Pierce Nut

Abstract

It is a pierce nut and has a main body portion, a plate-shaped ground portion provided near the center of a flat surface in the main body portion, and a pilot portion protruding in an elongation direction from near the center of a single surface provided in the ground portion. The single surface of the ground portion is formed to rise from the flat surface, and the outer surface of the pilot portion and the single surface of the ground portion are connected at the neck portion between the ground portion and the pilot portion, thereby forming a gap near the neck portion. On a first intersection surface intersecting the elongation direction, the first cross-sectional shape of the pilot portion is an n-angle shape (where n is a natural number greater than or equal to 4).

Description

Technology Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a pierce nut. Background Technology

[0002] Conventionally, a pierce nut is known in which a concave groove is provided on the outer surface of the pilot portion (e.g., Patent Document 1). Prior art literature

[0003] Japanese Patent Publication No. 5300027 The problem to be solved

[0004] Here, in the pierce nut of Patent Document 1, the concave groove provided on the outer surface of the pilot portion is mainly used to exert pulling drag and rotational drag on the corresponding pierce nut fixed to the metal plate.

[0005] However, manufacturing pierce nuts with such concave grooves requires preparing molds with complex shapes. As a result, the frequency of mold breakage during pierce nut production increases, leading to the problem of increased manufacturing costs.

[0006] Therefore, the present invention aims to provide a pierce nut that can be securely fastened to a plate even when a simple shape is adopted. means of solving the problem

[0007] To solve the above problem, a pierce nut according to a first embodiment comprises a main body portion, a plate-shaped platform portion provided near the center of a flat surface in the main body portion, and a pilot portion protruding in an elongation direction from near the center of a stepped surface provided in the platform portion, wherein the stepped surface of the platform portion is formed to rise from the flat surface, and the outer surface of the pilot portion and the stepped surface of the platform portion are connected at a neck portion between the platform portion and the pilot portion, thereby forming a gap near the neck portion, wherein the first cross-sectional shape of the pilot portion on a first intersection surface intersecting the elongation direction is an n-angle shape (where n is a natural number greater than or equal to 4), and the second cross-sectional shape of the platform portion on a second intersection surface intersecting the elongation direction is an m-angle shape (where m is a natural number greater than or equal to 5 and different from n). Together, the length of the outer circumference of the pilot section on the first intersection surface increases as the first intersection surface is spaced apart from the single-sphere surface toward the leading edge surface of the pilot section, and the intersection point between the half-line extending from the axis of the pilot section along the single-sphere surface and the outer circumference is defined as the first intersection point, the intersection point between the half-line and the outermost circumference of the single-sphere surface is defined as the second intersection point, and the length of the line segment connecting the first and second intersection points is defined as the gap length, and then when the rotational position of the half-line changes around the axis, the gap length at each rotational position changes.

[0008] In addition, the pierce nut according to the second embodiment comprises a main body portion, a plate-shaped ground portion provided near the center of a flat surface in the main body portion, and a pilot portion protruding in the elongation direction from near the center of a spherical surface provided in the ground portion, wherein the spherical surface of the ground portion is formed to rise from the flat surface, and the outer surface formed in the pilot portion and the spherical surface of the ground portion are connected at a neck portion between the ground portion and the pilot portion, thereby forming a gap near the neck portion, wherein the first cross-sectional shape of the pilot portion on the first intersection surface intersecting the elongation direction is an n-angle shape (where n is a natural number greater than or equal to 4), and the second cross-sectional shape of the ground portion on the second intersection surface intersecting the elongation direction is an m-angle shape (where m is a natural number greater than or equal to 5 and also different from n), and the outer circumference of the pilot portion on the first intersection surface The length increases as the first intersection surface is spaced apart from the single surface toward the leading edge of the pilot part, and the intersection point between the half-line extending along the single surface from the axis of the pilot part and the outer surface is defined as the first intersection point, the intersection point between the half-line and the outermost edge of the single surface is defined as the second intersection point, the length of the line segment connecting the first and second intersection points is defined as the gap length, and the length of the line segment connecting the axis and the first intersection point is defined as the pilot diameter, respectively; and then, when the rotational position of the half-line changes around the axis, the gap length and the pilot diameter at each rotational position change, and the position of the gap corresponding to each rotational position changes.

