Method and device for manufacturing a plurality of constitution members comprising at least one electrical feedthrough and information storage body, constitution member, and post processing method and post processing device for relevant constitution members

Abstract

To provide a constitution member mapped to information required for quality determination and traceability.SOLUTION: In a method for manufacturing a plurality of constitution members comprising at least one electrical feedthrough, a function member is secured within a feedthrough opening of a substrate using an electrically insulating material. Information mapped to each of the constitution members is detected, each of the constitution members or one of primary products of each of the constitution members is provided with an information storage body, the information is stored in the information storage body, and / or an identifier is stored in the information storage body, and information mapped to this identifier is stored in a database. Further modes of the present invention relate to relevant constitution members, an assembly of the relevant constitution members, a manufacturing device for the relevant constitution members, a post processing method and a post processing device for the relevant constitution members, and a method for using the relevant constitution members in an ignition unit for an airbag or an igniter for a belt tensioner.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 5

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a method for manufacturing a plurality of components having at least one electrical feed-through, in which case a functional component is fixed in a feed-through opening of a substrate using an electrically insulating material, and information mapped to each of the components is detected at that time. Further aspects of the present invention relate to such components, an assembly of a plurality of such components, a manufacturing apparatus for such components, a subsequent processing method and a subsequent processing apparatus for such components, and a method of using these components in an ignition unit for an airbag or an igniter for a belt tensioner.

[0002] Although the present invention can generally be applied to any component, the present invention will be described in relation to a component in the form of a feed-through member of an igniter for an airbag and / or a belt tensioner in an occupant restraint system.

Background Art

[0003] Occupant restraint systems are used in a variety of ways in land, water or underwater, space or air vehicles, particularly automobiles. For example, they are used in the form of belt tensioners that apply a tensile force to the seat belt of an individual occupant of an automobile to increase the restraining force on the occupant. In this case, for example, a piston driven by gas pressure generated by a gas generator is used to apply a tensile force to the seat belt.

[0004] A further occupant restraint system is an airbag system, in which case, when a vehicle collision occurs, at least one airbag inflated in the shortest time is used to protect the vehicle occupants during a side collision or a frontal collision. An occupant restraint system configured as an airbag system attempts to prevent the vehicle occupants from hitting the hard structures of the vehicle by means of the airbag.

[0005] This type of airbag system often includes an ignition unit and solid fuel. When the solid fuel is ignited, a hot gas is generated, which flows through a filter into the airbag and expands the folded airbag. In addition, there are other known airbag systems, namely, those that use an ignition unit to detonate a propellant charge, rupturing the diaphragm between a gas reservoir under pressure and the folded airbag to be expanded, thereby causing the folded airbag to expand.

[0006] The ignition unit includes a feedthrough member with a substrate for an ignition capsule, as known from, for example, European Patent Application Publication No. 1455160, the member comprising a circular disc made of a weldable material, having an upper and lower surface and at least one feedthrough opening for glass insulation, wherein the at least one feedthrough opening is formed as an elongated hole on the upper surface and terminates circularly on the lower surface. Within the feedthrough opening, electrically insulated contact pins are held in an electrically insulating fixing material. The fixing material is usually a glass or glass-ceramic material in which the contact pins are molten. Plastic fixing materials have also been similarly described.

[0007] Electrical feedthroughs, which consist of a feedthrough opening, a glass insulator, and contact pins, are subject to high demands, especially when used in ignition units. It must be ensured that the contact pins are not pushed out of the feedthrough opening when the ignition unit is ignited. Furthermore, it is essential to prevent moisture from entering the ignition unit from the surrounding environment through the electrical feedthrough, and therefore the electrical feedthrough is preferably implemented to be hermetically sealed.

[0008] These types of feedthroughs for ignition units are manufactured in batches of, for example, 100 or more each, within pre-fabricated component supports at many production steps. In this case, a single batch of corresponding feedthroughs for ignition units could contain tens of thousands, for example, 80,000. Before the manufactured feedthroughs are shipped to the ignition unit manufacturer, they undergo sampling inspections or 100% shipping control for quality assurance purposes. The ignition unit manufacturer itself also implements strict incoming control of the received feedthroughs to ensure that they conform to the individual design specifications agreed upon with the ignition unit manufacturer. This requires considerable effort on the part of the ignition unit manufacturer.

[0009] To reduce this effort, incoming control is also known to be carried out solely by sampling inspection. However, since there are already numerous feedthroughs within a single batch, this significantly reduces the accuracy of inspecting whether the ignition unit feedthroughs meet the specified design specifications. Moreover, there is a risk that the identification of just one feedthrough as defective may lead to the entire batch being sorted out as defective. However, when individual batch numbers are notified to the ignition unit manufacturer, the manufacturer can, if possible, only to a very limited extent to identify, on the one hand, that a defective production of tested ignition units occurred, and on the other hand, only to determine whether further ignition units in that batch are defective, and in some cases to what extent. Furthermore, the subsequent processing of ignition units is severely hindered. This is because if even one defective ignition unit in a batch is identified, the entire batch must then be tested or inspected, or a new batch must be used. The inspection results can also be used by manufacturers to sort or check batches. [Overview of the project] [Problems that the invention aims to solve]

[0010] Therefore, the object of the present invention is to provide a component that is mapped to information necessary for quality determination and traceability.

[0011] Similarly, an object of the present invention is to provide a method and apparatus that allows the manufacturing parameters of a component to be traced during the manufacturing of that component.

[0012] A further object of the present invention is to provide a method and apparatus that makes available information mapped to one component when subsequent processing of components so that a unit including at least one such component is formed. In particular, this information is used for the purpose of controlling the subsequent processing of the components for unit formation while utilizing the information mapped to the component.

[0013] Accordingly, the present invention relates particularly to an entire manufacturing chain from the input of materials to the manufacture of components, and to subsequent processing of components to form units, each containing at least one such component. In this context, the present invention also relates to a manufacturing method with shipment control of components as intermediate products and a subsequent processing method with arrival control at a subsequent processing facility, the subsequent processing facility subsequently processes the components so that units forming the final product are formed in accordance with the meaning of this specification. [Means for solving the problem]

[0014] A method for manufacturing multiple components is proposed here. The components have at least one electrical feedthrough, in which case the functional component is fixed within the feedthrough opening of the substrate by an electrically insulating material. This method is configured to map and detect information about a given component to each component. Preferably, this information is selected from one or more groups consisting of information about the starting materials used, information about the manufacturing steps performed, information about the tools and equipment used, information about measurements, and a unique identifier.

[0015] Preferably, at least one of this information is specific to a particular component, and in particular specific to each of the individual components.

[0016] Furthermore, the method is configured as follows: In one of the manufacturing steps of this method, an information memory is provided in each of the components or in one of the primary products of each component, in which case the information mapped to the component is stored in the information memory. Alternatively or additionally, a unique identifier or ID is stored in the information memory, and further information mapped to the component is mapped to this identifier and stored in a database. The information memory can be implemented, for example, as an optically readable mark, in particular as a barcode, or as a matrix code that encodes an identifier or ID. However, other embodiments are also possible, such as an electronic storage device like an RFID chip or flash memory.

