tool

Abstract

In tools used to punch and join multiple overlapping plates, the aim is to increase the joint strength while also making it applicable as a hand tool that is easy to handle and suitable for on-site construction. [Solution] The device comprises punches 32, 132, 232 for punching and cutting a plate; dies 41, 141, 241 positioned opposite the punches 32, 132, 232; clinchers 44, 144, 244 for folding back the plate cut by the punches 32, 132, 232; punch guides 33, 133, 233 positioned opposite the clinchers 44, 144, 244; and a reciprocating motion mechanism 20 capable of performing a series of operations, in which the punches 32, 132, 232 and the dies 41, 141, 241 are moved relative to cut the plate, and then the clinchers 44, 144, 244 and the punch guides 33, 133, 233 are moved relative to fold back the cut plate.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a tool for punching and joining a plurality of stacked plates.

Background Art

[0002] As methods for joining stacked thin steel plates, methods such as welding, screwing, and riveting are known. Also known is a method of punching a thin steel plate to form a hole and fixing the parts so as not to move relative to each other by the cut-out metal pieces (hereinafter referred to as punching connection). The punching connection has merits such as being able to be constructed without using screws or the like and being able to be constructed in a short time without special skills.

[0003] For example, in the construction of partition walls of houses and the like, runners and studs used as the framework of the partition wall are joined at the construction site with a pen-type manual tool. The pen-type manual tool is configured to sandwich a thin steel plate between a punch and a die at the tip of the tool by gripping the handle, and the punch punches the thin steel plate. This type of manual tool is suitable for on-site construction because it is lightweight and easy to handle.

[0004] On the other hand, as a demerit of this type of manual tool, there is a problem that the joining strength is weak compared to welding, screwing, riveting, etc. because it is only joined by the friction of the portion where the thin steel plate is cut up. Also, since punching is performed by strongly gripping the handle with both hands, there is a problem that the burden on the operator is large and the hands get tired.

[0005] Regarding the latter problem, it can be addressed by automating the tool. For example, Patent Documents 1, 2, 3, and 4 disclose inventions that enable punching connection with an electric hand-held tool. However, even with these electric tools, the problem of weak joining strength cannot be solved.

[0006] Furthermore, Patent Document 5 discloses a device that holds the overlapping portion of two plates from above and below, and uses a male mold and a female mold, each driven by a fluid pressure cylinder, to form a pyramidal notch, which is then pushed outwards to form a petal-shaped push-out piece. Subsequently, a push mold driven by a fluid pressure cylinder bends the push-out piece, and the overlapping portion is connected by this bent push-out piece. By bending the cut-out metal piece in this way, the joining strength can be increased. [Prior art documents] [Patent Documents]

[0007] [Patent Document 1] European Patent No. 2586569 [Patent Document 2] European Patent No. 1186382 [Patent Document 3] U.S. Patent Publication No. 5884405 [Patent Document 4] U.S. Patent Publication No. 5718142 [Patent Document 5] Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 7-214198 [Overview of the project] [Problems that the invention aims to solve]

[0008] However, the device described in Patent Document 5 has a structure in which a male mold and a female mold, driven by fluid pressure cylinders, are arranged above and below the plate, so that drive sources must be placed on both sides of the plate, and therefore it could not be applied to hand tools.

[0009] Therefore, the purpose of this disclosure is to provide a technology that can be applied to a hand tool suitable for on-site construction, which enhances the joint strength of a tool used to punch and join multiple overlapping plates, while also being easy to handle. [Means for solving the problem]

[0010] A tool according to one aspect of the present disclosure is a tool for punching and joining a plurality of overlapping plates, comprising: a punch for punching and cutting the plates; a die positioned opposite the punch; a clincher for folding back the plates cut by the punch; a punch guide positioned opposite the clincher; and a reciprocating mechanism capable of realizing a series of operations, in which the punch and the die are moved relative to each other to cut the plates, and then the clincher and the punch guide are moved relative to each other to fold back the cut plates.

[0011] In this disclosure, the "reciprocating motion mechanism" only needs to be capable of performing a series of operations: moving the punch and die relative to each other to cut and raise the plate, and then moving the clincher and punch guide relative to each other to fold back the cut plate. The timing of when these two operations are performed in the reciprocating process is not important. For example, both operations may be completed in the forward stroke. Alternatively, the plate may be cut and raised in the forward stroke, and then folded back in the return stroke. Alternatively, both operations may be completed in the return stroke. Furthermore, the operation of cutting and raising the plate or the operation of folding back the cut plate may be performed across the forward and return strokes.

[0012] The clincher may be located inside the die.

[0013] The clincher and the punch guide may be configured to begin approaching each other when the punch and the die approach each other to a predetermined position.

[0014] The reciprocating motion mechanism may be operated by a single drive source.

[0015] The reciprocating mechanism may move the punch toward the die by a predetermined amount to cut and raise the plate, and then the reciprocating mechanism may change the position of the punch guide relative to the clincher to cause the plate to be folded back.

[0016] After the die moves a predetermined amount toward the punch by the reciprocating mechanism to raise the plate, the position of the clincher with respect to the punch guide may be changed by the reciprocating mechanism so that the plate can be folded back.

[0017] After the plate is raised by the reciprocating mechanism operating in a predetermined direction, the plate may be folded back by the reciprocating mechanism operating in a direction opposite to the predetermined direction.

Advantages of the Invention

[0018] According to the present disclosure, in a tool for punching and joining a plurality of stacked plates, the joining strength can be increased. Further, it can also be applied to a hand tool with good operability suitable for on-site construction.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0019] [Figure 1] It is a side view of the tool according to the first embodiment. [Figure 2] It is a front view of the tool according to the first embodiment. [Figure 3] It is a side cross-sectional view of the tool according to the first embodiment. [Figure 4] It is a front cross-sectional view of the tool according to the first embodiment. [Figure 5] It is a diagram for explaining the clinching process according to the first embodiment, and is a partially enlarged side cross-sectional view of the initial state. [Figure 6] It is a diagram for explaining the clinching process according to the first embodiment, and is a partially enlarged front cross-sectional view of the initial state. [Figure 7] It is a diagram for explaining the clinching process according to the first embodiment, and is a partially enlarged side cross-sectional view of the state where the punch guide abuts on the plate. [Figure 8] It is a diagram for explaining the clinching process according to the first embodiment, and is a partially enlarged front cross-sectional view of the state where the punch guide abuts on the plate. <00001​This is a diagram illustrating a crimping process according to the first embodiment, and is a partially enlarged side cross-sectional view showing how a punch punches through a plate. [Figure 10] This is a diagram illustrating a crimping process according to the first embodiment, and is a partially enlarged front cross-sectional view showing how a punch punches through a plate. [Figure 11] This is a diagram illustrating the crimping process according to the first embodiment, and is a partially enlarged side cross-sectional view showing the state in which the punch has reached the timing block. [Figure 12] This is a diagram illustrating the crimping process according to the first embodiment, and is a partially enlarged front cross-sectional view showing the state in which the punch has reached the timing block. [Figure 13] This is a diagram illustrating the crimping process according to the first embodiment, and is a partially enlarged side cross-sectional view showing the state in which the timing block pushes the support block apart. [Figure 14] This is a diagram illustrating the crimping process according to the first embodiment, and is a partially enlarged front cross-sectional view showing the state in which the timing block pushes the support block apart. [Figure 15] This is a diagram illustrating the crimping process according to the first embodiment, and is a partially enlarged side cross-sectional view showing the state in which the die has started to descend. [Figure 16] This is a diagram illustrating the crimping process according to the first embodiment, and is a partially enlarged front cross-sectional view showing the state in which the die has started to descend. [Figure 17] This is a diagram illustrating the crimping process according to the first embodiment, and is a partially enlarged side cross-sectional view showing the state after the clinching is completed. [Figure 18] This is a diagram illustrating the crimping process according to the first embodiment, and is a partially enlarged front cross-sectional view showing the state after the clinching is completed. [Figure 19] (a) Front view of the punch, (b) Side view of the punch, (c) Bottom view of the punch, (d) Perspective view of the punch. [Figure 20](a) Plan view of the die, (b) Perspective view of the die, (c) Side view of the die, (d) Perspective view of the die from the back, and (e) Plan view of the second functional section with the die removed. [Figure 21] This is a side view of the tool according to the second embodiment. [Figure 22] This is a front view of the tool according to the second embodiment. [Figure 23] This is a side cross-sectional view of a tool according to the second embodiment. [Figure 24] This is a front cross-sectional view of the tool according to the second embodiment. [Figure 25] This is a diagram illustrating the crimping process according to the second embodiment, and is a partially enlarged side cross-sectional view of the initial state. [Figure 26] This is a diagram illustrating the crimping process according to the second embodiment, and is a partially enlarged front cross-sectional view of the initial state. [Figure 27] This is a diagram illustrating a crimping process according to a second embodiment, and is a partially enlarged side cross-sectional view showing the punch and die in contact with the plate. [Figure 28] This is a diagram illustrating a crimping process according to a second embodiment, and is a partially enlarged front cross-sectional view showing the punch and die in contact with the plate. [Figure 29] This is a diagram illustrating the crimping process according to the second embodiment, and is a partially enlarged side cross-sectional view showing the state in which the cutting and bending of the plate by the punch has begun. [Figure 30] This is a diagram illustrating the crimping process according to the second embodiment, and is a partially enlarged front cross-sectional view showing the state in which the cutting and bending of the plate by the punch has begun. [Figure 31] This is a diagram illustrating the crimping process according to the second embodiment, and is a partially enlarged side cross-sectional view showing the movement of the punch guide as it descends. [Figure 32] This is a diagram illustrating the crimping process according to the second embodiment, and is a partially enlarged front cross-sectional view showing the movement of the punch guide as it descends. [Figure 33] This is a diagram illustrating the crimping process according to the second embodiment, and is a partially enlarged side cross-sectional view showing the state after the cutting and bending of the plate by punching has been completed. [Figure 34] This is a diagram illustrating the crimping process according to the second embodiment, and is a partially enlarged front cross-sectional view showing the state after the cutting and bending of the plate by punching has been completed. [Figure 35] This is a diagram illustrating the crimping process according to the second embodiment, and is a partially enlarged side cross-sectional view showing the hook in an open state. [Figure 36] This is a diagram illustrating the crimping process according to the second embodiment, and is a partially enlarged front cross-sectional view showing the hook in an open state. [Figure 37] This is a diagram illustrating the crimping process according to the second embodiment, and is a partially enlarged side cross-sectional view showing the clincher descending. [Figure 38] This is a diagram illustrating the crimping process according to the second embodiment, and is a partially enlarged front cross-sectional view showing the clincher descending. [Figure 39] This is a diagram illustrating the crimping process according to the second embodiment, and is a partially enlarged side cross-sectional view showing the start of clinching. [Figure 40] This is a diagram illustrating the crimping process according to the second embodiment, and is a partially enlarged front cross-sectional view showing the start of clinching. [Figure 41] This is a diagram illustrating the crimping process according to the second embodiment, and is a partially enlarged side cross-sectional view showing the state after the clinching is completed. [Figure 42] This is a diagram illustrating the crimping process according to the second embodiment, and is a partially enlarged front cross-sectional view showing the state after the clinching is completed. [Figure 43] This is a side view of the tool according to the third embodiment. [Figure 44] This is a front view of the tool according to the third embodiment. [Figure 45] This is a side cross-sectional view of a tool according to the third embodiment. [Figure 46] This is a front cross-sectional view of a tool according to the third embodiment. [Figure 47] This is a diagram illustrating the crimping process according to the third embodiment, and is a partially enlarged side cross-sectional view of the initial state. [Figure 48] This is a diagram illustrating the crimping process according to the third embodiment, and is a partially enlarged front cross-sectional view of the initial state. [Figure 49] This is a diagram illustrating a crimping process according to a third embodiment, and is a partially enlarged side cross-sectional view showing the punch in contact with the plate. [Figure 50] This is a diagram illustrating a crimping process according to a third embodiment, and is a partially enlarged front cross-sectional view showing the punch in contact with the plate. [Figure 51] This is a diagram illustrating a crimping process according to a third embodiment, and is a partially enlarged side cross-sectional view showing the punch and punch guide engaged. [Figure 52] This is a diagram illustrating a crimping process according to a third embodiment, and is a partially enlarged front cross-sectional view showing the punch and punch guide engaged. [Figure 53] This is a diagram illustrating the crimping process according to the third embodiment, and is a partially enlarged side cross-sectional view showing the state after the cutting and bending of the plate by punching has been completed. [Figure 54] This is a diagram illustrating the crimping process according to the third embodiment, and is a partially enlarged front cross-sectional view showing the state after the cutting and bending of the plate by punching has been completed. [Figure 55] This is a diagram illustrating the crimping process according to the third embodiment, and is a partially enlarged side cross-sectional view showing the punch beginning to rise. [Figure 56] This is a diagram illustrating the crimping process according to the third embodiment, and is a partially enlarged front cross-sectional view showing the punch beginning to rise. [Figure 57] This is a diagram illustrating the crimping process according to the third embodiment, and is a partially enlarged side cross-sectional view showing the state in which the punch is in the process of rising. [Figure 58] This is a diagram illustrating the crimping process according to the third embodiment, and is a partially enlarged front cross-sectional view showing the punch in the process of rising. [Figure 59] This is a diagram illustrating the crimping process according to the third embodiment, and is a partially enlarged side cross-sectional view showing the state after the clinching is completed. [Figure 60] This is a diagram illustrating the crimping process according to the third embodiment, and is a partially enlarged front cross-sectional view showing the state after the clinching is completed. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0020] Embodiments of the present invention will be described below with reference to the drawings. In the following description, when viewed in the direction of extension of the grip 11, the direction of the motor housing 15 (left direction in Figures 1, 21, and 43) will be considered the forward direction, and the opposite direction (right direction in Figures 1, 21, and 43) will be considered the rear direction. Also, when viewed in the direction of extension of the protruding portion 16, the direction of the crimping portion 28 (downward direction in Figures 1, 21, and 43) will be considered the downward direction, and the opposite direction (upward direction in Figures 1, 21, and 43) will be considered the upward direction. Furthermore, the direction perpendicular to these front-rear and up-down directions (left-right direction in Figures 2, 22, and 44) ​​will be considered the left-right direction. However, these directions are defined only for the convenience of explanation and do not represent the direction in actual use. The tool 10 can be used in any direction.

