Mouse piece for a setting device, setting device provided with the mouse piece, and method for setting a blind rivet element using the mouse piece

Abstract

To disclose a mouthpiece for a setting device configured to set a blind rivet element, where the mouthpiece comprises a hollow, preferably hollow cylindrical, body having an abutting end and a central through bore through which a pulling mandrel of the setting device is movable.SOLUTION: A first endless seal 18 is arranged adjacently to a central through bore 12 at an abutting end 14 for abutting on a head portion of a blind rivet element 50. Additionally, a second endless seal 22 is arranged radially outwardly of the first endless seal at the abutting end for abutting on a component 9. Finally, a fluid channel 24 extends at least partly through a hollow, preferably hollow cylindrical, body, so that an exit opening 28 is provided between the first and second endless seals and so that an entry opening 26 for supplying a testing fluid is provided, preferably at a distance from the abutting end.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 3a

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a mouthpiece for a setting device for setting blind rivet elements, a setting device for blind rivet elements, and a method for setting blind rivet elements using a setting device having the mouthpiece.

Background Art

[0002] A blind rivet nut typically has a rivet shaft having an internal thread and a rivet head. The rivet shaft is inserted into a component opening in which the blind rivet nut is to be set. Similarly, a blind rivet stud has a rivet shaft in combination with a stud including an external thread. These blind rivet elements are known in the art.

[0003] After positioning the blind rivet element within the component opening, axial tension is applied to the shaft of the blind rivet element, whereby the rivet shaft is compressed and set in the component opening. Thereafter, the tension component is loosened from the blind rivet element.

[0004] To set a blind rivet nut, a tension mandrel is used as the tension component. For this purpose, the tension mandrel is screwed into the internal thread of the blind rivet nut.

[0005] To set a blind rivet stud, a tension nut is used as the tension component. The tension nut is exemplarily formed as a semi-hollow rod having an internal thread or as a hollow mandrel having an internal thread. To set the blind rivet stud, the threaded stud is screwed into the internal thread of the tension nut.

[0006] Examples of such blind rivet nuts or inserts are described in EP 3 885 589 A1 (European Patent Application Publication No. 3885589). Here, the blind rivet insert comprises a bearing head forming an annular flange and a shank extending from the lower surface of the bearing head and having a cylindrical bore extending longitudinally from the head end, the foot end, and from the head end to the foot end. The shank also has a first bore segment near the foot end provided with an internal thread and a second bore segment near the head end having a diameter larger than the diameter of the first bore segment. The wall surrounding the second bore segment forms a deformable region of the shank. The lower surface of the bearing head is concentrically arranged with the shank and has an annular underhead groove adapted to receive a seal ring in the mounted state of the blind rivet insert. Also, only one annular retaining shank groove extends circumferentially around the shank and is arranged adjacent to the lower surface of the bearing head to hold the seal ring in a preloaded position before the blind rivet insert is installed.

[0007] When such a blind rivet nut or an insert having a sealing function by a seal ring is set in a component, at that time, all the blind rivet inserts are first placed in their respective component openings and then set. Only after that is the component checked for airtightness or the sealing function. In other words, at the end of the manufacturing process, only the entire component is checked for the sealing function. This series of procedures is particularly time-consuming and leads to reworking of the component or elimination of the entire component in case of leakage. This results in a loss of time and cost for identifying the leakage location and bears the risk of installing defective blind rivet nuts and / or defective components.

[0008] For this purpose, and with regard to the respective control procedures of the machine tool, reference is made to DE 10 2006 031 825 A1 (German Patent Application Publication No. 102006031825). Here, a machine for joining workpieces such as plates, nuts, or bolts with plates, etc. is described. The machine has a tool consisting of a stamp and a die or a downholder that interacts with the stamp. The machine also includes a test device that operates with a gaseous or liquid control medium that can be supplied to the test point, and a measuring device that detects changes in the state of the control medium. For this purpose, a control medium space is arranged within the test device to receive the control medium acting on the end face of the plunger. Further, at least one control channel leads from this control medium space to the point of the tool where there is a risk of breakage. Finally, in order to check the state (pressure or flow) of the control medium, a sensor is arranged within the control medium space, within the control channel, or within a space connected to a measuring channel branching therefrom, and its measured value can be sent to the measuring device to be checked.