[0017] The database is preferably implemented by a computer device, which can be, for example, a server, particularly a cloud server, capable of communicating with other computer devices via a data network. The data network can be, for example, a local network that networks multiple devices within a single production plant. Preferably, the data network is the internet, so that the information stored in the database can be retrieved at any time from any location.

[0018] In particular, the components obtained by the proposed method are preferably formed and / or configured to be housed as components within a single unit in a subsequent processing step, in which case the components provide at least one electrical feedthrough within this unit.

[0019] For this purpose, the components may include, for example, a base having a feedthrough opening for each electrical feedthrough. The base is preferably made of metal, in which case the feedthrough openings can be made by, for example, punching, milling, or drilling.

[0020] Functional components are arranged within the feedthrough opening, and these functional components can be implemented, for example, as connecting pins, particularly metal pins. The functional components are secured within the feedthrough opening by an electrically insulating material. The electrically insulating material is preferably glass, glass ceramic, or ceramic. However, the use of other electrically insulating materials, such as plastic or a mixture of multiple insulating materials, such as a mixture of glass and plastic, is also possible.

[0021] The feedthrough opening is closed and sealed by surrounding and securing the functional components within the feedthrough opening with an electrically insulating material. In particular, to prevent moisture from entering through the electrical feedthrough, this seal is preferably hermetically sealed. Here, hermetically sealed means 1.10 -5 It has a helium leakage rate of less than mbar·l / sec, preferably 1-10 -10 mbar·l / sec~1·10 -6 This is understood to mean an electrical feedthrough having a helium leakage rate within the range of mbar·l / second. Preferably, the helium leakage rate is measured according to DIN EN60068-2-17 or MIL-STD-883-method 1014.9 condition A4.

[0022] Preferably, according to this method, in at least one manufacturing step, each component or each primary product of each component is uniquely identified by its position within the component support. In this case, the component support is preferably mapped with a component support identification unit that uniquely identifies it. This component support identifier is stored, for example, in an information memory placed in the component. Therefore, it is preferable that in the manufacturing step of this method, the component or its primary product is identified by reading the information memory of the component support and its position within the component support. The information memory of the component support can be implemented, for example, as an RFID chip or as an optically readable mark, and in particular as a barcode or as a matrix code encoding the component support identifier.

[0023] For example, the component support can be a molding tool that accommodates multiple components or their primary products, for the purpose of sintering a glass blank or performing glass sealing in a furnace after attaching metal pins. The component support can also be any type of holding part used to handle components or their primary products in a manufacturing method.

[0024] Preferably, each component or each primary product of each component is uniquely identified in at least one manufacturing step of this method by reading from the component's information storage.

[0025] One embodiment of this method can include, for example as one step, the step of preparing a starting material for the substrate. In the next step, the substrate is formed, for example, using punching, stamping, milling, drilling, etc., and at least one feed-through opening is formed in the substrate at that time. In this case in particular, after separation of the substrate from the starting material, for example after punching from a metal sheet or separation from a rod material, each substrate is configured to be traced individually. At this point, no information storage is yet coupled to the substrate, so, for example, after the substrate is separated from the starting material, it is stored in a predetermined position of the component support, and tracing regarding the position of each individual substrate is carried out in the processing-side apparatus. Therefore, data such as, for example, the starting material used for each, the tools used for forming the substrate, and / or the manufacturing time can be mapped as information to this specific substrate, which is the starting product for the subsequent components. However, instead of tracing each individual substrate's unique trace, at this point in this method, it is also possible to carry out a trace of a batch consisting of a plurality of substrates, in which case the same information is mapped to the entire batch consisting of a plurality of substrates.

[0026] This method similarly includes the step of preparing an electrical insulating material. The electrical insulating material can be prepared, for example, in the form of a powder, and this powder is formed, for example, by sintering, into a blank for fitting into the feed-through opening of the substrate. Again, this blank can be traced by tracing its position individually in the processing-side apparatus after forming, for example, by tracing the position of this blank in the support. Therefore, data such as, for example, the starting material used for each, the tools used for forming the blank, and / or the manufacturing time can be mapped as information to each individual blank, which is the starting product for the subsequent components. However, instead of tracing each individual blank's unique trace, at this point in this method, it is also possible to carry out a trace of a batch consisting of a plurality of blanks, in which case the same information is mapped to the entire batch consisting of a plurality of blanks.

[0027] Furthermore, this method includes the step of providing functional members in the form of, for example, connection pins, particularly metal pins. The metal pins can be obtained by separating them from a starting material provided, for example, in the form of a wire. The metal pins can be traced, for example, by tracing the position of this metal pin in a support body, by tracing the position of this metal pin in the device on the processing side individually after separation. Therefore, data such as, for example, the starting material used for each, the tool used to obtain the metal pins and / or the time of manufacture can be mapped as information to the individual metal pins, which are starting products for subsequent components. However, instead of the individual trace of each individual metal pin, at this point in this method, it is also possible to carry out the trace of a batch consisting of a plurality of metal pins, in which case the same information is mapped to the entire batch consisting of a plurality of metal pins.

[0028] The preparation steps that can be carried out in any order, either in parallel or successively, are followed by an attachment step. In the attachment step, one metal pin and one blank are each fitted into a feed-through opening of the substrate. The attachment step is followed by a melting step, in which the blank is melted to obtain a hermetically sealed electrical feed-through.

[0029] The mounting and melting steps are performed using a component support having uniquely identifiable housings for the components to be manufactured. The component support is constructed, for example, as a graphite molded body, in which case each housing is formed as a recess in a graphite or carbon molded body. In the mounting step, for example, a graphite molded body is prepared as a uniquely identifiable component support. Then, one substrate is fitted into each housing of the graphite molded body, and a blank and a metal pin are fitted into each feedthrough opening of the substrate. At this time, information mapped to the primary product of the component used is mapped to each uniquely identifiable housing of the graphite molded body, and therefore, for example, the material, tools used, and manufacturing date can be traced in relation to each housing of the graphite molded body for the substrate, blank and metal pin.

[0030] The graphite molded body thus equipped is then taken into a furnace to carry out a melting step, where it remains at a predetermined temperature for a predetermined time to obtain a completed electrical feedthrough. The parameters for carrying out the melting step are again mapped to the graphite molded body that serves as the component support, and by extension, to all the components housed within this component support.

[0031] The melting step is preferably followed by a control step in which all the finished components or at least one sample of the finished components are measured. The results of this measurement are preferably mapped to these components as further information.

[0032] This manufacturing method may include further manufacturing steps. For example, in the coating step, the surface of a predetermined primary product, such as a substrate and connecting pins, may be coated. For this purpose, a pretreatment step may be provided, which may include cleaning and / or coloring the surface to be coated.

[0033] According to the proposed method, the information memory is placed on the component or the primary product of the component before the component is shipped. This arrangement of the information memory can be performed at various points in the manufacturing process. The information memory to be placed on the substrate can be placed there at any time after the substrate has been prepared. Similarly, the information memory to be placed on the metal pins can be placed there at any time after the metal pins have been prepared.