[0021] The tool 10 according to this embodiment is for punching and joining multiple overlapping plates. For example, it can be used in various construction works such as joining steel decks or Fellow decks together, joining extension joints for ceiling joists, and joining studs and runners in partition wall construction. Furthermore, it can be used not only in construction but also in a wide range of applications where overlapping plates are joined.

[0022] The material of the plate P to be joined is not limited. While metal plates are the most commonly considered, it is not limited to metal plates; it may also be a non-metallic plate such as paper or synthetic resin. Furthermore, the plate can be any thin material formed with a nearly uniform thickness, and may even be in sheet form.

[0023] However, of the multiple overlapping plates, at least one plate must be plastically deformable. This is because joining by tool 10 is achieved by folding the cut plate back and causing plastic deformation.

[0024] Furthermore, the multiple sheets that are layered together may be made of different materials. For example, it is possible to join together combinations such as thin steel sheets and paper, thin steel sheets and resin sheets, or thin steel sheets and aluminum or stainless steel.

[0025] The tool 10 according to this embodiment is configured as a portable hand tool, as shown in Figures 1 and 2, etc. The tool 10 may be a stationary type, but making it a hand tool makes it easier to handle. This tool 10 includes a grip 11, a motor housing 15, a protruding part 16, and a crimping part 28. In this embodiment, the grip 11, the motor housing 15, and the protruding part 16 are integrally formed from a single housing member.

[0026] The grip 11 is a rod-shaped part formed to be grasped by an operator. A trigger 12 is provided near the front end of this grip 11.

[0027] The trigger 12 is for activating the reciprocating motion mechanism 20, which will be described later. The trigger 12 is positioned so that it can be pulled by the index finger of an operator holding the grip 11. When the trigger 12 is pulled, a microswitch located inside the trigger 12 is pressed, causing the reciprocating motion mechanism 20 to perform a predetermined series of actions (details of which will be described later).

[0028] A battery mounting section 13 is provided at the rear end of the grip 11. A battery 14 can be attached to and detached from this battery mounting section 13. The battery 14 is a secondary battery that supplies power for use in the tool 10. In this embodiment, the battery mounting section 13 has a mounting surface that is substantially perpendicular to the grip 11, and the battery 14 can be attached to and detached by sliding the battery 14 against this mounting surface (by sliding the battery 14 in the vertical direction in Figure 1).

[0029] In this embodiment, the tool 10 is operated by electricity, but it is not limited to this, and the tool 10 may be operated by other methods. For example, the tool 10 may be operated using air pressure, hydraulic pressure, gas combustion pressure, or even by human power (gripping force). If the operating method is changed in this way, the battery 14 can be replaced with the necessary components. For example, if the tool 10 is operated by air pressure, a connection part to a compressor may be provided instead of the battery mounting part 13.

[0030] The motor housing 15 is the part connected to the tip of the grip 11. Inside this motor housing 15, as shown in Figures 3 and 4, the motor 21 and reduction unit 22 that constitute the reciprocating motion mechanism 20 are housed.

[0031] The protruding portion 16 is a part that is continuously connected below the motor housing portion 15. This protruding portion 16 extends in a direction substantially perpendicular to the grip 11. Inside this protruding portion 16, as shown in Figures 3 and 4, the reciprocating portion 23 that constitutes the reciprocating motion mechanism 20 is housed.

[0032] The crimping portion 28 is provided at the lower end of the protruding portion 16. This crimping portion 28 functions through a reciprocating motion mechanism 20 built into the tool 10 and is the part that crimps and joins multiple plates. This crimping portion 28 has two parts that face each other across a gap G for inserting a plate (the first functional part 30 and the second functional part 40 in the first embodiment, the first functional part 130 and the second functional part 140 in the second embodiment, and the first functional part 230 and the second functional part 240 in the third embodiment, which will be described later). These two parts work together to fold back the cut and bent plate and join them. The details of this crimping portion 28 will be described in detail in the description of each embodiment.

[0033] Next, the reciprocating motion mechanism 20 housed inside the motor housing 15 and the protruding portion 16 will be described. The reciprocating motion mechanism 20 has the function of reciprocating within a certain range and operating the crimping portion 28. Specifically, the reciprocating motion mechanism 20 enables a series of operations in which the punch and die, described later, move relative to each other to cut and raise the plate, and then the clincher and punch guide, described later, move relative to each other to fold back the cut and raised plate.

[0034] The reciprocating motion mechanism 20 is restricted to operating only between a predetermined bottom dead center position and a top dead center position. The reciprocating motion mechanism 20 is configured to operate from the initial state to the bottom dead center position (or top dead center position) and then return to the initial position. In conjunction with this movement, the crimping unit 28 operates, performing a continuous operation of cutting and raising the plate and folding the plate back.

[0035] As shown in Figures 3 and 4, the reciprocating motion mechanism 20 according to this embodiment includes a motor 21, a reduction unit 22, and a forward / backward unit 23.

[0036] The motor 21 is the sole power source for the reciprocating motion mechanism 20. The motor 21 achieves reciprocating motion by rotating the ball screw 25, which will be described later. Power for the motor 21 is supplied from a battery connected to the battery mounting section 13.

[0037] This motor 21 is controlled by a control unit (such as a CPU or control circuit) built into the tool 10. When the control unit detects the operation of the trigger 12, the motor 21 rotates in forward and reverse directions at a predetermined number of rotations. The operation of the motor 21 performed by a single operation of the trigger 12 is predetermined. For example, when the operation of the trigger 12 is detected, the motor 21 may rotate in the forward direction until the reciprocating motion mechanism 20 reaches the bottom dead center position, and then rotate in the reverse direction until the reciprocating motion mechanism 20 reaches the initial position (see the first and second embodiments described later). Alternatively, when the operation of the trigger 12 is detected, the motor 21 may rotate in the forward direction until the reciprocating motion mechanism 20 reaches the bottom dead center position, and then rotate in the reverse direction until the reciprocating motion mechanism 20 reaches the top dead center position, and then rotate in the forward direction until the reciprocating motion mechanism 20 reaches the initial position (see the third embodiment described later).

[0038] The reduction gear 22 is for increasing the torque of the motor 21. This reduction gear 22 is positioned between the output shaft of the motor 21 and the ball screw 25, which will be described later. The torque of the motor 21 is increased by this reduction gear 22 and transmitted to the ball screw 25.

[0039] The forward / backward section 23 is a mechanism for converting the rotational motion of the motor 21 into reciprocating motion. This forward / backward section 23 comprises a main frame 24, a ball screw 25, a nut component 26, and a pusher 27.

[0040] The main frame 24 is a component fixed to the main housing (projection 16) of the tool 10. This main frame 24 rotatably supports the ball screw 25 and supports the nut component 26 so that it can slide up and down.

[0041] The ball screw 25 is positioned along the longitudinal direction of the projection 16. The central axis of the ball screw 25 may be aligned with the output shaft of the motor 21. The ball screw 25 is rotatable inside the projection 16 by the torque of the motor 21. The ball screw 25 rotates around its central axis without moving in the longitudinal direction. A male thread is formed on the outer circumference of the ball screw 25, which engages with the female thread of the nut component 26, described later.

[0042] The nut component 26 is a component that is mounted on the outer circumference of the ball screw 25 so that the ball screw 25 passes through it. The inner surface of the nut component 26 has a female thread that screws onto the male thread formed on the ball screw 25. The rotation of this nut component 26 is restricted by the main frame 24, thereby preventing it from rotating together with the ball screw 25. Therefore, when the ball screw 25 rotates, the nut component 26 moves up and down along the longitudinal direction of the ball screw 25 due to the screw action. For example, when the ball screw 25 rotates in the forward direction, the nut component 26 moves downward, and when the ball screw 25 rotates in the reverse direction, the nut component 26 moves upward.

[0043] The pusher 27 is a component fixed to the nut component 26. This pusher 27 is movable upward and downward integrally with the nut component 26. The pusher 27 extends to the vicinity of the crimping portion 28. The crimping operation (a series of operations of cutting and folding the plate) by the crimping portion 28 is performed in conjunction with the up and down movement of the pusher 27. The pusher 27 may be a separate component from the nut component 26, or the pusher 27 and the nut component 26 may be made of a single component.

[0044] The reciprocating mechanism 23 is not limited to a ball screw 25; it can also be implemented by other means. For example, the reciprocating mechanism 23 may be constructed using an air cylinder or a hydraulic cylinder.

[0045] (First Embodiment) The crimping portion 28 of the first embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to Figures 1 to 20. As shown in Figures 1 and 2, the crimping section 28 comprises a first functional section 30 and a second functional section 40 arranged opposite each other, and an arm section 38 connecting the first functional section 30 and the second functional section 40. The first functional section 30 and the second functional section 40 are arranged side by side on the extension of the reciprocating section 23 (ball screw 25). The first functional section 30 is positioned closer to (above) the reciprocating section 23 than the second functional section 40. A gap G is formed between the first functional section 30 and the second functional section 40 into which the plate P to be joined can be inserted. The gap G is open in the forward direction, allowing the plate P to be joined to be inserted from the front.

[0046] As shown in Figures 5 and 6, the first functional unit 30 includes a tip cylindrical portion 31, a punch 32, a punch guide 33, a spring pin 34, and a punch guide biasing member 35.

[0047] The tip cylindrical portion 31 is a cylindrical member connected to the tip of the protruding portion 16. This tip cylindrical portion 31 is fixed to the main frame 24 by mounting bolts 31a. The internal space of the tip cylindrical portion 31 communicates with the internal space of the protruding portion 16. A pusher 27 can enter the internal space of the tip cylindrical portion 31. The pusher 27 can move up and down inside the tip cylindrical portion 31 in conjunction with the up and down movement of the nut component 26.

[0048] Furthermore, the punch 32 and punch guide 33, which will be described later, are movably housed inside the tip cylinder portion 31.

[0049] The internal space of the tip cylinder portion 31 opens downwards. In other words, an opening 31b is formed at the tip of the tip cylinder portion 31, opening downwards. The punch 32 and punch guide 33 can extend and retract from this opening 31b.

[0050] The punch 32 is a component used to punch and cut out the plate. The punch 32 can be any shape that can punch out the plate, but in this embodiment it is formed in the shape shown in Figure 19. That is, the punch 32 has a chisel-like or wedge-shaped tip that is triangular when viewed from the front and square when viewed from the side.

[0051] In other words, the punch 32 according to this embodiment includes a mounting portion 32a, a large diameter portion 32b, and a pointed portion 32c.

[0052] The mounting portion 32a is a part for fixing to the tip portion 27a of the pusher 27. In this embodiment, the mounting portion 32a is formed in the shape of a cylinder or prismatic column with an anti-rotation shape. As shown in Figure 5, this mounting portion 32a is inserted into a hole formed on the tip surface of the pusher 27. Then, by attaching the spring pin 34 so that it passes through the pusher 27 and the mounting portion 32a in the front-rear direction, the punch 32 is fixed to the tip portion 27a of the pusher 27. Therefore, the punch 32 moves up and down in conjunction with the up and down movement of the pusher 27. It is desirable to mount the punch 32 so that its axis coincides with the axis of the ball screw 25.

[0053] The spring pin 34 is mounted with both ends protruding from the surface of the pusher 27. These protruding ends of the spring pin 34 can engage with the side slits 33a of the punch guide 33, which will be described later.

[0054] The large-diameter portion 32b is a portion that is continuous below the mounting portion 32a and is a cylindrical portion that is larger in diameter than the mounting portion 32a.

[0055] The pointed end 32c is a portion that is continuous below the large-diameter portion 32b and is the portion that is driven into the plate. The pointed end 32c is formed by cutting out the left and right faces and the front and rear faces of the cylinder. On the left and right faces, a straight cut is formed from the middle of the axial direction so that the tip 32d is triangular when viewed from the front. On the front and rear faces, a cut is formed up to near the base. On the front and rear faces, the front and rear faces are parallel from the tip 32d to the middle, and then slope towards the base from the middle. With this configuration, the tip 32d of the pointed end 32c is formed in a chisel-like or wedge shape.

[0056] The left and right surfaces of the pointed tip 32c, and the front and rear surfaces of the pointed tip 32c, will be described in detail below with reference to Figure 19.

