Bonding device and bonding method

Abstract

To provide a connection device and a connection method that have suppressed deterioration in energy efficiency by preventing deterioration of a power supply member and stabilizing a current path in a connection object.SOLUTION: A connection device includes: a pair of pressurizing members 20 disposed opposed so as to sandwich a plurality of connected members 101 and 102 from the two sides in a lamination direction, and capable of pressurizing the plurality of connected members; and a plurality of power supply members 31 and 32 provided so as to come in contact with the connected members and supply power, which are disposed so as to sandwich a pressurized part 105 of the plurality of connected members pressurized by the pressurizing members in between on one side or both sides in the lamination direction of the plurality of connected members. The power supply members are provided at a position where they do not overlap with the pressurizing members in the lamination direction of the plurality of connected members respectively. Resistance heat is generated in the pressurized part to connect the plurality of connected members by pressurizing the plurality of connected members with the pressuring members and supplying power to the plurality of connected members with the power supply members.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 3

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a joining device and a joining method. [Background technology]

[0002] Conventionally, in processes such as automobile body manufacturing, spot welding is performed by sandwiching multiple overlapping parts to be joined between a pair of electrodes and passing an electric current through the objects to be joined, generating resistance heat and applying pressure to the weld, thereby suppressing expansion and molten metal splashes that occur due to melting at the joint interface.

[0003] In conventional spot welding, when the molten zone grows beyond the range of influence of the applied pressure, molten metal splatter becomes a problem. To address this issue, Patent Document 1, for example, proposes a method of suppressing molten metal splatter by sandwiching the workpieces between an electrode body having a pressure member attached to the outer periphery of the electrode tip and independently controlling the pressure of the electrode tip and the pressure member. Furthermore, Patent Document 2, for example, proposes a spot welding electrode with an uneven portion at the electrode tip to suppress fringing, which occurs when the contact state between the workpieces and the power supply changes during the welding process and the current path expands or changes within the workpieces. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0004] [Patent Document 1] International Publication No. 2017 / 073793 [Patent Document 2] Japanese Patent Publication No. 2020-082092 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0005] However, in this type of spot welding, the pressure-applying part and power supply part of the electrode are integrated, which causes arc discharge between the workpiece and the power supply part due to the fringing phenomenon. Therefore, when welding multiple welds continuously, the electrode wears out and breaks, resulting in unstable welding conditions due to power supply and pressure. Furthermore, because the electrode that supplies power is located near the weld, which melts and becomes hot, water cooling to protect the power supply part removes heat from the weld. In other words, this is an inefficient processing process that involves simultaneous heating and cooling.

[0006] The present invention has been made in consideration of the above points, and its object is to provide a joining device and a joining method that prevent deterioration of the power supply member, stabilize the current path in the objects to be joined, and suppress a decrease in energy efficiency. [Means for solving the problem]

[0007] In order to achieve the above object, a bonding apparatus according to a first technique of the present invention is an apparatus for bonding a plurality of stacked workpieces, and comprises a pair of pressure members arranged opposite each other so as to sandwich the plurality of workpieces in the stacking direction and capable of applying pressure to the plurality of workpieces, and a plurality of power supply members arranged on one or both sides of the stacking direction of the plurality of workpieces so as to sandwich the pressured portions of the plurality of workpieces that are pressurized by the pressure members between them and abutting the workpieces so as to be able to supply power, wherein each of the power supply members is arranged at a position that does not overlap with the pressure member in the stacking direction of the plurality of workpieces, and the pressure members are applied to the plurality of workpieces by the pressure members, and power is supplied to the plurality of workpieces by the power supply members, thereby generating resistance heat in the pressured portions and bonding the plurality of workpieces.

[0008] According to this technology, the power supply member that supplies power to the workpieces and the pressure member that applies pressure to the workpieces are separated and positioned so that they do not overlap in the stacking direction, preventing deformation of the workpieces at the contact points with the power supply member. This allows for a stable current path to be generated within the workpieces, and by suppressing sudden changes in the current path, it is possible to prevent arc discharge and wear and tear on the power supply member. Furthermore, by stabilizing the current path through the pressure-receiving part and allowing the use of materials that are not suitable for power supply function, heat dissipation due to thermal conduction is prevented, allowing for efficient energy consumption in the pressure-receiving part, thereby improving energy efficiency. Therefore, it is possible to provide a joining device with a simple configuration that prevents deterioration of the power supply member and suppresses a decrease in energy efficiency.

