Joining Tool Unit

Abstract

The present invention relates to a splicing tool unit (2), which comprises a movable tool (7), a tool counter element (4), a drive unit (8), a light guiding system (9), a light source (10) and a monitoring unit (40). The movable tool and the tool counter element are arranged opposite each other in the splicing tool unit, the light guiding system is designed to guide light of the light source in the direction of a joining point of the workpieces (25) when the workpieces are placed in the splicing tool unit, the movable tool can be moved in the direction of the tool counter element by a drive, and the workpieces are joined by the movement of the movable tool in the direction of the tool counter element when the workpieces are placed in the splicing tool unit. The monitoring unit is designed to control and / or regulate the drive unit and also to control and / or regulate the components of the light source and / or the light guiding system, and the splicing tool unit is designed in such a way that the irradiation or illumination of the joint point by light is terminated at the same time or with a time delay after the start of the movement of the movable tool in the direction of the tool counter element.

Description

Detailed Description of the Invention

[0001] [Prior art] Joining tool units, in particular for clinching, are already known, in which the workpieces are heated at the points intended to be joined by means of, for example, laser beam heat introduction, and the workpieces are joined at the heated points in the heated state.

[0002] A disadvantage of the known joining tool unit is that the joining cycle times of the known joining tool unit are relatively long. It is also known that, as a result of the use of a laser, radiation protection of employees working with the joining tool unit or employees who may be present in the area of ​​the joining tool unit must be ensured. For this purpose, the known joining tool unit is provided with a housing that is configured to be opaque to the light of the laser beam and that surrounds the entire joining tool unit. The known joining tool unit is thereby constructed in a relatively expensive and complex manner.

[0003] [Objectives and Advantages of the Invention] It is an object of the present invention to provide an improved joining tool unit, in particular an object of the present invention to provide an improved joining tool unit capable of carrying out a thermally assisted joining method.

[0004] This object is achieved by the features of claim 1.

[0005] The dependent claims describe advantageous and convenient embodiments of the invention.

[0006] The invention is based on a splicing tool unit, which comprises a movable tool, a tool counter element, a drive unit, a light guiding system, a light source and a control unit, the movable tool and the tool counter element are arranged opposite each other in the splicing tool unit, the light guiding system is configured to guide light of the light source in the direction of a joining point of the workpiece when the workpiece is arranged in the splicing tool unit, the movable tool can be moved in the direction of the tool counter element by the drive unit, the workpiece is joined by a movement of the movable tool in the direction of the tool counter element with the workpiece arranged in the splicing tool unit, the control unit is configured to control and / or adjust the drive unit, the control unit is configured to control and / or adjust the components of the light source and / or the light guiding system, the splicing tool unit is configured such that the irradiation or illumination of the joint point with light is terminated at the same time or with a time delay when the movement of the movable tool in the direction of the tool counter element is started, whereby a relatively short joining cycle time can be achieved.

[0007] It is also contemplated that movement of the movable tool may commence within a time range after cessation of illumination or irradiation of the joint with light, for example, the range may be from 0 milliseconds (ms) to 1000 ms, such as from 0 ms to 500 ms, such as from 0 ms to 250 ms, such as from 0 ms to 100 ms, such as from 0 ms to 50 ms, such as from 0 ms to 40 ms, such as from 0 ms to 30 ms.

[0008] This allows the joining operation with the moveable tool to occur relatively soon after heating of the joint by the light source has been terminated, thereby reducing maximum heating of the joint.

[0009] For example, for a joining operation of workpieces by means of a joining tool unit, the joining tool unit is configured such that movement of the movable tool in the direction of the tool counter-element is initiated and, simultaneously with or after a time delay, irradiation or illumination of the joining site by light is terminated.

[0010] For example, the workpiece may comprise two or more workpiece portions that are joinable together by a joining tool unit.

[0011] The joining tool unit is advantageously designed for installing functional elements, for example punch nuts, rivet nuts, press nuts, bolts, screw elements, into the workpiece and / or for clinching or press joining and / or for installing rivets, for example clinch rivets, solid stamp rivets or semi-hollow stamp rivets. The functional elements can for example be riveted, pressed, stamped or clinched into the workpiece with the joining tool unit.

[0012] For example, by means of the joining tool unit, several workpiece parts can be connected to one another by means of connecting elements, for example rivets, or without connecting elements, for example by a clinching operation. By means of the joining tool unit, it is possible, for example, to install functional elements on a workpiece consisting of only one workpiece part.

[0013] For example, in a joining operation by a joint connection, two or more workpiece parts, which are to be connected to one another by a joining tool unit, can be arranged between the movable tool and the tool counter element. The workpiece parts can be made of different materials. For example, the workpiece parts may have different metal compositions or different material hardness. Preferably, the workpiece part against which the movable tool abuts during the joining operation is harder and / or more brittle than the additional workpiece parts of the workpiece.

[0014] For example, the joining tool unit is configured such that the workpiece portion engaged by the movable tool can be heated by light of the light source. As a result of the ability to heat the workpieces intended to be joined by the joining tool unit, a joining connection can be created between a hard and / or brittle workpiece portion and a workpiece portion made of another material, e.g. a softer material. As a result of the ability to heat the workpieces intended to be joined by the joining tool unit, improvements can be made to already possible or currently known joining applications.