[0034] After the information storage is placed, the information storage can be read for the purpose of uniquely identifying a component or the primary product of a component. Preferably for this purpose, the information storage is configured to contain a unique identifier as information.

[0035] During each manufacturing step of the method, information obtained by mapping to a component or its primary product is preferably stored in a database and linked to the individual component via an identifier stored in the information storage. In particular, this information mapped to the component can be configured to be continuously supplemented, for example, after each step of the manufacturing method or after a selected step. These steps may include processing steps and inspection steps.

[0036] Preferably, this manufacturing method allows for a final control to be performed on a sample of the components or on each of the components, in which at least one characteristic of the components is measured, and the results of this final control are mapped to the components as information. Such a final control is particularly advantageous in the production of safety-related components, such as feedthroughs for ignition units for airbags and / or belt tensioners.

[0037] The characteristics of the components can be defined as geometric properties, such as the dimensions of the components. Furthermore, characteristics such as the insulation resistance between the functional component and the substrate, and the sealing performance of the electrical feedthrough can be inspected in the final control stage. It is also conceivable to inspect sampled components for the extrusion force of the electrical feedthrough.

[0038] Preferably, the results obtained in the final control are compared with predetermined target values, and preferably, components that exceed at least predetermined limit values ​​are identified. In this way, components that do not meet predetermined requirements can be identified. These identified components can be discarded, reworked if possible, or, in some cases, reclassified to a lower quality class.

[0039] If rework is performed on the components, preferably, information is also detected and mapped to the parts. This information may include data on the materials, tools, and equipment used, as well as the individual steps used during the rework. In this case, an information storage or mapped database entry can be appropriately supplemented.

[0040] The shipment of components may include a packaging step in which an entire set of components or a batch of components is housed and packaged within a support, such as an outer casing. This outer casing may be provided with an aggregate information storage, which may contain information about the outer casing itself and the individual components housed within it. For example, a batch number or a unique identifier of the housed components may be stored in the aggregate information storage. However, in this case, for example, the unique identifier of the components housed within the outer casing may be stored in a database and linked to the identifier of the outer casing, and this identifier is then stored in the aggregate information storage.

[0041] Preferably, this method includes at least one step in which information mapped to a component identified as exceeding a limit value is evaluated, common information is obtained for multiple identified components, and this common information is identical for multiple identified components, or matches except for a predetermined tolerance.

[0042] In this step, commonalities among the components with identified deviations are sought. For example, in this case, it can be determined that all components that were housed in a predetermined form, processed with a predetermined tool, processed in a predetermined furnace, or processed by a predetermined operator do not meet the requirements and are therefore above or below a predetermined limit for at least one characteristic. Identifying such commonalities is particularly helpful in identifying the cause of the non-compliance with the limit.

[0043] The information about components identified by exceeding at least a limit can be evaluated, for example, using machine learning methods or artificial intelligence. This can, for instance, identify complex correlations between specific production means or production conditions.

[0044] Preferably, this method is further configured as follows: from common information, the manufacturing steps, starting materials, tools, and / or process conditions common to these components are identified, and in accordance with this identification, measures are introduced to improve the quality of subsequent progress of the manufacturing steps of this method. Preferably, these measures are selected from tool replacement, component support replacement, measuring instrument replacement or calibration, correction of process parameters, selection of other starting materials, correlation of various manufacturing processes, and combinations of several of these measures.

[0045] For example, using this method, if it is determined that all components processed with a given tool do not comply with predetermined limits, it can be inferred that the tool is worn out. In this case, one possible course of action is to replace the tool in question.

[0046] According to the proposed method, the traceability of individual components and the mapping of specific information to these individual components can be used in an advantageous manner to continuously monitor and optimize the manufacturing methods of these components. In particular, process parameters can be optimized, for example, in the case of closed-loop control, for adjustable process parameters such as temperature and duration during the melting step.

[0047] This method offers advantages in that already important parameters of individual components can be mapped to the component or the overall set of components before manufacturing, and stored individually for each component or for the overall set or group of components based on individual identifiers. In particular, the starting materials and / or primary products of components can be traced individually and later mapped to the components into which they are incorporated. This allows for the preparation of numerous parameters related to the manufacturing, production, and subsequent processing of each component, which can then be used in a simple manner during error detection in components identified as defective. This enables faster and more efficient error detection. At the same time, production can be monitored more closely, and defective components can be identified and sorted out, in some cases, before they are even shipped to the customer or subsequent processor. In addition, production can be corrected or modified more quickly, thereby reducing defective products during component production and improving manufacturing quality. A further advantage is that data selected individually for each relevant component or group of components can already be communicated to the customer or subsequent processing company, thereby eliminating the need for the customer or subsequent processing company to control incoming shipments, either entirely or partially, saving time and costs.

[0048] A further aspect of the present invention relates to a component having at least one electrical feedthrough, in which a functional member is fixed within a feedthrough opening of a substrate by an electrically insulating material, and the component includes an information storage. The information storage is preferably fixedly incorporated into the component or inseparably coupled thereto.

[0049] This component is preferably obtained by one of the manufacturing methods described herein.

[0050] The present invention also relates to an assembly comprising such constituent members, in which case the assembly comprising a plurality of constituent members is housed in a single container, the container including an assembly information storage, and the assembly information storage includes data for identifying the constituent members included in the assembly.

[0051] In this case, the container can be formed as a component support, or the container can include a component support, in which case the component support is configured, for example, as a plate-like element having a number of recesses, each accommodating one component.

[0052] The aggregate information memory may, for example, contain an aggregate identifier, through which information about which components belong to the aggregate can be retrieved from a database. However, the corresponding information can also be stored directly in the aggregate information memory itself. Information about the components of the aggregate can also be configured as identifiers for retrieving mapped information from a database, and / or similarly, it can be stored directly in the aggregate information memory.

[0053] The aggregate information storage allows the receiving party or subsequent processor to transfer information from multiple components to a data processing system, such as a computer assigned to the production equipment, in a single step, without needing to read the individual information storage of each component itself. However, since each individual component has its own unique information storage, corresponding component-related information can be individually mapped to each individual component during the subsequent processing process.

[0054] Further aspects of the present invention relate to a method for subsequently processing components obtained via the aforementioned components, assemblies of multiple components, or methods described herein, such that each component is used to form a unit containing at least one of these components. In this case, information mapped to each individual component is obtained and mapped to each of the multiple units. Furthermore, the step of obtaining information mapped to a single component includes the step of reading an information storage for the component, or the step of reading an information storage for an assembly of one or more components in a container.

[0055] The subsequent processing method can be carried out immediately following the manufacturing method, or at any subsequent point in time. Therefore, the present invention also relates to a combined method in which components are first manufactured and then subsequently processed so that a unit is formed. The subsequent processing method can, in particular, be carried out by a subsequent processing company at a separate location, which obtains the components as primary products from a parts manufacturer.