[0009] The second technology is characterized in that, in the first technology, the power supply member includes a first power supply member arranged on one side of the stacking direction of the plurality of joined members, and a second power supply member arranged on the other side of the stacking direction of the plurality of joined members.

[0010] This technology allows a current path to be formed from one side of the joined members in the stacking direction to the other side, more reliably passing through to the pressurized portion. Furthermore, the current density in the joined members decreases toward the contact point with the power supply member, and increases toward the area corresponding to the contact point with the pressure member, ensuring sufficient heat generation in the pressurized portion. This control of current density further stabilizes the current path and improves energy efficiency.

[0011] A third technology is characterized in that in the second technology, the power supply member has a contact portion that contacts the workpiece and extends in a direction substantially perpendicular to the pressure-receiving portion in a plan view.

[0012] According to this technology, the effect of the current density becoming sparser in the joined members as they approach the point of contact with the power supply member, and becoming denser as they approach the area corresponding to the point of contact with the pressure member, is promoted, allowing this technology to be implemented more effectively.

[0013] A fourth technique is characterized in that in any one of the first to third techniques, the pressure member and the power supply member adjacent to the workpiece in the surface direction are provided at the tip of the electrode body.

[0014] According to this technology, even though both a pressure member and a power supply member are provided at the tip of the electrode body, the power supply member that supplies power to the joined members and the pressure member that pressurizes the joined members can be separated, thereby preventing deformation of the joined members at the points of contact with the power supply member, and the joining device can be more suitably implemented with a simple configuration.

[0015] A fifth technology is characterized in that in the fourth technology, the pressure member includes a pressure member support portion between the pressure member and the electrode body, the pressure member being elastically deformable in the stacking direction of the plurality of members to be joined.

[0016] According to the present technology, the timing of contact of the pressure member with the workpiece and the pressure force can be controlled by the elastic deformation of the pressure member support portion, which increases the versatility of the technology and makes it more suitable for implementation.

[0017] The sixth technology is characterized in that, in the fourth technology, the power supply member has a power supply member support portion between the power supply member and the electrode body, the power supply member being elastically deformable in the stacking direction of the multiple joined members.

[0018] According to this technology, the timing of the contact of the power supply member with the joined member and the contact state between the power supply member and the joined member can be controlled with a simple configuration by elastically deforming the power supply member support part, thereby increasing the versatility of this technology and making it more suitable for implementation.

[0019] A seventh technology is any one of the first to sixth technologies, characterized in that the pressure member is made of a conductor, and an insulating member is provided between the power supply member and the pressure member.

[0020] According to this technology, even if the pressure member is made of a material that conducts electricity easily, it is possible to generate a current path at a desired location on the joined member, thereby making it possible to more reliably control the current path with a simple configuration.

[0021] The eighth technology is any one of the first to seventh technologies, characterized in that the power supply member has a joining power supply for generating resistance heat in the pressurized portion, and a monitoring power supply for checking the current flow state of the power supply member with respect to the joined members.

[0022] According to this technology, by supplying power to the power supply member from a monitoring power supply, it is possible to check the current flow state of the power supply member relative to the workpieces and to confirm appropriate pressurizing conditions in advance. Then, by using the confirmed pressurizing conditions and supplying power from the joining power supply, it is possible to more suitably join the workpieces.

[0023] A joining method according to a ninth technique is a method for joining a plurality of stacked members to be joined, and is characterized in that it uses a pair of pressure members that are arranged opposite each other so as to sandwich the plurality of members to be joined from both sides in the stacking direction and are capable of applying pressure to the plurality of members to be joined, and a plurality of power supply members that are arranged on one or both sides in the stacking direction of the plurality of members to be joined so as to sandwich the pressurized portions of the plurality of members to be joined that are pressurized by the pressure members and are in contact with the members to be able to supply power, and the plurality of members to be joined are pressed by the pressure members, and power is supplied by the power supply members from positions that do not overlap with the pressure members in the stacking direction of the plurality of members to be joined, thereby generating resistance heat in the pressurized portions and joining the plurality of members to be joined.