[0015] For example, the movable tool is arranged to be movable along the axis of movement of the bonding tool unit. For example, the movable tool is arranged to be only linearly movable along the axis of movement of the bonding tool unit. For example, the drive unit comprises a linear drive, such as, for example, a pneumatic / hydraulic drive unit, a hydraulic drive unit, a pneumatic drive unit, and / or an electric drive unit.

[0016] For example, the movable tool is in the form of a bottom die unit or a stamp unit. For example, the tool counter element is in the form of a bottom die unit or a stamp unit. It is also conceivable that the movable tool is in the form of a stamp unit and the tool counter element is in the form of a bottom die unit or vice versa. It is also conceivable that the joining tool unit has two movable tools, which are present opposite each other in the joining tool unit.

[0017] For example, the movable tool and / or the tool counter element have a joining surface, for example, such that the workpieces arranged on the joining tool unit are joined at the joining point by means of the joining surface, i.e. the joining tool unit is in direct contact with the workpieces via the joining surface during the joining operation.

[0018] It is conceivable that the joining tool unit is provided such that, with the workpieces placed on the joining tool unit, the moving tool, e.g. the joining surface of the moving tool, has a distance of 2 cm to 20 cm, 2 cm to 15 cm, or 2 cm to 10 cm to the position of the workpieces to be joined before the moving tool starts to move relative to the tool counter-element. For example, the moving tool, e.g. the joining surface of the moving tool, has a distance of 2 cm to 20 cm, 2 cm to 15 cm, or 2 cm to 10 cm to the position of the workpieces to be joined before the moving tool starts to move relative to the tool counter-element. Workpiece For example, the spacing may be the distance between the joining surface of the movable tool and the contact surface of the workpiece where the joining surface of the movable tool engages in the joining operation.

[0019] In particular, the maximum movement speed of the movable tool relative to the tool counter element is between 0.1 m / s and 2 m / s, for example between 1 m / s and 2 m / s. In particular, the maximum movement speed of the movable tool relative to the tool counter element is 0.1 m / s, 0.5 m / s, 0.8 m / s, 1 m / s, 1.1 m / s, 1.2 m / s, 1.3 m / s, 1.4 m / s, 1.5 m / s, 1.6 m / s, 1.7 m / s, 1.8 m / s, 1.9 m / s or 2 m / s.

[0020] For example, the light source is in the form of a laser. It is contemplated that the laser can operate in pulsed and / or continuous laser operation. For example, the wavelength of the light source is matched to the absorption maximum of the material of the workpiece to be processed such that the light from the light source introduces heat into the workpiece as efficiently as possible in terms of energy.

[0021] For example, the light guide system surrounds the light of the light source along a light beam of light, such that the light is blocked by the light guide system from transmitting light and from exiting radially outward relative to the light beam.

[0022] It is further proposed that the splicing tool unit has a pressure element, which for example comprises a light guiding system or a part of a light guiding system. The splicing tool unit is thereby provided in a relatively simplified and in particular relatively cost-effective manner. For example, it is thereby possible to achieve a splicing tool unit that does not require an additional surrounding housing for beam protection of personnel.

[0023] It is also conceivable that the splicing tool unit has a pressure element and the light guiding system is formed on the tool counter element, for example the pressure element and the tool counter element being arranged opposite each other on the splicing tool unit.

[0024] For example, a stamp unit is provided that comprises a presser member and a movable tool, for example the presser member is in the form of a stamp presser member and the movable tool is in the form of a stamp tool, for example the tool counter element is provided in the form of a bottom die unit.

[0025] It is also conceivable that a bottom die unit is provided with a presser member and a movable tool, for example in the form of a bottom die presser member and the movable tool in the form of a bottom die, for example in the form of a tool counter element in the form of a stamp unit.

[0026] It is conceivable that the bonding tool unit comprises a stamp unit and / or a bottom die unit.

[0027] For example, the presser member is configured to perform a presser function. For example, the presser member is arranged to be movable relative to the tool counter element such that the spacing between the presser member and the tool counter element is variable. For example, the relative movement between the presser member and the tool counter element is provided by a drive unit.

[0028] The light guide system is preferably configured on the pressing member such that the light guide system surrounds the light of the light source along the light beam, so that the light is blocked by the light guide system from exiting radially outward relative to the light beam.

[0029] For example, a recess of the light guiding system, in particular a cylindrical recess, is provided in the clamping element, which can direct light towards the workpiece along the cylindrical axis of the recess, for example along the longitudinal extent of the recess. The recess is provided in the clamping element, for example in the form of a hole, for example in the form of a through hole. It is also conceivable that the recess is present in the clamping element in the manner of a tube, for example in the form of a tube. However, it is also conceivable that the light guiding system comprises a glass fibre, which is fixed to the clamping element.

[0030] The light guide system is preferably configured to direct the light beam of the light source to the joining point of the workpiece only in an angular range of 5° to 40° relative to the axis of movement of the movable tool, for example, the longitudinal axis of the recess is disposed in the presser member at an angle of 5° to 40° relative to the axis of movement of the movable tool.