[0009] Each control method described in DE 10 2006 031 825 A1 (German Patent Application Publication No. 102006031825) is used in a machine equipped with a punch, a die, and / or a downholder as tools, and the punch, the die, and / or the downholder are used to connect workpieces (plates, sheets, rivet parts, bolts) in the joining process. Tool control uses a liquid or gaseous control medium. For this purpose, there is a measuring device that detects changes in the state (pressure, flow, or consistency) of the control medium. The control medium is collected in the control medium space and can flow out of this control medium space in a targeted manner. The control medium is directed from the control medium space towards the point of the tool to be checked. The state values of the pressure, flow, or consistency supplied to the measuring device are based on the values of the control medium within the control medium space.

[0010] The drawback of this series of procedures and each tool is that only the tool is checked. However, the evaluation of the finally generated connection regarding airtightness or the sealing function is not performed.

[0011] Therefore, an object of the present invention is to provide a mouthpiece for a setting device for setting a blind rivet nut, which can check the sealing function before and / or after each individual blind rivet nut is set in a component opening. Further, an object of the present invention is to provide each setting device and each setting method.

Summary of the Invention

[0012] The above object is solved by a mouthpiece for a setting device for setting a blind rivet element such as a blind rivet nut or a blind rivet stud according to independent claim 1, a setting device for a blind rivet element according to independent claim 5, and a method for setting a blind rivet element using a setting device having the mouthpiece according to independent claim 9. Further preferred embodiments and developments result from the following description, the drawings and the appended claims.

[0013] The mouthpiece of the present invention for a setting device for setting a blind rivet element has a hollow, preferably hollow cylindrical body having an abutting end portion and a central through bore through which a tensile component of the setting device is movable, a first endless seal disposed adjacent to the central through bore of the abutting end portion for abutting against the head portion of the blind rivet element, a second endless seal disposed radially outside the first endless seal of the abutting end portion for abutting against the component, and a fluid channel extending at least partially through the hollow, preferably hollow cylindrical body such that an outlet opening is provided between the first endless seal and the second endless seal and an inlet opening for supplying a test fluid is preferably provided away from the abutting end portion.

[0014] Hereinafter, the mouthpiece of the present invention will be described based on its usage in a setting device for setting a blind rivet element. In addition to the mouthpiece of the present invention, such a setting device includes an axially displaceable tension component and a component drive for rotating the tension component. The tension component is made of a tension mandrel having a working end portion including an external thread for screwing a blind rivet nut and a drive end portion capable of establishing a releasable torque-resistant connection with a mandrel drive portion.

[0015] To set the blind rivet stud, the tension component is made of a tension nut having an internal thread for screwing the blind rivet stud. The tension nut further has a drive end portion capable of establishing a releasable torque-resistant connection with a mandrel drive portion. Also, an axial tension drive is provided that is operably connected to the tension component, whereby axial deformation displacement of the tension component in the direction of the drive end portion is achievable, deforming the blind rivet element. As the blind rivet nut, for example, a type as described in EP 3 885 589 A1 (European Patent Application Publication No. 3885589) is assumed to be used.

[0016] In a first step, the blind rivet element is placed on the tension component by screwing the blind rivet nut onto the working end portion of the tension mandrel, for example, until the head portion of the blind rivet nut abuts against the first endless seal. Alternatively, the blind rivet stud is screwed into the internal thread of the tension nut until the head portion of the blind rivet stud abuts against the first endless seal.

[0017] Next, a blind rivet element disposed on the tensile component is placed into the component opening with a predetermined force. The predetermined force is preferably at most 100 N, preferably less than 50 N. Such a force is sufficient to first evaluate the sealing function realized by the preferred sealing ring of the blind rivet element without a seal ring. Also, at this stage, the second endless seal abuts against the component. As a result of this configuration, a closed chamber is defined between the first endless seal abutting against the head of the blind rivet element, the second endless seal abutting against the component, and the preferred seal ring of the blind rivet element.

[0018] Next, to test the sealing function of the seal ring of the blind rivet element, the test fluid is supplied into this space through a fluid channel having an outlet opening between the first endless seal and the second endless seal. It is preferable to use pressurized air as the test fluid. This supply is performed, for example, over a predetermined period or until a predetermined pressure value is reached. Then, the relative pressure is measured.

[0019] If the relative pressure is substantially constant, the blind rivet element, i.e., the blind rivet nut or the blind rivet stud, is disposed in a sealed manner within the component opening and can thus be fastened therein by setting in a subsequent step. Thereby, the setting process is completed. As a result, the blind rivet element is axially crimped.

[0020] However, if a decrease in the relative pressure is detected, the blind rivet element is removed and the process is repeated with a new blind rivet element.

[0021] The advantage of this series of operations is that each blind rivet element is tested for the sealing function before setting. This makes it possible to identify, for example, defective blind rivet elements without a sealing ring before setting. Since such defective blind rivet elements can be identified before setting, it is possible to remove them and repeat the process with new blind rivet elements. Also, it is not necessary to test the complete components for airtightness after manufacture, and the number of defective products can be reduced. Also, each method is time-efficient compared to known methods.