[0024] According to this technology, power is supplied and pressure is applied to the workpieces while the power supply member that supplies power to the workpieces and the pressure member that applies pressure to the workpieces are separated, preventing deformation of the workpieces at the contact points with the power supply member. This stabilizes the current path in the workpieces and suppresses sudden changes in the current path, thereby preventing arc discharge and wear and damage to the power supply member. Furthermore, by stabilizing the current path and enabling the use of materials that are not suitable for power supply function, heat dissipation due to thermal conduction is prevented, allowing for efficient heat dissipation in the pressure-receiving portion, thereby improving energy efficiency. Therefore, a joining method can be achieved that, with a simple configuration, prevents electrode deterioration, stabilizes the current path in the workpieces, and suppresses a decrease in energy efficiency.

[0025] The tenth technology is characterized in that, in the ninth technology, the power supply members include a first power supply member arranged on one side of the stacking direction of the plurality of joined members, and a second power supply member arranged on the other side of the stacking direction of the plurality of joined members.

[0026] This technology allows a current path to be formed from one side of the joined members in the stacking direction to the other side, more reliably passing through to the pressurized portion. Furthermore, the current density is low in the area of ​​the joined members near the contact point with the power supply member, and increases toward the area corresponding to the contact point with the pressure member, ensuring sufficient heat generation in the pressurized portion. This control of current density makes it possible to stabilize the current path and further enhance the effects of improving energy efficiency.

[0027] An eleventh technology is characterized in that, in the tenth technology, the power supply member has a contact portion that contacts the workpiece and extends in a direction substantially perpendicular to the pressure-receiving portion in a plan view.

[0028] According to this technology, the current density in the joined parts is low in the area close to the point of contact with the power supply member, and the current density becomes high as the joined parts approach the area corresponding to the point of contact with the pressure member, thereby promoting the effect of this technology being implemented more effectively.

[0029] The twelfth technology is characterized in that, in any one of the ninth to eleventh technologies, the pressure member is made of a conductor and power is supplied with an insulating material interposed between the multiple joined members.

[0030] According to this technology, even if the pressure applying member is made of a material that conducts electricity easily, by inserting an insulating material, it is possible to generate a current path at a desired location on the joined member, thereby making it possible to more reliably control the current path with a simple configuration.

[0031] A thirteenth technology is any one of the ninth to twelfth technologies, characterized in that the power supply member has a joining power supply for generating resistance heat in the pressurized portion and a monitoring power supply capable of checking the current flow state of the power supply member with respect to the workpieces, and the technology comprises a current flow confirmation step of gradually changing the pressure force applied by the pressure member while power is being supplied between the power supply members by the monitoring power supply, and checking the current flow state of the plurality of workpieces to be joined, and a joining step of supplying power between the power supply members by the joining power supply under the conditions confirmed in the current flow confirmation step.

[0032] According to this technology, it is possible to confirm the optimal processing conditions by first using a monitor power supply to monitor the current flow state while changing the pressure applied by the pressure member, and then performing processing using a joining power supply under these optimal processing conditions, thereby securing the pressurized part as a current path and supplying power, which makes it easier to control the current path and allows this technology to be implemented more effectively. [Effects of the Invention]

[0033] As described above, according to the present disclosure, the power supply member that supplies power to the workpieces and the pressure member that applies pressure to the workpieces are separate, which prevents deformation of the workpieces at the contact points with the power supply member. This stabilizes the current path in the workpieces, preventing wear and damage to the power supply member. Furthermore, stabilizing the current path allows for efficient heat dissipation in the pressure-receiving portion, improving energy efficiency. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0034] [Figure 1] 1 is a schematic cross-sectional view showing the configuration of a joining device according to a first embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 2] FIG. 2 is a schematic perspective view showing an example of an electrode main body. [Figure 3] FIG. 6 is a schematic cross-sectional view showing the configuration of a joining device according to a second embodiment. [Figure 4] FIG. 2 is a schematic plan view showing a current path in an object to be joined. [Figure 5] FIG. 10 is a schematic cross-sectional view showing a joining device according to a third embodiment. [Figure 6] 10A and 10B are schematic cross-sectional views showing a bonding method according to a fourth embodiment. [Figure 7] FIG. 10 is a schematic cross-sectional view showing the configuration of a joining device according to a fifth embodiment. [Figure 8] FIG. 10 is a schematic cross-sectional view showing the configuration of a joining device according to a sixth embodiment. [Figure 9] FIG. 10 is a schematic cross-sectional view showing the configuration of a joining device according to a sixth embodiment. [Figure 10] 10 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a joining procedure. [Figure 11] FIG. 11 is a schematic cross-sectional view showing the configuration of a joining device according to a seventh embodiment. [Figure 12] FIG. 11 is a schematic cross-sectional view showing the configuration of a joining device according to a seventh embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0035] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present disclosure will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. The following description of the preferred embodiments is merely exemplary in nature and is not intended to limit the present disclosure, its applications, or its uses.