[0057] The left and right surfaces of the pointed portion 32c are provided with a straight portion 32i and a pointed surface 32e that is continuous with the tip side of the straight portion 32i.

[0058] The straight section 32i is a curved surface that forms part of the side surface of a cylinder, assuming a cylinder in which the pointed end 32c fits snugly, and extends along the longitudinal direction of the punch 32. Since the diameter of the straight section 32i is smaller than that of the large-diameter section 32b, a step 32j is formed between the straight section 32i and the large-diameter section 32b.

[0059] The pointed surface 32e is an inclined surface that forms an angle at the tip 32d. The pointed surfaces 32e are formed symmetrically with the same shape. The pointed surfaces 32e may be formed by combining multiple planes. It is desirable that the pair of pointed surfaces 32e intersect at an acute angle at the tip 32d, and it is even more desirable that they intersect at an angle of 30 degrees or more and 90 degrees or less. By setting such an angle, when the punch 32 is driven into the board, the tip of the cut board is more likely to open outwards (the board is cut up in a way that makes it curl up). The outward opening of the tip of the board allows the folding by the clincher 44, described later, to be performed properly.

[0060] The front and rear surfaces of the pointed portion 32c are provided with a base R portion 32h, a tapered portion 32g that is continuous with the tip side of the base R portion 32h, and a thickness surface 32f that is continuous with the tip side of the tapered portion 32g.

[0061] The front and rear pair of thickness surfaces 32f are formed parallel to each other. The distance between these pair of thickness surfaces 32f is equal to the thickness (blade length) of the tip 32d of the pointed section 32c. This thickness is preferably between 2 mm and 4 mm, and more preferably between 2.5 mm and 3.5 mm.

[0062] The tapered portion 32g is inclined to widen towards the mounting portion 32a side (upwards). This tapered portion 32g may also be a flat surface.

[0063] The base radius 32h is sloped to widen as it moves towards the mounting portion 32a (upwards). The base radius 32h is sloped to widen more than the tapered portion 32g. This base radius 32h may also be curved in a mortar shape (concave).

[0064] Thus, the front and rear surfaces of the pointed tip 32c are continuous with the thickness surface 32f, the tapered portion 32g, and the base radius portion 32h. As a result, the shape of the pointed tip 32c gradually widens from the tip 32d towards the base. This shape allows the hole to be widened when the punch 32 is driven into the board, thus mitigating the problem of the punch 32 getting stuck in the board and not coming out.

[0065] Furthermore, when the punch 32 is viewed in the longitudinal direction, the pointed surface 32e and the thickness surface 32f are formed from the tip 32d to approximately the same position. For this reason, when the punch 32 is viewed in the longitudinal direction, the pointed surface 32e (inclined surface) is not formed at the same position where the tapered portion 32g and the base radius portion 32h are formed, and instead a straight portion 32i is formed there.

[0066] The punch guide 33 is a component positioned near the punch 32. In this embodiment, the punch guide 33 is positioned to cover the punch 32. The punch guide 33 is also positioned opposite the clincher 44, which will be described later. The punch guide 33 functions to hold down the end of the plate cut by the punch 32 so that it does not slip when the clincher 44 folds it back. The punch guide 33 is a cylindrical component that is slidable up and down along the inner circumferential surface of the tip cylindrical portion 31.

[0067] Side slits 33a are formed on the sides (front and rear) of the punch guide 33. The side slits 33a are cut out in the circumferential surface of the punch guide 33 in the shape of elongated rectangular holes and extend in the vertical direction. These side slits 33a function as a restricting means to restrict the relative movement between the punch 32 and the punch guide 33. That is, as shown in Figure 5, a spring pin 34 that passes through the punch 32 is movably inserted into these side slits 33a. The spring pin 34 can move freely in the longitudinal direction (vertical direction) of the side slit 33a, but it cannot move beyond the upper and lower ends of the side slit 33a. Therefore, the relative position between the punch 32 and the punch guide 33 is limited to the vertical width of these side slits 33a. Specifically, when the spring pin 34 engages with the upper end of the side slit 33a, this state is the top dead center position of the punch 32 relative to the punch guide 33, and the punch 32 cannot move any further upward relative to the punch guide 33. Furthermore, when the spring pin 34 engages with the lower end of the side slit 33a, this position is the bottom dead center position of the punch 32 relative to the punch guide 33, and the punch 32 will not move any further downward relative to the punch guide 33.

[0068] A punch hole 33b is formed on the lower end surface of the punch guide 33, through which the punch 32 can extend and retract. As described above, the spring pin 34 slides within the side slit 33a, which changes the relative position between the punch 32 and the punch guide 33. This causes the punch 32 to move in a direction that protrudes from the punch hole 33b, or conversely, to move in a direction that retracts into the punch hole 33b.

[0069] The diameter of the punch hole 33b is such that the pointed tip 32c of the punch 32 can pass through, but the large diameter portion 32b cannot pass through.

[0070] The punch guide biasing member 35 is a member for biasing the punch guide 33 downward. In this embodiment, the punch guide biasing member 35 is a compression spring, but other known biasing means may be used. The upper end of the punch guide biasing member 35 biases the tip 27a of the pusher 27 upward, and the lower end biases the peripheral edge of the punch hole 33b of the punch guide 33 downward. As a result, in the initial state when no external force is acting, as shown in Figure 5, the punch guide 33 is biased downward relative to the punch 32, and the spring pin 34 is pressed against and engaged with the upper end of the side slit 33a. This state is when the punch 32 is most retracted relative to the punch guide 33. At this time, the tip of the punch 32 may protrude from the punch guide 33. The user can insert the plate by looking at the position of the tip of the punch 32 and can work after confirming the joining point (where the plate is cut and raised) in advance.

[0071] The arm portion 38 is the part that connects the first functional portion 30 and the second functional portion 40. In this embodiment, the arm portion 38 is formed in a substantially U-shape when viewed from the side, with the first functional portion 30 and the second functional portion 40 provided at both ends. The substantially U-shape of the arm portion 38 opens forward, allowing the plate P to be joined to be inserted through this opening.

[0072] The upper end of the arm portion 38 is substantially integrated with the tip cylindrical portion 31. The arm portion 38 and the tip cylindrical portion 31 may be formed from a single component, or the arm portion 38 and the tip cylindrical portion 31 may be fixed in a way that prevents them from moving.

[0073] The lower end of the arm portion 38 forms a tip receiving portion 38a for mounting the second functional portion 40. The tip receiving portion 38a is constructed by having the tip of the arm portion 38 protrude forward. The upper surface of this tip receiving portion 38a is a mounting surface 38b perpendicular to the direction in which the punch 32 is driven. Various components constituting the second functional portion 40 are attached to this mounting surface 38b.

[0074] The tip receiving portion 38a has a clincher holding hole 38c formed through its center. The clincher holding hole 38c is provided to securely attach the clincher 44.

[0075] A circular die sliding groove 38d is formed on the mounting surface 38b, surrounding the clincher holding hole 38c. This die sliding groove 38d is a groove for guiding the die 41, which will be described later, so that it can slide up and down. This die sliding groove 38d is also used to mount the die biasing member 43, which will be described later.

[0076] As shown in Figures 5 and 6, the second functional unit 40 includes a die 41, a die fall prevention member 42, a die biasing member 43, a clincher 44, a timing block 46, a block biasing member 47, a support block 48, and an O-ring 49.

[0077] The die 41 is a component positioned opposite the punch 32. The die 41 functions to support the plate so that it does not slip when the punch 32 cuts and raises the plate. The die 41 is a cylindrical component as shown in Figure 20, and comprises a peripheral wall portion 41a and a receiving portion 41b that covers the upper surface of the peripheral wall portion 41a. Inside the die 41, a cylindrical space is formed as shown in Figure 20. The bottom surface of the die 41 is completely open, so that the internal space is exposed when viewed from the bottom side.

[0078] The peripheral wall portion 41a is formed in a cylindrical shape with the same diameter, but the area near the lower end protrudes slightly in the radial direction. This protruding flange-like portion is a retaining portion 41g that engages with the die detachment prevention member 42, which will be described later. The retaining portion 41g may be formed in a flange shape around the entire circumference, or it may be formed only on a part of the circumference.

[0079] The peripheral wall portion 41a is positioned so that its lower end faces the die sliding groove 38d, and is retractable into the die sliding groove 38d. In other words, by extending and retracting the peripheral wall portion 41a from the die sliding groove 38d, the die 41 can move up and down within a predetermined range.

[0080] The receiving portion 41b forms a surface perpendicular to the direction in which the punch 32 is ejected. By ejecting the punch 32 onto the plate supported by this receiving portion 41b, the plate can be punched out.

[0081] A slit 41c is formed in the receiving portion 41b to allow the punch 32 that punches through the plate to pass through, and to allow the clincher 44, described later, to act on the plate. The slit 41c is formed to cross the center of the receiving portion 41b in the left-right direction. The width (front-to-back width) of the slit 41c is set to a width that allows the pointed head 32c of the punch 32 to pass through. Also, as shown in Figure 20(e), the width (front-to-back width) of the slit 41c is formed to be approximately equal to the front-to-back width of the clinching surface 44a of the clincher 44, described later.

[0082] As shown in Figure 20(a), recesses 41d are formed adjacent to the front and rear of the slit 41c. The recesses 41d are formed in a shape that is slightly recessed below the surface of the receiving portion 41b. The recesses 41d are formed along the slit 41c and are connected to the slit 41c at their bottom. By providing these recesses 41d, when the punch 32 is driven into the plate, the area around the punched hole can be deformed to bulge along the recesses 41d. This deformation makes it less likely for the punch 32 to get stuck in the plate and become difficult to remove.

[0083] Block relief holes 41e are formed through the receiving portion 41b at two locations, front and rear. The block relief holes 41e are provided so that the die 41 does not interfere with the support block 48, which will be described later, when it descends.

[0084] As shown in Figure 20(d), a block support portion 41f is formed protruding from the back surface of the receiving portion 41b. The block support portions 41f are provided in pairs, front and back, between the slit 41c and the block relief hole 41e. The block support portions 41f are formed in a prismatic shape that protrudes downward, and their tip surfaces are formed flat. These tip surfaces are perpendicular to the punching direction of the punch 32.

[0085] As shown in Figure 5, the tip surface of the block support portion 41f faces the support block 48, which will be described later, in the initial state. In this state, the tip surface of the block support portion 41f engages with the upper surface of the support block 48, so the die 41 cannot be lowered. On the other hand, if the support block 48 is moved away from below the block support portion 41f, the die 41 can be lowered. When the die 41 is lowered, the block support portion 41f fits between the pair of support blocks 48, supporting them so that they do not close.

[0086] The die detachment prevention member 42 is a ring-shaped member for attaching the die 41 to the tip receiving portion 38a. The die detachment prevention member 42 is fixed to the mounting surface 38b of the tip receiving portion 38a by fixing means such as screws. An L-shaped locking portion 42a is provided on the inner edge of the die detachment prevention member 42. This locking portion 42a engages with the die 41's retaining portion 41g when the die 41 moves upward, preventing the die 41 from falling off the tip receiving portion 38a. However, the die detachment prevention member 42 prevents the die 41 from coming out upward, and does not prevent the die 41 from moving up and down inside the die sliding groove 38d.

[0087] The die biasing member 43 is a member for biasing the die 41 upward. In this embodiment, the die biasing member 43 is a compression spring, but other known biasing means may be used. The upper end of the die biasing member 43 biases the die 41 upward, and the lower end is housed in the die sliding groove 38d. As a result, in the initial state when no external force is acting, the die 41 is pushed up to the position where the locking portion 42a and the retaining portion 41g engage, as shown in Figure 5.

[0088] The clincher 44 is a component for folding back the plate cut by the punch 32. The clincher 44 is a cylindrical component fixed to the clincher holding hole 38c of the tip receiving portion 38a. The clincher 44 is fixed immovably to the tip receiving portion 38a by a bottom bolt 45 inserted from the lower surface of the tip receiving portion 38a. The clincher 44 is located inside the die 41, which is covered by the die 41.

[0089] The clincher 44 is provided with a pair of left and right clinching surfaces 44a, as shown in Figure 20(e), etc. The clinching surfaces 44a are inclined to protrude towards the first functional part 30 as they move towards the center, as shown in Figure 6. In other words, the clinching surfaces 44a are inclined to become lower towards the outside. This inclination is provided to guide the leading edge of the plate cut and bent by the punch 32 outwards, making it easier to clinch.

[0090] The clincher 44 works in cooperation with the punch guide 33 to clamp the plate and folds back the plate that has been cut and raised by the punch 32. That is, as the punch guide 33 descends to a position close to the clincher 44, the plate held down by the punch guide 33 is pressed against the clincher 44, and the plate clinching is performed. At this time, the leading edge of the plate cut and raised by the punch 32 is set to be pressed against the clinching surface 44a on both the left and right sides, so that both ends of the cut and raised plate are folded outward along the pair of clinching surfaces 44a.

