangular plate having one end secured to the connecting portion 50a and an opposite end configured to carry the punch. The extension 50b extends in the XZ plane, at the front of the frame 10, and therefore opposite the power unit 20. The extension 50b is secured to the connecting portion 50a. The extension 50b delimits the cavity 54 of the insertion arm 50.

[0115] The insertion arm 50 may include two similar flanges 55a, 55b. Each flange may be a single piece and may include the extension 50b, the connecting portion 50a and the driving portion 50c. The parallel flanges 55a, 55b delimit between them the cavity 54 intended for the retraction of the side-holder arm 40. The cavity 54, configured to receive all or part of the side-holder arm 40, comprises an opening intended for the passage of the side-holder arm 40 towards the inside or towards the outside of the insertion arm 50. The cavity 54 extends opposite the side holder arm 40, between the punch 51 and the frame 10. The cavity 54 and the side holder arm 40 may have complementary shapes so that the side holder arm 40 retracts inside the insertion arm 50.

[0116] The punch 51 may comprise a bearing face 52 configured to bear against a head of the component 6 to press the component 6 along the Z axis against the part 5 to be functionalized, and holding means for holding the component 6 in abutment against the bearing face 52 despite the gravity exerted on the component. It will be noted that in the open position, the bearing face 52 of the punch 51 may be configured to flush a component 6 located in the arming area 822d of the side clamp arm 40.

[0117] The punch 51 may be in the form of a cylindrical rod extending along the Z axis and comprising, for example, an upper end fixed to the end of the insertion arm 50, and a lower end delimiting the bearing face. The punch 51 is movable in translation along the Z axis relative to the blank holder between an arming position, [Fig. 1F], a pre-punching position, [Fig. 2B], and a final position (not shown). In the arming position, the punch 51 is above the blank holder and allows the arming of a new component. In the pre-punching position, the punch 51 extends inside the blank holder, without however protruding from it, to place the component 6 just above, or even in contact with, the part 5 to be functionalized. In the final position, the punch 51 extends throughout the blank holder 41, and can protrude from it, in order to integrate the component 6 into the part 5 to be functionalized.The punch 51 can be fixed to the insertion arm 50 by removable fixing means, such as screws, so that the punch 51 can be replaced by a different punch 51, for example longer or shorter, in order to adapt the accessibility of the clamp 1 to the part 5 to be functionalized.

[0118] The holding means make it possible to hold the component 6 in place at the end of the punch 51 during the descent of the punch 51 into the hold-down clamp 41, when the punch 51 passes from the armed position to the pre-punching position. This prevents the component from falling freely. The holding means may comprise a blowing channel 53 intended to be connected to a suction system for sucking up the component 6 and thus holding it against the bearing face 52 of the punch. The blowing channel 53 may extend in the center of the punch, and may open at the upper end on the one hand, to be connected to the suction system, and at the lower end on the other hand, at the center of the bearing face. Instead of a blowing channel 53, the punch 51 may comprise any suitable alternative holding means, such as for example magnetization means.

[0119] The hold-down arm 40 is configured to press the part 5 to be functionalized against the counter-support arm 30 in order to hold it in place before punching. The hold-down arm 40 is also intended to receive the components from the feed device and to guide their descent along the Z axis towards the part 5 to be functionalized.

[0120] The hold-down arm 40, of essentially triangular shape, can extend in the XZ plane, at the front of the frame 10. The hold-down arm 40 partly delimits the opening 90 of the clamp 1. The hold-down arm 40 is movable in translation along the Z axis relative to the frame 10 between a maximum open position, [Fig. 3], a standard open position, [Fig. 1B], and a closed position, [Fig. 2A]. In the maximum open position, the The blank holder arm 40 is received in the cavity 54 of the insertion arm 50, which is in its open position, in order to maximize accessibility to the clamp 1 by opening the latter to the maximum. This position is used in a maximum accessibility operating mode, when the part 5 to be functionalized has such a particular shape that it cannot be received by the clamp 1 in standard operating mode. In the standard open position, which corresponds to the standard operating mode of the clamp 1, the blank holder arm 40 extends under the insertion arm 50, between the latter and the counter-support arm 30. In the closed position, the blank holder arm 40 is closer to the counter-support arm 30 than in the standard position, in order to clamp the part 5 to be functionalized against the latter before the punching operation carried out by the insertion arm 50.The movement of the hold-down arm 40 relative to the frame 10 between the standard open position and the closed position is caused by the power actuator 21. The movement of the hold-down arm 40 from the standard open position to the maximum open position may be caused by a movement member 70 which will be described in detail below. The hold-down arm 40 is not directly connected to the power actuator 21; it is connected to the insertion arm 50 by the movement member 70 which transmits to the hold-down arm 40 the forces exerted on the insertion arm 50 by the power actuator 21. It will be noted that according to an alternative embodiment not shown, the hold-down arm 40 may be fixed relative to the frame 10; the insertion arm 50 and the counter-support arm 30 can then be movable in translation along the Z axis relative to the frame 10 and relative to the side clamp arm 40.More generally, of the three arms comprising the insertion arm 50, the side clamp arm 40 and the counter-support arm 30, at least two can be movable, preferably in translation along the Z axis relative to the frame and the third can be fixed. According to another embodiment (not shown), the three arms 30, 40, 50 can be movable, preferably in translation along the Z axis relative to the frame.

[0121] According to the illustrated embodiment, the hold-down arm 40 and the insertion arm 50 are movable relative to each other between a deployed position, [Fig. 1B], in which the insertion arm 50 is in its open position and the hold-down arm 40 is in its standard open position, and a retracted position, [Fig. 2B], in which the hold-down arm 40 is retracted into the insertion arm 50. The retracted position is reached when the hold-down arm 40 is moved upwards to the maximum open position, while the insertion arm 50 is for example in its open position ([Fig. 3]), or when the hold-down arm 40 has reached its closed position and the insertion arm 50 is moved downwards in order to punch the part 5 to be functionalized ([Fig. 2A]).

[0122] The side clamp arm 40 may comprise a connecting portion 40a, an extension 40b, a side clamp 41, and removable fixing means for fixing in a manner removable the side clamp 41 to the extension 40b.

[0123] The connecting part 40a, possibly rectangular in shape, is intended to connect the side clamp arm 40 to the frame 10. For this purpose, the connecting part 40a can be arranged inside the frame 10 and can be fixed to the slides 15b engaged in the distal rails 14b.