[0036] <Embodiment 1> FIG. 1 is a schematic cross-sectional view showing the configuration of a bonding apparatus according to a first embodiment of the present invention. The bonding apparatus 1 according to this embodiment is an apparatus for bonding a bonding target 100 including a plurality of bonded members 101, 102 stacked one above the other. As shown in FIG. 1, the bonding apparatus 1 includes a pair of pressure members 20, 20 arranged opposite each other so as to sandwich the two bonded members 101, 102 from both sides in the stacking direction, and a plurality of power supply members 30 arranged so as to sandwich a pressure-receiving portion 105 of the bonding target 100 that is pressurized by the pressure member 20. The bonding target 100 is pressurized by the pressure member 20, and power is supplied to the bonding target 100 by the power supply members 30, thereby generating resistance heat in the pressure-receiving portion 105 of the bonding target 100, and the plurality of bonded members 101, 102 are melted and bonded.

[0037] For ease of explanation, the drawings omit illustrations of the mechanical structure other than cross sections of the main parts including the pressure member, power supply member, and workpieces to be joined. Furthermore, the joining device 1 includes many other components in addition to those shown in the drawings, such as a drive unit that drives the pressure member and a power source connected to the power supply member, but these will also not be shown or described in detail.

[0038] In this specification, for convenience, directions in essential parts may be referred to as follows: That is, as shown in Fig. 1, the direction in which the members to be joined 101, 102 are stacked (stacking direction) may be referred to as the up-down direction, and the direction perpendicular to the up-down direction and corresponding to the surface direction of the members to be joined 101, 102 may be referred to as the left-right direction.

[0039] The members to be joined 101, 102 are members with plate-shaped parts to be joined, such as members made of metals such as aluminum, steel, iron, and alloys thereof, or members made of carbon fiber reinforced composite metal materials. Specific examples of these members include front panels, floor panels, rear panels, side sills, tunnel rain panels, cross members, frames, outer panels, and other automobile parts, as well as other vehicle parts for aircraft, trains, and the like, building materials, industrial products, and the like, which can be joined together. A plurality of members to be joined may be collectively referred to as a joining target 100.

[0040] 1, the pressure members 20 are arranged on both the top and bottom sides of the joining workpieces 100 so as to be able to apply pressure to the joining workpieces 100. The pair of pressure members 20, 20 are arranged facing each other so as to be overlapped in the vertical direction, and are configured to be able to move up and down toward the joining workpieces 100. The pressure members 20 apply pressure to the joining workpieces 100 by moving up and down, and create a pressure-receiving portion 105 in the joining workpieces 100. The pressure-receiving portion 105 is a portion that melts due to resistance heat generated by the passage of current through the power supply members 30, 30, and is pressed by the pressure members 20, 20 to become a joining portion (welded portion).

[0041] As shown in FIG. 2, the pressure applying member 20 is a cylindrical heat insulating member with a hemispherically rounded tip that comes into contact with the surfaces of the members to be joined 101, 102, which can minimize the effect on the surface shape of the members to be joined 101, 102. However, the shape and material are not limited, and for example, if a square-shaped pressure applying member is used, pressure can be reliably applied to the pressurized portion 105.

[0042] The power supply members 30 are arranged on either one of the top and bottom sides of the object to be joined 100, and are arranged on both left and right sides of one of the pressing members 20 so as to sandwich the pressure-receiving portion 105 that is pressed by the pressing members 20. Specifically, in this embodiment, two power supply members 30, 30 are arranged with a gap between them on both left and right sides of the pressing member 20 provided above the object to be joined 100 (on one side in the stacking direction).