[0022] A further advantage is that the mouthpiece structure can be used with different known setting devices. This makes it possible to retrofit the mouthpiece of the present invention to known setting devices.

[0023] Furthermore, since the mouthpiece of the present invention focuses on the design of the abutting end or abutting surface, the remaining design can meet other criteria.

[0024] In a preferred embodiment of the mouthpiece, the first endless seal is arranged in a first part at a first axial position, the second endless seal is arranged in a second part at a second axial position different from the first axial position, and there is a transition part or step between the first part and the second part. With regard to this embodiment, it is particularly preferred that the second part is arranged further away from the setting device compared to the first part. This is because usually the head of the blind rivet element is arranged on the first component and thus there are respective protrusions. As a result, the abutting end of the mouthpiece should be formed complementarily to this configuration.

[0025] In this regard, it is further preferred that the first part has an inner diameter larger than the diameter of the head of the blind rivet element. Thus, there is a gap through which the test fluid can be supplied, and as a result, the airtightness of the configuration can be reliably evaluated.

[0026] More preferably, the first part and / or the second part is formed in an annular shape, and / or the outlet opening of the fluid channel is present in the first part. Since the blind rivet element and its head are usually formed in a circular shape, the preferred shape of the first part and / or the second part is annular. Thus, a closed chamber to which the test fluid must be supplied can be effectively restricted. As a result, the outlet opening of the fluid channel is preferably present at a position adjacent to the first part, preferably the second part, so as not to be disposed in the head portion of the blind rivet element during use. This facilitates the supply of the test fluid.

[0027] Also, according to a preferred embodiment of the mouthpiece, only one fluid channel is present. It is particularly useful to use only one fluid channel for a closed chamber formed between the first and second endless seals and the seal ring of the blind rivet element and not interrupted by any block or additional seal. This reduces the labor for manufacturing the mouthpiece.

[0028] The setting device of the present invention for a blind rivet element comprises the following features, namely, a tension component axially displaceable and a component drive for rotating the tension component, wherein the tension component formed as a tension mandrel has a working end portion including an external thread for screwing a blind rivet nut, or the tension component formed as a tension nut has a working end portion including an internal thread for screwing a blind rivet stud, the tension component having a drive end portion capable of establishing a releasable torque-resistant connection with the mandrel drive, the tension component and the component drive, and an axial tension drive operably connected to the tension component, wherein an axial deformation displacement of the tension component in the direction of the drive end portion is achievable and the blind rivet element is deformed, the axial tension drive, and a mouthpiece according to one of the preceding embodiments.

[0029] In the setting device of the present invention, the mouthpiece of the present invention described above is used. Therefore, in order to avoid repetition, please refer to the above description regarding the technical effects and advantages.

[0030] In a preferred first alternative embodiment of the setting device, the setting device is a handheld device. According to a preferred second alternative embodiment of the setting device, the setting device is an automatic setting machine. Regarding the handheld setting device, safety measures can be easily implemented. Thereby, employees are protected and the handling process is improved. Regarding the automatic setting machine, the results of the seal function test can be recorded, and blind rivet nuts or blind rivet studs can be automatically provided in the next component opening, making the processing chain more efficient.

[0031] More preferably, the setting device includes a control device for controlling the supply of the test fluid passing through the fluid channel in the mouthpiece, measuring the relative pressure, and evaluating whether the blind rivet element is arranged in a sealing manner within the component opening based on the measured relative pressure. With this feature, the control unit is integrated into the setting device, making the entire system compact.

[0032] The setting device having the mouse piece of the present invention, preferably the setting method of the blind rivet element of the present invention using the setting device of the present invention, includes the step of screwing the blind rivet element into the working end of the tensile component until the head portion of the blind rivet element abuts against the first endless seal, and the step of arranging the blind rivet element in the component opening with a predetermined force, wherein the second endless seal abuts against the component, the step of supplying a test fluid through a fluid channel and measuring the relative pressure, the step of evaluating whether the blind rivet element is arranged in the component opening in a sealing manner based on the measured relative pressure, and if yes, the step of setting the blind rivet element in the component opening by axially crimping the blind rivet element, or if no, the step of removing the blind rivet element and repeating the method with a new blind rivet element. Preferably, pressurized air is used as the test fluid. By the method of the present invention using the mouse piece of the present invention, the above-mentioned technical effects and advantages can be achieved. Therefore, for the sake of avoiding redundancy, reference is made to the above description.