[0091] A block sliding groove 44b is formed between the left and right pair of clinch surfaces 44a. The block sliding groove 44b completely separates the left and right pair of clinch surfaces 44a. The block sliding groove 44b is formed with a width that allows the support block 48, which will be described later, to pass through. Furthermore, the width of this block sliding groove 44b is formed to be approximately equal to the diameter of the straight portion 32i of the punch 32. Therefore, when the punch 32 is inserted into the block sliding groove 44b, the clearance between the two is small. By making the clearance small, it is difficult for the plate to get caught between the punch 32 and the clincher 44. In other words, even if the outward bending of the cut plate is insufficient, a gap will not be created between the punch 32 and the clincher 44 (block sliding groove 44b) for the cut plate to get caught, thus preventing unintended pinching of the plate.

[0092] A ring groove 44c is formed on the circumferential surface of the clincher 44. This ring groove 44c is a groove that holds the O-ring 49, which will be described later. In the initial state, the O-ring 49 is held in the ring groove 44c. Furthermore, when the support block 48, which will be described later, is pushed out, and the O-ring 49 is pushed out as a result, the stretched O-ring 49 comes into close contact with the ring groove 44c.

[0093] The timing block 46 is a component for detecting when the cutting and lifting of the plate by the punch 32 is complete. In other words, the crimping operation according to this embodiment consists of a first step of punching and lifting the plate, and a second step of folding the lifted plate back, and the timing block 46 is a component for physically controlling the transition from the first step to the second step. The timing block 46 is pushed into the punch 32 and moves when the punch 32 moves a predetermined amount toward the die 41 by the reciprocating motion mechanism 20. This allows the timing block 46 to detect when the cutting and lifting of the plate is complete. When the timing block 46 detects that the cutting and lifting of the plate is complete (i.e., when it detects that the punch 32 and the die 41 have approached a predetermined position), the clincher 44 and the punch guide 33 begin to approach each other, and the plate folding process begins.

[0094] The timing block 46 is positioned near the center of the clincher 44. The timing block 46 is provided to be able to move up and down along the clincher 44. As shown in Figure 5, the upper end of the timing block 46 is held down by the die 41 (block support portion 41f), and its upward movement is restricted to prevent it from moving any further.

[0095] A punch receiving hole 46a is formed in the center of the timing block 46 to receive the tip of the punch 32. When the punch 32 descends, it fits into the punch receiving hole 46a, pushing the timing block 46 downwards. As shown in Figures 6 and 20(e), a tapered punch support portion 46b is formed on the opening edge of the punch receiving hole 46a. The punch support portion 46b is formed at the same angle as the pointed surface 32e of the punch 32. When the punch 32 fits into the punch receiving hole 46a, the punch support portions 46b on both sides come into contact with the pointed surface 32e of the punch 32, allowing the thrust force of the punch 32 to be received over a surface. At this time, the tip 32d of the punch 32 does not come into contact with the punch receiving hole 46a. That is, the pointed tip 32d of the punch 32 does not come into contact with the timing block 46, thus preventing wear and damage to the punch 32 and the timing block 46.

[0096] Furthermore, the fact that the timing block 46 is pushed down by the punch 32 means that the punch 32 has been driven in to a sufficient depth and that the cutting and bending of the plate by the punch 32 has been completed. When the timing block 46 is pushed down by the punch 32, the support block 48, which will be described later, is pushed out to its retracted position, allowing the die 41 to descend. As the die 41, which was hindering the descent of the punch guide 33, descends, the punch guide 33 can descend to a position close to the clincher 44, and the plate is folded (clinched) by the punch guide 33 and the clincher 44.

[0097] On the outside of the punch receiving hole 46a of the timing block 46, a folding guide portion 46c is formed that slopes downward as it extends outward (see Figure 6). This folding guide portion 46c is provided to guide the leading edge of the plate cut and bent by the punch 32 outward, making it easier to clinch. As shown in Figure 6, the folding guide portion 46c is continuous with the clinch surface 44a of the clincher 44 in the initial state. However, the slope of the folding guide portion 46c is greater than the slope of the clinch surface 44a.

[0098] The block biasing member 47 is a member for biasing the timing block 46 upward. In this embodiment, the block biasing member 47 is a compression spring, but other known biasing means may be used. The upper end of the block biasing member 47 biases the timing block 46 upward, and the lower end is attached to the bottom bolt 45. As a result, in the initial state when no external force is acting, the timing block 46 is pushed up to a position where it contacts the die 41, as shown in Figure 5.

[0099] The support block 48 is a component that prevents the die 41 from descending until the process of cutting and raising the plate with the punch 32 is completed. The support block 48 is positioned inside the die 41 and is held in place so that it cannot move up or down. The upper surface of the support block 48 forms a flat support surface 48b. This support surface 48b contacts the lower end surface of the block support portion 41f of the die 41, thereby preventing the die 41 from descending. When transitioning from the first process of cutting and raising the plate to the second process of folding the plate back, the support block 48 moves to a retracted position that does not obstruct the descending of the die 41.

[0100] The support block 48 consists of a pair of front and rear segmented pieces 48a. These segmented pieces 48a are biased to move closer to each other by an O-ring 49 mounted on their outer circumference. The O-ring 49 is fitted into a ring-holding groove 48e recessed in the surface of the segmented pieces 48a. A sliding path 48c is formed between this pair of segmented pieces 48a through which the timing block 46 can pass. In the initial state, the sliding path 48c is narrowed by the O-ring 49, and the timing block 46 is sandwiched between the pair of segmented pieces 48a from the front and back.

[0101] A lower tapered portion 48d is formed on the opposing surfaces of the pair of segmented pieces 48a that form the sliding path 48c. The upper part of the sliding path 48c is formed by parallel walls, but the area near the lower end is inclined to narrow the path. This inclined portion is the lower tapered portion 48d. When the timing block 46 is pushed down to the bottom of the sliding path 48c by the punch 32, it eventually reaches the position of the lower tapered portion 48d. When the timing block 46 acts on the lower tapered portion 48d, the force pushing down the timing block 46 is converted into a force that spreads the pair of segmented pieces 48a apart. Thus, the pair of segmented pieces 48a are spread apart against the biasing force of the O-ring 49. As the pair of segmented pieces 48a are spread apart, the support block 48 moves to the retracted position (no longer hindering the descent of the die 41). As a result, the engagement between the support surface 48b and the die 41 (block support portion 41f) is released, allowing the die 41 to descend.

[0102] Next, we will describe the operation when crimping the plate P to be joined using tool 10. First, in the initial state shown in Figures 5 and 6, the plate P to be joined is inserted into the gap G between the first functional unit 30 and the second functional unit 40. Then, the crimping operation is performed when the trigger 12 is operated. When the crimping operation is performed, the motor 21 starts rotating in the forward direction, and the rotational force of the motor 21 rotates the ball screw 25, causing the nut component 26 and the pusher 27 to move downward.

[0103] Figures 7 and 8 show the punch guide 33 in contact with the board. As shown in this diagram, as the pusher 27 moves downward, the punch 32 fixed to the pusher 27 also descends. As the punch 32 descends, its tip 32d is driven into the plate P to be joined. The punch 32 punches through the plate and cuts the periphery of the hole downward.

[0104] Furthermore, the punch guide 33, which is biased downward in relation to the pusher 27, also descends together with the pusher 27. When the punch guide 33 descends to the position shown in Figures 7 and 8, it comes into contact with the upper surface of the plate P to be joined, and the descent of the punch guide 33 stops. In other words, since the die 41 is prevented from descending by the support block 48, it is not possible to push down the plate P to be joined that is in contact with the die 41, and therefore the punch guide 33 cannot move any further downward.

[0105] Subsequently, the motor 21 continues to rotate in the forward direction, and the nut component 26 and pusher 27 move further downward.

[0106] Figures 9 and 10 show how the punch 32 punches through the board. As shown in this diagram, as the pusher 27 moves further downward, the punch 32 fixed to the pusher 27 also moves further down. As the punch 32 moves downward, it is driven deeper into the plate P to be joined. The periphery of the hole formed in the plate is cut and bent downward.

[0107] On the other hand, the punch guide 33 cannot move downward. Therefore, only the punch 32 moves downward. At this time, the pusher 27 moves downward against the biasing force of the punch guide biasing member 35. Also, the spring pin 34 moves downward along the side slit 33a of the punch guide 33.

[0108] Subsequently, the motor 21 continues to rotate in the forward direction, and the nut component 26 and pusher 27 move further downward.

[0109] Figures 11 and 12 show the state when the punch 32 has reached the timing block 46. As the pusher 27 moves further downward, the punch 32 fixed to the pusher 27 also descends further. When the punch 32 reaches the timing block 46, the cutting of the plate is considered complete. The pointed surface 32e of the punch 32 comes into contact with the punch support portion 46b of the timing block 46, and the timing block 46 can receive the force of the movement of the punch 32. Furthermore, the punch guide 33 remains stopped.

[0110] Subsequently, the motor 21 continues to rotate in the forward direction, and the nut component 26 and pusher 27 move further downward.

[0111] Figures 13 and 14 show the state in which the timing block 46 pushes the support block 48 outwards. As the pusher 27 moves further downward, the punch 32 fixed to the pusher 27 also moves further down. The punch 32 pushes down the timing block 46 against the biasing force of the block biasing member 47. The timing block 46 acts on the lower tapered portion 48d of the support block 48, causing the divided pieces 48a of the support block 48 to spread apart from each other, against the biasing force of the O-ring 49.

[0112] As the support block 48 is pushed outwards, the support block 48 that was located below the block support portion 41f of the die 41 disappears, allowing the die 41 to move downward.

[0113] Subsequently, the motor 21 continues to rotate in the forward direction, and the nut component 26 and pusher 27 move further downward.

[0114] Figures 15 and 16 show the state in which die 41 has begun to descend. As the pusher 27 moves further downward, the punch 32 fixed to the pusher 27 also moves further down. At this time, the step 32j formed between the straight portion 32i and the large-diameter portion 32b of the punch 32 engages with the opening edge of the punch hole 33b of the punch guide 33, and a force acts on the punch 32 to push down the punch guide 33.

[0115] At this time, the support block 48, which had been preventing the die 41 from moving downward, is retracted, and the punch guide 33 pushes down the plate P to be joined and the die 41. The die 41 and the plate P to be joined descend together with the punch guide 33, against the biasing force of the die biasing member 43.

[0116] As the plate P to be joined descends, the tip of the portion cut and raised by the punch 32 approaches the clinch surface 44a of the clincher 44.

[0117] Subsequently, the motor 21 continues to rotate in the forward direction, and the nut component 26 and pusher 27 move further downward.

[0118] Figures 17 and 18 show the completed clinch. As the pusher 27 moves further downward, the punch 32 fixed to the pusher 27 and the punch guide 33 engaged with the punch 32 also descend further. The descending punch guide 33 presses the plate P to be joined against the clincher 44. The tip of the cut-up plate, pressed against the clincher 44, slides outward along the slope of the clinch surface 44a of the clincher 44. In this way, the tip of the cut-up plate is gradually bent, and finally, it is completely bent and sandwiched between the clinch surface 44a and the punch guide 33, completing the clinching. The bent plate is plastically deformed and compressed, so that multiple overlapping plates are joined together.

[0119] At this time, as shown in Figure 18, the punch 32 has descended to a position where its straight portion 32i is inserted into the block sliding groove 44b of the clincher 44. Therefore, there is no gap between the punch 32 and the clincher 44 into which a plate can get stuck, making clinching failures less likely.

[0120] Furthermore, as shown in Figure 17, the punch 32 is deeply inserted into the plate P to be joined, up to the tapered portion 32g or the base R portion 32h. By inserting the punch 32 into the plate P up to the tapered portion 32g or the base R portion 32h, the hole made in the plate is widened, making it less likely for the punch 32 to get stuck in the plate and become difficult to remove.

[0121] Once the clinching is complete, the motor 21 is reversed to move the nut component 26 and pusher 27 upward. After the motor 21 has been reversed until the nut component 26 and pusher 27 are in their initial positions, control is executed to stop the motor 21. As a result, the punch 32 rises and is pulled out of the plate. The punch guide 33 also rises, and the clamping on the plate is released. Each component returns to the initial state shown in Figures 5 and 6 due to the action of a compression spring or the like. This completes one crimping operation.

[0122] Thus, in this embodiment, the tool 10 is configured such that the punch 32 moves a predetermined amount toward the die 41 by the reciprocating motion mechanism 20 to cut and raise the plate, and then the position of the punch guide 33 relative to the clincher 44 changes by the reciprocating motion mechanism 20, thereby causing the plate to be folded back. In other words, by simply using a well-known mechanism that performs reciprocating motion, the plate cutting and raising operation and the plate folding operation can be performed in succession.

[0123] In this embodiment, the reciprocating motion mechanism 20 is configured using a motor 21 and a ball screw 25, but any reciprocating motion mechanism 20 can be used. That is, the same function can be achieved with any reciprocating motion mechanism 20, such as an air cylinder, a hydraulic cylinder, or a manual gripping mechanism.

[0124] Furthermore, the reciprocating motion provided by the reciprocating motion mechanism 20 does not necessarily have to be linear motion. For example, it may reciprocate in another manner, such as oscillating or rotating.

[0125] (Second Embodiment) A second embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to Figures 21 to 42. The characteristic feature of this embodiment is that the die 141 and clincher 144 are driven by the reciprocating mechanism 20. In other words, in the first embodiment, the punch 32 and punch guide 33 were driven by the reciprocating mechanism 20, but in this embodiment, the punch 132 and punch guide 133 are not driven by the reciprocating mechanism 20. Note that the basic configuration of this embodiment is the same as that of the first embodiment, so to avoid duplication, only the differences will be described.