[0031] For example, an additional recess, e.g. a second recess, is provided in the presser member. It is conceivable that the second recess is provided mirror-symmetrically to the first recess in the presser member. The mirror axis preferably extends parallel to the movement axis of the movable tool. For example, if the movement axis of the movable tool extends through the centre of the presser member, the movement axis preferably coincides with the mirror axis.

[0032] For example, the first recess and the second recess are configured in the hold-down member such that when the hold-down member is positioned against the workpiece, light from the light source is directed along the first recess onto the workpiece and light from the light source reflected by the workpiece is directed along the second recess. For example, the hold-down member includes a radiation trap or sump in which reflected light is trapped and absorbed. As a result of the light beam being directed along the first recess and the second recess in the hold-down member, a protective chamber can be eliminated.

[0033] For example, the presser member comprises a recess. For example, the recess is arranged opposite the tool counter element so as to be located in the area around the joint of the workpiece when the workpiece is placed on the joining tool unit and when the presser member is placed against the workpiece. For example, the first recess and the second recess each merge into the recess at one end. During the joining operation, for example, the movable tool engages in or through the recess. For example, the recess is provided in the presser member in the form of a hole.

[0034] For example, the presser member may be provided to surround the recess, so that in the ideal case, when the presser member is placed against the workpiece, it completely surrounds the recess together with the workpiece.

[0035] It is further conceivable that the light guiding system comprises a shutter, by which for example the illumination of the joint by the light of the light source can be activated and deactivated. For example the shutter can be in the form of an optical closure, for example a mechanical and / or electronic closure, for example a movable element. For example the shutter can be controlled by a control unit.

[0036] It has also proven to be advantageous if the pressure element and the tool counter element are arranged to be movable relative to one another, so that the joining tool unit can be used relatively flexibly.

[0037] For example, the presser member is arranged to be movable relative to the tool counter element. For example, the presser member and the movable tool are arranged to be movable by a drive unit independently of each other. The presser member is for example movable in the direction of the tool counter element by the drive unit. It is conceivable that the presser member and the tool counter element are arranged to be movable relative to each other by the drive unit. For example, the drive unit can move the presser member and / or the tool counter element.

[0038] For example, the clamping element and the tool counter element can be moved towards each other so that the arranged workpiece can be clamped between the clamping element and the tool counter element. On the one hand, this allows, for example, the workpiece to be fixed for the joining operation, and on the other hand, several workpiece parts of the workpiece can also be clamped against each other, as a result of which the heat transfer from one workpiece part to another of the workpiece is improved. It is also conceivable that the area between the clamping element and the workpiece is closed by the clamping element which is arranged against the workpiece, thereby resulting in light shielding.

[0039] For example, the presser member, the light guide system, and / or the light source are arranged relative to or in contact with one another such that the presser member, the light guide system, and / or the light source are arranged such that only they are movable together, for example, the presser member, the light guide system, and / or the light source are arranged in a fixed position relative to one another.

[0040] It is furthermore conceivable for the presser element to have a scraper function, for example the mobile tool is moved away from the workpiece at the end of the joining operation of the workpiece against the tool counter element, in which case it is conceivable that the workpiece remains fastened to the mobile tool, the presser element in this case for example remains in the position in relation to the tool counter element in which it was placed against the workpiece, and the workpiece remains fixed in position as a result of being clamped between the presser element and the tool counter element and is therefore scraped off by the mobile tool.

[0041] It is also conceivable that both the movable tool and the tool counter element are moved simultaneously away from or towards the workpiece, in which case, for example, the workpiece is positioned between the movable tool and the tool counter element by a separate holding element.

[0042] In addition, it is proposed that the control unit of the joining tool unit is configured to terminate the illumination or illuminating of the joint points of the positioned workpieces with the light of the light source simultaneously with the start of the movement of the movable tool or with a time delay from the start of the movement of the movable tool. The control of the cycle of the joining operation of the joining tool unit is thereby relatively simplified, since for example a central control unit is provided which can monitor, regulate and / or control the process of the joining operation. It is conceivable that the illumination or illuminating of the joint points of the positioned workpieces with the light of the light source is terminated before the start of the movement of the movable tool.

[0043] For example, the control unit is configured to switch off the light source or activate a shutter simultaneously with or with a time delay from the start of movement of the movable tool, thereby terminating the illumination or irradiation of the joint of the positioned workpiece by light from the light source.

[0044] In addition, it proves advantageous if the joining tool unit is configured to move the presser member towards the tool counter element in a first step, start the illumination or irradiation of the part of the workpiece to be joined in a second step, start the movement of the mobile tool in a third step, end the illumination or irradiation in a fourth step and move the presser member away from the tool counter element in a fifth step. For example, the safety of employees in the area of ​​the joining tool unit is thereby increased. During operation of the joining tool unit, the presser member is preferably lifted off the workpiece only when it is ensured that the light source, e.g. a laser, is switched off or deactivated.

[0045] For example, steps 1 to 5 are performed in sequence. For example, the joining tool unit is configured to in a first step move the presser member towards the tool counter element to a certain position, hold it in that position, perform steps 2, 3 and 4, and then move the presser member back from that position.