[0033] According to a preferred embodiment of the setting method, whether a new blind rivet element is arranged in the component opening in a sealing manner is evaluated based on the measured relative pressure in a repeated cycle, and if yes, the new blind rivet element is set in the component opening by axially crimping a new blind rivet nut, or if no, the component is indicated to be checked and / or the component is excluded. These additional steps make it possible to identify defective components or at least defective component openings, for example due to burrs or oversized holes. For example, if respective instructions by a display are presented to the user, the user may directly check the component. Otherwise, the system may completely exclude the component so that it can be checked later.

[0034] More preferably, the predetermined force is at most 100 N. Since this pressure is relatively low, in particular a robot in which an automatic setting machine is arranged can apply the force. As a result, the process can be further automated.

[0035] In a preferred embodiment, the test fluid is supplied through the fluid channel until a predetermined supply period and / or a predetermined pressure value is reached, after which the relative pressure is measured after a predetermined measurement period and / or after a predetermined measurement period has elapsed, and as a result, the evaluation is based on a comparison of the relative pressure value reached first and the relative pressure value measured at the end of the predetermined measurement period, and / or on a series of relative pressures measured during the predetermined measurement period. The evaluation of whether the sealing function is sufficient may be carried out by an alternative route. On the one hand, the test fluid is supplied through the fluid channel for a predetermined supply period. After this supply period, the relative pressure is measured, and after a certain period has elapsed, the relative pressure is measured again. These two values can be compared, and if the deviation is sufficiently small, i.e., within a predetermined range, the sealing function is classified as OK. Alternatively, the relative pressure may be monitored over the entire period.

[0036] On the other hand, the test fluid may be supplied until a predetermined relative pressure value is reached. After a certain time has elapsed, the relative pressure is measured again, and both values are compared. Again, the relative pressure may be monitored over the entire test time.

[0037] The above method steps may be repeated after a blind rivet nut or a new blind rivet element has been set in the component opening. This double-checks whether the setting process has led to a poor connection. If such a poor connection is identified after the setting process, the system may notify the user accordingly and directly indicate the poor connection. Thus, the user can deal with this poor connection, saving time for searching and identifying the poor connection.

[0038] More preferably, the steps of supplying a test fluid through the fluid channel and measuring the relative pressure, and evaluating whether the blind rivet element is arranged in a sealing manner in the component opening based on the measured relative pressure are repeated after the blind rivet element or the new blind rivet element is set in the component opening. For this purpose, if the blind rivet element or the new blind rivet element is set in the component opening in a sealing manner, the connection is classified as OK, or if the blind rivet element or the new blind rivet element is not set in a sealing manner, it is more advantageous that the result is shown. As a result of the indication, the component can be excluded or reprocessed. As described above, and also by this process, the user can cope with this connection defect, so the time for searching and identifying the connection defect is saved.

[0039] Hereinafter, the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the drawings. In the drawings, the same reference numerals indicate the same elements and / or components.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0040]

Figure 1

Figure 2

Figure 3a

Figure 3b

Figure 4

Figure 5

Figure 6

Figure 7

Figure 8

Figure 9

Figure 10

Mode for Carrying Out the Invention

[0041] First, with respect to FIGS. 1 and 2, the behavior of the blind rivet nut 50 having the head portion 52 and the seal ring 54 during the setting process will be described. Each blind rivet nut 50 is described, for example, in EP 3 885 589 A1 (European Patent Application Publication No. 3885589). In any case, the axially displaceable tension mandrel 3 having the external thread 5 is disposed within the blind rivet nut 50.

[0042] The setting behavior of the blind rivet nut 50 is similar to the similar setting behavior of the blind rivet stud 50' during the setting process. The blind rivet stud 50' is exemplarily shown in FIG. 3b in combination with the preferred mouthpiece 10 of the present invention.

[0043] A preferred blind rivet stud 50' has a stud 51. The stud 51 extends from a rivet shaft that deforms during the setting process. The rivet shaft has a head 52 that includes a structure similar to the head 52 of the blind rivet nut 50. Further, the rivet shaft also has a seal ring 54 arranged and dimensioned in the same manner as the blind rivet nut 50. To deform or crimp the blind rivet stud 50' during the setting process (see below), a tension nut 3 is screwed onto the external thread of the stud 51. For this purpose, the tension nut 3 has a matching internal thread. It is also preferred to provide a tension component 3' as a hollow mandrel with an internal thread.

[0044] In Figure 1, the blind rivet nut 50 is arranged in the opening of the component 9 such that the seal ring 54 is arranged adjacent to the component surface. The abutting end of the mouthpiece 7 of the setting device 1 abuts against the opposite surface of the head 52 of the blind rivet nut 50. For this purpose, a known mouthpiece 7 has a hollow cylindrical body having an abutting end and a central through-bore through which the tension mandrel 3 of the setting device 1 is movable.