[0126] As shown in Figures 21 and 22, the crimping section 28 comprises a first functional section 130 and a second functional section 140 arranged opposite each other, and an arm section 138 connecting the first functional section 130 and the second functional section 140. The first functional section 130 and the second functional section 140 are arranged side by side on the extension of the reciprocating section 23 (ball screw 25). The first functional section 130 is positioned closer to (above) the reciprocating section 23 than the second functional section 140. A gap G is formed between the first functional section 130 and the second functional section 140 into which the plate P to be joined can be inserted. The gap G is open in the forward direction, allowing the plate P to be joined to be inserted from the front.

[0127] As shown in Figures 25 and 26, the first functional unit 130 includes a tip cylindrical portion 131, a clincher 144, a die 141, a spring pin 134, and a hook 155.

[0128] The tip cylindrical portion 131 is a cylindrical member connected to the tip of the protruding portion 16. This tip cylindrical portion 131 is fixed to the main frame 24 by mounting bolts 131a. The internal space of the tip cylindrical portion 131 communicates with the internal space of the protruding portion 16. A pusher 27 can enter the internal space of the tip cylindrical portion 131. The pusher 27 can move up and down inside the tip cylindrical portion 131 in conjunction with the up and down movement of the nut component 26.

[0129] Furthermore, the die 141 and clincher 144, which will be described later, are movably housed inside the tip cylinder portion 131.

[0130] The internal space of the tip cylinder portion 131 opens downward. In other words, an opening 131b is formed at the tip of the tip cylinder portion 131, which opens downward. The die 141 and clincher 144 can move in and out through this opening 131b.

[0131] The clincher 144 is a component for folding back the plate cut and raised by the punch 132. The clincher 144 is fixed to the tip 27a of the pusher 27. Specifically, as shown in Figure 25, the clincher 144 is inserted into a hole formed on the tip surface of the pusher 27. Then, in this state, the clincher 144 is fixed to the tip 27a of the pusher 27 by attaching a spring pin 134 so as to pass through the pusher 27 and the clincher 144 in the front-rear direction. Therefore, the clincher 144 moves up and down in conjunction with the up and down movement of the pusher 27. The clincher 44 is slidably positioned inside the die 41.

[0132] The clincher 144 is provided with a pair of left and right clinching surfaces 144a. As shown in Figure 26, the clinching surfaces 144a are inclined to protrude towards the second functional section 140 as they move towards the center. In other words, the ends of the clinching surfaces 144a are set so that the central end is closer to the second functional section 140 than the outer edge end. This inclination is provided to guide the tip of the cut-up plate outward, making it easier to clinch.

[0133] The clincher 144 works in cooperation with the punch guide 133 to clamp the plate and fold back the plate that has been cut and raised by the punch 132. That is, as the clincher 144 descends to a position close to the punch guide 133, the plate supported by the punch guide 133 is pressed down by the clincher 144, and the plate is clinched. At this time, the leading edge of the plate that has been cut and raised by the punch 132 is set to be pressed against the clinching surface 144a on both the left and right sides, so that both ends of the cut and raised plate are folded outward along the pair of clinching surfaces 144a.

[0134] A punch recess 144b is formed between the left and right clinch surfaces 144a. The punch recess 144b is provided as a clearance to prevent the punch 132 and clincher 144 from interfering with each other when clinching is performed. The punch recess 144b is formed to a sufficient depth to allow clearance for the punch 132.

[0135] The die 141 is a component positioned opposite the punch 132, which will be described later. The die 141 functions to support the plate so that it does not slip when the plate is cut and raised by the punch 132. The die 141 is a cylindrical component and comprises a peripheral wall portion 141a, a receiving portion 141b that covers the lower surface of the peripheral wall portion 141a, and a hook attachment portion 141e provided near the upper end of the peripheral wall portion 141a. A cylindrical space is formed inside the die 141. The top surface of the die 141 is open, and the pusher 27 is configured to enter the inside of the die 141 through this opening.

[0136] The peripheral wall portion 141a has a roughly oval cross-sectional shape. The surface of the peripheral wall portion 141a is in slidable contact with the inner circumferential surface of the tip cylindrical portion 131. Therefore, the die 141 can slide up and down along the tip cylindrical portion 131.

[0137] The receiving portion 141b forms a surface perpendicular to the punching direction (vertical direction) of the punch 132. By punching the plate supported by this receiving portion 141b with the punch 132, the plate can be punched out.

[0138] A slit 141c is formed in the receiving portion 141b to allow the punch 132 that punches through the plate to pass through, and to allow the clincher 144, described later, to act on the plate. The slit 141c is formed to cross the center of the receiving portion 141b in the left-right direction. The slit 141c is formed so that the pointed end 132c (described later) of the punch 132 can pass through it. In addition, the slit 141c is formed so that the clinching surface 144a of the clincher 144, described later, can just barely pass through it. That is, the width (front-to-back width) of the slit 141c is formed to be approximately equal to the front-to-back width of the clinching surface 144a of the clincher 144, so as little clearance as possible between the clinching surface 144a and the receiving portion 141b.

[0139] Side slits 141d are formed on the sides (front and rear) of the die 141. The side slits 141d are formed by cutting out a portion of the peripheral wall 141a of the die 141 in the shape of an elongated rectangular hole, and extend in the vertical direction. These side slits 141d function as a restricting means for restricting the relative movement between the die 141 and the clincher 144. That is, as shown in Figure 25, a spring pin 134 that passes through the clincher 144 is movably inserted into these side slits 141d. The spring pin 134 can move freely in the longitudinal direction (vertical direction) of the side slit 141d, but it cannot move beyond the upper and lower ends of the side slit 141d. Therefore, the relative position between the die 141 and the clincher 144 is limited to the vertical width of these side slits 141d. Specifically, when the spring pin 134 engages with the upper end of the side slit 141d, this is the top dead center position of the clincher 144 relative to the die 141, and the clincher 144 will not move any further upward relative to the die 141. Also, when the spring pin 134 engages with the lower end of the side slit 141d, this is the bottom dead center position of the clincher 144 relative to the die 141, and the clincher 144 will not move any further downward relative to the die 141.

[0140] The hook mounting portion 141e is a part for attaching the hook 155, which will be described later, to the die 141. Multiple hook mounting portions 141e are provided, and in this embodiment, they are formed in two locations, front and rear. The hook 155 is rotatably attached to the hook mounting portion 141e via a pivot pin 156.

[0141] The hook 155 is a component for linking the die 141 and the clincher 144. The hook 155 is rotatably mounted on the die 141. Specifically, the hook 155 is rotatable around a pivot pin 156 attached to the hook mounting portion 141e of the die 141. The hook 155 is rotatably supported near its upper end by the pivot pin 156, and can assume a closed state with its lower end close to the die 141 and an open state with its lower end open outwards. As shown in Figure 26, the hook 155 is provided in a pair, left and right.

[0142] The hook 155 includes a pivot arm 155a that extends downward from the pivot pin 156. In the closed position, this pivot arm 155a extends vertically, as shown in Figure 26. In the open position, the pivot arm 155a extends diagonally with its lower part open outward, as shown in Figure 38.

[0143] The rotating arm 155a is provided with a pressed portion 155b on its inner surface. The pressed portion 155b is a roughly L-shaped notch that receives the tip 27a of the pusher 27. When the pusher 27 descends, the tip 27a of the pusher 27 pushes down the pressed portion 155b, thereby pushing down the hook 155 as well. The pressed portion 155b is positioned inward from the rotating pin 156 when viewed in the left-right direction. Therefore, when the tip 27a of the pusher 27 pushes down the pressed portion 155b, this force is converted into a force that tries to rotate the hook 155 outward. Thus, when the tip 27a of the pusher 27 pushes down the pressed portion 155b, a force is acting on the hook 155 in a downward and diagonally outward direction.

[0144] In this embodiment, the pusher 27 pushes the pressed portion 155b downward, but other members may also push down the pressed portion 155b. In other words, it is sufficient that the pressed portion 155b is substantially pushed down by the pusher 27, and another member (such as the clincher 144) that moves integrally with the pusher 27 may also push down the pressed portion 155b.

[0145] The rotating arm 155a is equipped with a die engaging portion 155c near its tip. The die engaging portion 155c is a part that can contact the side surface of the die 141, etc. The die engaging portion 155c is provided to contact the die 141 when the hook 155 is in the closed position, thereby stabilizing the position of the hook 155. The rotating arm 155a is prevented from rotating further inward when the die engaging portion 155c contacts the die 141.

[0146] The rotating arm 155a is provided with an internal sliding surface 155d on a part of its inner surface. The internal sliding surface 155d functions as a sliding surface when another member (pusher 27) slides on the inside of the hook 155 when the hook 155 is in the open position. In this embodiment, the internal sliding surface 155d is formed continuously with the tip of the pressed portion 155b.

[0147] As shown in Figure 38, when the hooks 155 are in the open position, a passage is formed between the pair of hooks 155 through which the pusher 27 can pass. At this time, the inner sliding surface 155d comes into contact with the side surface of the pusher 27.

[0148] The rotating arm 155a has an outer sliding surface 155e on a part of its outer surface. The outer sliding surface 155e is formed to face the inner circumferential surface of the tip cylindrical portion 131 when the hook 155 is in the closed position. Since the hook 155 is attached to the die 141, when the die 141 slides up and down inside the tip cylindrical portion 131, the hook 155 also slides up and down inside the tip cylindrical portion 131. At this time, the outer sliding surface 155e functions as a sliding surface when the hook 155 slides inside the tip cylindrical portion 131.

[0149] As shown in Figure 26, when the hook 155 is housed inside the tip cylindrical portion 131, the outer sliding surface 155e is pressed down by the inner circumferential surface of the tip cylindrical portion 131, preventing the hook 155 from rotating outward, and thus the hook 155 remains in a closed state. On the other hand, when the hook 155 is pushed out of the tip cylindrical portion 131, the pressure on the outer sliding surface 155e is released. With the pressure on the outer sliding surface 155e released, as shown in Figure 38, the hook 155 becomes rotatable outward, and the hook 155 can be in an open state.

[0150] The arm portion 138 is the part that connects the first functional portion 130 and the second functional portion 140. In this embodiment, the arm portion 138 is formed in a substantially U-shape when viewed from the side, with the first functional portion 130 and the second functional portion 140 provided at both ends. The substantially U-shape of the arm portion 138 opens forward, allowing the plate P to be joined to be inserted through this opening.

[0151] The upper end of the arm portion 138 is substantially integrated with the tip cylindrical portion 131. The arm portion 138 and the tip cylindrical portion 131 may be formed from a single component, or the arm portion 138 and the tip cylindrical portion 131 may be fixed in a way that prevents them from moving.

[0152] The lower end of the arm portion 138 forms a tip receiving portion 138a for mounting the second functional portion 140. The tip receiving portion 138a is constructed by having the tip of the arm portion 138 protrude forward. The upper surface of this tip receiving portion 138a is a mounting surface 138b perpendicular to the punching direction of the punch 132. Various components constituting the second functional portion 140 are attached to this mounting surface 138b.

[0153] The tip receiving portion 138a has a punch holding hole 138e formed through its center. The punch 132, which will be described later, is fixedly in place in the punch holding hole 138e.

[0154] A circular punch guide sliding groove 138c is formed on the mounting surface 138b, surrounding the punch holding hole 138e. This punch guide sliding groove 138c is a groove for guiding the punch guide 133, which will be described later, to slide up and down. This punch guide sliding groove 138c is also used to mount the punch guide biasing member 135, which will be described later.

[0155] As shown in Figures 25 and 26, the second functional unit 140 includes a punch 132, a punch guide 133, a punch guide fall prevention member 136, and a punch guide biasing member 135.

[0156] The punch 132 is a component for punching and cutting out the sheet metal. The punch 132 only needs to have a shape that can punch out the sheet metal. For example, it may have the same shape as in Figure 19. For example, the punch 132 may have a large diameter section 132b and a pointed section 132c.

[0157] The large-diameter portion 132b is a cylindrical part. The lower end of this large-diameter portion 132b is inserted into the punch holding hole 138e of the tip receiving portion 138a. The large-diameter portion 132b is then fixed to the tip receiving portion 138a by a bottom bolt 145 inserted from the lower surface of the tip receiving portion 138a.

[0158] The pointed portion 132c is a part that is continuous above the large-diameter portion 132b and is the part that is driven into the plate. The tip of the pointed portion 132c may be formed in the shape of a chisel or a wedge.

[0159] The punch guide 133 is a component positioned near the punch 132. In this embodiment, the punch guide 133 is positioned to cover the punch 132. The punch guide 133 is also positioned opposite the clincher 144. The punch guide 133 functions to hold down the end of the plate cut by the punch 132 so that it does not slip when the clincher 144 folds it back. The punch guide 133 is a cylindrical component and comprises an upright portion 133c and a support surface 133a that covers the upper surface of the upright portion 133c. A cylindrical space is formed inside the punch guide 133.

[0160] The upright portion 133c is formed in a cylindrical shape with the same diameter, but the area near the lower end protrudes slightly in the radial direction. This protruding flange-like portion is a projection 133d that engages with the punch guide fall prevention member 136, which will be described later. The projection 133d may be formed in a flange shape around the entire circumference, or it may be formed only on a part of the circumference.