[0056] Preferably, in this subsequent processing method, at least one parameter is adapted in at least one subsequent processing step based on information mapped to the component.

[0057] For example, in this case, by reading the information memory of each component, the geometric parameters of the component can be detected, and the process parameters they depend on can be taken into consideration when the component is subsequently processed so that a unit is formed.

[0058] Parameters included in the information mapped to the component can be newly measured in a subsequent processing method and compared with the corresponding information obtained via the information storage mapped to the component.

[0059] Preferably, this comparison is repeated for multiple components which are a sample taken from the entire set of components, or for all components in the entire set, and if a systematic deviation is identified, a correction factor is identified, and this correction factor is used to correct the mapped information for parts in the entire set that have not been newly measured.

[0060] The entire set of components can be, in particular, multiple components of a single batch or multiple components of a single assembly.

[0061] By repeatedly measuring the parameters of a single component in this manner and comparing them with corresponding information previously mapped to that component, various calibrations of the measuring device can be identified and taken into account via correction factors. Thus, after appropriate correction, the information mapped to and stored for each component can be used to control subsequent processing methods without the need to newly measure the corresponding parameters for each individual component.

[0062] Furthermore, repeatedly measuring the parameters of a single component and comparing them with corresponding information previously mapped to that component can be used by subsequent processors of the component to monitor and document the reliability of the information previously identified and stored during the manufacturing of the component for quality assurance purposes.

[0063] According to the proposed method for subsequent processing of components, such that a unit is formed in which each component contains at least one such component, the information memory of individual components and / or the information memory of a collection of components in a single container can be read, particularly for quality assurance purposes, and the measurement or inspection of predetermined parameters of the components can be supplemented or replaced as part of incoming control. If, in incoming control, components that exceed or fall below predetermined limits for at least one parameter are identified, the information mapped to each individual component can be used in an advantageous manner to identify further components that may similarly exceed the limits. This can be done, for example, by examining the information of parts that exceed or fall below the limits for commonalities. For example, if it is identified that all components manufactured using a given tool do not comply with predetermined limits, only those components need to be discarded, and the other components belonging to the same set can be used for subsequent processing. Moreover, this knowledge can be used for the purpose of optimizing the manufacture of further components.

[0064] By placing information storage devices in the components, it becomes easier to uniquely map defect images identified during subsequent processing to predetermined conditions or means used during component manufacturing. Since tracing can be used at the individual starting material and primary product stage in the component manufacturing process, it is even possible to map predetermined defect images to individual primary products and starting materials of the component. This mapping allows subsequent component processors to provide feedback to component manufacturers, for example, to optimize the manufacturing process and / or to discard or reprocess any further components that exceed the limit before shipment. This mapping is still possible even when components from different batches are mixed together, as each component is provided with its own individual information storage device.

[0065] These advantages can be realized even when the manufacturing of components and the subsequent processing of components for unit formation are spatially, temporally, and / or organizationally separated from each other. In particular, the manufacturing of components and the subsequent processing of components for unit formation can be carried out in different manufacturing plants. In this case, the component processing company may be organizationally independent from the component manufacturer. As long as the component information storage does not directly contain the mapped information but stores identifiers for retrieving information from a database, for example, the component manufacturer can provide the database, and the component processing company can access the database via a data network such as the internet. In this case, access privileges can be restricted so that the processing company is only given read access and / or is only permitted to retrieve selected information for a particular component.

[0066] Subsequent processors, similar to the manufacturing procedures for component parts, can detect information by mapping it to a unique unit during subsequent processing for unit formation, and store it by uniquely mapping it to a single unit. In this case, storage can, for example, be performed in an information storage device located in the unit, or the information storage device located in the unit may include a unique identifier that allows access to a dataset containing the mapped information stored in a database. As long as the information storage device of the component parts incorporated into the unit remains accessible after subsequent processing, this information storage device can continue to be used for this purpose, for example, to trace the entire unit. Otherwise, additional information storage devices can be placed in the unit.

[0067] Preferably, the system is configured to map and detect data and results and / or unique identifiers related to the starting materials used and / or the manufacturing steps performed and / or the tools and equipment used, particularly measurements performed after the manufacturing steps, to each of the components.

[0068] In this case, a unique identifier can be used, on the one hand, for the unique identification of individual components. On the other hand, if all information mapped to components is retrieved in a database rather than in the information storage itself, a unique identifier can be used to access the information mapped to components within the database.

[0069] Data regarding the starting materials used can be detected for individual starting materials or for all starting materials used. Examples of material data include, in particular, data relating to: • The types of materials used in each case, • Manufacturer, ·Suppliers, • Delivery date, • Batch, and • Material manufacturing parameters.

[0070] Data regarding manufacturing steps can be retrieved for individual manufacturing steps or for all manufacturing steps performed. This data may include, in particular, data on the types of manufacturing steps performed and / or data on the parameters used in those manufacturing steps. Examples of information regarding manufacturing steps performed include, in particular, data on: • The position of the component or the primary product of the component within the support. • The support or workpiece holder used, in particular the corresponding identifier, • Parameters used, • Operator or equipment manager, and • At the time of processing.

[0071] Data regarding the tools and equipment used can be retrieved for each or all tools and equipment used during manufacturing. Examples of information regarding the tools and / or equipment used in the manufacturing steps include, in particular: • Identifiers for identifying tools or equipment, e.g., furnace temperature, • Data regarding the parameters used in the tool or device, and • Data regarding the processing point.

[0072] Examples of information relating to measurement or testing include, in particular, the following: • Data regarding the type of measurement or test, • Data relating to the measurement or test or the final control point, • Measuring instrument identifier or inspection device identifier, • Data regarding inspection equipment operators, and • Measurement results or test results.

[0073] Thus, the information that can be mapped to one of the aforementioned components is selected from the following in particular: • Unambiguous identifier, • Material data, • The position of the component or the primary product of the component within the support. • Operator or equipment manager, • The point of machining in the tool and / or equipment, ·Tool identifier and / or device identifier, • Tool parameters and / or device parameters, • At the time of the test, • Inspection device identifier, • Test results, • Inspection equipment operator, • Inspection device parameters, ·Measurement results, • At the final control point, • Support used or workpiece holder used and combinations of multiple pieces of this information.

[0074] However, it is certainly possible and conceivable to map other information to the component, link it to an information storage device, and / or store it in that information storage device. In particular, all information related to the purpose of documentation or quality judgment of the component can be detected and stored in the information storage device itself, or mapped to the information storage device and stored in a database.

[0075] Preferably, information that is identical for multiple components is stored once in the database as group information, and in this case, a link to this group information is mapped to each component.

[0076] By doing this, information about the entire set of each component is stored only once, thereby reducing the amount of data that needs to be stored.

[0077] The group information referenced by the information mapped to a single component is selected from the following, namely: • Material data, • Data regarding the support used or the workpiece holder used. • Equipment manager or operator for a group of component members • Group machining time in equipment and / or tools, • Group machining equipment identifier and / or tool identifier, • Tool parameters and / or equipment parameters for group machining, and combinations of multiple group information from these group information.