[0009] In addition, the pierce nut according to the third embodiment comprises a main body portion, a plate-shaped ground portion provided near the center of a flat surface in the main body portion, and a pilot portion protruding in the elongation direction from near the center of a spherical surface provided in the ground portion, wherein the spherical surface of the ground portion is formed to rise from the flat surface, and the outer surface of the pilot portion and the spherical surface of the ground portion are connected at a neck portion between the ground portion and the pilot portion, thereby forming a gap near the neck portion, wherein the first cross-sectional shape of the pilot portion on the first intersection surface intersecting the elongation direction is an n-angle shape (where n is a natural number greater than or equal to 4), and the second cross-sectional shape of the ground portion on the second intersection surface intersecting the elongation direction is an m-angle shape (where m is a natural number greater than or equal to 5 and also different from n), and the length of the outer circumference of the pilot portion on the first intersection surface is The first intersection surface is enlarged as it is spaced from the single surface toward the leading edge surface of the pilot section, and the third cross-sectional shape of the pilot section intersecting the single surface is characterized by being surrounded by the outermost periphery of the single surface.

[0010] In addition, the pierce nut according to the fourth embodiment is characterized in that, in the pierce nut according to any of the first to third embodiments, the angle of inclination formed by the outer surface and the short surface on a cross section including the axis of the pilot part is 65 to 80 degrees.

[0011] In addition, the piercing nut for the fifth embodiment is, in the piercing nut for any of the first to fourth embodiments, the following formula (C1),

[0012] m=2n···(C1)

[0013] It is characterized by satisfying [the condition]. Effects of the invention

[0014] According to the pierce nut of the first to fifth embodiments, the first cross-sectional shape of the pilot portion on the first intersection surface intersecting the elongation direction is an n-angle shape (wherein is a natural number greater than or equal to 4). Additionally, the second cross-sectional shape of the ground shape portion on the second intersection surface intersecting the elongation direction is an m-angle shape (wherein is a natural number greater than or equal to 5 and different from n).

[0015] Accordingly, when the rotational position of a semi-line extending along the spherical surface from the axis of the pilot section changes around the axis, it becomes possible to change the gap length at each rotational position. Therefore, the rotational drag and pull-out drag of the pierce nut fixed to the plate can be improved without forming complex shapes, such as irregularities, on the outer surface of the pilot section.

[0016] In particular, according to the pierce nut of the fourth embodiment, the angle of inclination formed by the outer surface and the spherical surface on the cross-section including the axis of the pilot portion is 65 to 80 degrees. By doing so, a gap (concave portion) capable of effectively guiding the plate material can be formed in the neck portion between the ground shape portion and the pilot portion. Therefore, the rotational drag and pull-out drag of the pierce nut fixed to the plate material can be further improved. Brief explanation of the drawing

[0017] FIG. 1 is a perspective view illustrating an example of the configuration of a pierce nut in a first embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 2 is a front view illustrating an example of the configuration of a pierce nut in the first embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 3 is a plan view illustrating an example of the configuration of a pierce nut in the first to third embodiments of the present invention. FIG. 4 is a bottom view illustrating an example of the configuration of a pierce nut in the first embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 5 is a cross-sectional view illustrating an example of the configuration of a piercing nut seen along line AA of FIG. 2. FIG. 6 is a cross-sectional view illustrating an example of the configuration of a piercing nut as seen along the BB line of FIG. 2 and the HH line of FIG. 17, respectively. Figure 7 is a cross-sectional view illustrating an example of the configuration of a pierce nut seen along the CC line of Figure 3. FIG. 8 is a cross-sectional view illustrating an example of the configuration of a piercing nut seen along the DD line of FIG. 5. Figure 9 is a diagram illustrating the method of fastening a pierce nut. Figure 10 is a diagram illustrating the method of fastening a pierce nut. FIG. 11 is a perspective view illustrating an example of the configuration of a pierce nut in a second embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 12 is a front view illustrating an example of the configuration of a pierce nut in a second embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 13 is a bottom view illustrating an example of the configuration of a pierce nut in a second embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 14 is a cross-sectional view illustrating an example of the configuration of a pierce nut seen along the EE line of FIG. 12. FIG. 15 is a cross-sectional view illustrating an example of the configuration of a piercing nut seen along the FF line of FIG. 12. FIG. 16 is a perspective view illustrating an example of the configuration of a pierce nut in a third embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 17 is a front view illustrating an example of the configuration of a pierce nut in a third embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 18 is a bottom view illustrating an example of the configuration of a pierce nut in a third embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 19 is a cross-sectional view illustrating an example of the configuration of a pierce nut seen along the GG line of FIG. 17. Specific details for implementing the invention

[0018] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the drawings.