[0045] In Figure 2, the blind rivet nut 50 is arranged in the component opening such that the lower surface of the head portion 52 abuts against the component surface. Due to the force applied to push the blind rivet nut 50 into the component opening, the seal ring 54 is pushed into the under-head groove of the blind rivet nut 50. Thereby, the seal ring 54 provides a sealing function for this blind rivet nut 50.

[0046] Whether each blind rivet nut 50 or each blind rivet stud 50' set in the component 9 fulfills its sealing function is checked after all the blind rivet nuts 50 or each blind rivet stud 50' are set in the component, that is, at the end of the manufacturing process. This is disadvantageous because it leads to the exclusion of components and involves a time-consuming process for identifying poor connections.

[0047] Here, referring to FIGS. 3 to 9, embodiments of the mouthpiece 10 of the present invention in combination with respective setting devices 1 will be described.

[0048] The setting device 1 may be a hand-held device or an automatic setting machine. Regarding the hand-held setting device, safety measures can be easily implemented. Thereby, employees are protected and the handling process is improved. Regarding the automatic setting machine, as shown in the embodiments according to FIGS. 3a, 3b to 9, the results of the test of the sealing function can be recorded, and the blind rivet nut 50 or the blind rivet stud 50' can be automatically provided in the next component opening, so that the processing chain becomes more efficient.

[0049] The setting device 1 according to the preferred embodiment of FIG. 3a includes an axially displaceable tension mandrel 3 and a mandrel drive unit for rotating the tension mandrel 3. The tension mandrel 3 has a working end portion including an external thread 5 for screwing the blind rivet nut 50 and a drive end portion capable of establishing a releasable torque-resistant connection with the mandrel drive unit. Further, an axial tension drive unit operably connected to the tension mandrel 3 is provided, whereby axial deformation displacement of the tension mandrel 3 in the direction of the drive end portion can be realized to deform the blind rivet nut 50.

[0050] A preferred setting device 1 for setting a blind rivet stud 50' is shown in Fig. 3b. This has the same structure and function as the setting device of Fig. 3a. The setting device of Fig. 3b is adapted to set a blind rivet stud 50'. For this purpose, the tensioning component is made of a tension nut 3'. The tension nut 3' has an internal thread that engages with the external thread of the stud 51. The internal thread forms the working end of the tension nut 3'. In addition to the above-described structural differences, the tension nut 3' has the same structure as the tension mandrel 3 and operates in the same way. Thus, the details of the tension mandrel 3 as well as the respective mouse pieces 7 and the setting device 1 also apply equally to the setting device that uses the tension nut 3' in combination with the mouse piece 10.

[0051] The mouse piece 10 according to an embodiment of the present invention has a hollow cylindrical body having an abutting end 14 and a central through bore 12 through which the tension mandrel 3 of the setting device 1 is movable. In contrast to the mouse pieces of the prior art, the mouse piece 10 has a first part 16 having a first endless seal 18 and a second part 20 having a second endless seal 22. Preferably, one or both of the first part 16 and the second part 20 are formed in an annular shape. For this purpose, the first endless seal 18 is arranged adjacent to the central through bore 12 at the abutting end 14 so as to abut against the head portion 52 of the blind rivet nut 50. The second endless seal 22 is arranged radially outside the first endless seal 18 at the abutting end 14 so as to abut against the component 9.

[0052] Further, the first part 16 is arranged at a first axial position, and the second part 20 is arranged at a second axial position different from the first axial position. With this configuration, usually, since the head portion 52 of the blind rivet nut 50 protrudes from the surface of the component 9, the abutting end portion 14 is formed in accordance with this structure so as to be able to form a closed chamber, as will be described below. In particular, the second part 20 is further arranged in the direction of the component 9 so as to surround the blind rivet nut 50 when the blind rivet nut 50 is arranged to abut against the first part 16.

[0053] There is a transition portion or a step between the first part 16 and the second part 20. In the illustrated embodiment, there is a step between both the part 16 and the part 20, but nevertheless, depending on the application field, an inclined transition portion may be used instead or in addition.

[0054] The mouthpiece 10 also includes a fluid channel 24 that at least partially penetrates a hollow cylindrical body. An inlet opening 26 for supplying a test fluid, preferably pressurized air, is provided away from the abutting end portion 14. The outlet opening 28 of the fluid channel 24 is preferably provided in the first part 16 between the first endless seal 18 and the second endless seal 22. Also, as shown in the figure, there is only one fluid channel 24.