[0078] The information storage of the component or the aggregate information storage of the container is preferably configured as an optically readable mark. Therefore, it is preferable to form such an information storage configured as an optical mark on the outside of the component so that it can be accessed for optical reading. Alternatively or additionally, the information storage of the component or the aggregate information storage is to be configured as an electronic storage device such as an RFID chip or flash memory.

[0079] Preferably, the optically readable mark of the component is provided by a region of the substrate of the component in which the substrate material is removed or engraved. For easy reading of the optically readable mark, the mark is preferably located on a surface of the substrate that faces outward during subsequent processing for unit formation, e.g., formation of an ignition unit for an airbag.

[0080] Alternatively, or additionally, optically readable marks can be formed on one of the functional components, particularly on the contact pins. The optical marks can be formed, for example, as a series of notches.

[0081] The optically readable mark is preferably configured to be easily read mechanically, for example, via a reading device connected to a computer or a smartphone camera. The optically readable mark can be configured, for example, as a barcode or matrix code, particularly as a data matrix code. However, it is also conceivable that the optically readable mark be implemented as an alphanumeric code, in which case this code can be read by optical character recognition. Preferably, the optically readable mark is configured to store at least 20 characters.

[0082] Optically readable marks have dimensions such as a maximum of 1 mm x 3.5 mm, and especially a maximum of 0.8 mm x 3 mm. These compact dimensions allow the information memory formed as an optical mark to be placed on small components, and therefore these small components can also be traced.

[0083] Information storage bodies formed as optically readable marks can be obtained, for example, by laser material processing methods. For this purpose, for example, a corresponding laser step can be incorporated into a component manufacturing method. Further possibilities for forming optically readable marks include embossing, in particular, in which individual points of a code are embossed using a needle, or printing.

[0084] The collective information storage of the container can similarly be configured as an optically readable mark, such as a barcode, or as a matrix code such as a QR code or data matrix code. Alternatively, or additionally, the collective information storage can be formed as an RFID chip, or as flash memory in the form of a USB stick housed inside the container. In particular, when implemented as flash memory, the collective information storage can include not only an identifier that identifies the container or the collective, but also all the information mapped to the constituent members of the collective.

[0085] Further aspects of the present invention relate to a manufacturing apparatus for a component described herein, comprising at least one electrical feedthrough, wherein a functional component is secured within a feedthrough opening of a substrate by an electrically insulating material. The apparatus, in this case, includes at least one processing means for providing an information storage in the component. The apparatus is preferably further configured to carry out one of the component manufacturing methods described herein. For this purpose, the manufacturing apparatus may particularly include a control unit comprising a programmable computer device that performs corresponding steps of the manufacturing method by executing a corresponding computer program.

[0086] If the information storage of the component to be manufactured is configured as an optically readable mark, the processing means is preferably formed as a laser system for removing material.

[0087] The manufacturing apparatus may additionally include reading means for re-reading information storage that has been placed once during one or more steps. If the information storage is formed as optically readable marks, the reading means is preferably formed as an optical camera or a laser scanner. The corresponding reading means is preferably connected to the control unit of the manufacturing apparatus so that the information contained in the information storage of the component can be used in subsequent method steps.

[0088] If information about the components is stored in a database provided on a spatially separated computer device, the control unit preferably has a communication unit for connecting to a data network, such as a local network or the Internet, for the purpose of accessing the database.

[0089] Further aspects of the present invention relate to an apparatus for subsequent processing of components or assemblies of such components, or components obtained by one of the methods described herein, so that a unit is formed comprising at least one of these components. The apparatus is configured to include reading means for reading information storage of components or information storage of assemblies of containers having multiple components. The apparatus is further preferably configured to carry out one of the subsequent processing methods described herein. For this purpose, the subsequent processing apparatus may particularly include a control unit with a programmable computer device that performs corresponding steps of the subsequent processing method by executing a corresponding computer program.

[0090] If the information storage is formed as an optically readable mark, the reading means is preferably formed as an optical camera or a laser scanner. The corresponding reading means is preferably connected to a control unit of a subsequent processing device, so that the information contained in the information storage of the component can be used during subsequent processing. If the information about the component is stored in a database provided on a spatially separated computer device, the control unit preferably has a communication unit for connecting to a data network, such as a local network or the internet, for the purpose of accessing the database.

[0091] The present invention also provides a system that allows a subsequent processor to access information mapped to a single component. This system includes a computer device and a reading device connected to the computer device for reading information storage for a component. The system is preferably configured to read at least one piece of information relating to a measurable characteristic of the component from the information storage.

[0092] Alternatively, or additionally, the system is configured to read a unique identifier encoded in the information storage of a component, or to retrieve at least one piece of information relating to a measurable characteristic of a component from a database using the unique identifier. The database can be stored in the system's computer device or maintained on a server. In this case, the system preferably has communication means for communicating with the server. In particular in this case, the communication means is configured to connect to a data network such as the Internet. Thus, the proposed system can be used spatially separated from the location of the database.

[0093] This system may have measuring means for the purpose of measuring the measurable properties of its components. Furthermore, the system may include comparison means for the purpose of comparing these measurements with information obtained using an information storage device. In this case, the comparison means may have predetermined target values ​​or limit values ​​for comparison so as to determine whether the components comply with predetermined target values ​​or limit values. Therefore, the proposed system is particularly suitable for implementing quality control of components. For this purpose, the proposed system can be installed, for example, at a subsequent processing facility for components and used for receiving control of components.

[0094] The components obtained by the aforementioned components or one of the aforementioned methods are preferably used in an ignition unit for an airbag or an igniter for a belt tensioner.

[0095] For use in an ignition unit for an airbag, the base of the component member preferably has a thickness of 1 mm to 5 mm, preferably 2 mm to 4.2 mm. The feed-through opening for housing the metal pin, which is a functional member, preferably has a circular or elliptical cross-section, in which case the diameter of the metal pin is, for example, 0.8 to 1.2 mm, and the diameter of the feed-through opening is, for example, in the range of 1.6 mm to 3.0 mm.

[0096] Preferably, tolerances are defined for the parts or the primary products of these parts, and these can be inspected in a single inspection step. For example, in the case of an ignition unit for an airbag, a tolerance within the range of ±0.02 mm to ±0.04 mm can be predetermined for the diameter of the base. Then, in the inspection step, the actual tolerance can be detected and mapped to the part. The inspection results can then be mapped to the part as information. Furthermore, the parts can be classified into various quality classes. At a given dimension, the tolerance range can be mapped to a specified tool, and as long as it exceeds the tolerance, the desired correction can be made, for example, by changing the tool.

[0097] This procedure can be performed on a part for numerous dimensions and other measurable parameters.

[0098] As is obvious, the features listed above and those described below are applicable not only in the combinations described, but also in other combinations or in their individual forms, without departing from the scope of the present invention.