[0019] <1. First Embodiment>

[0020] <1.1. Composition of the Pierce Nut>

[0021] FIGS. 1 to 4 are a perspective view, a front view, a top view, and a bottom view, respectively, illustrating an example of the configuration of a pierce nut (10) in a first embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 5 is a cross-sectional view illustrating an example of the configuration of a pierce nut (10) viewed along line AA of FIG. 2. FIG. 6 is a cross-sectional view illustrating an example of the configuration of a pierce nut (10) viewed along line BB of FIG. 2. FIG. 7 is a cross-sectional view illustrating an example of the configuration of a pierce nut (10) viewed along line CC of FIG. 3. FIG. 8 is a cross-sectional view illustrating an example of the configuration of a pierce nut (10) viewed along line DD of FIG. 5.

[0022] Here, the pierce nut (10) is a nut that is fixed to a plate material, such as a steel plate, according to the applied pressure. As shown in FIGS. 1 to 8, the pierce nut (10) mainly comprises a main body part (20), a pilot part (30), and a ground shape part (50).

[0023] In addition, in FIG. 1 and subsequent drawings, an XYZ orthogonal coordinate system is provided, appropriately and as needed, with the Z-axis direction as the vertical direction and the XY plane as the horizontal plane, to aid in understanding each component described in the drawings.

[0024] The main body (20) is a roughly rectangular parallepiped with a through hole (21) formed therein. For example, as shown in FIG. 3, the shape of the main body (20) as viewed in plan is roughly a square shape. Also, as shown in FIG. 7 and FIG. 8, the through hole (21) formed in the main body (20) extends in the direction of the axis (30a) of the pilot part (30) and is used as a screw hole.

[0025] The pilot section (30) is a tool capable of drilling into a metal plate, such as a steel plate, by applying pressure in the direction of the axis (30a). As shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, the pilot section (30) protrudes in the direction of arrow AR1 (hereinafter, the direction parallel to each of the arrow AR1 (Z-axis) and the axis (30a) is simply referred to as the "extension direction (AR1)") from near the center of the spherical surface (51) provided in the ground shape section (50). In addition, as shown in FIGS. 1, 7, and 8, a through hole (21) is formed in the center of the pilot section (30), just like in the main body section (20).

[0026] Additionally, as shown in FIGS. 1, 2, and 4, the external shape of the pilot section (30) is in the shape of a truncated square protruding outward from the main body section (20). For example, as shown in FIG. 5, the cross-sectional shape (first cross-sectional shape) of the pilot section (30) on the first intersection surface (PL11) intersecting the elongation direction (AR1) is in the shape of a square. Here, the dashed line at two points in FIG. 5 indicates the outline of the front cross-section (36) (see FIG. 4) of the pilot section (30) viewed from the bottom.

[0027] Additionally, as shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, the outer circumference of the pilot section (30) in the direction intersecting the elongation direction (AR1) (e.g., the direction parallel to the first intersection plane (PL11) of FIG. 5) increases as it is spaced from the short plane (51) toward the leading plane (36) of the pilot section (30).

[0028] The ground shape portion (50) is thin plate-shaped compared to the main body portion (20) and is provided near the center of the flat surface (23) in the main body portion (20). As shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, the spherical surface (51) forming the main surface of the ground shape portion (50) is formed to rise from the flat surface (23) of the main body portion (20). As shown in FIGS. 7 and 8, a through hole (21) is formed in the center of the ground shape portion (50), just like in the main body portion (20) and the pilot portion (30).

[0029] Additionally, as shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, the ground shape portion (50) is formed to surround the end portion (neck portion (15)) of the pilot portion (30) on the flat surface (23) side. More specifically, as shown in FIG. 5, the cross-sectional shape (third cross-sectional shape) of the pilot portion (30) that intersects the spherical surface (51) at the first intersection surface (PL11) is surrounded by the outermost circumference (51a) of the spherical surface (51).

[0030] In this way, the outer surface (32) of the pilot section (30) and the spherical surface (51) of the ground shape section (50) are connected at the neck section (15) between the ground shape section (50) and the pilot section (30), thereby forming a gap (16) near the neck section (15).

[0031] Additionally, the single surface (51) is formed to be parallel to the flat surface (23) of the main body (20), as shown in FIG. 2. Also, as shown in FIG. 6, on the second intersection surface (PL12) that intersects the elongation direction (AR1), the cross-sectional shape (second cross-sectional shape) of the ground shape part (50) cut by the second intersection surface (PL12) is octagonal.

[0032] Additionally, as shown in FIGS. 7 and 8, on the cross section including the axis (30a) of the pilot section (30) (i.e., the right upward diagonal section of FIGS. 7 and 8), the angle of inclination (A1) formed by the outer surface (32) of the pilot section (30) and the spherical surface (51) of the ground shape section (50) is 65 to 80 degrees (preferably 70 to 75 degrees).