[0055] The advantage of this mouthpiece 10 is that the structure of the mouthpiece 10 can be used with different known setting devices. Thereby, the mouthpiece 10 of the present invention can be retrofitted to a known setting device.

[0056] Furthermore, since the mouthpiece 10 of the present invention focuses on the design of the abutting end portion 14 or the abutting surface, the remaining design can meet other criteria.

[0057] For this purpose, it is particularly preferred that the setting device comprises a control device 30 for evaluating whether the blind rivet nut 50 is arranged in a sealing manner in the component opening. In this regard, particular reference is made to FIGS. 5, 7, and 9 showing the control device 30. The control device 30 is configured and used to control the supply of the test fluid through the fluid channel 24 within the mouthpiece 10. For this reason, the test fluid line 32 connects the inlet opening 26 of the fluid channel 24 to the control device 30, preferably the control unit 34. Also, the relative pressure is measured by the control device 30, particularly the control unit 34. Similarly, the control device 30, particularly the control unit 34, can evaluate whether the blind rivet nut 50 is arranged in a sealing manner within the component opening based on the measured relative pressure.

[0058] Here, with further reference to FIG. 10 showing a flowchart of an embodiment of the setting method of the present invention, the process of using the mouthpiece 10 will be described in detail. The setting process of the preferred blind rivet nut 50 is similar to the setting process of the preferred blind rivet stud 50'. Therefore, the setting method of the present invention is also applicable to the setting process of the blind rivet stud 50'.

[0059] In the first step A, the blind rivet nut 50 is screwed onto the working end of the tension mandrel 3 until the head portion 52 of the blind rivet nut 50 abuts against the first endless seal 18. Next, in step B, the blind rivet nut 50 disposed on the tension mandrel 3 is placed into the component opening with a predetermined force. As described above, the predetermined force is preferably up to 100 N at maximum. Such a force is sufficient to first evaluate the sealing function realized by the seal ring of the blind rivet nut. Also, such a force can be applied, for example, by a robot used in combination with the setting device 1 as shown in FIG. 9. At the end of this step, the second endless seal 22 abuts against the component 9, and a closed chamber is defined between the first endless seal 18 that abuts against the head portion 52 of the blind rivet nut 50, the second endless seal 22 that abuts against the component 9, and the seal ring 54 of the blind rivet nut 50.

[0060] Next, in order to test the sealing function of the seal ring 54 of the blind rivet nut 50, the test fluid is supplied to this closed chamber through the fluid channel 24 having the outlet opening 28 between the first endless seal 18 and the second endless seal 22. It is preferable to use pressurized air as the test fluid. This supply is performed, for example, over a predetermined period or until a predetermined pressure value is reached. Then, the relative pressure is measured.

[0061] Subsequently, based on the measured relative pressure, in step D, it is evaluated whether the blind rivet nut 50 is disposed in the component opening in a sealed manner.

[0062] In particular, the test fluid is supplied through the fluid channel 24 until a predetermined supply period and / or a predetermined pressure value is reached. Thereafter, the relative pressure is measured after a predetermined measurement period and / or after a predetermined measurement period has elapsed. As a result, the evaluation is based on a comparison of the first reached relative pressure value with the relative pressure value measured at the end of the predetermined measurement period and / or on a series of relative pressures measured during the predetermined measurement period.

[0063] The evaluation of whether the sealing function is sufficient may be performed by an alternative route. On the one hand, the test fluid is supplied through the fluid channel for a predetermined supply period. After this supply period, the relative pressure is measured, and after a certain period has elapsed, the relative pressure is measured again. These two values can be compared, and if the deviation is sufficiently small, i.e., within a predetermined range, the sealing function is classified as OK. Alternatively, the relative pressure may be monitored over the entire period.

[0064] On the other hand, the test fluid may be supplied until a predetermined relative pressure value is reached. Thereafter, after a certain time has elapsed, the relative pressure is measured again, and both values are compared. Here too, the relative pressure may be monitored over the entire test time.

[0065] For this reason, for example, if the relative pressure is approximately constant, it is assumed that the blind rivet nut 50 is arranged in a sealing manner within the component opening. As a result, in a later step D1, the blind rivet nut 50 can be set and fastened. Thereby, the setting process is completed. As a result, the blind rivet nut 50 is crimped axially (see FIGS. 7 and 8), and the process for this connection position is completed. Thereby, the user or robot to which the setting device 1 is fastened can move to the next connection position of the same component, and the process or method is restarted at the new position.

[0066] However, if a decrease in relative pressure is detected and thus it is evaluated that the blind rivet nut 50 is not arranged in a sealing manner in the component opening, the blind rivet nut 50 is removed in step D2. Thereafter, the process is repeated using a new blind rivet nut 50.