[0099] The drawings illustrate preferred implementations and embodiments of the present invention, which are described in detail below. The same reference numerals indicate the same, similar, or functionally identical components or elements. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0100] [Figure 1] This figure shows the steps for manufacturing a component according to one embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 2] This figure shows the steps of a subsequent processing method according to one embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 3] This figure shows the steps of a method according to one embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 4] This figure shows the steps of a method according to one embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 5] Figures 5a, 5b, and 5c show embodiments relating to a component member equipped with an information storage body according to the present invention. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0101] Figure 1 illustrates the steps of an advantageous method for manufacturing a component according to one embodiment of the present invention, with the example of manufacturing a component for an igniter for an occupant restraint system in the form of an airbag.

[0102] For this purpose, first, a suitable molded body is prepared for manufacturing a number of feedthroughs for igniters, for example, in the form of a carbon molded body provided with a suitable material for manufacturing the feedthroughs (Step S1: Assembly). In this case, each carbon molded body has a number of housings, in which one feedthrough can be installed in each housing. Thus, in this embodiment, Step S1 includes installing a substrate, also called a header, a blank for electrical insulating material, and connecting pins in each housing.

[0103] For the installation step S1, a carbon molded body is prepared as a component support, in which case the carbon molded body used is identified via a component support identifier. The component support identifier is stored, for example, in an information memory placed on the carbon molded body, such as an optically readable mark. The optically readable mark is implemented, for example, as a data matrix code. Since the melting step S2, described later, is carried out at a higher temperature, the matrix code on each carbon molded body is preferably implemented to be resistant to the heat load generated at that time. A new carbon molded body is prepared in step V1 and registered in an information memory. A carbon molded body that has already been used once can be reused, in which case it is identified via an existing information memory or a component support identifier stored therein. In the flowchart of Figure 1, the flow of carbon molded bodies is represented by medium-thickness lines with arrows.

[0104] Within the framework of this method, further data about the carbon molded body can be stored in the carbon molded body's information storage or in an assigned database. This data may include, for example, the type of carbon molded body, data about the material, and the number of times it has been used to date.

[0105] Information regarding the primary product of the header to be manufactured is already mapped to the header in the installation step S1, in which case each header or its primary product is identified via the corresponding housing and its component support identifier of the carbon molded body. In step S1, this information is selected from, for example, data about the installation team, the starting material used or lot number of the primary product for the header, the metal used for the primary product of the component, in particular the manufacturer, batch and type, the geometric shape of the header or primary product, the installation time and parameters for installation. This data is stored, for example, in the dataset of each header in the database DB (see Figure 2).

[0106] After the installation step S1, an electrical feedthrough is generated in the furnace during the melting step S2, at which point relevant information for the melting step S2 is mapped to the individual components or their primary products. In the flowchart in Figure 1, the flow of parts is represented by thick arrows.

[0107] In this process, unless the headers or their primary products already possess an information storage, they are uniquely identified and traceable for each carbon molded body and their position within the carbon molded body, and these are used as the first information carrier T1 in this method. For this purpose, in the illustrated embodiment of the manufacturing method, the information storage of the carbon molded body is read, and the component support identifier stored therein is read. Then, process parameters used in the melting step, such as the furnace identifier, time of execution, temperature, duration, position of the carbon molded body in the furnace, and / or furnace operator, are mapped to all the headers or their primary products contained within each carbon molded body.

[0108] After melting in step S2, the components are removed from their previous component supports and packaged for transport to the next manufacturing step. For this purpose, the components, in this case the headers, are individualized / disassembled, and in step S3, these components are filled into a transport container for further transport to the next manufacturing step. The transport container, which is a new component support, is similarly provided with an information storage device in this embodiment, which is used as a second information carrier T2. The information storage device specifically includes a unique component support identifier for the transport container. Additionally, data such as that which was provided on the carbon molded body can be stored in the information storage device itself or in a mapped database. In this case, the information storage device of the transport container can be implemented, for example, in the form of a label equipped with an optically readable mark, an RFID tag, etc. Information about each igniter can be represented by a single dataset in the database and can be linked to the individual ID code of the transport container. Similarly, data such as the disassembly time, disassembly team, the position of the header in the carbon molded body, the state parameters of the carbon molded body, in particular its oxidation level, and the header identifier can be stored in the individual datasets of the individual headers in the database.

[0109] Through a component support identifier and data indicating the location of each component within the component support, the components or their primary products can be traced even after casing. Preferably, however, a unique information storage is provided in the header or the primary product of the header after the melting step S2 and before the individualization and casing in step S3. In this embodiment, the igniter's information storage is implemented in the form of a data matrix code that encodes the unique identifier of the corresponding header as an optically readable mark.

[0110] The marking of the header for mounting the information memory, formed as a data matrix code, is performed, in particular by laser engraving, preferably immediately after the melting process. This is because the igniter substrate or header is located in the carbon molded body in an individualized and oriented manner. The optically readable mark or unique identifier on each header, with a unique ID code, is in this case resistant to chemicals in the subsequent processing steps and has a predetermined area, for example, 1.5 mm × 5 mm, preferably 0.8 mm × 3 mm.

[0111] The transport container, which serves as a support for the components, is itself written to and used as a second information carrier T2, thereby enabling identification. Using this transport container, the individualized headers are then transported further, subsequently colored in a further step S4, and gold-plated in a further step S5. Although each component already has its own unique information memory enabling unambiguous identification, it is preferable here to read only one information memory in the transport container before performing the next step S4. This is because, in this case, only one information memory needs to be read in order to map the relevant information to all components housed in the transport container at once for the step to be performed, in this case step S4.

[0112] During cleaning in step S4, drums are used, and their individual numbers are used as identifiers or information carriers (reference code T3) for the components being processed during this manufacturing step, and are recorded in subsequent processing. Similarly, corresponding parameters of the process step "cleaning," such as the start and end times of cleaning, the cleaning line, the cleaning drum, the equipment operator, and the equipment parameters, can be recorded. Similarly, during gold plating in step S5, corresponding parameters of the process step "gold plating" can be recorded, that is, corresponding to the igniter data set in the database, for example, the start and end times of gold plating, the gold plating line, the equipment operator, and the equipment parameters can be stored. In this case, a written transport container for transport between the corresponding coloring and gold plating equipment is also used as a fourth information carrier T4. During step S5, the ID codes provided on the individual headers are used as a fifth information carrier T5.

[0113] After step S5 (gold plating), the components (in this case, the gold-plated headers) are then further transported for polishing using a transport container. In this case, the transport container is also uniquely represented and used as a sixth information carrier T6, and this identifier can then be mapped to a dataset of individual headers in the database based on the ID code of each component.

[0114] Next, in a further optional step S6, the header is polished. The newly prepared polishing housing, which serves as a component support, is provided with an information memory in step V2, which also contains a unique identifier for each polishing housing. The information memory is implemented, for example, as an optically readable mark in the form of a data matrix code. Before a newly or reused polishing housing is used for polishing step S6, its identifier is read by reading from the information memory. The flow of the polishing housing is represented by thin lines with arrows in the flowchart of Figure 1.