[0033] <1.2. Gap Length at Each Rotation Position>

[0034] Here, with reference to FIGS. 5, 7, and 8, the gap length (75) (75a to 75g) at each rotational position (e.g., angles 76a and 76b in FIG. 5) changes.

[0035] Here, as shown in FIG. 5,

[0036] (1) A half-line (70) (70a to 70g) extending along the spherical surface (51) from the axis (30a) of the pilot section (30) and the intersection point of the outer surface (32) of the pilot section (30) is the first intersection point (71) (71a to 71g).

[0037] (2) The intersection point of the half-line (70) (70a to 70g) and the outermost periphery (51a) of the single-sphere surface (51) is the second intersection point (72) (72a to 72g),

[0038] (3) The length of the line segment connecting the first intersection point (71)(71a to 71g) and the corresponding second intersection point (72)(72a to 72g) is the gap length (75)(75a to 75g),

[0039] (4) The length of the line segment connecting the axis (30a) and the first intersection point (71) (71a to 71g) is the pilot diameter,

[0040] (5) For each rotational position (angle) around the axis (30a), the reference line for the rotational position is defined as the reference line (70a).

[0041] In this case, each half-line (70) (70a to 70g) extends radially from the axis (30a). Additionally, if the rotational position of each half-line (70) (70a to 70g) changes around the axis (30a), the gap length (75) (75a to 75g) at each rotational position changes.

[0042] For example, as illustrated in FIG. 5, when comparing the gap length (75c) on the half-line (70c) where the rotational position becomes an angle (76a) (i.e., the angle formed by the half-line (70a) and the half-line (70c)) with the gap length (75d) on the half-line (70d) where the rotational position becomes an angle (76b), if the rotational position changes from the angle (76a) to the angle (76b), the size of the gap length (75) decreases.

[0043] In addition, if we examine the gap length (75) (75a to 75g) at each rotational position from another perspective, it becomes as follows. That is, when the rotational position of each half-line (70) (70a to 70g) around the axis (30a) changes, the gap length (75) (75a to 75g) and pilot diameter at each rotational position change (see FIG. 5), and the position of the gap (16) corresponding to each rotational position changes (see FIG. 7 and FIG. 8).

[0044] <1.3. Method of tightening pierce nuts>

[0045] FIGS. 9 and FIGS. 10 are drawings for explaining a method of caulking a pierce nut (10) to a plate material (1), such as a steel plate (method of fixing the pierce nut (10)). In FIGS. 10, each of the plate material (1), die (5), punching residue (7), and pierce nut (10) is shown with a cross-sectional shape including an axis (30a).

[0046] Here, the fixation of the piercing nut (10) is performed by the following steps. First, after the piercing nut (10) and the plate (1) are placed between the punch (3) and the die (5), pressure is applied to the piercing nut (10) and the plate (1) from the punch (3) and the die (5). By this, a portion of the plate (1) is removed as punching residue (7), and a hole is punched in the plate (1).

[0047] Additionally, as pressure is continuously applied, a portion of the plate (1) is introduced into the gap (16) formed by the outer surface (32) of the pilot section (30) and the single surface (51) of the ground shape section (50). As a result, the plate (1) is caulked with the pierce nut (10), and the pierce nut (10) is firmly fixed to the plate (1). In this way, the arrangement of the pilot section (30) and the ground shape section (50) becomes an important factor in determining the fixation status of the pierce nut (10).

[0048] <1.4. Advantages of the Pierce Nut of the First Embodiment>

[0049] As described above, according to the pierce nut (10) of the first embodiment, the cross-sectional shape (first cross-sectional shape) of the pilot portion (30) on the first intersection surface (PL11) intersecting the elongation direction (AR1) is square (see FIG. 5). In addition, the cross-sectional shape (second cross-sectional shape) of the ground portion (50) on the second intersection surface (PL12) intersecting the elongation direction (AR1) is octagonal.

[0050] Accordingly, when the rotational position of the half-line (70) (70a to 70g) extending along the spherical surface (51) from the axis (30a) of the pilot section (30) changes around the axis (30a), it becomes possible to change the gap length (75) (75a to 75g) at each rotational position. Therefore, the rotational drag and pull-out drag of the pierce nut fixed to the plate material can be improved without forming complex shapes such as irregularities on the outer surface (32) of the pilot section (30).