[0124] The extension 40b extends in the XZ plane, preferably horizontally or obliquely downward, from a proximal side of the connecting part 40a to delimit the upper part of the opening 90 of the clamp 1. The extension 40b comprises an end intended to carry the blank holder 4L. At this end, the extension 40b may include a passage channel 401 extending along the Z axis, directly above the guide tube 43 of the blank holder, to allow the punch 51 to pass through the extension 40b in order to engage in the guide tube 43 of the blank holder. The extension 40b has a shape complementary to that of the cavity 54 of the insertion arm 50. It houses the device for feeding the components to the blank holder. The supply device is therefore internal, not external, which contributes to greater accessibility.

[0125] The removable attachment means may include screws inserted into bores through the extension 40b or the hold-down clamp 4L.

[0126] With reference to Figures 1D and 1E, the hold-down clamp 41 may comprise an upper end 410a, a lower end 410b, a clamping face 42, a guide tube 43, a detection unit 44 such as for example a sensor, of the inductive sensor or optical sensor type, for detecting the presence of a component 6 in the arming zone 822d of the hold-down clamp, a pre-arming stop 45, and a fall-prevention stop 46.

[0127] The upper end 410a of the side clamp is fixed to the extension 40b by means of the removable fixing means. It is thus possible to change the side clamp 41, by another of different dimension, for example longer or shorter, to adapt the accessibility of the clamp 1 to the part 5 to be functionalized. The replacement can be carried out by an operator.

[0128] The upper end 410a comprises an opening which acts as an inlet into the guide tube 43 for the punch. This opening is opposite the passage channel 401 of the extension 40b so that the guide tube 43 is in the extension of the passage channel 401.

[0129] The lower end 410b has an outlet opening 411b which allows the component 6 to exit the guide tube 43 under the pressure of the punch 51 in order to integrate the part 5 to be functionalized. Around the opening, the lower end 410b delimits the clamping face 42 of the blank holder. This clamping face 42, orthogonal to the Z axis, here of annular shape, is intended to come to bear against the part 5 to be functionalized in order to clamp it against the counter-support arm 30, thus allowing to hold the part 5 to be functionalized correctly in place before the step of integrating the component 6 using the punch.

[0130] The guide tube 43 may be cylindrical. The guide tube 43 delimits a conduit extending between the opening of the upper end 410a and the outlet opening 411b formed at the lower end 410b of the blank holder, along the Z axis to guide the components from the arming zone 822d located at the upper end of the punch 51 to the terminal zone located at the lower end of the punch. It will be noted that in the terminal zone, the distance along the Z axis between the clamping face 42 of the punch 51 and the bearing face 52 of the punch 51 is similar to the height of the component, so that the component 6 is flush with the lower end of the punch, and therefore with the part 5 to be functionalized when the blank holder 41 is in the closed position.The guide tube 43 comprises a lateral opening 411e arranged opposite the feed device to allow the components located in the feed device to enter the guide tube 43. In this case, the arming zone 822d is located in the side clamp 41, at its upper end 410a. Alternatively, the arming zone 822d is in the extension 40b of the side clamp arm 40, in line with the guide tube 43, for example between the passage channel 401 and the guide tube 43.

[0131] The pre-cocking stop 45 may include a ball movable between a locking position in which the ball extends partly across the passage of the components towards the side holder 41 and a retracted position in which the ball clears this passage, as well as a spring to return the ball to the locking position. The pre-cocking stop 45 separates the pre-cocking zone 822c, which is part of the feed device, from the cocking zone 822d, which is located in the side holder 4L. The pre-cocking stop 45 may be arranged across the groove 821 which guides and holds the head of the components 6.The movement of the pre-cocking stop 45 into the retracted position is caused by the cocking pusher 85 pushing the components toward the cocking area 822d in the hold-down clamp 4L. Similarly, the anti-fall stop 46 may include a ball movable between a locking position in which the ball extends partly across the guide tube 43 of the hold-down clamp and a retracted position in which the ball clears the passage in the guide tube 43, as well as a spring to return the ball to the locking position. The anti-fall stop 46 may be arranged partly across the groove 821 which guides and holds the head of the components 6, or just below it. The movement of the anti-fall stop 46 into the retracted position is caused by the punch 51 pushing the component 6 into the hold-down clamp 41 toward the end area of ​​the hold-down clamp.The anti-fall stop 46 is thus configured to prevent the component 6 from falling into the guide tube 43, before the punch 51 comes into contact with the component 6 and the means for holding the . punch 51 come into action.

[0132] The component feed device is configured to feed the blank holder 41 with components continuously, that is to say without interruption in order to optimize the rate of functionalization of the parts, and without hindering the accessibility of the clamp 1. The feed device is arranged inside the frame 10 and inside the blank holder arm 40. Thus, the component feed is protected from the external environment. In addition, the component feed does not take up space outside the clamp 1. This improves accessibility.

[0133] As illustrated in Figures 1C, 1D and 1F, the supply device may include a supply channel 81, a guide duct 82, a blowing duct 83, a preparation pusher 84, an arming pusher 85, means for moving the preparation pusher 84 and the arming pusher 85, means for guiding the preparation pusher 84 and the arming pusher 85, a distal cam 86a, a proximal cam 86b, a distal stop 87a, and a proximal stop 87b.

[0134] The feed channel 81 is intended to be connected to an external component feed device (not shown). The feed channel 81 communicates with the guide duct 82 so that the components pass through the feed channel 81 to arrive in the guide duct 82. The guide duct 82 is intended to guide the components from the feed channel 81 to the guide tube 43 of the blank holder. The guide duct 82 may extend in a straight line along the X axis, may be T-shaped, and may include one or more grooves 821 shaped to receive a head of the components, so that the components are suspended in the guide duct 82. The groove(s) 821 may extend into an arming zone 422d of the side clamp 4L. The guide duct 82 comprises a preparation zone 822a, followed by a dead zone 822b, itself followed by a pre-arming zone 822c.The preparation zone 822a extends from the supply channel 81 to the distal stop 87a. The dead zone 822b extends between the distal stop 87a and the proximal stop 87b. The pre-arming zone 822c extends between the proximal stop 87b and the sidewall holder 41, more precisely between the proximal stop 87b and the sidewall holder pre-arming stop 45. The blowing duct 83 is connected on the one hand to an external blowing device (not shown) and on the other hand opens into the guide duct 82, at the inlet of the guide duct 82, to allow the components to be blown in order to move them in the guide duct 82 to the distal stop 87a.