[0043] The power supply member 30 is configured to be movable up and down toward the workpieces 100. The power supply member 30 comes into contact with the surfaces of the workpieces 100 by moving up and down, and is able to supply power into the workpieces 100 from contact portions 30a that come into contact with the surfaces of the workpieces 101 and 102. As shown in FIG. 2, the contact portions 30a extend in a direction approximately perpendicular to the pressure-receiving portion 105. The power supply members 30 are positioned so as not to overlap with the pressure member 20 in the up and down direction. However, when pressure is applied by the pressure member 20 and electricity is passed between the power supply members 30, a current path P is generated in the left and right directions within the workpieces 100, for example, as shown by the arrows in FIG. 1, and the current path P passes through the pressure-receiving portion 105.

[0044] The pressure member 20 and the power supply member 30 may be provided independently in the joining device 1, but as shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, it is preferable that the pressure member 20 and the power supply member 30 adjacent in the left-right direction are provided at the tip of a single electrode body 10. The electrode body 10 is configured to be movable up and down by a drive device (not shown). The pressure member 20 and the power supply member 30 may be moved up and down together with the electrode body 10, or may be moved up and down independently. The drive device may be configured, for example, by an air cylinder, a hydraulic cylinder, a servo motor, or the like.

[0045] <Action and effect> According to the bonding apparatus and bonding method of this embodiment, the power supply member 30, which supplies power to the workpieces 101, 102, and the pressure-receiving portion 105 of the pressure member 20 are located apart, and the power supply function and pressure-receiving function are separate. This prevents deformation of the workpieces 101, 102 at the contact portion 30a with the power supply member 30. This stabilizes the current path P in the workpieces 100, preventing wear and damage to the power supply member 30. Furthermore, stabilizing the current path P enables efficient heat consumption in the pressure-receiving portion 105, improving energy efficiency. Therefore, it is possible to provide a bonding apparatus and bonding method with a simple configuration that prevents deterioration of the power supply member 30, stabilizes the current path in the workpieces, and suppresses a decrease in energy efficiency.

[0046] Other embodiments of the present disclosure will be described below. In the description of these embodiments, the same parts as those in the first embodiment will be denoted by the same reference numerals, and detailed description thereof will be omitted.

[0047] <Embodiment 2> The joining apparatus 1 according to the second embodiment differs from the first embodiment in that power supply members are provided on both the upper and lower sides of the joining workpieces. That is, as shown in Fig. 3, power supply members 31 and 32 are arranged on the upper and lower sides of the joining workpieces 100, on the left and right outer sides of the pressing members 20, 20, so as to face each other with the pressurized portion 105, which is pressurized by the pressing members 20, 20, sandwiched therebetween.

[0048] Specifically, the first power supply member 31 provided above the object to be joined 100 (one side in the stacking direction) is positioned to the right of the pressure applying member 20 with a gap therebetween, and the second power supply member 32 provided below the object to be joined 100 (the other side in the stacking direction) is positioned to the left of the pressure applying member 20 with a gap therebetween, so that the first power supply member 31 and the second power supply member 32 face each other with the pressure receiving portion 105 in between and are positioned diagonally opposite each other.

[0049] The power supply members 31 and 32 can supply power into the object 100 from contact portions 31a and 32a that contact the surfaces of the workpieces 101 and 102. The first power supply member 31 and the second power supply member 32 are each provided at a position that does not overlap with the pressure member 20 in the vertical direction, but when current is passed between the power supply members 31 and 32, a current path P is generated in the diagonal direction indicated by the arrow in FIG.

[0050] FIG. 4 is a plan view of the workpieces 100 in a pressurized and power-supplied state according to the second embodiment, illustrating a schematic diagram of the flow of electricity in the workpieces 100. For ease of explanation, the joining apparatus 1 is omitted from FIG. 4 . The contact portions 31 a, 32 a between the power supply members 31, 32 and the workpieces 101, 102 extend substantially perpendicular to the pressurized portion 105 in a plan view, and the contact portions 31 a, 32 a are substantially parallel to each other. When pressure is applied by the pressure member 20 and current is passed between the power supply members 31, 32, a diagonal current path P is generated, and this current path P passes through the pressurized portion 105. As shown by the shading in FIG. 4 , in the workpieces 100 in a pressurized and power-supplied state, the current density is low near the contact portions 31 a, 32 a and becomes denser toward the region 105 a corresponding to the contact point with the pressure member.