[0161] The upright portion 133c is positioned so that its lower end faces the punch guide sliding groove 138c, and is retractable into the punch guide sliding groove 138c. In other words, by extending and retracting the upright portion 133c from the punch guide sliding groove 138c, the punch guide 133 can move up and down within a predetermined range.

[0162] The support surface 133a forms a surface perpendicular to the punching direction of the punch 132. When the clincher 144 acts on the plate supported by this support surface 133a, the plate that has been cut upward can be bent by the clincher 144.

[0163] A punch hole 133b is formed in the support surface 133a, through which the punch 132 can extend and retract. As described above, the vertical movement of the punch guide 133 changes the relative position between the punch 132 and the punch guide 133, causing the punch 132 to protrude from the punch hole 133b or, conversely, to retract into the punch hole 133b.

[0164] The punch guide anti-detachment member 136 is a ring-shaped member for attaching the punch guide 133 to the tip receiving portion 138a. The punch guide anti-detachment member 136 is fixed to the mounting surface 138b of the tip receiving portion 138a by fixing means such as screws. An L-shaped locking portion 136a is provided on the inner edge of the punch guide anti-detachment member 136. This locking portion 136a engages with the projection 133d of the punch guide 133 when the punch guide 133 moves upward, preventing the punch guide 133 from falling off the tip receiving portion 138a. However, the punch guide anti-detachment member 136 prevents the punch guide 133 from coming out upward, and does not prevent the punch guide 133 from moving up and down inside the punch guide sliding groove 138c.

[0165] The punch guide biasing member 135 is a member for biasing the punch guide 133 upward. In this embodiment, the punch guide biasing member 135 is a compression spring, but other known biasing means may be used. The upper end of the punch guide biasing member 135 engages with the punch guide 133 and biases it upward, and the lower end is housed in the punch guide sliding groove 138c. As a result, in the initial state when no external force is acting, the punch guide 133 is pushed up to the position where the locking portion 136a and the projection portion 133d engage, as shown in Figure 25. This state is when the punch 132 is most retracted relative to the punch guide 133. At this time, the tip of the punch 132 may protrude from the punch guide 133. The user can insert the plate by looking at the position of the tip of the punch 132 and can work after confirming the joining point (where the plate is cut and raised) in advance.

[0166] Next, we will describe the operation when crimping the plate P to be joined using tool 10. First, in the initial state shown in Figures 25 and 26, the plate P to be joined is inserted into the gap G between the first functional part 130 and the second functional part 140. Then, the crimping operation is performed when the trigger 12 is operated. When the crimping operation is performed, the motor 21 starts rotating in the forward direction, and the rotational force of the motor 21 rotates the ball screw 25, causing the nut part 26 and pusher 27 to move downward.

[0167] Figures 27 and 28 show the state in which the punch 132 and die 141 are in contact with the plate P to be joined. As shown in this diagram, as the pusher 27 moves downward, the clincher 144 fixed to the pusher 27 also descends.

[0168] Furthermore, the tip 27a of the pusher 27 pushes down the pressed portion 155b of the hook 155, causing the hook 155 to descend. Since the hook 155 is connected to the die 141 by a pivot pin 156, the die 141 also descends integrally with the hook 155.

[0169] As the pusher 27 descends in this manner, the clincher 144 and die 141 also descend together. When the receiving portion 141b of the die 141 comes into contact with the plate P to be joined, the plate P is also pushed downward. The upper end of the punch 132 abuts against the lower surface of the pushed-down plate P. At this moment, the plate P is sandwiched between the punch 132 and the die 141.

[0170] Subsequently, the motor 21 continues to rotate in the forward direction, and the nut component 26 and pusher 27 move further downward.

[0171] Figures 29 and 30 show the state when the cutting and bending of the board by the punch 132 has begun. As this diagram shows, as the pusher 27 moves further downward, the clincher 144, which is fixed to the pusher 27, also moves further down.

[0172] Furthermore, the tip 27a of the pusher 27 further pushes down the pressed portion 155b of the hook 155, causing the hook 155 to descend. Since the hook 155 is connected to the die 141 by a pivot pin 156, the die 141 also descends further in conjunction with the hook 155.

[0173] As the die 141 descends, the receiving portion 141b pushes the plate P to be joined downward. A punch 132 is positioned on the lower surface of the pushed-down plate P. The punch 132 punches out the plate and cuts the periphery of the hole upward.

[0174] Furthermore, when the plate P to be joined is pushed down, its lower surface comes into contact with the support surface 133a of the punch guide 133. This allows the plate to be sandwiched between the die 141 and the punch guide 133 from above and below, enabling the punch 132 to be driven in. When the plate is pushed down further, the punch guide 133 moves downward against the biasing force of the punch guide biasing member 135, but the state in which the plate is sandwiched between the die 141 and the punch guide 133 is maintained.

[0175] Subsequently, the motor 21 continues to rotate in the forward direction, and the nut component 26 and pusher 27 move further downward.

[0176] Figures 31 and 32 show the punch guide 133 descending further. As the pusher 27 moves further downward, the clincher 144 and die 141 also descend further. As the die 141 descends, the plate P to be joined is pushed further downward, and the punch 132 is driven in deeper. The punch guide 133, which is in contact with the plate P to be joined, also moves further downward.

[0177] Subsequently, the motor 21 continues to rotate in the forward direction, and the nut component 26 and pusher 27 move further downward.

[0178] Figures 33 and 34 show the state after the cutting and bending of the board by the punch 132 has been completed. As the pusher 27 moves further downward, the die 141 pushes the plate P to be joined further downward, and the punch 132 is driven into the plate P up to the R portion at the base.

[0179] As the pusher 27 descends, the hook 155 is pushed down, and as shown in Figure 34, the outer sliding surface 155e of the hook 155 is eventually exposed outside the tip cylindrical portion 131. With the outer sliding surface 155e completely exposed in this way, the engagement that was holding the hook 155 closed is released.

[0180] Subsequently, the motor 21 continues to rotate in the forward direction, and the nut component 26 and pusher 27 move further downward.

[0181] Figures 35 and 36 show the hook 155 in the open position. As described above, the engagement between the outer sliding surface 155e of the hook 155 and the tip cylindrical portion 131 is released, allowing the hook 155 to move into an open state. In this state, when the tip portion 27a of the pusher 27 pushes down the pressed portion 155b of the hook 155, a force is applied that pushes the hook 155 downward and outward, causing the hook 155 to open as shown in Figure 36.

[0182] The moment the hook 155 opens in this manner, the cutting and lifting of the plate by the punch 132 is considered to be complete. In other words, in this embodiment, the timing of the completion of cutting and lifting the plate is adjusted by the timing at which the outer sliding surface 155e of the hook 155 is extended outside the tip cylindrical portion 131 and opens. After this, since the hook 155 is in the open position, even if the pusher 27 descends, that force will no longer be transmitted to the hook 155. That is, since there is no force pushing down on the hook 155, there is also no force pushing down on the die 141 connected to the hook 155.

[0183] When the plate P to be joined is pushed down to this point, the punch guide 133 is also pushed down to near the bottom of the punch guide sliding groove 138c. However, there is some play between the lower end of the punch guide 133 and the bottom of the punch guide sliding groove 138c, so they will not come into contact if used correctly.

[0184] This clearance is set based on the maximum thickness of the plate P to be joined. For example, if the maximum plate thickness is the thickness of four 0.4mm thin steel plates stacked together (1.6mm), then a clearance of approximately 1.6mm (1.6mm or more) is provided. As a result, even if a plate of 1.6mm or less is sandwiched between the receiving portion 141b of the die 141 and the clinching surface 144a of the clincher 144, a clearance is created between the lower end of the punch guide 133 and the bottom of the punch guide sliding groove 138c, preventing contact between the two.

[0185] Subsequently, the motor 21 continues to rotate in the forward direction, and the nut component 26 and pusher 27 move further downward.

[0186] Figures 37 and 38 show the clincher 144 descending independently of the die 141. As already explained, the hook 155 is in the open position, and even if the pusher 27 descends, that force is not transmitted to the hook 155. Therefore, the hook 155 and die 141 are not pushed down and do not move from the state shown in Figures 35 and 36.

[0187] Meanwhile, the clincher 144 connected to the pusher 27 moves downward inside the die 141. At this time, the inner sliding surface 155d of the hook 155 comes into contact with the side surface of the pusher 27, supporting the downward movement of the pusher 27 from both the left and right sides.

[0188] Additionally, the spring pins 134 attached to the pusher 27 and clincher 144 descend along the side slits 141d of the die 141.

[0189] Subsequently, the motor 21 continues to rotate in the forward direction, and the nut component 26 and pusher 27 move further downward.

[0190] Figures 39 and 40 show the moment when the clinch is initiated by clincher 144.

[0191] As the pusher 27 moves further downward, the clincher 144 fixed to the pusher 27 also descends further. The clinching surface 144a of the descended clincher 144 reaches the tip of the cut-up plate.

[0192] Subsequently, the motor 21 continues to rotate in the forward direction, and the nut component 26 and pusher 27 move further downward.

[0193] Figures 41 and 42 show the completed clinch. As the pusher 27 moves further downward, the clincher 144 fixed to the pusher 27 descends further. The descended clincher 144 is pressed against the plate P to be joined, and the plate is sandwiched between the clincher 144 and the punch guide 133. At this time, the tip of the cut-up plate slides outward along the slope of the clinch surface 144a of the clincher 144. The tip of the cut-up plate is gradually bent, and finally, it is sandwiched between the clinch surface 144a and the punch guide 133 and completely bent, completing the clinching. The bent plate is plastically deformed and compressed, so that multiple overlapping plates are joined to each other.

[0194] At this time, as shown in Figure 42, the punch 132 is inserted all the way into the punch recess 144b of the clincher 144, and there is virtually no clearance between the punch 132 and the punch recess 144b at the position where the bent portion of the clinched plate faces. In other words, there is no gap for the plate to get stuck between the punch 132 and the clincher 144, making clinching failures less likely.

[0195] Furthermore, as shown in Figure 41, if the punch 132 is inserted deeply into the plate P to be joined, up to the tapered portion at its base, the hole made in the plate can be widened, similar to the first embodiment, and the problem of the punch 32 getting stuck in the plate and not being able to be removed is less likely to occur.

[0196] Once the clinching is complete, the motor 21 is reversed to move the nut component 26 and pusher 27 upward. After the motor 21 has been reversed until the nut component 26 and pusher 27 are in their initial positions, control is executed to stop the motor 21. This completes one crimping operation.

[0197] Furthermore, when the motor 21 is reversed after the clinching is complete, each component returns to its initial state due to the following action.

[0198] First, when the motor 21 is reversed, the nut component 26 and the pusher 27 rise, causing the clincher 144 fixed to the pusher 27 to rise.

[0199] As the clincher 144 rises to its predetermined position, the spring pin 134, which passes through the clincher 144, engages with the upper edge of the side slit 141d of the die 141. As the clincher 144 continues to rise, the die 141 is pulled up by the spring pin 134.

[0200] When die 141 is lifted, the pivot pin 156 attached to die 141 is also lifted. As the pivot pin 156 is lifted vertically upward, the hook 155 is also lifted vertically upward, closing the mechanism.

[0201] Subsequently, as the clincher 144 rises further, the die 141 also rises together, and the closed hook 155 is housed inside the tip cylindrical portion 131.

[0202] Due to this mechanism, each component can be returned to its initial state shown in Figures 25 and 26 simply by reversing the motor 21.

[0203] Thus, in this embodiment, the tool 10 is configured such that the die 141 moves a predetermined amount toward the punch 132 by the reciprocating motion mechanism 20 to cut and raise the plate, and then the position of the clincher 144 relative to the punch guide 133 changes by the reciprocating motion mechanism 20, thereby folding the plate back. In other words, by using a well-known mechanism that performs reciprocating motion, the plate cutting and raising operation and the plate folding operation can be performed in succession.

[0204] In this embodiment, the reciprocating motion mechanism 20 is configured using a motor 21 and a ball screw 25, but any reciprocating motion mechanism 20 can be used. That is, the same function can be achieved with any reciprocating motion mechanism 20, such as an air cylinder, a hydraulic cylinder, or a manual gripping mechanism.

[0205] Furthermore, the reciprocating motion provided by the reciprocating motion mechanism 20 does not necessarily have to be linear motion. For example, it may reciprocate in another manner, such as oscillating or rotating.

[0206] (Third embodiment) A third embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to Figures 43 to 60. The characteristic feature of this embodiment is that the process of cutting and raising the plate is performed when the reciprocating motion mechanism 20 is moving forward (downward), and the process of folding the plate back is performed when the reciprocating motion mechanism 20 is moving backward (upward). Since the basic configuration of this embodiment is the same as that of the first embodiment, only the differences will be described to avoid redundant descriptions.

[0207] As shown in Figures 43 to 46, the crimping section 28 comprises a first functional section 230 and a second functional section 240 arranged opposite each other, a connecting arm 238 connecting the first functional section 230 and the second functional section 240, and a tip housing 200 covering the connecting arm 238. The first functional section 230 and the second functional section 240 are arranged side by side on the extension of the reciprocating section 23 (ball screw 25). The first functional section 230 is positioned closer to (above) the reciprocating section 23 than the second functional section 240. A gap G is formed between the first functional section 230 and the second functional section 240 into which the plate P to be joined can be inserted. The gap G is open in the forward direction, allowing the plate P to be joined to be inserted from the front.