[0135] The distal stop 87a may comprise a ball movable between a locking position in which the ball extends partly across the passage of the components in the guide conduit 82 and a retracted position in which the ball frees this passage, as well as a spring for returning the ball to the locking position. The stop 87a The distal ball may be arranged across the groove 821 which guides and holds the head of the components 6. The movement of the distal ball into the retracted position is caused by the preparation pusher 84 pushing the components towards the pre-arming zone 822c. The proximal stop 87b may comprise a ball movable between a locking position in which the ball extends partly across the passage of the components in the guide conduit 82 and a retracted position in which the ball clears this passage, as well as a spring for returning the ball to the locking position. The proximal stop 87b may be arranged across the groove 821 which guides and holds the head of the components 6. The movement of the proximal ball into the retracted position is caused by the preparation pusher 84 pushing the components towards the pre-arming zone 822c.

[0136] The preparation pusher 84 is configured to push one or more components blocked in the preparation zone 822a by the distal stop 87a to the pre-arming zone 822c, more particularly until the component(s) abut against the pre-arming stop 45 of the blank holder. The preparation pusher 84 may be in the form of a rod extending essentially along the axis X, and arranged parallel to the guide conduit 82, in parallel with the latter, inside the blank holder arm 40. The preparation pusher 84 may comprise a flexible proximal end 841 delimiting a pushing surface 842 intended to push the components in a proximal direction, and a distal end 843. The proximal end 841 is flexible to allow the preparation pusher 84 to flex upon contact with the distal cam 86a to engage the guide conduit 82 to push the components.

[0137] The preparation pusher 84 is movable in translation along the X axis between a neutral position, [Fig. 1D], and an active position (not shown). In the active position, the preparation pusher 84 extends into the guide duct 82 to push the components toward the distal stop 87a. In the neutral position, the preparation pusher 84 extends out of the guide duct 82 so as not to obstruct the arrival of new components. The movement of the preparation pusher 84 from the neutral position to the active position, and vice versa, is caused by an actuator 844 such as for example a cylinder arranged parallel to the preparation pusher 84 and connected to the latter by means of a return 845 secured to the distal end of the preparation pusher 84. The actuator 844 can form the means for moving the preparation pusher 84.

[0138] The preparation pusher 84 can be engaged in one or more grooves 823 of the side clamp arm 40 which allow it to be guided along the X axis. The groove(s) 823 can form the guide means for the preparation pusher 84. The flexible proximal end 841 is disengaged from the groove(s) 823 in order to be able to flex when the preparation pusher 84 is moved into the active position. The deflection of the proximal end 841 of the preparation pusher 84 is caused by the distal cam 86a arranged on the path of the preparation pusher 84 and shaped to engage the thrust surface 842 of the preparation pusher 84 in the guide conduit 82.

[0139] The arming pusher 85 is configured to push one or more components blocked in the pre-arming zone 822c by the pre-arming stop 45 to the arming zone 822d of the blank holder, more particularly until the component or components abut against the pre-arming stop 45 of the blank holder. The arming pusher 85 may be in the form of a rod extending essentially along the axis X, and arranged parallel to the guide duct 82, in parallel with the latter, inside the blank holder arm 40. In addition, the arming pusher 85 is arranged above the preparation pusher 84, so that the arming pusher 85 serves as a cam 86a distal to the preparation pusher 84. The arming pusher 85 may comprise a flexible proximal end 851 defining a pushing surface 852 intended to push the components in a proximal direction, and a distal end 853.The proximal end 851 is flexible to allow the arming pusher 85 to flex into contact with the distal cam 86a to engage the guide conduit 82 to push the components. The arming pusher 85 may have an inflection forming the distal cam 86a.

[0140] The arming pusher 85 is movable in translation along the X axis between a neutral position (not shown), and an active position, [Fig. 1F]. In the active position, the arming pusher 85 extends into the guide duct 82 to push the components into the guide tube 43 of the blank holder 41, and more precisely up to a mechanical stop which can be formed by the detection unit 44. In the neutral position, the arming pusher 85 extends outside the guide duct 82 so as not to obstruct the arrival of a batch of components from the preparation zone 822a into the arming zone 822d. The movement of the arming pusher 85 from the neutral position to the active position, and vice versa, is caused by an actuator 855 such as for example a cylinder arranged parallel to the arming pusher 85 and connected to the latter by means of a return 856 secured to the distal end of the arming pusher 85.The actuator 855 can form the means for moving the arming pusher 85.

[0141] The arming pusher 85 may be engaged in one or more grooves 824 of the side clamp arm 40 which allow it to be guided along the X axis. The groove(s) 824 may form the guide means for the arming pusher 85. The flexible proximal end 851 is disengaged from the groove(s) 824 in order to be able to flex when the arming pusher 85 is moved into the active position. The flexing of the end 851 proximal to the arming pusher 85 is caused by the proximal cam 86b attached to the clamp arm 40 and arranged in the path of the arming pusher 85. The proximal cam 86b is shaped to engage the thrust surface 852 of the arming pusher 85 in the guide duct 82. In particular, the thrust surface 852 enters the guide duct 82 at the dead zone 822b, which is an area devoid of components.

[0142] The displacement member 70 is configured to move the blank holder arm 40 along the Z axis, relative to the frame 10 or relative to the insertion arm 50. The displacement member 70 connects, for example, the insertion arm 50 to the blank holder arm 40, so that the forces exerted by the power actuator 21 on the punch arm 51 are transmitted to the blank holder arm 40 via the displacement member 70.

[0143] With reference to Figures 1C and 2B, the displacement member 70 may be in the form of one or more actuators, such as for example one or two cylinders, in particular pneumatic ones. Alternatively, the displacement member 70 could be one or more springs. The displacement member 70 is arranged along the Z axis and comprises an upper end 71a fixed to the connecting portion 50a of the punch arm 51 and a lower end 71b fixed to the connecting portion 40a of the blank holder arm 40. When the displacement member 70 is a cylinder, its cylinder 72 may form the upper end and its rod 73 the lower end. It will be noted that in standard operating mode, the pneumatic cylinder may be constantly under pressure, so that its rod 73 tends to remain deployed. It only retracts under the pressure exerted by the punch arm 51 when the latter approaches the side clamp arm 40 in abutment against the part 5 to be functionalized.Thus, in standard operating mode, the pneumatic cylinder forming the displacement member 70 acts in a similar manner to a spring. In maximum accessibility operating mode, the pneumatic cylinder can be controlled so that its rod 73 retracts, thus causing the displacement of the side clamp arm 40 and the insertion arm 50, until the side clamp arm 40 reaches its maximum open position by retracting into the insertion arm 50.