[0115] As long as a header or the primary product of a header is present in the polishing container, it can be used as an information carrier T7, in which case each header is identified by the identifier of the polishing container and its position within the polishing container.

[0116] Data relating to each polishing housing is then mapped to this identifier and stored in the database, and this data can also be stored in the individual datasets of the headers processed within each polishing housing in the database DB. In polishing step S6, the data detected by mapping to the component includes, for example, the polishing time, polishing machine, polishing housing, operator team, equipment parameters, etc.

[0117] After the polishing step S6, a specific control is performed on the polished header in a further step S7. In this case, after the header is removed from the polishing housing, the component or the header's information storage is used as the eighth information carrier T8. In this control, for example, a functional test is performed on the header, and the control time, control device number, inspection results for each header, device operator, and device parameters are determined. Furthermore, the quality and / or dimensional accuracy / dimensions of the header can be determined. Then, the above data and parameters can be added again to the dataset of each controlled header based on its unique identifier or ID code. After that, the header is classified (step S8), and a final control (step S9) is performed on it. In this case, the quality and / or dimensional accuracy / dimensions of the header can be determined either alternatively or additionally to the control in step S7, and further data such as the final control time and inspector can be added again to the dataset of each controlled header based on its ID code. Optionally, commissioning can be performed based on customer settings. Next, in a further step S10, packaging and shipment to further processing facilities take place.

[0118] Thus, a high degree of adaptable transparency in the manufacturing process of each individual header can be achieved, from installation to shipment. Corresponding data is stored uniquely in a database for each header, and this data can be used for process optimization, analysis, and troubleshooting of production errors. In particular, when analyzing data for carbon molded bodies and / or polished housings, wear phenomena can be identified early, allowing for timely replacement of corresponding housings and molded bodies, thereby reducing defective products. Simultaneously, correlations in the stored information can be identified using, for example, neural networks, and thus production can be improved or optimized by adapting materials and / or process parameters.

[0119] Figure 2 shows the steps of a subsequent processing method for a component according to one embodiment of the present invention, with the subsequent processing of the header of an airbag igniter as an example.

[0120] For more details, the example in Figure 2 illustrates the method steps performed when receiving igniters by a subsequent processing company that is a customer of the igniter manufacturer.

[0121] In the first step K1, receiving control is performed. In this case, the control group of the header is scanned to read the data matrix code attached to the header, and the individual identifier or ID code of the header is detected. Furthermore, the unique header is measured. Subsequently, in a further step D1, a new dataset is generated by the subsequent processing company, and this dataset contains data on the dimensional accuracy / dimensions of the headers of the control group. Based on the unique ID code of the header, the subsequent processing company requests the corresponding data of the header from the component manufacturer's database DB. Based on this data, the subsequent processing company performs a comparison in step K2. That is, in this case, the subsequent processing company compares its own measurement results obtained in step K1 with the measurement results obtained from the header manufacturer's database DB.

[0122] At this point, the processing company has two options. On the one hand, in step K3, the processing company can determine that the dimensional accuracy meets its requirements based on the comparison performed in step K2. Then, in a further step K4, the processing company performs further processing on all the received headers. Prior to this, the processing company queries the manufacturer's database DB for the corresponding data of the igniter based on the unique ID code of all the received headers (step D4). The processing company then uses the obtained manufacturer data to control its own processing.

[0123] Alternatively or additionally, the subsequent processor may, based on the comparison in step K2, determine a unique correction factor for each header, or an average correction factor for a group of headers or for all headers, in step K5. For this purpose, the subsequent processor generates a new dataset (step D2), which contains the corresponding deviations or individual correction factors, either common to the whole or individually for each header. Then, in a further step K6, the subsequent processor performs subsequent processing on all received headers, taking into account the individual or common correction factors. Prior to this, the subsequent processor queries the manufacturer's database DB for the corresponding data for each header based on the unique ID code of all received headers (step D3). The subsequent processor then uses the obtained manufacturer data, along with its own unique datasets obtained in steps D1 and D2, to control its own subsequent processing.

[0124] Furthermore, subsequent processing companies can use the identifiers of these components to trace them within the resulting units. For this purpose, for example, a new dataset can be generated for each individual unit, into which the data detected for that component by the component manufacturer is copied and inserted. For the unambiguous identification of the dataset, a unique identifier can also be assigned to the unit, or, in cases where the information storage located in the component remains accessible and readable after subsequent processing, the identifier located in the component's information storage can continue to be used.

[0125] This allows subsequent processors to accurately trace which igniter was incorporated into which unit, and what characteristics the incorporated igniters possess, in this embodiment. Thus, if an error occurs in a unit, the entire production chain from the components incorporated within the unit to the primary product can be traced. In particular, by evaluating the information stored in the database, it becomes possible to identify further components and correspondingly formed units that may also be affected by quality problems, without having to discard all components or formed units from a batch from the outset.

[0126] Figure 3 schematically illustrates the optimization of a manufacturing method for a component using component-specific information according to one embodiment of the present invention, using a component for use in a crew restraint system as an example.

[0127] In the first step A1, material data for the primary product or material prepared for manufacturing the component is identified.

[0128] In a further step A2, at least one manufacturing process parameter relating to the manufacturing process for producing the component is identified.

[0129] In a further step A3, the components are manufactured based on a manufacturing process using the identified process parameters.

[0130] In a further step A4, a unique identification index is prepared for each component in the form of a unique identifier.

[0131] In a further step A5, an information memory is placed in each of the manufactured components, and the prepared identification index is stored within the information memory.

[0132] In a further step A6, component-specific material data and manufacturing process parameters are stored in a computer database, where the corresponding data set in the database is identified by an identification index.

[0133] In a further step A7, the state of at least one of the manufactured components is identified, which is identified via an identification index, and the specific result is mapped to this component and stored in a database.

[0134] In a further step A8, the identified state of the components is compared to a predetermined target value. At this time, components that exceed or fall below the limit value are identified.

[0135] In step A9, information mapped to identified components that exceeded or fell below the limit value is retrieved from the database and analyzed. Common causes of deviations from predetermined target values ​​are identified, and the results are fed back to this method as feedback, for example, in the form of instructions to change parameters or replace tools or component supports to optimize the manufacturing of the components.

[0136] Figure 4 schematically shows the preparation of information in the subsequent processing method for multiple components.

[0137] In the first step B1, multiple components are grouped together into one group.

[0138] In a further step B2, each component of the group is identified based on a unique identification index of that component, which is read from, for example, the component's information memory.

[0139] In a further step B3, each of the identified components of the group is measured with respect to at least its unique condition inspection information.

[0140] In a further step B4, unique condition inspection information for at least each individual component is requested from the component manufacturer's database.

[0141] In a further step B5, unique condition inspection information for at least individual components is received.

[0142] In a further step B6, the deviation between at least the measured condition inspection information and the received condition inspection information is identified.

[0143] In a further step B7, one or more correction parameters are individually identified for each component based on the identified deviation, and in a further step B8, each component is subsequently processed without considering, or at least partially considering, the identified correction parameters.