[0051] This configuration prevents deformation of the workpieces 100 at the contact portions 31a and 32a, and makes it possible to generate heat more efficiently at the pressure-receiving portion 105. Compared to conventional spot welding, which is performed using an electrode that combines pressure and power supply, the joining device according to this embodiment can perform joining using approximately one-third of the heat.

[0052] <Embodiment 3> The joining apparatus 1 according to the third embodiment differs from the second embodiment in that two power supply members are arranged on either the left or right side of the pressing member. That is, as shown in Fig. 5, the power supply members 31 and 32 are arranged on the right side of the pressing members 20, 20, respectively, on both the top and bottom sides of the joining target object 100, so as to face each other with the pressurized portion 105, which is pressurized by the pressing members 20, 20, sandwiched between them.

[0053] Specifically, the first power supply member 31 provided above the objects 100 (one side in the stacking direction) is disposed to the right of the pressure member 20 at a distance, and the second power supply member 32 provided below the objects 100 (the other side in the stacking direction) is disposed to the right of the pressure member 20 at a distance. The first power supply member 31 and the second power supply member 32 are disposed in positions that overlap each other in the vertical direction, and thus face each other so as to sandwich the pressure-receiving portion 105 from above and below.

[0054] The power supply members 31 and 32 can supply power into the object 100 from contact portions 31a and 32a that contact the surfaces of the workpieces 101 and 102. The first power supply member 31 and the second power supply member 32 are each provided at a position that does not overlap with the pressure member 20 in the vertical direction, but when current is passed between the power supply members 31 and 32, a current path P is generated in the direction shown by the arrow in FIG.

[0055] <Embodiment 4> The configuration of the objects to be joined 100 is not limited to that of the above embodiment. That is, in order to control the current path P, the objects to be joined 100 may have the configuration shown in Fig. 6. Embodiment 4 is another joining method using the joining apparatus 1 of Embodiment 2.

[0056] 6, the pressure member 20 is made of a conductor such as metal, and three members to be joined 101, 102, and 103 that make up the joining target 100 have insulating material 200 interposed between adjacent members to be joined above and below. The insulating material 200 is provided at a position that overlaps with the power supply members 31 and 32 in the vertical direction, but does not overlap with the pressure member 20.

[0057] When current is passed between the power supply members 31 and 32 while pressure is being applied by the pressure member 20, the current path P is formed so as to avoid the portion where the insulating material 200 is provided, which makes the current path P more stable and allows the current path to pass more reliably to the pressure-receiving portion 105. In this way, even when the pressure member 20 is made of a conductor, by supplying power with the insulating material 200 interposed between the members to be joined, it is possible to control the current path P to be formed at the desired joining portion.

[0058] <Embodiment 5> The joining apparatus 1 according to the fifth embodiment differs from the above-described embodiments in that power supply members are provided on both the left and right sides of the pressure members on both the top and bottom of the objects to be joined. That is, as shown in Fig. 7, power supply members 33, 34 are arranged on both the top and bottom of the members to be joined 101, 102, and are arranged on both the left and right sides of the pressure members 20, 20 so as to face each other with a pressure-receiving portion 105 to be pressed by the pressure members 20, 20 sandwiched therebetween and positioned diagonally.

[0059] Specifically, the pressure applying member 20 is made of a conductor such as metal, and first power supply members 33, 33 provided above the members to be joined 101, 102 are arranged on both the left and right sides of the upper pressure applying member 20 with a gap therebetween, and insulating members 40, 40 are provided between the first power supply members 33, 33 and the pressure applying member 20. Further, second power supply members 34, 34 provided below the members to be joined 101, 102 are arranged on both the left and right sides of the lower pressure applying member 20 with a gap therebetween, and insulating members 40, 40 are provided between the second power supply members 34, 34 and the pressure applying member 20.

[0060] The first power supply member 33 and the second power supply member 34 are arranged to face each other in the vertical direction with the object to be joined 100 therebetween. The first power supply members 33, 33 and the second power supply members 34, 34 are also provided at positions that do not overlap with the pressing member 20 in the vertical direction.