[0144] The displacement member 70 is preferably calibratable, so that the load it exerts can be modified depending on the circumstances. Thus, the connecting portion 40a of the hold-down arm 40 may include means for adjusting the deployment of the rod 73 of the displacement member 70. These adjustment means are configured to fix the lower end of the displacement member 70 at a predetermined location among several possible ones along the Z axis. The adjustment means include for example a plurality of parallel bores 74 each extending in the X direction, the plurality of bores being aligned in the Z direction, and intended to receive a screw engaged in the lower end of the displacement member 70.

[0145] The displacement member 70 may for example be configured to exert a low load, of the order of 40 kg, solely intended for the transmission of force between the insertion arm 50 and the side clamp arm 40. It will be noted, however, that the displacement member 70 could also be configured to exert a stronger load, in order to also perform the function of clamping the part 5 to be functionalized, so that the displacement member 70 would also act as a clamping member 60, so that a single spring or actuator would act as both the displacement member 70 and the clamping member 60. Otherwise, instead of having a displacement member 70 and a clamping member 60, the clamp 1 could alternatively comprise only either the clamping member 60 or the displacement member 70, fulfilling both functions.However, in this case, the energy consumed would be greater since the power actuator 21 would have to overcome the load of the clamping member 60 each time the insertion arm 50 approaches the blank holder arm 40, i.e. each time a component is punched. Having a displacement member 70 separate from a clamping member 60 makes it possible to configure the displacement member 70 with a low load so that the energy consumed by the power actuator 21 each time the power actuator 21 brings the insertion arm 50 closer to the blank holder arm 40 is less.

[0146] The clamping member 60 is intended to allow the side clamp arm 40 to press against the part 5 to be functionalized in order to hold the latter in position during the integration of the component 6 by the insertion arm 50.

[0147] As illustrated in Figures 1C and 2B, the clamping member 60 may be in the form of an actuator, such as for example a cylinder, in particular pneumatic or electric. Alternatively, the clamping member 60 could be a spring. The clamping member 60 is arranged along the Z axis and comprises an upper end 61a fixed to the connecting portion 50a of the insertion arm 50 and a lower end 61b which may be free and which is configured to come into contact with a clamping stop 402 located on the connecting portion 40a of the side clamp arm 40. When the clamping member 60 is a cylinder, its cylinder 62 may form the upper end and its rod 63 the lower end. The clamping member 60 extends between the insertion arm 50 and the side clamp arm 40 and tends to keep them apart, against the action of the power actuator 21.The bringing together of the insertion arm 50 and the side-clamp arm 40 under the action of the power actuator 21 therefore has the effect of increasing the force exerted by the clamping member 60, so that the clamping member 60 allows the side-clamp 40 to gradually clamp the part to be functionalized when the clamp 1 is closed.

[0148] When the insertion arm 50 is in the open position and the clamp arm 40 is in the standard open position, the lower end of the clamping member 60 can be at a distance from the clamping stop 402 of the blank holder arm 40, [Fig.lC]. The lower end of the clamping member 60 comes to bear against the clamping stop 402, [Fig.2B], when the insertion arm 50 descends towards the closed position, while the blank holder arm 40 is already bearing against the part 5 to be functionalized. From this moment, the clamping member 60 presses the blank holder arm 40 against the part 5 to be functionalized, so that the force of the clamping member 60 is transmitted to the blank holder arm 40 and to the part 5 to be functionalized.

[0149] The clamping stop 402 may be arranged in the connecting portion 40a of the hold-down arm 40, and may comprise a wall inclined relative to the Z axis. A guide channel 403, for example a bore, aligned with the clamping member 60, may be provided through the connecting portion 40a of the hold-down arm 40 to allow the rod 63 of the clamping member 60 to engage in the connecting portion 40a of the hold-down arm 40 when approaching the clamping stop 402.

[0150] The clamping member 60 is preferably calibratable, so that the load it exerts can be modified depending on the circumstances. The clamping member 60 can for example be configured to exert a load of the order of 300 kg.

[0151] The counter-support arm 30 is configured to support the part 5 to be functionalized when the latter is pressed first by the side-clamp arm 40, then by the insertion arm 50.

[0152] The counter-support arm 30 may be fixed relative to the frame 10. The counter-support arm 30, possibly triangular in shape, extends in the XZ plane, opposite the side-clamp arm 40 and the insertion arm 50, and contributes to delimiting the opening 90 of the clamp 1.

[0153] As illustrated in Figures 9A-9B and 10, the counter-support arm 30 may include a die 31, means for removably fixing the die 31, a stripper 37, means for moving the stripper 37, and a conduit 38 for discharging the cutouts in the case where cutouts are made.

[0154] The die 31 extends along the Z axis. The die 31 may comprise an evacuation tube 32, a counter-support face 34, and a pin passage 36.

[0155] The evacuation tube 32 may comprise an upper opening 33a, opening at the upper end of the die 31, and a lower opening 33b, opening at a lower end of the die 31 opposite the evacuation conduit 38 for the cutouts. The evacuation tube 32 may extend rectilinearly along the Z axis. The evacuation tube 32 makes it possible to collect the cutouts and scrap resulting from the integration of the component 6 in the part 5 to be functionalized in order to guide them to the evacuation conduit 38.

[0156] The counter-support face 34 extends at the upper end of the matrix 31, essentially in the XY plane, around the upper opening 33a of the evacuation tube 32. The counter-support face 34 is intended to come into contact under the part 5 to be functionalized. The counter-support face 34 may comprise a projecting edge 35 extending around the upper opening 33a of the evacuation tube 32 to facilitate the cutting of a pellet of material at the time of integration of the component 6 in the part to be equipped. It will be noted that in the case of rivets integrated into the part 5, the die 31 may comprise an imprint 310, [Fig. 11], making it possible to constrain the material at the time of insertion of the rivet. In this case, the die 31 may not comprise an evacuation tube 32, or this tube may be obstructed by the imprint 310, because there is no cutting of scrap.

[0157] The pin passage 36 may be a bore extending along the Z axis and making it possible to connect the displacement means to the stripper 37. For this purpose, the passage may be crossed by a pin 39, [Fig.2C], capable of translating along the Z axis relative to the die 31.