[0051] In addition, according to the pierce nut (10) of the first embodiment, on a cross section including the axis (30a) of the pilot section (30), the angle of inclination (A1) (see FIG. 7 and FIG. 8) formed by the outer surface (32) of the pilot section (30) and the spherical surface (51) of the ground shape section (50) is 65 to 80 degrees (preferably 70 to 75 degrees).

[0052] By doing so, a gap (16) (concave portion) that can effectively guide the plate (1) can be formed in the neck portion (15) between the ground shape portion (50) and the pilot portion (30). Therefore, the rotational drag and pull-out drag of the pierce nut (10) fixed to the plate (1) can be further improved.

[0053] <2. Second Embodiment>

[0054] Next, a second embodiment of the present invention will be described. The pierce nuts (10, 110) of the first and second embodiments have the same configuration except that the configurations of the corresponding pilot portion (30, 130) and ground shape portion (50, 150) are different. Therefore, the following description will focus on this difference.

[0055] In addition, the same components in the pierce nuts (10, 110) are given the same reference numerals, and the components given the same reference numerals were described in the first embodiment. Therefore, the description is omitted in this embodiment.

[0056] <2.1. Composition of the Pierce Nut>

[0057] FIGS. 11, FIGS. 12, FIGS. 3, and FIGS. 13 are a perspective view, a front view, a top view, and a bottom view, respectively, illustrating an example of the configuration of a pierce nut (110) in a second embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 14 is a cross-sectional view illustrating an example of the configuration of a pierce nut (110) seen along line EE of FIG. 12. FIG. 15 is a cross-sectional view illustrating an example of the configuration of a pierce nut (110) seen along line FF of FIG. 12.

[0058] Here, the pierce nut (110) is a nut that is fixed to a plate material, such as a steel plate, according to the applied pressure, just like the pierce nut (10). As shown in FIGS. 11 to 15 and FIG. 3, the pierce nut (110) mainly comprises a main body part (20), a pilot part (130), and a ground shape part (150).

[0059] The pilot section (130) is a tool capable of drilling into a metal plate, such as a steel plate, by applying pressure in the direction of the axis (130a) of the pilot section (130), just like the pilot section (30) of the first embodiment. As shown in FIGS. 11 and 12, the pilot section (130) protrudes in the elongation direction (AR1) from near the center of the spherical surface (151) provided in the ground shape section (150). Also, as shown in FIG. 11, a through hole (21) is formed in the center of the pilot section (130), just like the pilot section (30) of the first embodiment.

[0060] Additionally, as illustrated in FIGS. 11 to 13, the external shape of the pilot section (130) is in the shape of a truncated hexagonal cone protruding outward from the main body section (20). For example, as illustrated in FIG. 14, the cross-sectional shape (first cross-sectional shape) of the pilot section (130) on the first intersection surface (PL21) intersecting the elongation direction (AR1) is in the shape of a hexagon. Here, the dashed line at two points in FIG. 14 indicates the outline of the front cross-section (136) (see FIG. 13) of the pilot section (130) viewed from the bottom surface.

[0061] Additionally, as shown in FIGS. 11 and 12, the outer circumference of the pilot section (130) in the direction intersecting the elongation direction (AR1) (e.g., the direction parallel to the first intersection plane (PL21) in FIG. 14) increases as it is spaced from the short plane (151) toward the leading plane (136) of the pilot section (130).

[0062] The ground shape portion (150) is thin plate-shaped compared to the main body portion (20) and is provided near the center of the flat surface (23) in the main body portion (20). As shown in FIGS. 11 and 12, the stepped surface (151) forming the main surface of the ground shape portion (150) is formed to rise from the flat surface (23) of the main body portion (20). A through hole (21) is formed in the center of the ground shape portion (150), similar to the ground shape portion (50) of the first embodiment.

[0063] Additionally, as shown in FIGS. 11 and 12, the ground shape portion (150) is formed to surround the end portion (neck portion (115)) of the pilot portion (30) on the flat surface (23) side. More specifically, as shown in FIG. 14, the cross-sectional shape (third cross-sectional shape) of the pilot portion (130) that intersects the spherical surface (151) at the first intersection surface (PL21) is surrounded by the outermost circumference (151a) of the spherical surface (151).

[0064] In this way, the outer surface (132) of the pilot section (130) and the single surface (151) of the ground shape section (150) are connected at the neck section (115) between the ground shape section (150) and the pilot section (130), thereby forming a gap (116) near the neck section (115).

[0065] Additionally, the spherical surface (151) is formed to be parallel to the flat surface (23) of the main body (20), as shown in FIG. 12. Also, as shown in FIG. 15, on the second intersection surface (PL22) that intersects the elongation direction (AR1), the cross-sectional shape (second cross-sectional shape) of the ground shape portion (150) cut by the second intersection surface (PL22) is in the shape of a dodecagon.