[0046] For example, the pressure member may be in a position to contact or touch a surface of a workpiece disposed on the joining tool unit. For example, the pressure member may be in a position to be placed against the workpiece. It is considered that the pressure member may be in a position to be placed directly against the workpiece.

[0047] For example, the joining tool unit is configured such that movement of the movable tool towards the tool counter element is initiated simultaneously with or after a time delay when the pressing member touches or contacts the workpiece, in order to join a workpiece placed on the joining tool unit by movement of the movable tool.

[0048] It is also conceivable that the joining tool unit has two movable tools, which are located opposite each other in the joining tool unit, for example the tool counter element is provided with a movable tool.

[0049] For example, there is provided a stamp unit comprising a presser member and a movable tool, for example the presser member being in the form of a stamp presser member and the movable tool being in the form of a stamp tool, for example the tool counter element being in the form of a bottom die unit, the bottom die unit comprising a movable bottom die.

[0050] An exemplary embodiment of the present invention is a set of a tool tong having a tool bracket and a joint tool unit according to any one of the above embodiments.

[0051] For example, the tool bracket connects the moveable tool to the tool counter element such that a non-positive locking connection is created between the moveable tool and the tool counter element.

[0052] For example, the set of tool tongs is in the form of a set of clinching tongs, joining tongs and / or stamping tongs. It is also conceivable that the set of tool tongs is provided in the form of a set of semi-hollow stamping rivet tongs and / or a set of solid stamping rivet tongs.

[0053] A method in the form of a joining operation of workpieces by means of a joining tool unit is also proposed, said method comprising the steps of: - placing a workpiece intended to be processed in the joining tool unit; - illuminating or illuminating the workpieces at the locations to be joined with a light source of the joining tool unit; - initiating a movement of a movable tool of the joining tool unit in the direction of the part of the workpiece to be joined; - terminating the illumination or irradiation of the portion of the workpieces to be joined simultaneously with or delayed from the start of the movement of the movable tool of the joining tool unit in the direction of the portion of the workpieces to be joined in order to join the workpieces, or terminating the illumination or irradiation of the portion of the workpieces to be joined before the start of the movement of the movable tool of the joining tool unit in the direction of the portion of the workpieces to be joined. The method comprises the following successive method steps:

[0054] For example, the workpiece intended to be processed is placed, for example positioned, in the joining tool unit between the movable tool and the tool counter element in a first method step. The positioning of the workpiece intended to be processed can in this case be performed by a positioning unit arranged outside the joining tool unit, for example a robot arm. It is also conceivable that the positioning unit is a constituent part of the joining tool unit.

[0055] Furthermore, the joining operation may include the following additional method steps: - moving a pressing member of the joining tool unit in the direction of a tool counter element of the joining tool unit to a position before the start of illumination or irradiation of the part of the workpieces to be joined by the light source of the joining tool unit; - holding the hold-down member in position; - terminating the illumination or irradiation, for example by switching off the laser; - removing the hold-down member from its position after the movement of the movable tool in the direction of the portion of the workpiece to be joined has commenced. It has been proposed to have

[0056] For example, the pressure element is in a position where it is arranged in particular against the workpiece. Furthermore, it is conceivable that the joining tool unit has a sensor unit, and that the joining tool unit is configured to detect by means of the sensor unit whether the pressure element is arranged in that position against the workpiece. For this purpose, for example, the sensor unit comprises a pressure sensor which detects the dynamic pressure in the pressure element.

[0057] For example, the joining operation may include, for example, the following additional method steps that are performed after the presser members have been placed on the workpieces: - detecting a position of the presser member by a sensor unit of the joining tool unit; - determining by a control unit of the joining tool unit whether the presser member has reached the position based on the detection of the sensor unit; Includes.

[0058] For example, the sensor unit may be configured to determine whether the presser member is disposed at a position where it contacts the workpiece such that the presser member and the workpiece block the light from the light source from passing outwardly therethrough, thereby preventing employees from being exposed to danger in the surrounding area of ​​the joining tool unit. In this case, for example, the sensor unit may detect a dynamic pressure between the presser member and the workpiece with a pressure sensor.

[0059] For example, the joining tool unit, and in particular the control unit, may be configured to start or stop the moving of the joining tool unit before the light of the light source starts to illuminate the joining area of ​​the arranged workpieces. toolBefore the movement of the joining tool is started, it is checked whether the sensor value of the sensor unit is within a predetermined desired range. If the sensor value is not within the predetermined desired range, the joining tool unit, in particular the control unit, prevents the start of irradiation or illumination of the joining site of the positioned workpiece with light of the light source and / or the start of the movement of the movable tool.

[0060] In a preferred embodiment, the control unit of the joining tool unit is configured to terminate the illumination or illuminating of the joint area of ​​the positioned workpieces with the light of the light source before the movable tool can be brought into the light beam of the light of the light source during its movement towards the tool counter element. For example, the control unit switches off the illumination or illuminating of the joint area of ​​the positioned workpieces with the light of the light source just before the movable tool enters the light beam of the light of the light source. This prevents heating of the movable tool and therefore damage to the movable tool.