[0158] The means for fixing the die 31 may include screws inserted into bores and are therefore configured to allow removable fixing of the die 31 to the counter-support arm 30. Thus, the die 31 may be replaced by a die 31 having different characteristics, for example a longer or shorter die 31 depending on requirements.

[0159] The discharge conduit 38 for the cutouts extends inside the counter-support arm 30, from the lower end of the discharge tube 32 of the die 31 to the collection device. The discharge conduit 38 allows the cutouts to be quickly discharged so that they do not obstruct the opening 90 of the clamp 1.

[0160] The stripper 37 may be in the form of a cylindrical sleeve arranged around the die 31 and movable in translation along the Z axis relative to the die 31 between a withdrawal position, [Fig. 9A], and an ejection position, Figures 9A and 10. In the withdrawal position, the stripper 37 may not protrude from the upper end of the die 31, and therefore allows the part 5 to be functionalized to rest against the counter-support face 34 of the die 31. In the ejection position, the stripper 37 protrudes from the upper end of the die 31 to allow the functionalized part to be “detached” from the counter-support face 34 of the die 31. The stripper 37 is guided by shape complementarity by the die 31.The movement of the stripper 37 from the withdrawal position to the ejection position is caused by the means for moving the stripper 37 which may comprise, for example, a spring or actuator 371 of the pneumatic or electric cylinder type cooperating with a lever 372 and a pin 39, [Fig.2C], in order to transmit to the stripper 37 the force of the spring or of the actuator. The stripper 37 is thus configured to prevent the part from adhering to the die 31 after the integration of the component 6 by the punch. The stripper 37 may comprise a bearing edge, of annular shape, delimiting a surface extending es. essentially in the XY plane, located at an upper end of the stripper 37 to push the functionalized part upwards.

[0161] The opening 90 of the clamp 1 is delimited by the frame 10, a lower edge 91b of the blank holder arm 40, and an upper edge 91a of the counter-support arm 30. The lower edge 91b of the blank holder arm 40 and the upper edge 91a of the counter-support arm 30 may extend orthogonally to the frame 10, along the X axis, so that the opening 90 of the clamp 1 may be a U-shaped opening. With reference to [Fig.lC], the opening 90 of the clamp 1 is defined by a depth P, which corresponds to the distance along the X axis between the frame 10 and the blank holder 41 or the die 31. As a non-limiting example, the depth may be between [100-1500] mm. The opening is also defined by a height H, which corresponds to the distance along the Z axis between the upper edge of the counter-support arm 30 and the lower edge of the side clamp arm 40. The height H can vary between [40-600] mm.The entry height h is defined as the distance along the Z axis separating the clamping face 42 of the blank holder from the counter-support face 34 of the die 31.. .

[0162] It will be noted that the clamp 1 may also include a control unit configured to perform one or more of the following functions: checking the presence and height of the component 6 at the end of the closing of the clamp 1, i.e. when the component 6 is in the terminal zone, because the distance between the bearing face 52 of the punch 51 and that of the blank holder corresponds to the height of the component 6; checking the thickness of the part when it is clamped between the blank holder 41 and the die 31, this thickness being able to be measured using the known distance between the punch 51 and the die 31 from which is subtracted the known distance between the bearing face 52 of the punch 51 and the clamping face 42 of the blank holder; checking the compatibility of the component 6 with the thickness of the part 5 to be functionalized by comparing the two values ​​checked above;measure the forces and strokes made by the different elements of the clamp 1 throughout the closing cycle of the clamp 1 and penetration of the component 6 into the part, or even beyond, to guarantee the operation until stripping; at the end of the crimping cycle and before stripping, calculate the distance between the bearing face 52 of the punch 51 and that of the blank holder to measure the misalignment or flushness (depending on the objective) of the head of the component 6 with respect to the upper surface of the part. All these measurements can also be corrected by calculation integrating the effects of bending and other deformation of the clamp 1 and in particular of the insertion and blank holder arms 50 under and according to the applied load. ;

[0163] It is clear from the above description that the clamp 1 according to the invention offers significantly improved accessibility compared to clamps of the state of the art.

[0164] The invention also relates to a method for functionalizing a part which can be carried out using the clamp 1 described above. The method allows to integrate a component, for example a rivet or an insert to be welded by electric resistance welding, into a part 5 to be functionalized. The electric resistance welding step is not carried out using the clamp 1 according to the invention, but can be carried out if necessary on another station.

[0165] Initially, the clamp 1 may be in the state illustrated in [Fig.lA]-lB. The blank holder arm 40 is in the standard open position and the insertion arm 50 is in its open position. The blank holder 41, the punch 51 and the die 31 have been selected and fixed manually by an operator or via equipment making it possible to automate these operations to avoid the intervention of the operator, depending on the characteristics of the component 6 to be integrated and the characteristics of the part 5 to be functionalized.

[0166] A part 5 to be functionalized can be inserted into the opening of the clamp 1. This part can be brought either manually by an operator or automatically by a handling robot.

[0167] The components arrive via the supply channel 81 and enter the preparation zone 822a of the supply device. The number of components is predefined. The components are brought into the preparation zone 822a until it contains the predefined maximum number of components, for example five. It will be noted that the components may have different characteristics, but all are shaped to be able to circulate in the guide conduit 82 of the supply device as well as in the guide tube 43 of the blank holder.

[0168] The blowing can be started to push the components against each other and against the distal stop 87a which stops them. The continuous thrust of the blow makes it possible to guarantee the position of the batch of components and to correct the rebound phenomena between the components themselves. The rebound phenomena can be, in an alternative design, controlled by the addition of one or more other overlapping stops or for example by braking elements.

[0169] After the blowing stops, the preparation pusher 84 is activated, i.e. moved from the neutral position to the active position by the corresponding actuator. The preparation pusher 84 engages against the distal cam 86a, which causes it to flex perpendicular to its translation axis, so that the preparation pusher 84 engages in the preparation zone 822a and comes to bear against the last component 6 of the batch of components located in the preparation zone 822a. The force generated by the actuator is such that the preparation pusher 84 overcomes the resistance formed by the distal stop 87a. The distal stop 87a retracts to allow the components to pass into the dead zone 822b and then into the pre-arming zone 822c until the first component 6 of the batch comes to bear against the pre-arming stop 45.

[0170] The preparation pusher 84 then retracts to return to the neutral position. Upon retracting, the proximal and distal stops return to their locking position. The components are therefore blocked in the pre-arming zone 822c by the proximal stop 87b, while the distal stop 87a can again block the arrival of a new batch of components, also made possible by the withdrawal of the preparation pusher 84 from the guide conduit 82.