[0067] The advantage of this series of progress is that each blind rivet nut 50 is tested for the sealing function before setting. This makes it possible to identify defective blind rivet nuts 50 that do not have, for example, a sealing ring 54 before setting. Since such defective blind rivet nuts 50 can be identified before setting, it is possible to remove it and repeat the process with a new blind rivet nut 50. Also, it is not necessary to test the complete component 9 for airtightness after manufacture, and the number of defective products can be reduced. Also, each method is time-efficient compared to known methods.

[0068] Assuming that the sealing function of the blind rivet nut 50 is classified as OK before setting, the steps of supplying the test fluid through the fluid channel, measuring the relative pressure, and evaluating whether the blind rivet nut 50 is arranged in a sealing manner in the component opening based on the measured relative pressure, described above, are repeated in step F after the blind rivet nut 50 is set in the component opening. This double-checks whether the setting process has led to a connection failure.

[0069] If the blind rivet nut 50 or the new blind rivet nut 50 is set in a sealing manner within the component opening and thus does not lose the sealing function, the connection is classified as OK in step F1.

[0070] On the one hand, if a connection failure is identified after the setting process, this result is indicated in step F2. Therefore, since the connection failure can be indicated, the user can save the time for searching and identifying the connection failure in order to deal with this connection failure. As a result of this, the component can be reprocessed. Alternatively, the component may be excluded.

[0071] If the process has to be repeated using the new blind rivet nut 50, in step E, it is evaluated based on the measured relative pressure in the repeated cycle whether the new blind rivet nut 50 is arranged in a sealing manner within the component opening. Similar to the above-mentioned blind rivet nut 50, for the new blind rivet nut 50 as well, if the evaluation results in the blind rivet nut 50 being arranged in a sealing manner in the component opening, it applies that the new blind rivet nut 50 is set in the component opening in step E1 by axially crimping the new blind rivet nut 50.

[0072] If the result indicates that the new blind rivet nut 50 is also not arranged in a sealing manner in the component opening, in step E2, the user is preferably indicated to check the component 9. Alternatively or additionally, the component 9 is excluded in step E2. These additional steps make it possible to identify defective components or at least defective component openings, for example due to burrs or oversized holes. For example, if respective instructions by a display are presented to the user, the user may directly check the component. Otherwise, the component may be completely excluded so that it can be checked later.

[0073] Assuming again that the sealing function of the new blind rivet nut 50 is classified as OK before setting, the steps of supplying the test fluid through the fluid channel 24 and measuring the relative pressure, as well as evaluating whether the blind rivet nut 50 is arranged in a sealing manner at the component opening based on the measured relative pressure, are repeated in step F after the blind rivet nut 50 is set in the component opening. This double-checks whether the setting process has led to a poor connection.

[0074] If the new blind rivet nut 50 is set in a sealing manner within the component opening and thus does not lose its sealing function, the connection is classified as OK in step F1.

[0075] On the other hand, if a poor connection is identified after the setting process, this result is indicated in step F2. Therefore, since it can indicate a poor connection, the user saves time for searching and identifying the poor connection in order to address this poor connection. As a result, the component can be reprocessed as an instruction result. Alternatively, the component may be excluded.

Description of Symbols

[0076] 1 Setting device 3 Tensile mandrel 3’ Tensile nut with internal thread 5 External thread 5’ Internal thread 7 Mouthpiece 9 Component 10 Mouthpiece 12 Central through bore 14 Contact end 16 First part 18 First endless seal 20 Second part 22 Second endless seal 24 Fluid channel 26 Inlet opening 28 Outlet opening 30 Control device 32 Test fluid line 34 Control unit 50 Blind rivet nut 50’ Blind rivet stud 51 Stud with external thread 52 Heads of blind rivet nut and blind rivet stud 54 Seal ring of blind rivet element

Claims

1. A mouthpiece (10) for a setting device (1) for setting a blind rivet element (50; 50'), a. A hollow, preferably hollow cylindrical body having an abutting end (14) and a central through bore (12) through which a tensile component (3) of the setting device (1) is movable, The mouthpiece (10) is provided with, b. A first endless seal (18) arranged adjacent to the central through bore (12) of the abutting end (14) for abutting against the head portion (52) of the blind rivet element (50), c. A second endless seal (22) arranged radially outside the first endless seal (18) of the abutting end (14) for abutting against a component (9), d. A fluid channel (24) extending at least partially through the hollow, preferably hollow cylindrical body such that an outlet opening (28) is provided between the first endless seal (18) and the second endless seal (22), and an inlet opening (26) for supplying a test fluid is preferably provided away from the abutting end (14). The mouthpiece (10), characterized in that it further comprises.