[0061] When pressure is applied by the pressure member 20 and current is passed between the power supply members 33, 34 configured as described above, a diagonal current path P is generated, as shown by the arrows in Fig. 7. This current path P passes through the pressure-receiving portion 105, thereby allowing the pressure-receiving portion 105 to generate heat more effectively. In this way, even if the pressure member 20 is made of a conductor, by supplying power with the insulating members 40, 40 interposed therebetween, it is possible to reliably control the current path P.

[0062] <Embodiment 6> The bonding device 1 according to the sixth embodiment has substantially the same configuration as that of the fifth embodiment, but differs in that the pressure member has an elastically deformable pressure member support portion. That is, as shown in Fig. 8, the pressure member 20 has an elastically deformable pressure member support portion 21 between it and the electrode body 10. The pressure member support portion 21 is, for example, a spring member, and is elastically deformable in the vertical direction.

[0063] The pressure member 20 protrudes further toward the object to be joined 100 than the power supply members 33, 34 adjacent to it in the left-right direction. Therefore, when the electrode body 10 is moved up and down to bring the pressure member 20 and the power supply members 33, 34 closer to the object to be joined 100, the tip of the pressure member 20 comes into contact with the surface of the object to be joined 100 before the power supply members 33, 34 do.

[0064] After the pressure member 20 comes into contact with the surface of the object to be joined 100, when the electrode body 10 is brought further closer to the object to be joined 100, the pressure member 20 presses the object to be joined 100, and the pressure member support part 21 elastically deforms, and the power supply members 33, 34 come into contact with the surface of the object to be joined 100 after the pressure member 20, as shown in FIG.

[0065] In this way, by configuring the pressurizing member support part 21 to be elastically deformable, and further configuring the power supply members 33, 34 to have a joining power supply for generating resistance heat in the pressurized part 105 and a monitoring power supply for checking the current flow state of the power supply members 33, 34 relative to the members to be joined 101, 102, a step-by-step process such as the current flow checking step S1 and the joining step S2 shown in FIG. 10 becomes possible.

[0066] The monitor power supply has an output of, for example, a maximum of about 50 V, and is applied when there is no output from the joining power supply. By detecting a change in voltage by the monitor power supply, it is possible to detect contact of the power supply members 33, 34 with the joined members 101, 102.

[0067] The current flow confirmation step S1 is a step in which, with power being supplied between the power supply members 33, 34 by the monitor power supply, the pressure applied by the pressure member 20 is gradually changed to confirm the current flow state in the plurality of workpieces 101, 102, and check whether the current path P can be properly secured. In the current flow confirmation step S1, it is possible to confirm the appropriate pressure force and current flow state, check the state of the gap between the workpieces, output process errors, etc., and it is possible to monitor the construction parameters while checking the pressure state and balance between the pressure member 20 and the power supply members 33, 34.

[0068] The joining step S2 is a step of supplying power between the power supply members 33 and 34 from the joining power source under the conditions such as the construction parameters confirmed in the energization confirmation step S1, and joining the pressure-receiving portion 105.

[0069] In this way, power can be supplied under appropriate conditions that can ensure the pressure-receiving portion 105 as the current path P, and therefore, the current path P can be stabilized, thereby improving energy efficiency with a simple configuration.

[0070] <Embodiment 7> The joining apparatus 1 according to the seventh embodiment has substantially the same configuration as that of the fifth embodiment, but differs in that the power supply members have elastically deformable power supply member support parts. That is, as shown in Fig. 11, the power supply members 35, 36 are arranged on both the top and bottom sides of the joining target 100 and are provided on both the left and right sides with the pressing member 20 in between, and each include an elastically deformable power supply member support part 50 between them and the electrode main body 10. The power supply member support part 50 is, for example, a spring member and is elastically deformable in the vertical direction.

[0071] The power supply members 35, 36 protrude further toward the object to be joined 100 than the adjacent pressure member 20. Therefore, when the electrode body 10 is moved up and down to bring the pressure member 20 and the power supply members 35, 36 closer to the object to be joined 100, the power supply members 35, 36 come into contact with the surface of the object to be joined 100 before the pressure member 20 does.