[0171] The arming pusher 85 is then activated, i.e. moved by its actuator to its active position. In doing so, the arming pusher 85 abuts against the proximal cam 86b, which causes its end to flex perpendicular to its translation axis, so that the end of the arming pusher 85 engages in the guide duct 82 between the distal stop 87a and the proximal stop 87b, i.e. in the dead zone 822b. The dead zone 822b in fact guarantees the absence of components between the proximal stop 87b and the distal stop 87a, therefore between the upstream preparation zone 822a and the downstream pre-arming zone 822c. The arming pusher 85 comes into contact with the batch of components located in the pre-arming zone 822c and then pushes this batch until the first component 6 of the batch enters the arming zone 822d, after having crossed the pre-arming stop 45 which has retracted under the effect of the thrust of the arming pusher 85.The first component 6 of the batch is stopped against a loading stop of the hold-down arm 40. This loading stop, which is a fixed mechanical stop, is arranged so that the component 6 is thus placed directly above the guide tube 43 of the hold-down. The detection unit 44 then detects the presence of a component 6 in the loading zone 822d. The pre-loading stop 45, then located between the first and second components 6 of the batch, ensures the pressing of the first component 6 against the loading stop, if the pressing has not already been carried out by the pressure exerted by the loading pusher 85. In addition, the first component 6 located in the loading zone 822d is held in position along the Z axis by the anti-fall stop 46 of the hold-down.

[0172] It will be noted that simultaneously with the action carried out by the arming pusher 85 to position a component 6 in the arming zone 822d, a new batch of components arrives via the supply channel 81 until it comes to bear against the distal stop 87a, as described previously. This makes it possible to reload the preparation zone 822a with several components within the predefined maximum limit, before the pre-arming zone 822c has had time to be completely discharged.

[0173] Once the component 6 is in place in the arming zone 822d, it is flush with the bearing face 52 of the punch. The holding means of the insertion arm 50 can be activated to press the component 6 against the bearing face 52 of the punch. As a reminder, the holding means can for example include a venturi / suction system or a magnetization system.

[0174] Once the component 6 is secured against the end of the punch, the insertion arm 50 and the holding arm 40 engage in a synchronized descent towards the counter-arm. support 30. This synchronized movement results solely from the control of the punching arm by the power actuator 21. The insertion arm 50 and the side holder arm 40 are in fact linked by the approach member. The movement member 70, acting functionally as a spring, maintains the gap between the side holder arm 40 and the insertion arm 50 as long as the side holder arm 40 does not come into contact with the part 5 to be functionalized.

[0175] This synchronized movement allows the clamp 1 to close on the part of the part to be equipped with the component. The closing can be considered effective when the thickness of the part of the part 5 to be functionalized is clamped, that is to say when its lower side is in contact with the counter-support face 34 of the die 31 and its upper side is in contact with the clamping face 42 of the blank holder. The blank holder arm 40 has then reached its closed position. A first phase of the closing cycle is completed.

[0176] The insertion arm 50 will continue its descent, but the hold-down arm 40 will remain pressed against the part. From then on, the force developed by the power actuator 21 opposes and overcomes that developed by the displacement member 70. Consequently, the rod 73 of the cylinder forming the displacement member 70 is forced to retract (the displacement member 70 acts functionally like a spring which compresses), so that the gap between the insertion arm 50 and the hold-down arm 40 is reduced: the insertion arm 50 moves closer to the hold-down arm 40.

[0177] This approach causes the clamping member 60, carried by the insertion arm 50, to come into contact with the clamping stop 402, carried by the blank holder arm 40. From the moment this support is created, the force of the clamping member 60 is transmitted to the blank holder arm 40, which causes a progressive clamping of the part, by the blank holder 41, against the die 31 of the counter-support arm 30. Thus, the part will be firmly held in position when the integration of the component takes place.

[0178] The force developed by the power actuator 21 also overcomes that developed by the clamping member 60. Thus, the rod 63 of the cylinder forming the clamping member 60 is forced to retract (increasing the clamping). The clamping member 60, like the displacement member 70, can therefore be configured to also behave like a spring with calibrated force. The insertion arm 50 continues its descent towards the side clamp arm 40, until they are superimposed or nested, [Fig.2A].

[0179] This phase of bringing the insertion and hold-down arms 50 together until they interlock causes an increase in the clamping force, advantageously at the very end of the closing stroke. The majority of the closing stroke was carried out with a lower force corresponding to the calibration of the displacement member 70 since only the latter initially opposed the power actuator 21 from the moment when the hold-down 41 came into contact with the part. It was only at the end of the bringing together of the arms that the clamping member 60, coming to bear against the side clamp arm 40, opposed the power actuator 21. This sequencing makes it possible to limit the energy consumption during the closing cycle, given that the force generated by the displacement member 70 does not need to be large, and is in any case less than that which must be generated by the clamping member 60 whose function is to provide the majority of the clamping force necessary to hold in place the part 5 to be functionalized. The total clamping force making it possible to clamp the part and hold it firmly in place at the end of the closing cycle corresponds to the force of the displacement member 70 to which is added that of the clamping member 60.

[0180] It should be noted that the clamping force can be calibrated according to the conditions of use, the characteristics of the material of the part to be equipped and more broadly according to the objectives associated with the operation of functionalizing the part. In other words, the clamping member 60 and / or the displacement member 70 can advantageously be configured to generate a predetermined force.

[0181] The approach of the insertion arm 50 towards the hold-down arm 40 simultaneously has the effect of lowering the punch 51 into the guide tube 43 of the hold-down. The force exerted by the punch 51 overcomes the anti-drop stop 46, and the component, which is held against the bearing face 52 of the punch 51 by the holding means, leaves the arming zone 822d to descend into the guide tube 43 of the hold-down, as far as the terminal zone of the hold-down. This terminal zone is located at the lower end of the guide tube 43. The height of the terminal zone, defined between the clamping face 42 of the hold-down and the bearing face 52 of the punch, advantageously corresponds to the height of the component. It will be noted that the descent of the component 6 into the hold-down clamp 41 is carried out without the jacks forming the clamping member 60 and the displacement member 70 reaching their end of travel.The fact that the installation of the component 6 in the terminal zone of the blank holder takes place simultaneously with the bringing together of the two insertion and blank holder arms 50 (and therefore with the clamping of the part) makes it possible to benefit from a high rate and therefore offers a gain in terms of productivity.