[0208] As shown in Figures 47 and 48, the first functional unit 230 includes a tip cylindrical portion 231, a punch 232, a punch guide 233, a punch guide biasing member 235, and a connecting link 236.

[0209] The tip cylindrical portion 231 is a cylindrical member connected to the tip of the protruding portion 16. This tip cylindrical portion 231 is fixed to the main frame 24 by mounting bolts 231a. The internal space of the tip cylindrical portion 231 communicates with the internal space of the protruding portion 16. A pusher 27 can enter the internal space of the tip cylindrical portion 231. The pusher 27 can move up and down inside the tip cylindrical portion 231 in conjunction with the up and down movement of the nut component 26.

[0210] Furthermore, the punch 232 and punch guide 233, which will be described later, are movably housed inside the tip cylinder portion 231.

[0211] The internal space of the tip cylinder portion 231 opens downward. In other words, an opening 231b is formed at the tip of the tip cylinder portion 231, which opens downward. The punch 232 and punch guide 233 can extend and retract from this opening 231b.

[0212] An engaging portion 231c is formed at the opening edge of the opening 231b. The engaging portion 231c is a recess formed by cutting out the opening edge of the opening 231b. The engaging portion 231c is provided to engage with the engaging portion 233d of the punch guide 233, which will be described later.

[0213] The punch 232 is a component used to punch and cut out the plate. The punch 232 can be any shape that can punch out the plate, but in this embodiment, the tip is formed in the shape of a chisel or a wedge.

[0214] Specifically, the punch 32 according to this embodiment is equipped with a pointed tip 232c at its end. The pointed tip 232c has a pointed, inverted triangular shape when viewed from the side, and is plate-shaped when viewed from the front.

[0215] Furthermore, the punch 32 has a pressing portion 232a near the base of the pointed portion 232c. The pressing portion 232a is shaped to engage with the opening edge of the punch hole 233b of the punch guide 233, enabling the punch guide 233 to be pushed down. In this embodiment, the pressing portion 232a is a step formed near the base of the pointed portion 232c and has a surface perpendicular to the punching direction of the punch 32. This perpendicular surface applies a force to push down the punch guide 233.

[0216] In this embodiment, the punch 232 is integrally formed with the tip of the pusher 27. However, the punch 232 only needs to be substantially integrated with the pusher 27, and the punch 232 may be a separate component from the pusher 27 and fixed to the tip of the pusher 27.

[0217] The punch guide 233 is a component positioned near the punch 232. In this embodiment, the punch guide 233 is positioned to cover the punch 232. The punch guide 233 is also positioned opposite the clincher 244, which will be described later. The punch guide 233 functions to hold down the end of the plate cut by the punch 232 so that it does not slip when the clincher 244 folds it back. The punch guide 233 is a cylindrical component that is slidable up and down along the inner circumferential surface of the tip cylindrical portion 231.

[0218] A punch hole 233b is formed on the lower end surface of the punch guide 233, through which the punch 232 can extend and retract. When the punch 232 moves up and down in conjunction with the pusher 27, the punch 232 moves in a direction that protrudes from the punch hole 233b, or conversely, moves in a direction that retracts into the punch hole 233b.

[0219] The diameter of the punch hole 233b is formed to be large enough for the pointed end 232c of the punch 232 to pass through.

[0220] As shown in Figure 48, pin holes 233c for attaching parallel pins 234 are formed on both sides of the punch guide 233. The parallel pins 234 are fixed so as to protrude from both the left and right sides of the punch guide 233. The parallel pins 234 are members that receive the biasing force of the punch guide biasing member 235, which will be described later.

[0221] In this embodiment, the parallel pin 234 is attached to the punch guide 233, but the parallel pin 234 does not necessarily have to be a separate component from the punch guide 233. The parallel pin 234 may be formed integrally with the punch guide 233. Furthermore, the shape that receives the biasing force of the punch guide biasing member 235 does not have to be the parallel pin 234, and can be any shape.

[0222] The lower surface of the punch guide 233 forms a surface perpendicular to the punching direction of the punch 232. At least a portion of the edge of this lower surface protrudes laterally in a flange-like manner to form an engaging portion 233d. This engaging portion 233d can engage with the engaged portion 231c of the tip cylindrical portion 231. Specifically, when the punch guide 233 is pushed upward, the engaging portion 233d and the engaged portion 231c engage, restricting the upward movement of the punch guide 233.

[0223] The punch guide biasing member 235 is a member for biasing the punch guide 233 upward. In this embodiment, the punch guide biasing member 235 is a compression spring, but other known biasing means may be used. The upper end of the punch guide biasing member 235 biases the parallel pin 234 upward, and the lower end biases the peripheral edge of the opening 231b of the tip cylindrical portion 231 downward. As a result, in the initial state when no external force is acting, as shown in Figure 48, the punch guide 233 is biased upward relative to the tip cylindrical portion 231, and the engaging portion 233d of the punch guide 233 is pressed against and engaged with the engaged portion 231c of the tip cylindrical portion 231. This state is when the punch 232 is most retracted relative to the punch guide 233. At this time, the tip of the punch 232 may protrude from the punch guide 233. The user can see the tip position of the punch 232 and insert the board, allowing them to work after confirming the joining point (where the board will be cut and raised) in advance.

[0224] The connecting link 236 is a link that connects the pusher 27 to the connecting arm 238, which will be described later. Because the connecting arm 238 and the pusher 27 are connected by this connecting link 236, the connecting arm 238 moves up and down in conjunction with the pusher 27.

[0225] The connecting arm 238 is a member for connecting the first functional unit 230 and the second functional unit 240. In this embodiment, the connecting arm 238 is formed in a roughly U-shape when viewed from the side, with its upper end connected to the punch 232 and its lower end connected to the clincher 244 (described later). By being connected by this connecting arm 238, the punch 232 and the clincher 244 move up and down together as a single unit. The roughly U-shape of the connecting arm 238 has an opening at the front, through which the plate P to be joined can be inserted.

[0226] The connecting arm 238 comprises a punch connecting portion 238a near its upper end, an arm forming portion 238b extending downward from the punch connecting portion 238a, and a clincher holding portion 238c near its lower end.

[0227] The punch connecting portion 238a is positioned to embrace the pusher 27 and is substantially integrated with the pusher 27 and the punch 232. The punch connecting portion 238a also includes a projection 239, which is shaped for attaching the connecting link 236. The connecting arm 238 is connected to the pusher 27 by the connecting link 236 and moves up and down integrally with the pusher 27 and the punch 232.

[0228] The clincher holding portion 238c is constructed by having the lower end of the arm forming portion 238b protrude forward. The clincher 244, which will be described later, is attached to the upper surface of this clincher holding portion 238c so as to protrude upward.

[0229] The tip housing 200 is positioned to surround the connecting arm 238. This tip housing 200 is substantially fixed to the main housing so as to be continuous with the projection 16. The tip housing 200 may be formed as part of the main housing.

[0230] The tip housing 200 comprises a base portion 201 provided to cover the tip cylindrical portion 231, an arm protection portion 202 positioned along the arm forming portion 238b of the connecting arm 238, and a tip receiving portion 203 provided to cover the clincher holding portion 238c of the connecting arm 238. Similar to the connecting arm 238, the tip housing 200 is formed in a substantially U-shape when viewed from the side. The substantially U-shape of the tip housing 200 opens forward, allowing the plate P to be joined to be inserted through this opening.

[0231] The tip receiving portion 203 formed at the lower end of the tip housing 200 has a die fixing hole 203a and a clincher slit 203b formed therein.

[0232] The die fixing hole 203a is a hole for fixing the die 241 to the tip receiving portion 203. The die 241 is fitted into the die fixing hole 203a and fixed so as not to move. In this embodiment, the upper surface of the tip receiving portion 203 and the upper surface of the die 241 (receiving portion 241b, described later) form the same plane.

[0233] The clincher slit 203b is a slit that allows the clincher 244, which will be described later, to move up and down. The clincher slit 203b communicates with the die fixing hole 203a and is located below the die fixing hole 203a. The clincher slit 203b is formed so as not to interfere with the clincher 244 when the clincher 244 moves up and down.

[0234] The second functional unit 240 includes a die 241 and a clincher 244, as shown in Figures 47 and 48.

[0235] The die 241 is a component positioned opposite the punch 232. The die 241 functions to support the plate so that it does not slip when the plate is cut and raised by the punch 232. The upper surface of the die 241 is a receiving portion 241b that abuts against the plate P to be joined.

[0236] The receiving portion 241b forms a surface perpendicular to the direction in which the punch 232 is ejected. By ejecting the punch 232 onto the plate supported by this receiving portion 241b, the plate can be punched out.

[0237] A slit 241c is formed in the receiving portion 241b to allow the punch 232 that punches through the plate to pass through, and to allow the clincher 244, described later, to act on the plate. The slit 241c is formed to cross the center of the receiving portion 241b in the front-to-back direction. The width of the slit 241c (horizontal width in the left-to-right direction) is set to a width that allows the pointed head 232c of the punch 232 to pass through. Also, the width of the slit 241c (horizontal width in the left-to-right direction) is formed to be approximately equal to the width of the clinching surface 244a of the clincher 244.

[0238] The clincher 244 is a component for folding back the plate cut by the punch 232. The clincher 244 is fixed to the clincher holder 238c of the connecting arm 238. The clincher 244 is fixed to the clincher holder 238c by a bottom bolt 245 inserted from the underside of the clincher holder 238c. The clincher 244 is located inside the die 241.

[0239] As shown in Figure 48, the tip of the clincher 244 is formed as a plate that is thicker than the thickness of the punch 232. As shown in Figure 47, the tip of the clincher 244 forms a V-shaped clinch surface 244a in side view. The clinch surface 244a has a central part that protrudes upward, and both sides are inclined diagonally downward. This diagonally downward inclined portion is provided to guide the tip of the cut plate outward, making it easier to clinch.

[0240] The clincher 244 works in cooperation with the punch guide 233 to clamp the plate and folds back the plate that has been cut and raised by the punch 232. As will be described later, when the clincher 244 rises to a position close to the punch guide 233, the plate supported by the punch guide 233 is pressed against the clincher 244, and the plate is clinched. At this time, the leading edge of the plate that has been cut and raised by the punch 232 is set to be pressed against the clinch surface 244a, so that both the left and right ends that have been cut and raised are folded outwards along the clinch surface 244a.

[0241] Next, we will describe the operation when crimping the plate P to be joined using tool 10.

[0242] First, in the initial state shown in Figures 47 and 48, the plate P to be joined is inserted into the gap G between the first functional unit 230 and the second functional unit 240. Then, the crimping operation is performed when the trigger 12 is operated. When the crimping operation is performed, the motor 21 starts rotating in the forward direction, and the rotational force of the motor 21 rotates the ball screw 25, causing the nut component 26 and the pusher 27 to move downward.

[0243] Figures 49 and 50 show the state where the lowered punch 232 abuts against the plate P to be joined. As shown in this figure, as the pusher 27 moves downward, the punch 232 integrally formed with the pusher 27 also descends. On the other hand, since the punch guide 233 is biased upward by the punch guide biasing member 235, it does not descend. Only the punch 232 descends, causing the tip of the punch 232 to protrude from the punch hole 233b of the punch guide 233. The tip of the protruding punch 232 hits the plate P to be joined. The plate P to be joined has its lower surface abut against the receiving portion 241b of the die 241 and is stably supported.

[0244] Note that when the pusher 27 descends, the connecting arm 238 connected to the pusher 27 also descends simultaneously. For this reason, the crimper 244 attached to the tip of the connecting arm 238 also descends. The crimper 244 slides inside the crimper slit 203b of the tip housing 200.

[0245] After that, the motor 21 continues to rotate forward, and the nut component 26 and the pusher 27 move further downward.

[0246] Figures 51 and 52 show the state where the punch 232 and the punch guide 233 are engaged. As the pusher 27 moves further downward, the punch 232 integrally formed with the pusher 27 also descends further. As a result, the punch 232 protrudes further from the punch hole 233b of the punch guide 233. The punch 232 starts punching the plate P supported by the die 241. The punch 232 penetrates the plate and enters the slit 241c of the die 241.

[0247] When the punch 232 protrudes from the punch hole 233b up to the set maximum protrusion width, the pressing portion 232a of the punch 232 engages with the opening edge (inner surface) of the punch hole 233b. After that, when the punch 232 descends, a force to push down the punch guide 233 acts.

[0248] Subsequently, the motor 21 continues to rotate in the forward direction, and the nut component 26 and pusher 27 move further downward.

[0249] Figures 53 and 54 show the state after the plate has been cut and bent by the punch 232. As the pusher 27 moves further downward, the punch 232, which is integrally formed with the pusher 27, also descends further. Because the pressing portion 232a of the punch 232 is engaged with the opening edge of the punch hole 233b, the pressing portion 232a pushes down the punch guide 233, causing the punch guide 233 to descend against the punch guide biasing member 235.