[0072] 12 , when the electrode body 10 is brought further closer to the workpieces 100 after the power supply members 35, 36 have come into contact with the surfaces of the workpieces 100, the power supply member support part 50 elastically deforms, and the pressure member 20 comes into contact with the surfaces of the workpieces 100 after the power supply members 35, 36. When the electrode body 10 is brought further closer to the workpieces 100, the pressure applied by the pressure member 20 to the workpieces 100 increases, while the power supply member support part 50 elastically deforms to apply an appropriate pressure required for power supply to the power supply members 35, 36.

[0073] Furthermore, similarly to the sixth embodiment, the power supply members 35, 36 are configured to have a joining power supply for generating resistance heat in the pressurized portion 105 and a monitoring power supply for checking the current flow state of the power supply members 35, 36 relative to the members to be joined 101, 102, thereby enabling a stepwise process such as the current flow checking step S1 and the joining step S2 shown in FIG. 10.

[0074] In this way, by using a configuration including the elastically deformable power supply member support part 50, it is possible to apply different appropriate pressure forces to the pressure member 20 and the power supply members 35, 36 with a simple configuration. Since it is possible to prevent deformation of the workpiece 100 at the contact points with the power supply members 35, 36, it is possible to stabilize the current path P.

[0075] <Other embodiments> The above embodiment is an example in which the joining device 1 is applied to fusion joining, in which resistance heat is generated in the pressurized portion of the joined members, as in conventional spot welding, to melt the joined members and join them together, and the "joining" in the claims refers to "fusion joining." However, the embodiments of the joining device 1 are not limited to such fusion joining. In addition, for example, it is also possible to apply the joining device 1 to adhesive joining, in which a thermosetting adhesive is applied between the joined members, and resistance heat is generated in the pressurized portion by applying pressure and supplying electricity using the joining device 1, and the thermosetting adhesive is thermally cured to join the joined members. In this case, the "joining" in the claims refers to "adhesive joining." [Industrial Applicability]

[0076] The joining apparatus and joining method of the present disclosure are industrially useful as a joining apparatus and joining method that suppresses a decrease in energy efficiency by stabilizing the current path in the objects to be joined. [Explanation of symbols]

[0077] 1 Bonding equipment 10 Electrode body 20 Pressure member 30~36 Power supply members 40 Insulating material 100 Joining object 101~103 Parts to be joined 105 Pressure-receiving part 200 Insulating Materials P current path S1 Energization confirmation process S2 Joining process

Claims

1. A method for joining a plurality of stacked members to be joined, comprising the steps of: a pair of pressure members arranged opposite to each other so as to sandwich the plurality of members to be joined from both sides in the stacking direction, and capable of applying pressure to the plurality of members to be joined; a plurality of power supply members arranged on one or both sides of the plurality of workpieces in a stacking direction so as to sandwich the pressurized portions of the plurality of workpieces pressurized by the pressurizing member, and provided in contact with the workpieces so as to be able to supply power; the power supply member has a contact portion that contacts the workpieces and extends along the surfaces of the workpieces in a plan view; A joining method characterized by: pressing the plurality of workpieces with the pressure member made of a conductor while an insulating material is interposed between the workpieces; and supplying power from the power supply member from a position that does not overlap with the pressure member in the stacking direction of the plurality of workpieces, thereby generating resistance heat in the pressured portion and joining the plurality of workpieces.

2. A method for joining a plurality of stacked members to be joined, comprising the steps of: a pair of pressure members arranged opposite to each other so as to sandwich the plurality of members to be joined from both sides in the stacking direction, and capable of applying pressure to the plurality of members to be joined; a plurality of power supply members arranged on one or both sides of the plurality of workpieces in a stacking direction so as to sandwich the pressurized portions of the plurality of workpieces pressurized by the pressurizing member, and provided in contact with the workpieces so as to be able to supply power; the power supply member has a joining power supply for generating resistance heat in the pressurized portion, and a monitor power supply for checking a current-carrying state of the power supply member with respect to the workpieces, a current flow confirmation step of gradually changing the pressure applied by the pressure member while supplying power between the power supply members by the monitor power supply and checking the current flow state in the plurality of workpieces; a joining step of supplying power between the power supply members by the joining power source under the conditions confirmed in the energization confirmation step, a bonding method characterized in that the plurality of workpieces are pressed by the pressure member, and power is supplied by the power supply member from a position that does not overlap with the pressure member in the stacking direction of the plurality of workpieces, thereby generating resistance heat in the pressure-applied portion and bonding the plurality of workpieces.

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