[0066] In addition, on a cross section including the axis (130a) of the pilot section (130), the angle of inclination (A1) (see FIG. 12) formed by the outer surface (132) of the pilot section (130) and the spherical surface (151) of the ground shape section (150) is 65 to 80 degrees (preferably 70 to 75 degrees).

[0067] <2.2. Gap Length at Each Rotation Position>

[0068] Here, with reference to FIG. 14, we will explain how the gap length (175) (175a to 175g) changes at each rotational position (e.g., angles (176a, 176b) in FIG. 14).

[0069] Here, as shown in FIG. 14,

[0070] (1) A half-line (170) (170a to 170g) extending along the spherical surface (151) from the axis (130a) of the pilot section (130) and the intersection point with the outer surface (132) of the pilot section (130) is the first intersection point (171) (171a to 171g).

[0071] (2) The intersection point between the half-line (170) (170a to 170g) and the outermost periphery (151a) of the spherical surface (151) is the second intersection point (172) (172a to 172g).

[0072] (3) The length of the line segment connecting the first intersection point (171)(171a to 171g) and the corresponding second intersection point (172)(172a to 172g) is the gap length (175)(175a to 175g),

[0073] (4) The length of the line segment connecting the axis (130a) and the first intersection point (171) (171a to 171g) is the pilot diameter,

[0074] (5) For rotational positions (angles) around the axis (130a), the ray that serves as the reference for the rotational position is defined as the ray (170a).

[0075] In this case, each half-line (170) (170a to 170g) extends radially from the axis (130a). Additionally, if the rotational position of each half-line (170) (170a to 170g) changes around the axis (130a), the gap length (175) (175a to 175g) at each rotational position changes.

[0076] For example, as illustrated in FIG. 14, when comparing the gap length (175b) on the half-line (170b) where the rotational position becomes an angle (176a) (i.e., the angle formed by the half-line (170a) and the half-line (170b)) with the gap length (175c) on the half-line (170c) where the rotational position becomes an angle (176b), the size of the gap length (175) decreases when the rotational position changes from the angle (176a) to the angle (176b).

[0077] In addition, if we examine the gap length (175) (175a to 175g) at each rotational position from another perspective, it becomes as follows. That is, when the rotational position of each half-line (170) (170a to 170g) around the axis (130a) changes, the gap length (175) (175a to 175g) and pilot diameter at each rotational position change (see FIG. 14), and the position of the gap (116) corresponding to each rotational position changes.

[0078] <2.3. Method of tightening the pierce nut>

[0079] FIGS. 9 and FIGS. 10 are drawings for explaining a method of caulking a pierce nut (110) to a plate material (1), such as a steel plate (method of fixing the pierce nut (110)). In FIGS. 10, the plate material (1), the die (5), the punching residue (7), and the pierce nut (110) are each shown with a cross-sectional shape including an axis (130a).

[0080] Here, the fixation of the pierce nut (110) is performed by the following steps. First, after the pierce nut (110) and the plate (1) are placed between the punch (3) and the die (5), pressure is applied to the pierce nut (110) and the plate (1) from the punch (3) and the die (5). Then, a portion of the plate (1) is removed as punching residue (7), and a hole is punched in the plate (1). At the same time, a portion of the plate (1) is introduced into the gap (116) formed by the outer surface (132) of the pilot section (130) and the single surface (151) of the ground shape section (150), thereby the plate (1) is caulked with the pierce nut (110) and the pierce nut (110) is firmly fixed to the plate (1).

[0081] In this way, the arrangement of the pilot section (130) and the ground shape section (150) is an important factor that determines the fixation status of the pierce nut (110), just like in the first embodiment.

[0082] <2.4. Advantages of the Piercing Nut of the Second Embodiment>

[0083] As described above, according to the pierce nut (110) of the second embodiment, the cross-sectional shape (first cross-sectional shape) of the pilot portion (130) on the first intersection surface (PL21) intersecting the elongation direction (AR1) is hexagonal (see FIG. 14). In addition, the cross-sectional shape (second cross-sectional shape) of the ground portion (150) on the second intersection surface (PL22) intersecting the elongation direction (AR1) is dodecagonal (see FIG. 15).

[0084] Accordingly, when the rotational position of the half-line (170) (170a to 170g) extending along the spherical surface (151) from the axis (130a) of the pilot section (130) changes around the axis (130a), it becomes possible to change the gap length (175) (175a to 175g) at each rotational position. Therefore, the rotational drag and pull-out drag of the pierce nut fixed to the plate can be improved without forming complex shapes such as irregularities on the outer surface (132) of the pilot section (130).