[0182] [Fig.2A], the closing cycle is completed. The part is stabilized, firmly held in place between the blank holder 41 and the die 31, before engaging the force allowing the crimping of the component 6 in the part. The component 6 is positioned in the terminal zone of the blank holder, just above the part 5 to be functionalized.

[0183] The power actuator 21 continues to move the insertion arm 50 towards the counter-support arm 30. This has the effect of bringing the component 6 into contact with the upper surface of the part to be equipped. At this stage, the holding means for holding the component 6 against the support face 52 of the punch 51 can be deactivated or maintained according to the operator's choices and the conditions of use.

[0184] The pressure of the punch 51 on the component, which is pinched between the bearing face 52 of the punch 51 and the upper surface of the part to be equipped, causes the component 6 to be crimped by making it penetrate into the thickness of the part to be equipped.

[0185] This descent continues until the end of the crimping cycle which may correspond, depending on the configurations and settings chosen, to the reaching of a force threshold set so that the head of the component 6 touches the upper surface of the part and possibly to cause additional shaping of the component 6 and / or the upper surface of the part, or to the reaching of a stroke set for the punch, and / or to the reaching of a stroke delta between the bearing face 52 of the punch 51 and that of the blank holder.

[0186] Simultaneously, the penetration of the component 6 into the part causes, with the help of the geometry of the die 31, the cutting of a scrap of material. This scrap is progressively cut and pushed by the component 6 during its descent into the part. At the end of the functionalization cycle, the scrap of material detaches from the part and is evacuated into the evacuation tube 32 of the die 31, then the evacuation conduit 38 to the collection device. The descent of the pellets or scrap is either natural (by gravity), by suction or caused by the thrust of a pellet of material created during a following cycle. Once the component 6 is integrated into the part, the clamp 1 can be opened.

[0187] Before or after opening the clamp 1 (preferably before), it is possible to trigger the stripper 37. The stripper 37 makes it possible to detach the functionalized part from the die 31, given that the clamping of the part against the die 31 can generate a more or less significant mechanical cohesion depending on the configurations, the die 31 sometimes being able to fit more or less into the part by deforming it. The stripper 37 also makes it possible, in other cases where the cutting of the material pellet is incomplete, to separate the pellet from the rest of the part and therefore to release the part. Moving the stripper 37 to the ejection position before opening the clamp 1 makes it possible to avoid creating a shock on the part. Only when the clamp 1 is opened can the stripper 37 move beyond the die 31 to the ejection position.Nevertheless, the force exerted by the stripper 37 on the part before opening the clamp 1 will have allowed the part to be gently detached.

[0188] Once the opening cycle has been initiated, the clamping member 60 and the displacement member 70 maintain their pressure on the functionalized part. The blank holder arm therefore initially remains pressed against the functionalized part, while the insertion arm 50 moves up until it reaches an open position with respect to the blank holder arm 40. At this stage, there is therefore still no opening of the clamp 1, but the re-arming of a new component 6 can already be carried out. Indeed, the rise of the punch 51 in the blank holder 41 allows the arming zone 822d of the blank holder to be freed again. A new component 6 can therefore be pushed into the arming zone 822d by the arming pusher 85 even though the clamp 1 is not yet open. This improves the rate and therefore offers a gain in terms of productivity.

[0189] During the previous movement of the insertion arm 50 with respect to the side clamp arm 40, the clamping member 60 disengages from the side clamp arm 40; only the displacement member 70 maintains its support.

[0190] The opening cycle of the clamp begins when the rod 73 of the cylinder forming the displacement member 70 deploys to its maximum deployment position (maximum opening stop), and the side-holder arm 40 is then pulled, via the displacement member 70, by the insertion arm 50. The side-holder arm 40 is thus moved to its standard open position and the insertion arm 50 reaches its initial open position. The opening cycle ends. As a component 6 is already present in the arming zone 822d, the clamp 1 can continue with a new closing cycle then integration of component 6 at another location on the part or in a new part.

[0191] It will be noted that in parallel with the closing / opening cycle of the clamp 1, when the last component 6 of the batch located in the pre-arming zone 822c is engaged in the arming zone 822d, the arming pusher 85 retracts to return to its neutral position, thus clearing the pre-arming zone 822c.

[0192] Concomitantly, there is a renewal of the blowing in the guide duct 82 to guarantee the location of a new batch of components in the preparation zone 822a and also to correct the positioning defects of the components. The positioning defects may be due to rebounds during the intensive supply blowing and could disturb the descent of the preparation pusher 84 when the latter, after leaving the neutral position, engages in the preparation zone 822a to push the components. Once the preparation pusher 84 is engaged in the preparation zone 822a, the blowing stops. The preparation pusher 84 pushes the components, causing the distal stop 87a and the proximal stop 87b to retract, until its end of travel, allowing the batch of components to reach the pre-arming zone 822c.These steps, which allow the pre-arming zone 822c to be re-supplied, can be carried out during the closing / opening cycle of gripper 1 and the integration of the last component 6 of the previous batch into the part. Thus, the supply of components to gripper 1 operates in masked time. The rate and productivity are improved.

[0193] In the standard operating mode described above, it should be noted that the closing of the clamp 1, the functionalization of the part, and the opening of the clamp 1, are entirely, and solely, controlled by the power actuator 21. Thus, the sequencing of the steps of the process is only due to the position of the rod 23 of the power actuator 21.

[0194] The method may include an alternative operating mode, here called maximum opening operating mode, allowing maximum accessibility to be provided if necessary.

[0195] In the maximum opening operating mode, starting from an initial state as shown in [Fig. 3] where the hold-down arm 40 is in the standard open position and the insertion arm 50 is in the open position, a first step comprises the engagement of a component 6 in the arming zone 822d. Then, the displacement member 70 is controlled so that its rod 73 retracts, causing the hold-down arm 40 to move upwards. In other words, the hold-down arm 40 approaches the insertion arm 50. The insertion arm 50 can remain stationary. The movement of the blank holder arm 40 in the direction of the insertion arm 50 causes the punch 51 to be pushed into the blank holder 41, so that the component, held against the bearing face 52 of the punch 51 by the punch holding means, moves in the blank holder 41 from the arming zone 822d to the terminal zone.During this approach, the clamping member 60 is activated to block the nesting of the blank holder arm 40 in the insertion arm 50 so that the component 6 is in the end zone of the blank holder. The clamp 1 is ready to carry out the integration of the component 6 in the part as described previously in connection with the standard operating mode. It is understood, however, that the opening of the clamp 1, unlike the standard operating mode, is here maximum, since it is the blank holder arm 40 which is raised towards the insertion arm 50, and not the insertion arm 50 which is lowered towards the blank holder arm 40.