[0250] The descending punch guide 233 works in cooperation with the die 241 to clamp the plate P to be joined. The further descending punch 232 punches the plate to a greater depth. At this point, the cutting and bending of the plate by the punch 232 is complete, and the forward rotation of the motor 21 stops.

[0251] The timing for stopping the forward rotation of the motor 21 is set based on the maximum thickness of the plate P to be joined. For example, if the maximum plate thickness is the thickness of four 0.4 mm thin steel plates stacked together (1.6 mm), the motor 21 is controlled to stop its forward rotation when the gap between the lower surface of the punch guide 233 and the receiving portion 241b of the die 241 becomes approximately 1.6 mm (1.6 mm or more).

[0252] As the pusher 27 descends, the connecting arm 238 connected to the pusher 27 also descends simultaneously, and the clincher 244 attached to the tip of the connecting arm 238 also descends. Even when the clincher 244 descends to the bottom dead center position, the clincher 244 does not protrude from the tip housing 200. In this way, the clincher 244 is configured to move up and down inside the tip housing 200.

[0253] Subsequently, the motor 21 begins to reverse, and the nut component 26 and pusher 27 move upward.

[0254] Figures 55 and 56 show the punch 232 beginning to rise. As the pusher 27 moves upward, the punch 232, which is integrally formed with the pusher 27, also rises. The plate P to be joined bites into the punch 232 and moves upward.

[0255] The punch guide 233 is biased upward by the punch guide biasing member 235, and therefore rises as the punch 232 rises. In other words, the punch guide 233 rises by the amount by which the downward pressure from the pressing part 232a is released.

[0256] The clincher 244 rises together with the pusher 27. That is, as the pusher 27 pulls up the connecting arm 238, the clincher 244 attached to the end of the connecting arm 238 also rises.

[0257] Subsequently, the motor 21 continues to reverse direction, and the nut component 26 and pusher 27 move further upward.

[0258] Figures 57 and 58 show the state in which the punch 232 is in the process of rising. As the pusher 27 moves further upward, the punch 232, which is integrally formed with the pusher 27, rises further.

[0259] The punch guide 233 is biased upward by the punch guide biasing member 235, and therefore rises as the punch 232 rises. However, the punch guide 233 can only rise to the position where the engaging portion 233d of the punch guide 233 engages with the engaged portion 231c of the tip cylindrical portion 231. When the engaging portion 233d and the engaged portion 231c engage, the upward movement of the punch guide 233 stops.

[0260] After the punch guide 233 stops rising, only the punch 232 rises. As the punch 232 rises, its tip retracts into the punch hole 233b of the punch guide 233. This action pulls the punch 232 out of the plate P to be joined.

[0261] The clincher 244 rises integrally as the pusher 27 rises. After that, the motor 21 continues to reverse, and the nut part 26 and the pusher 27 move further upward.

[0262] Figures 59 and 60 show the state where the clinching is completed. As the pusher 27 moves further upward, the punch 232 integrally formed with the pusher 27 rises further. The punch 232 is completely pulled out from the plate P to be joined.

[0263] The clincher 244 rises integrally as the pusher 27 rises. The raised clincher 244 cooperates with the punch guide 233 to sandwich the plate P to be joined. This state is the state where the folding of the plate by the clincher 244 is completed, and the reverse rotation of the motor 21 stops.

[0264] The timing to stop the reverse rotation of the motor 21 can be set based on the maximum plate thickness of the plate P to be joined. That is, control may be performed so that the reverse rotation of the motor 21 stops in consideration of the position where the clinching is normally performed.

[0265] When the plate is folded by the clincher 244, the tip of the raised plate slides outward along the inclination of the clinching surface 244a of the clincher 244. The tip of the raised plate is gradually bent and finally is sandwiched between the clinching surface 244a and the punch guide 233 and is completely bent, and the clinching is completed. Since the bent plate is in a state of being plastically deformed and crimped, a plurality of overlapping plates are joined to each other.

[0266] When the clinching is completed, the motor 21 is rotated forward again. When the motor 21 is rotated forward until the nut part 26 and the pusher 27 reach the initial positions, control to stop the motor 21 is executed. Thus, one crimping operation is completed.

[0267] Thus, in this embodiment, the tool 10 cuts up the plate by operating the reciprocating motion mechanism 20 in a predetermined direction (the direction in which the pusher 27 descends), and then folds the plate back by operating the reciprocating motion mechanism 20 in the opposite direction to this predetermined direction (the direction in which the pusher 27 rises). In other words, by using a well-known mechanism that performs reciprocating motion, the cutting up operation of the plate and the folding operation of the plate can be performed in succession.

[0268] In this embodiment, the reciprocating motion mechanism 20 is configured using a motor 21 and a ball screw 25, but any reciprocating motion mechanism 20 can be used. That is, the same function can be achieved with any reciprocating motion mechanism 20, such as an air cylinder, a hydraulic cylinder, or a manual gripping mechanism.

[0269] Furthermore, the reciprocating motion provided by the reciprocating motion mechanism 20 does not necessarily have to be linear motion. For example, it may reciprocate in another manner, such as oscillating or rotating.

[0270] (summary) The tool 10 according to this disclosure is a tool 10 for punching and joining multiple stacked plates, and comprises punches 32, 132, 232 for punching and cutting the plates; dies 41, 141, 241 positioned opposite the punches 32, 132, 232; clinchers 44, 144, 244 for folding back the plates cut by the punches 32, 132, 232; punch guides 33, 133, 233 positioned opposite the clinchers 44, 144, 244; and a reciprocating motion mechanism 20 capable of realizing a series of operations, in which the punches 32, 132, 232 and the dies 41, 141, 241 are moved relative to cut the plates, and then the clinchers 44, 144, 244 and the punch guides 33, 133, 233 are moved relative to fold back the cut plates.

[0271] With this configuration, the tool 10 used to punch and join multiple overlapping plates can provide a hand tool that is easy to handle and suitable for on-site construction, while also increasing the strength of the joint.

[0272] In other words, compared to conventional hand tools that simply cut and bend plates, this method allows for bending the cut and bent sections on both sides, resulting in approximately 2 to 4 times greater joint strength.

[0273] Furthermore, folding the cut-out sections on both sides increases the adhesion between the overlapping boards. Also, since the cut-out sections are in a folded position, they do not get in the way of work or layout.

[0274] Furthermore, by overcoming the weakness of punching joints—insufficient bonding strength—it can be easily used for joining dissimilar materials.

[0275] While devices capable of folding back cut-up boards have also been proposed, conventional methods required drive sources on both sides of the board. That is, a drive source for cutting up the board and a drive source for folding it back were necessary. As a result, the devices inevitably became large and unsuitable for hand tools.

[0276] In this regard, the tool 10 of this disclosure realizes the cutting and folding processes of the plate by a single reciprocating motion mechanism 20. Therefore, it is possible to miniaturize the tool 10. In particular, the crimping part 28 that crimps the plate can be made smaller. As a result, it is possible to provide a hand tool that is easy to handle and suitable for on-site construction.

[0277] For example, if the reciprocating motion mechanism 20 is implemented using a ball screw 25, the punches 32, 132, 232, dies 41, 141, 241, clinchers 44, 144, 244, and punch guides 33, 133, 233 may be arranged on the axis of the ball screw 25.

[0278] Furthermore, the clinchers 44, 144, and 244 may be located inside the dies 41, 141, and 241. By arranging the clinchers 44, 144, and 244 inside the dies 41, 141, and 241, the crimping section 28 can be miniaturized.

[0279] Alternatively, the system may be configured so that the clinchers 44, 144, 244 and the punch guides 33, 133, 233 begin to approach each other when the punches 32, 132, 232 and the dies 41, 141, 241 approach each other to a predetermined position.

[0280] In other words, the cutting and folding processes of the sheet metal may be performed in a continuous manner by bringing the punches 32, 132, 232 and dies 41, 141, 241 closer together. Alternatively, the cutting and folding process of the sheet metal may be completed first when the punches 32, 132, 232 and dies 41, 141, 241 are pushed together to predetermined positions, and then the folding process of the sheet metal may be performed when the clinchers 44, 144, 244 and punch guides 33, 133, 233 begin to approach each other.

[0281] This configuration allows for the continuous execution of the sheet metal cutting and folding processes with a simple structure. As a result, it is possible to reduce manufacturing costs through structural simplification and improve maintainability.

[0282] Furthermore, the reciprocating motion mechanism 20 may be operated by a single drive source (motor 21). With this configuration, only one drive source is needed for the reciprocating motion mechanism 20, which allows for miniaturization and improved handling of the tool 10.

[0283] Furthermore, by incorporating a drive source, there is no need to manually operate the tool 10. Manual punching tools have problems such as hand fatigue because the handle is gripped tightly with both hands to crimp, and the inability to hold the material firmly because both hands are being used. In this respect, incorporating a drive source improves work efficiency.

[0284] It should be noted that this disclosure is not limited to the embodiments described above, and various modifications are possible within the scope of the claims. For example, embodiments obtained by appropriately combining the technical means disclosed in different embodiments and modifications are also included in the technical scope of the present invention. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0285] 10 tools 11 Grips 12 Triggers 13 Battery mounting section 14 batteries 15 Motor housing 16 Protrusion 20 Reciprocating mechanism 21. Motor (drive source) 22 Reduction section 23 Advancement and retreat section 24 Mainframes 25 Ball screw 26 Nut parts 27 Pusher 27a Tip 28 Crimping section 30 First Functional Section 31 Tip tube part 31a Mounting bolts 31b opening 32 punches 32a Mounting part 32b Large diameter section 32c pointed head 32d tip 32e pointed surface 32f Thickness surface 32g tapered section 32h Base R part 32i Straight section 32j step 33 Punch Guide 33a Side slits 33b Punch holes 34 Spring Pins 35 Punch guide biasing member 38 Arm section 38a Tip receiving part 38b Mounting surface 38c clincher retaining hole 38d Die sliding groove 40 Second Functional Section 41 Die 41a Peripheral wall part 41b Receiving part 41c slit 41d recess 41e Block escape hole 41f Block support section 41g retaining part 42 Die detachment prevention member 42a Locking part 43 Die biasing member 44 Clincha 44a Clinch surface 44b Block sliding groove 44c ring groove 45 Bottom bolt 46 Timing Blocks 46a Punch receiving hole 46b Punch support section 46c Turnaround guide section 47 Block biasing member 48 Support Blocks 48a Split piece 48b Support surface 48c Sliding path 48d Lower tapered section 48e Ring retaining groove 49 O-rings 130 First Functional Unit 131 Tip tube part 131a Mounting bolts 131b opening 132 punches 132b Large diameter section 132c Point 133 Punch Guide 133a Support surface 133b Punch holes 133c Standing section 133d Protrusion 134 Spring Pins 135 Punch guide biasing member 136 Punch guide fall prevention member 136a Locking part 138 Arm section 138a Tip receiving part 138b Mounting surface 138c Punch guide sliding groove 138e Punch holding hole 140 Second Functional Section 141 Die 141a Peripheral wall part 141b Receiving part 141c Slit 141d Side Slit 141e Hook mounting section 144 Clincha 144a Clinch surface 144b Punch recess 145 Bottom bolt 155 hooks 155a Rotating Arm 155b Pressed portion 155c Die engagement section 155d Internal sliding surface 155e External sliding surface 156 Rotating Pins 200 Tip Housing 201 Proximal end 202 Arm protection section 203 Tip receiving part 203a Die fixing hole 203b Slit for clincher 230 First Functional Unit 231 Tip tube part 231a Mounting bolts 231b opening 231c Engaged part 232 Punch 232a Press down part 232c Pointed head 233 Punch Guide 233b Punch holes 233c pinhole 233d Engagement part 234 parallel pins 235 Punch guide biasing member 236 Linking Links 238 Connecting Arm 238a Punch connection section 238b Arm forming section 238c Clincher retainer 239 Protrusion 240 Second Functional Section 241 Die 241b Receiving part 241c Slit 244 Clincher 244a Clinch surface 245 Bottom bolt P - Plate to be joined G void

Claims

1. A tool for punching through and joining multiple stacked plates, A punch for piercing and cutting through boards, A die positioned opposite the punch, A clincher for folding back the board that has been cut and raised by the punch, A punch guide positioned opposite the clincher, A reciprocating motion mechanism capable of performing a series of operations, including moving the punch and die relative to each other to cut and raise a plate, and then moving the clincher and punch guide relative to each other to fold back the cut plate, Equipped with, tool.

2. The clincher is located inside the die. The tool according to claim 1.

3. The clincher and the punch guide are configured to begin approaching each other when the punch and the die approach each other to a predetermined position. The tool according to claim 1.

4. The aforementioned reciprocating motion mechanism is operated by a single drive source. The tool according to claim 1.

5. After the punch moves a predetermined amount toward the die by the reciprocating mechanism to cut and raise the plate, the position of the punch guide relative to the clincher changes by the reciprocating mechanism, causing the plate to be folded back. The tool according to claim 1.

6. After the die moves a predetermined amount toward the punch by the reciprocating mechanism to cut and raise the plate, the position of the clincher relative to the punch guide changes by the reciprocating mechanism, causing the plate to be folded back. The tool according to claim 1.

7. The reciprocating mechanism is configured to operate in a predetermined direction to cut and raise the board, and then to operate in the opposite direction to the predetermined direction to fold the board back. The tool according to claim 1.

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