2. The first endless seal (18) is arranged in a first part (16) in a first axial position, the second endless seal (22) is arranged in a second part (20) in a second axial position different from the first axial position, and there is a transition part or step between the first part (16) and the second part (20). The mouthpiece (10) according to claim 1.

3. The first part (16) and / or the second part (20) is formed in an annular shape, and / or the outlet opening (28) of the fluid channel (24) is present in the first part (16). The mouthpiece (10) according to claim 2.

4. The mouthpiece (10) according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein only one fluid channel (24) is present.

5. A setting device (1) for a blind rivet element (50; 50'), having the following features: a. A tension component (3) displaceable in the axial direction and a component drive for rotating the tension component (3) displaceable in the axial direction, a1. The axially displaceable tension component (3) is formed as a tension mandrel having a working end including an external thread (5) for screwing a blind rivet nut (50), or a2. The axially displaceable tension component (3) is formed as a tension nut having a working end including an internal thread for screwing a blind rivet stud (50'), and the axially displaceable tension component (3) has a drive end for establishing a releasable torque-resistant connection with the component drive, The axially displaceable tension component (3) and the component drive, b. An axial tension drive operably connected to the axially displaceable tension component (3), enabling axial deformation displacement of the axially displaceable tension component (3) in the direction of the drive end, and deforming the blind rivet element (50), an axial tension drive, c. The mouthpiece (10) according to claim 1, A setting device (1) comprising the same.

6. The setting device (1) according to claim 5, wherein the setting device (1) is a hand-held device.

7. The setting device (1) according to claim 5, wherein the setting device (1) is an automatic setting machine.

8. a. Controlling the supply of a test fluid passing through the fluid channel (24) within the mouthpiece (10), b. Measuring the relative pressure, c. Based on the measured relative pressure, evaluate whether the blind rivet element (50) is arranged in a sealing manner within the component opening. The setting device (1) according to claim 5, further comprising a control device (30) for this purpose.

9. A method for setting a blind rivet element (50) using the setting device (1) having the mouthpiece (10) according to claim 1, comprising: a. A step (step A) of screwing the blind rivet element (50) into the working end of the tensile component (3) until the head portion (52) of the blind rivet element (50) abuts against the first endless seal (18); b. A step of arranging the blind rivet element (50) in the component opening with a predetermined force, wherein the second endless seal (22) abuts against the component (9) (step B); The setting method includes: c. A step (step C) of supplying a test fluid through the fluid channel (24) and measuring the relative pressure; d. A step (step D) of evaluating whether the blind rivet element (50) is arranged in a sealing manner in the component opening based on the measured relative pressure; d1. In the case of yes, a step (step D1) of setting the blind rivet element (50) in the component opening by axially crimping the blind rivet element (50), or d2. In the case of no, a step of removing the blind rivet element (50) (step D2) and repeating the setting method using a new blind rivet element (50) (step E); The setting method is further characterized by further including this.

10. Whether the new blind rivet element (50) is arranged in a sealed manner within the component opening is evaluated based on the measured relative pressure in the repeated cycle, e1. In the case of yes, set the new blind rivet element (50) in the component opening by axially crimping the new blind rivet nut (50) (step E1), or, e2. In the case of no, indicate to check the component (9) (step E2), and / or exclude the component (9) (step E2), The setting method according to claim 9.

11. The test fluid is supplied through the fluid channel (24) until a predetermined supply period and / or a predetermined pressure value is reached, and then the relative pressure is measured after a predetermined measurement period and / or after the predetermined measurement period has elapsed, and as a result, the evaluation is a1. Comparison of the first reached relative pressure value with the relative pressure value measured at the end of the predetermined measurement period, and / or a2. A series of relative pressures measured during the predetermined measurement period Based on, the setting method according to claim 9.

12. The steps of supplying a test fluid through the fluid channel (24), measuring the relative pressure, and evaluating whether the blind rivet element (50) is arranged in a sealed manner in the component opening based on the measured relative pressure are repeated after the blind rivet element (50) or the new blind rivet element (50) is set in the component opening (step F), the setting method according to claim 9.

13. a. When the blind rivet element (50) or the new blind rivet element (50) is set in a sealed manner within the component opening, the connection is classified as OK (step F1), or b. If the blind rivet element (50) or the new blind rivet element (50) is not set in a sealing manner, the result is shown (step F2). The setting method according to claim 12.

14. The setting method according to claim 9, wherein pressurized air is used as the test fluid.

Images