[0085] In addition, according to the pierce nut (110) of the second embodiment, the angle of inclination (A1) (see FIG. 12) formed by the outer surface (132) of the pilot part (130) and the spherical surface (151) of the ground shape part (150) on the cross section including the axis (130a) of the pilot part (130) is 65 to 80 degrees (preferably 70 to 75 degrees).

[0086] Accordingly, a gap (116) (concave portion) capable of effectively guiding the plate material (1) can be formed in the neck portion (115) between the ground shape portion (150) and the pilot portion (130). Therefore, the rotational drag and pull-out drag of the pierce nut (110) fixed to the plate material (1) can be further improved.

[0087] <3. Third Embodiment>

[0088] Next, a third embodiment of the present invention will be described. The pierce nut (210) of the third embodiment mainly comprises a main body part (20) and a ground shape part (50) of the first embodiment, and a pilot part (130) of the second embodiment.

[0089] In addition, the pierce nut (210) of the third embodiment is similar to the configuration included in either the first or second embodiment, except that the configuration of the neck (215) and the gap (216) is different. Therefore, the following description will focus on this difference.

[0090] In addition, regarding the pierce nut (210), the same reference numeral is used for components included in either of the pierce nuts (10, 110), and the components with the same reference numeral have been described in either the first or second embodiment. Therefore, the description is omitted in this embodiment.

[0091] <3.1. Composition of the Pierce Nut>

[0092] FIGS. 16, FIGS. 17, FIGS. 3, and FIGS. 18 are a perspective view, a front view, a top view, and a bottom view, respectively, illustrating an example of the configuration of a pierce nut (210) in a third embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 19 is a cross-sectional view illustrating an example of the configuration of a pierce nut (210) seen along line GG of FIG. 17. FIG. 6 is a cross-sectional view illustrating an example of the configuration of a pierce nut (210) seen along line HH of FIG. 17.

[0093] Here, the pierce nut (210) is a nut that is fixed to a plate material, such as a steel plate, according to the applied pressure, just like the pierce nut (10, 110). As shown in FIGS. 16 to 19, FIG. 3, and FIG. 6, the pierce nut (210) mainly comprises a main body part (20), a pilot part (130), and a ground shape part (50).

[0094] As shown in FIGS. 16 and 17, the pilot section (130) protrudes in the elongation direction (AR1) from near the center of the spherical surface (51) provided in the ground-shaped section (50). The ground-shaped section (50) is formed to surround the end (neck section (215)) of the pilot section (130) on the flat surface (23) side. Additionally, as shown in FIGS. 16 and 17, the outer surface (132) of the pilot section (130) and the spherical surface (51) of the ground-shaped section (50) are connected at the neck section (215) between the ground-shaped section (50) and the pilot section (130), thereby forming a gap (216) near the neck section (215).

[0095] Here, on a cross section including the axis (130a) of the pilot section (130), the angle of inclination (A1) (see FIG. 17) formed by the outer surface (132) of the pilot section (130) and the spherical surface (51) of the ground shape section (50) is 65 to 80 degrees (preferably 70 to 75 degrees). Also, the dashed line at two points in FIG. 19 indicates the outline of the front cross section (136) (see FIG. 18) of the pilot section (130) viewed from the bottom.

[0096] <3.2. Gap Length at Each Rotation Position>

[0097] Here, with reference to FIG. 19, we will explain how the gap length (275) (275a to 275g) changes at each rotational position (e.g., angles (276a, 276b) in FIG. 19).

[0098] Here, as shown in FIG. 19,

[0099] (1) A half-line (270) (270a to 270g) extending along the spherical surface (51) from the axis (130a) of the pilot section (130) and the intersection point with the outer surface (132) of the pilot section (130) is the first intersection point (271) (271a to 271g).

[0100] (2) The intersection point between the half-line (270) (270a to 270g) and the outermost periphery (51a) of the single-spherical surface (51) is the second intersection point (272) (272a to 272g).

[0101] (3) The length of the line segment connecting the first intersection point (271) (271a to 271g) and the corresponding second intersection point (272) (272a to 272g) is the gap length (275) (275a to 275g),

[0102] (4) The length of the line segment connecting the axis (130a) and the first intersection point (271) (271a to 271g) is the pilot diameter,

[0103] (5) For each rotational position (angle) around the axis (130a), the reference line for the rotational position is defined as the reference line (270a).