[0144] Figures 5a, 5b, and 5c show embodiments relating to components equipped with an information storage body according to the present invention, respectively.

[0145] In the three illustrated embodiments, each component 1 includes a base body 10, within which an electrical feedthrough 20 is located. The electrical feedthrough 20 is located within a feedthrough opening in the base body 10 and has a first metal pin 24, which is held by an electrical insulating material 22. In the illustrated embodiments, a second metal pin 40 is also electrically connected to the base body 10. The first metal pin 24 is used, for example, as a signal terminal in the unit including component 1, and the second metal pin 40 is used, for example, as a ground terminal.

[0146] According to the present invention, each of the illustrated component members 1 has one information storage body in the form of an optically readable mark 30.

[0147] In the first embodiment shown in Figure 5a, the optically readable mark 30 is configured as a matrix code, and the first metal pin 24, the second metal pin 40, and the optically readable mark 30 are arranged on the base 10 at a predetermined angle.

[0148] In the second embodiment shown in Figure 5b and the third embodiment shown in Figure 5c, the first metal pin 24, the second metal pin 40, and the optically readable mark 30 are arranged on a single line. In the second embodiment, the optically readable mark 30 is configured as a barcode, and in the third embodiment, the optically readable mark 30 is implemented as an alphanumeric code, which is mechanically readable, for example, by optical character recognition.

[0149] At least one embodiment of the present invention has at least one of the following advantages: • Key parameters of individual components are mapped to those components before manufacturing. Based on individual identifiers within the database, important parameters are stored separately. • Numerous parameters related to the manufacturing, production, and subsequent processing of component parts are easily prepared. When a defect is identified in a component, errors can be searched for more easily, quickly, and efficiently within the production chain. • Production is closely monitored. In some cases, defective components can be identified and sorted out more quickly, even before they are shipped to the customer or subsequent processing company. • Defective products are reduced in production. • The overall quality of the components is high. • For subsequent processors or customers, individually selected data is prepared for each relevant component, thus eliminating the need for receiving control of those components, either completely or partially, saving time and costs for the customer.

[0150] Although the present invention has been described based on preferred embodiments, the present invention is not limited thereto and can be modified in a wide variety of ways. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0151] DB Database A1-A9 Method Steps B1-B8 Method Steps D1-D4 Dataset Method Steps K1-K6 Customer Process Steps S1-S10 Manufacturing Method Steps T1~T8 Information V1, V2 Registration Steps 1. Components 10 Base 20 Electrical feedthrough 22 Insulating materials 24 First metal pin 30 Optically Readable Marks 40 Second metal pin

Claims

1. 1. A method for manufacturing a plurality of components having at least one electrical feedthrough, comprising: A method for manufacturing a plurality of components, wherein functional components are fixed in feed-through openings of a substrate using an electrically insulating material, and information mapped to each of the components is detected, comprising: In one of the manufacturing steps of the manufacturing method, an information storage device is provided in each of the components or one of the primary products of each of the components, and information is stored in the information storage device, and / or an identifier is stored in the information storage device, and the information mapped to the identifier is stored in a database. Manufacturing method.

2. the information is selected from one or more of the group consisting of information about starting materials used, information about manufacturing steps performed, information about tools and equipment used, information about measurements and unique identifiers; The method of claim 1.

3. each component or each primary product of a component is uniquely identified in at least one manufacturing step via its position in the component support and a component support identifier that is mapped to said component support and uniquely identifies said component support, The method of claim 1.

4. each component or each primary product of a component is uniquely identified in at least one manufacturing step of the manufacturing method by reading out the information storage device, The method of claim 1.

5. A final control is performed on a sample of the components or each of the components, and in the final control, at least one characteristic of the component is measured, and the results of the final control are mapped to the component as information. The method of claim 1.

6. the results obtained in the final control are compared with predetermined target values, and components exceeding at least predetermined limit values ​​are identified. The method of claim 5.

7. For each of the components identified as exceeding at least a threshold value, the information mapped to the component is evaluated to determine common information for the identified components, and the common information is identical for the identified components or is consistent except for a predetermined tolerance. The method of claim 6.

8. From said common information, manufacturing steps, starting materials, tools and / or process conditions that said components have in common are identified, and depending on said identification, measures are introduced to improve the quality of future runs of the manufacturing method, said measures being selected from the group consisting of changing tools, changing component supports, changing or calibrating measuring equipment, correcting process parameters, selecting other starting materials and a combination of these measures. The method of claim 7.

9. A component having at least one electrical feedthrough, The functional element is fixed in the feed-through opening of the base body by means of an electrically insulating material, preferably in a component obtained by the method according to claim 1, The component includes an information storage body. Components.

10. 1. An assembly of components having at least one electrical feedthrough, The functional element is fixed in the feed-through opening of the base by means of an electrically insulating material, preferably obtained according to claim 1, comprising an assembly of components, The assembly consisting of a plurality of components is contained in a single container, the container includes an assembly information storage device, and the assembly information storage device includes data for identifying the components included in the assembly. collective.

11. A method for further processing components obtained by the method of claim 1 to form units each including at least one of said components, comprising: In a further processing method, information mapped to each one of the components is obtained and mapped to each one of the units, The acquisition of the information mapped to one component includes reading an information storage device of the component, or reading an aggregate information storage device of one container containing one or more component members. Subsequent processing methods.

12. in at least one subsequent processing step, at least one parameter is adapted based on the information mapped to the component; 12. The method of claim 11.

13. The parameters contained in the information mapped to the component are newly measured and compared with previously determined information.

12. The method of claim 11.

14. The comparison is repeated for a sample of components from the entire set of components, or for all components in the entire set, and if systematic deviations are identified, correction factors are identified by which the mapped information is corrected for the newly measured parts of the entire set.

14. The method of claim 13.

15. Information that is the same for multiple components is stored in the database only once as group information, and each of the components is mapped with a link to the group information. The method of claim 1.

16. the information storage medium is configured as an optically readable mark, the optically readable mark being preferably configured as a bar code or a matrix code, in particular as a data matrix code; The method of claim 1.

17. the optically readable mark is formed in one of the functional elements, in particular by a series of notches, The method of claim 16.

18. the optically readable marks are obtained by laser material processing; The method of claim 16.

19. 1. An apparatus for manufacturing a component having at least one electrical feedthrough, comprising: In an apparatus in which the functional member is fixed by an electrically insulating material within a feed-through opening of a base, The device includes processing means for providing the component with an information storage medium, and the device is configured to perform the method of claim 1. Device.

20. 19. An apparatus for further processing a component according to claim 9, an assembly of components according to claim 10, or a component obtained via a method according to any one of claims 1 to 8 or claims 15 to 18, so as to form a unit comprising at least one of the components, The device comprises reading means for reading the information storage device of the component or the assembly information storage device of the container with the component, the device being configured to perform one of the methods according to any one of claims 11 to 18. Device.

21. Use of a component according to claim 9 or a component obtained by the method according to any one of claims 1 to 8 or 15 to 18 in an ignition unit for an airbag or in an igniter for a belt tensioner.

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