[0196] The movement of the blank holder arm 40 towards the insertion arm 50, by means of the movement member 70, also makes it possible to carry out, if necessary, a draining step, intended to expel a component 6 which would already be present in the arming zone 822d or elsewhere in the blank holder 4L. Indeed, the movement of the blank holder arm 40 towards the insertion arm 50 causes the insertion of the punch 51 into the blank holder 4L. The punch 51 can thus be inserted until it is flush with or exceeds the lower end of the blank holder when the clamping member 60 is deactivated so as not to block the nesting of the blank holder arm 40 in the insertion arm 50.If the means for holding the punch 51 were activated, it is sufficient to deactivate them so that the component 6 which was in the arming zone 822d or the side clamp 4L is evacuated. The emptying cycle makes it possible, for example, to manage hazards in a series production cycle and thus to guarantee the reset and the state. of clamp 1.

[0197] In the maximum opening operating mode, it is understood that the control of the clamp 1 is not carried out solely by means of the power actuator 21, unlike the standard operating mode, given that the displacement member 70 is here controlled to move the side clamp arm 40.

[0198] Of course, the invention is in no way limited to the embodiment described above, this embodiment having been given only as an example. Modifications are possible, in particular from the point of view of the constitution of the various devices or by the substitution of technical equivalents, without departing from the scope of protection of the invention.

[0199] Thus, the counter-support arm 30 can be movable relative to the frame 10 along the Z axis, and be moved by an actuator.

[0200] Thus, the counter-support arm 30 can be located at the top while the insertion arm 50 is at the bottom.

Claims

Claims

1. Clamp (1) intended for the integration of a component (6) in a part (5) to be functionalized, the clamp (1) comprising: a frame (10), a blank holder arm (40) comprising a blank holder (41), an insertion arm (50) comprising a punch (51) intended to cooperate with a die (31) to integrate the component (6) in the part (5) to be functionalized, a counter-support arm (30) comprising the die (31), the insertion arm (50) and the blank holder arm (40) being movable relative to each other between an open position in which the punch (51) is arranged relative to the blank holder (41) to allow the component (6) to be armed in the blank holder (41) and a closed position in which the punch (51) is arranged relative to the blank holder (41) to allow the component (6) to be expelled component (6) outside the hold-down clamp (41) in order to integrate the component (6) into the part (5) to be functionalized,the insertion arm (50) and the counter-support arm (30) being movable relative to each other between an open position, in which the insertion arm and the counter-support arm (30) are spaced apart from each other to allow the clamp (1) to receive, between the blank holder (41) and the die (31), the part (5) to be functionalized, and a closed position in which the punch (51) and the die (31) are brought closer to each other to integrate the component (6) into the part (5) to be functionalized, drive means configured to move, relative to each other, the insertion arm (50) and the counter-support arm (30) into the open or closed position.,

2. Clamp (1) according to claim 1, wherein the drive means are supported by the frame (10) or any one of the arms, among the counter-support arm (30), the side-clamp arm (40) and the insertion arm (50), which is fixed relative to the frame (10).

3. Clamp (1) according to claim 1 or 2, in which the drive means on the one hand, and the side clamp arm (40), the insertion arm (50) and the counter-support arm (30) on the other hand are arranged on either side of a proximal face (11) of the frame (10).

4. Clamp (1) according to one of claims 1 to 3, in which the insertion arm (50) is movable relative to the frame (10) and the means drive are configured to move the insertion arm (50) relative to the frame (10).

5. Clamp (1) according to one of claims 1 to 4, in which the insertion arm (50), or the side clamp arm (40), comprises a cavity (54) configured to receive the side clamp arm (40), or respectively the insertion arm (50), in the closed position.

6. Clamp (1) according to one of claims 1 to 5, in which the side clamp arm (40) is arranged between the insertion arm (50) and the counter-support arm (30).

7. Clamp (1) according to one of claims 1 to 6, in which the side clamp arm (40) is movable relative to the frame (10).

8. Clamp (1) according to one of claims 1 to 7, in which the clamp (1) comprises a displacement member (70) configured to control the displacement of the side clamp arm (40) relative to the insertion arm (50) or, where appropriate, to the counter-support arm (30).

9. Clamp (1) according to claim 8, in which the displacement member (70) connects the side clamp arm (40) to the one, among the insertion arm (50) and the counter-support arm (30), which is displaced relative to the frame (10) by the drive means.

10. Clamp (1) according to claim 8 or 9, wherein the clamp (1) comprises a clamping member (60) configured to push the blank holder (41) towards the die (31).

11. Clamp (1) according to one of claims 1 to 10, in which the arm (40) of the blank holder comprises a device (80) for supplying one or more components (6) configured to supply a component (6) to the end of the punch (51).

12. Clamp (1) according to claim 11, in which the supply device (80) comprises a retractable distal stop (87a) and a retractable proximal stop (87b), a preparation zone (822a) configured to store one or more components upstream of the distal stop (87a), a dead zone (822b) devoid of component (6) and located between the distal stop (87a) and the proximal stop (87b), and a pre-arming zone (822c) configured to store one or more components between the proximal stop (87b) and the side clamp (41).

13. The clamp (1) of claim 12, wherein the feed device (80) comprises a preparation pusher (84) configured to engage in the preparation area (822a) to push the component(s) located in the preparation area (822a) to the area (822c) pre-arming, and an arming pusher (85) configured to engage the dead zone (822b) to push the component(s) located in the pre-arming zone (822c) to an arming zone (822d).

14. Clamp (1) according to one of claims 1 to 13, in which the die (31) comprises a stripper (37) configured to release the part (5) from the die (31) after integration of the component (6).

15. Method for integrating a component (6) into a part (5) to be functionalized, the method comprising the steps of: placing the part (5) to be functionalized between a side clamp (41) and a die (31) of a clamp (1) according to one of claims 1 to 14; placing a component (6) in an arming zone (822d) located between a bearing face of the punch (51) and an outlet opening (411b) of the blank holder (41); pressing the matrix (31) against one side of the part (5) to be functionalized, resting the side clamp (41) against an opposite side of the part (5) to be functionalized, moving the punch (51) towards the die (31) to push the component (6) inside the part (5) to be functionalized, separating the blank holder (41) and the die (31) to release the functionalized part (5).

Images