[0061] The method also includes the following additional method steps: - joining the work pieces with the movable tool before the hold-down member is removed from its position. It has also been proposed to have

[0062] As a result, the hold-down member may include a hold-down function and / or a scraper function, in particular, as a result of which the workpieces are fixed in position for a joining operation by the movable tool.

[0063] Additionally, the method may include the following additional method steps: - checking whether the irradiation or illumination of the portion of the workpiece to be joined is terminated by the joining tool unit before the pressing member is removed from its position. It has been proposed to have

[0064] The method also includes the following additional method steps: - checking by the joining tool unit whether the illumination or irradiation of the portion of the workpiece to be joined has been terminated during the joining operation of the workpiece by the movable tool. It has also been proposed to have

[0065] On the one hand, a safety function is thereby implemented, in particular in order to prevent employees from being exposed to danger, and on the other hand, particularly undesirable heating of the moving tool can thereby be suppressed.

[0066] An exemplary embodiment will now be described in more detail with reference to the accompanying drawings, showing additional details and advantages. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0067] [Figure 1] FIG. 2 is a perspective view of a set of tool tongs having a joining tool unit, as viewed obliquely from above. [Diagram 2] FIG. 2 is a perspective view of a portion of a joining tool unit. [Diagram 3] FIG. 3 is another perspective view of a portion of the joining tool unit according to FIG. 2; [Figure 4] 2 is a cross-sectional view of a portion of the joining tool unit according to FIG. 1, in which the joining tool unit is adjacent to a workpiece with a presser member and a tool counter element, where the path of the light beam is shown; [Diagram 5] FIG. 5 is a cross-sectional view of the arrangement according to FIG. 4, where the fluid flow paths are shown. [Figure 6] FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional view of a portion of a bonding tool unit having a pyrometer. [Figure 7] FIG. 6 is a cross-sectional view of the arrangement according to FIGS. 4 and 5, where a joint connection has been created. [Figure 8] FIG. 8 is a cross-sectional view of the arrangement according to FIGS. 4, 5 and 7 in an initial position after creating a bonded connection. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0068] Figure 1 shows a set 1 of tool tongs with a joining tool unit 2. This set 1 of tool tongs has a tool bracket 3, on which the joining tool unit 2 is arranged. The tool bracket 3 is preferably in the form of a C-bracket and can be fixed, for example, via a connecting element 5 to a robot arm, not shown in Figure 1.

[0069] The joining tool unit 2 includes a tool counter element 4, a pressing member 6, a movable tool 7 (see FIG. 2), a drive unit 8, a light source 10, and a control unit 40 formed therein.

[0070] The drive unit 8 may be in the form of an electric drive, a pneumatic drive, a hydraulic drive or a hydraulic / pneumatic drive. The drive unit 8 is for example connected to the tool bracket 3.

[0071] For example, the movable tool 7, the pyrometer 24 and the light guiding system 9 are arranged in the holding member 6. The light guiding system 9 comprises a collimator 11, a first mirror 12, a second mirror 13, a beam trap 14 or beam sump and a protective glass 15 (see FIG. 4). For example, the light source 10 is in the form of a laser, in particular a fiber laser. The collimator 11 is preferably configured such that a collimated light beam is generated, for example a collimated laser beam is generated. For example, the light beams of the light source 10 are expanded and directed at least substantially parallel to each other. The first mirror 12 is adjustable, for example, so that the position of the light beam of the light source 10 on the workpiece 25 to be processed can be adjusted. The second mirror 13 is preferably arranged to be fixed in position in the joining tool unit 2. The protective glass 15 forms, for example, a separation position between the mirrors 12, 13 and the collimator 11 of the optical unit, i.e. the light guiding system 9, and the holding member 6.

[0072] Furthermore, the beam diameter of the light beam can be adjusted by an adjusting element 26 on the outside of the joining tool unit 2. At the end of the beam trap 14 or the beam sump, a cooling plate 31 is preferably formed, which cools the beam trap 14 or the beam sump. The cooling plate 31 is preferably arranged removably on the outside of the hold-down element 6, so that the cooling plate 31 can be replaced or cleaned, for example in case of wear or contamination.

[0073] The joining tool unit 2 preferably has insertion positions 16, 17 for coupling the light source 10 to the joining tool unit 2 (see FIG. 2). Insertion positions 18, 19 for an exhaust line 20 and insertion positions 21, 22 for an inlet 23 are also provided in the joining tool unit, for example so that a fluid can be injected at the inlet 23 or so that a fluid can be exhausted at the exhaust line 20. For example, the fluid is in the form of a gas, for example air, in particular air from which particles have been removed. For example, the fluid is supplied as clean gas that does not contain particles. It is also conceivable that the fluid is supplied in the form of a special gas, for example nitrogen or carbon dioxide.

[0074] A set of standard tool tongs can later be equipped with parts of the splicing tool unit 2, in particular the presser element 6 and the light guiding system 9, by connecting the presser element 6 and the light guiding system 9 to a drive device 8, which is preferably arranged on the tool bracket 3. For this purpose, the splicing tool unit 2 preferably has a fastening element 27, by which parts of the splicing tool unit 2, in particular the parts of the splicing tool unit 2 in which the insertion positions 16, 17, 18, 19, 21, 22 are formed, can be connected to the drive device 8. Furthermore, the presser element 6 has a connection element 29 for connection to the drive device 8. The fastening element 27 is preferably made from a plate-shaped material, in particular from a metal. The fastening element 27 can be connected to the drive device 8 by means of fastening means 30, for example a screw. For example, a safety switch 28 is arranged on the fastening element 27.

[0075] 4, 5, 6, 7 and 8 show a cross section of a part of the joining tool unit 2. From the light source 10, the light beam of the light source is coupled into the light guide system 9 in the area 41. The path of the light beam is indicated diagrammatically by the arrow L in FIG. 4. The light beam passes, for example, from the light source, not shown in FIG. 4, through the area 41 to the collimator 11, the light beam is then reflected, for example, by the first mirror 12 and the second mirror 13, and reaches, for example, through the protective glass 15 to the holding member 6. A first recess 32 is formed in the holding member 6, which is, for example, a hole in the holding member 6. For example, the light beam L passes through the first recess 32 to a recess 33 (see FIG. 4) formed at the end of the holding member 6 on the workpiece. When the presser member 6 is placed on the workpiece 25 , the light beam L is reflected from the preferably metallic workpiece surface 42 of the workpiece 25 and reaches a second recess 34 in the presser member 6 , for example in the form of a hole.

[0076] At the end of the second recess 34, a beam trap 14 or beam sump is formed such that the light beam L reflected by the workpiece 25 is captured and absorbed in the beam trap 14 or beam sump.

[0077] For example, a further hole for the movable tool 7 is provided in the holding member 6 so that the movable tool 7 can move linearly along a movement axis 35 in the direction of the workpiece 25. The movement axis 35 preferably extends along the longitudinal extent of the movable tool 7. Furthermore, the movement axis 35 extends, for example, through the center of the movable tool 7. The longitudinal axis of the first recess 32 or the second recess 34 is provided, for example, in an angular range α between 5° and 40° with respect to the movement axis 35 of the movable tool 7 in the holding member 6 (see FIG. 4). Preferably, the second recess 34 is configured with mirror symmetry with respect to the first recess 32, the movement axis 35 being, for example, a component part of a mirror surface.

[0078] For example, light guide systems 9 A portion of the light guide system forms a flow path 38. 9The first recess 32, the second recess 34, and the recess 33 form a part of a flow path 38. For example, the flow path 38 is mainly a light guide system. 9 , and the flow channel 38 starts only after the collimator 11. Furthermore, the flow channel 38 has a further second recess 36, preferably in the form of a hole. For example, the second recess 36 is adjacent to a part of the second recess 34 and extends parallel to the movement axis 35 of the movable tool 7. The fluid can enter the flow channel 38 via the inlet 23 and flow along the flow channel 38. For example, the fluid can only flow outside the protective glass 15 to the first recess 32, so that the fluid is confined in the area after the collimator 11 up to the protective glass 15. Thereby, in the area after the collimator 11 up to the protective glass 15, an overpressure is created as long as the fluid flows through the inlet 23. For example, the fluid flows continuously through the inlet 23 in order to keep the optical unit or mirror 12, 13 clean. The fluid can exit the flow channel 38 through the recess 33 and the second outlet 37. The second outlet 37 is preferably located at the end of the recess 36, and the second outlet 37 is connected, for example, to a discharge line 20 so that the incoming fluid can be discharged at the end of the recess 36. For example, a discharge line 20 is located in the flow channel 38 so that the fluid can be discharged from the flow channel 38.

[0079] For example, the fluid is admitted through the inlet 23 into the channel 32 throughout the joining operation, and the fluid flows out of the recess 33 as long as the pressure element 6 is not placed in contact with the workpiece 25. For example, for a joining operation, the joining tool unit 2 is initially moved in the direction of the workpiece 25 to be processed until the pressure element 6 and the tool counter element 4 abut against the workpiece. As soon as the pressure element 6 is placed on the workpiece 25, the drive 8 moves the mobile tool 7 along the movement axis 35 in the direction of the workpiece 25 into the starting position according to FIG. 5. This is the initial position of the mobile tool 7. The distance between the mobile tool 7 and the workpiece 25 is thereby minimized so that the mobile tool 7 has a relatively short movement path to the workpiece 25.

[0080] For example, as a result of the movement of the movable tool 7 by the drive 8, the elastic element is actuated, whereby the presser member 6 is pressed against the workpiece 25 with the force of the elastic element. The presser member 6 is thereby intended to be pressed particularly securely against the workpiece 25, whereby light escapes between the presser member 6 and the workpiece 25. Furthermore, as a result of the high pressing force of the presser member 6 on the workpiece 25 abutting against it, heat from a first workpiece part of the workpiece 25 in contact with the presser member can be transferred in an improved manner to a second workpiece part of the workpiece 25 abutting against the tool counter element 4.

[0081] For example, a check is then made as to whether the pressure member 6 is in desired contact with the workpiece 25. For this purpose, for example, the position of the movable tool 7 is first determined by the control unit 40. For example, the position of the safety switch 28 is further established and thus the positions of the pressure member and of the light guiding device 9 are checked. For example, after both checks have been confirmed as correct with the desired results, the pressure in the flow passage 38 is determined.

[0082] For example, to determine the pressure, the valve of the pump of the second outlet 37 or the discharge line 20 is closed (see FIG. 4). Thereby, the fluid is trapped in the flow passage 38 when the recess 33 is covered by the workpiece 25 at the presser element 6 and the flow passage 38 or the light guiding system 9 is not damaged. For example, the pressure in the flow passage 38 is measured by a sensor (not shown). The pressure measured by the sensor is transmitted to the control unit 40, which compares the pressure measured by the sensor with a predefined threshold or set value. The threshold is preferably selected such that the pressure measured by the sensor in the flow passage 38 cannot exceed the threshold value even in the case of a narrow gap between the presser element 6 and the workpiece 25. This ensures that the light source 10 can only be operated when the presser element 6 is positioned as desired, for example vertically, on the workpiece 25, so that no light radiation is emitted outwards.

[0083] For example, channel 3 8 After checking the pressure in the channel 38, the valve of the pump of the second outlet and / or exhaust line is opened (see arrows in FIG. 5 ) so that a flow in the channel 38 is established again. As a result, the fluid flows from the inlet 23 to the second mirror 13, to the protective glass 15, along the first recess 32 to the second recess 34, along the recess 36 to the second outlet 37 and is exhausted at the second outlet 37. As a result, the contaminants are removed from the channel 38 by the flow in the channel 38.

[0084] For example, as soon as a flow is formed in the flow passage 38, the control unit activates the light source 10. For example, the workpiece 25 is heated by the light beam of the light source 10, and a part of the light beam is reflected by the workpiece 25, especially when the surface is not yet heated. The reflected light radiation proceeds along the second recess 34 to the beam trap 14 or beam sump (see FIG. 4, arrow L). Thereby, protection from the beam is ensured without an additional beam protection chamber.

[0085] For example, the temperature at the workpieces is measured by a pyrometer 24 (see FIG. 6). The pyrometer 24 is arranged in the holding member 6, which is formed with a hole 39. For example, the hole 39 is provided in the holding member 6 rotated by 90° about the movement axis 35 with respect to the first recess 32. Thermal radiation of the workpieces through the hole 39 can thereby reach the pyrometer 24, whereby the temperature of the workpieces 25, in particular the temperature of the workpieces 25 at the joining point of the workpieces, can be determined. For example, the pyrometer 24 transmits the measured temperature to the control unit 40, in which the temperature to be reached is stored and compared with the measured value. The control unit stores, for example, the temperatures that are intended to be reached for different materials. For example, if the temperature to be reached is reached before a certain time, the operation of the light source 10 is stopped. If the temperature to be reached cannot be reached within the certain time, the joining operation is first stopped.

[0086] For example, in particular just before or simultaneously with or after switching off the light source 10, a movement of the movable tool 7 in the direction of the tool counter element 4 is started in order to join the workpieces 25 at the joint point (see FIG. 7 ). For example, the control unit 40 is configured to check whether the illumination of the light source 10, and thus of the workpieces 25, is switched off when the movable tool 7 reaches, on its path in the direction of the tool counter element 4, an area of ​​the emission path of the light beam of the light source 10.

[0087] This is intended to prevent undesired heating of the mobile tool 7 by irradiation with the light beam of the light source 10. Likewise, the safety of personnel at the joining tool unit 2 is intended to be ensured thereby. However, it is also conceivable that the control unit first checks whether the light source 10, and thus the illumination of the workpiece 25, is switched off and only moves the mobile tool 7 after having checked that the light source 10 is switched off.

[0088] For example, during the creation of the mating connection, there is continuous flow in the flow path 38 (see FIG. 5), particularly to allow for the carrying away of contaminants that are created during the creation of the mating connection.

[0089] For example, the movable tool 7 is returned to the initial position according to Fig. 4 after the end of the joining operation. For example, the second outlet 37 is then closed. It is ensured that the light source 10 is switched off before the pressure member 6 is lifted from the workpiece 25. When the light source 10 is switched on, it is ensured that the pressure member 6 is prevented from being lifted from the workpiece 25. For example, the joining tool unit 2 is then moved away from the workpiece 25, in particular from the pressure member 6, by the drive 8. For example, the fluid flows continuously through the inlet 23 in the direction of the recess 33, so that the optical unit is not contaminated, including during standstill periods. [Explanation of symbols]

[0090] 1 ...set of tool tongs, 2 ...joining tool unit, 3 ...tool bracket, 4 ...tool counter element, 5 ...connection element, 6 ...holding piece, 7 ...tool, 8 ...drive unit, 9 ...light guiding system, 10 ...light source, 11 ...collimator, 12 ...mirror, 13 ...mirror, 14 ...beam sump, 15 ...protective glass, 16 ...insertion position, 17 ...insertion position, 18 ...insertion position, 19 ...insertion position, 20 ...discharge line, 21 ...insertion position, 22 ...insertion position, 23 ...inlet, 24 ...pyrometer, 25 ...workpiece, 26 ...adjusting element, 27 ...fixing element, 28 ...safety switch, 29 ...connection element, 30 ...fixing means, 31 ...cooling plate, 32 ...recess, 33 ...recess, 34 ...recess, 35 ...axis of movement, 36 ...recess, 37 ...outlet, 38 ...channel, 39 ...hole, 40 ...control unit, 41 ...area, 42 ...workpiece surface

Claims

1. A joining tool unit (2) having a movable tool (7), a tool counter element (4), a drive unit (8), a light guiding system (9), a light source (10) and a control unit (40), wherein the movable tool (7) and the tool counter element (4) are arranged in the joining tool unit (2) facing each other, the light guiding system (9) is configured to guide light from the light source (10) in the direction of a joining point of a workpiece (25) when the workpiece (25) is arranged in the joining tool unit (2), the movable tool (7) can be moved in the direction of the tool counter element (4) by the drive unit (8), and with the workpiece (25) arranged in the joining tool unit (2), the workpiece (25) is joined by the movement of the movable tool (7) in the direction of the tool counter element (4), and the control unit (40). wherein the control unit (40) is configured to control and / or adjust the drive unit (8), wherein the control unit (40) is configured to control and / or adjust components of the light source (10) and / or the light guiding system (9), wherein the joining tool unit (2) is configured such that the illumination or lighting of the joint site with the light of the light source (10) is terminated simultaneously with or with a time delay thereafter when a movement of the movable tool (7) in the direction of the tool counter-element (4) is started, and wherein the control unit (40) is configured such that the illumination or lighting of the joint site of the positioned workpiece (25) with the light of the light source (10) is terminated before the movable tool (7) can be brought into the light beam of the light of the light source (10) during its movement in the direction of the tool counter-element (4).

2. 2. The joining tool unit (2) according to claim 1, characterized in that the joining tool unit (2) has a presser member (6), the presser member (6) is provided with the light guiding system (9), and the presser member (6) and the tool counter element are provided on the joining tool unit opposite each other.

3. 2. The joining tool unit (2) according to claim 1, characterized in that the light guide system (9) is configured to irradiate the light beam of the light source (10) onto the joining point of the workpiece (25) only in an angular range of 5° to 40° with respect to the movement axis of the movable tool (7) when the workpiece (25) is placed on the joining tool unit (2).

4. 3. The joining tool unit (2) according to claim 2, characterized in that the presser member (6) and the tool counter element (4) are arranged to be movable relative to each other.

5. 2. The joining tool unit (2) of claim 1, characterized in that the control unit (40) of the joining tool unit (2) is configured to terminate the illumination or lighting of the joining point of the positioned workpieces (25) by the light of the light source (10) simultaneously with the start of the movement of the movable tool (7) or with a time delay from the start of the movement of the movable tool (7).

6. 3. The joining tool unit (2) according to claim 2, characterized in that the joining tool unit (2) is configured to: in a first step, move the presser member (6) towards the tool counter-element (4); in a second step, start illuminating or irradiating the part of the workpiece (25) to be joined; in a third step, start the movement of the movable tool (7); in a fourth step, end the illuminating or irradiating; and in a fifth step, move the presser member (6) away from the tool counter-element (4).

7. A set of tool tongs (1) having a joining tool unit (2) described in any one of claims 1 to 6 and having a tool bracket (3).

8. A joining operation of a workpiece (25) by a joining tool unit (2) according to any one of claims 1 to 5, comprising: - placing a workpiece (25) intended to be processed on said joining tool unit (2); - illuminating or illuminating the points of the workpieces (25) to be joined by a light source (10) of the joining tool unit (2); - initiating a movement of the movable tool (7) of the joining tool unit (2) in the direction of the part of the workpiece (25) to be joined; - terminating the illumination or the irradiation of the portion of the workpiece (25) to be joined simultaneously with the start of the movement of the movable tool (7) of the joining tool unit (2) in the direction of the portion of the workpiece (25) to be joined or with a time delay from the start of the movement of the movable tool (7) of the joining tool unit (2) in the direction of the portion of the workpiece (25) to be joined in order to join the workpiece (25), the irradiation or the illumination being terminated before the movable tool (7) can be brought into the light beam of the light of the light source (10) during its movement in the direction of the tool counter element (4); The joining operation comprises the successive method steps of:

9. The following additional method steps: - moving a pressing member (6) of the joining tool unit (2) in the direction of a tool counter-element (4) of the joining tool unit (2) to a position prior to the start of the illumination or irradiation of the portion to be joined of the workpieces (25) by the light source (10) of the joining tool unit (2); - holding said presser member (6) in said position; - moving the presser member (6) away from said position after the movement of the movable tool (7) in the direction of the portion of the workpiece (25) to be joined has begun; The joining operation of claim 8, comprising:

10. The following additional method steps: - joining said workpieces (25) by means of said movable tool (7) before said presser member (6) is released from said position. The joining operation of claim 9, comprising:

11. The following additional method steps: - checking by the joining tool unit (2) whether the illumination or the irradiation of the part to be joined of the workpieces (25) has been terminated before the presser member (6) is released from its position. The joining operation of claim 9, comprising:

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