[0104] In this case, each half-line (270) (270a to 270g) extends radially from the axis (130a). Additionally, if the rotational position of each half-line (270) (270a to 270g) changes around the axis (130a), the gap length (275) (275a to 275g) at each rotational position changes.

[0105] For example, as illustrated in FIG. 19, when comparing the gap length (275c) on the half-line (270c) where the rotational position is an angle (276a) (i.e., the angle formed by the half-line (270a) and the half-line (270c)) with the gap length (275e) on the half-line (270e) where the rotational position is an angle (276b), the gap length (275e) corresponding to the rotational position angle (276b) becomes larger than the gap length (275c) corresponding to the angle (276a).

[0106] In addition, if we examine the gap length (275) (275a to 275g) at each rotational position from another perspective, it becomes as follows. That is, when the rotational position of each half-line (270) (270a to 270g) around the axis (130a) changes, the gap length (275) (275a to 275g) and pilot diameter at each rotational position change (see FIG. 19), and the position of the gap (216) corresponding to each rotational position changes.

[0107] <3.3. Method of tightening pierce nuts>

[0108] FIGS. 9 and FIGS. 10 are drawings for explaining a method of caulking a pierce nut (210) to a plate material (1), such as a steel plate (method of fixing the pierce nut (210)). In FIGS. 10, each of the plate material (1), die (5), punching residue (7), and pierce nut (210) is shown with a cross-sectional shape including an axis (130a).

[0109] Here, the fixation of the piercing nut (210) is performed in the following steps. First, after the piercing nut (210) and the plate (1) are placed between the punch (3) and the die (5), pressure is applied to the piercing nut (210) and the plate (1) from the punch (3) and the die (5). Then, a portion of the plate (1) is removed as punching residue (7), and a hole is punched in the plate (1). At the same time, a portion of the plate (1) is introduced into the gap (216) formed by the outer surface (132) of the pilot section (130) and the single surface (51) of the ground shape section (50), thereby the plate (1) is caulked with the piercing nut (210) and the piercing nut (210) is firmly fixed to the plate (1).

[0110] In this way, the arrangement of the pilot section (130) and the ground shape section (150) is an important factor in determining the fixation status of the pierce nut (210), just as in the first and second embodiments.

[0111] <3.4. Advantages of the Piercing Nut of the Third Embodiment>

[0112] As described above, according to the pierce nut (210) of the third embodiment, the cross-sectional shape (first cross-sectional shape) of the pilot portion (130) on the first intersection surface (PL21) intersecting the elongation direction (AR1) is hexagonal (see FIG. 19). In addition, the cross-sectional shape (second cross-sectional shape) of the ground portion (50) on the second intersection surface (PL12) intersecting the elongation direction (AR1) is octagonal (see FIG. 6).

[0113] Accordingly, when the rotational position of the half-line (270) (270a to 270g) extending along the spherical surface (51) from the axis (130a) of the pilot section (130) changes around the axis (130a), it becomes possible to change the gap length (275) (275a to 275g) at each rotational position. Therefore, the rotational drag and pull-out drag of the pierce nut fixed to the plate can be improved without forming complex shapes such as irregularities on the outer surface (132) of the pilot section (130).

[0114] In addition, according to the pierce nut (210) of the third embodiment, the angle of inclination (A1) (see FIG. 17) formed by the outer surface (132) of the pilot part (130) and the spherical surface (51) of the ground shape part (50) on the cross section including the axis (130a) of the pilot part (130) is 65 to 80 degrees (preferably 70 to 75 degrees).

[0115] Accordingly, a gap (216) (concave portion) capable of effectively guiding the plate material (1) can be formed in the neck portion (215) between the ground shape portion (50) and the pilot portion (130). Therefore, the rotational drag and pull-out drag of the pierce nut (110) fixed to the plate material (1) can be further improved.

[0116] <4. Variant Example>

[0117] Although embodiments of the present invention have been described above, the present invention is not limited to the above embodiments and various modifications are possible.

[0118] (1) In the first embodiment, the cross-sectional shape of the pilot section (30) (first cross-sectional shape: see FIG. 5) and the cross-sectional shape of the ground section (50) (second cross-sectional shape: see FIG. 6) are each symmetric with respect to a straight line passing through a half-line (70a), and

[0119] In addition, in the second embodiment, the cross-sectional shape of the pilot section (130) (first cross-sectional shape: see FIG. 14) and the cross-sectional shape of the ground section (150) (second cross-sectional shape: see FIG. 15) are each symmetric with respect to a straight line passing through a half-line (170a), and

[0120] In addition, in the third embodiment, the cross-sectional shape of the pilot section (130) (first cross-sectional shape: see FIG. 19) and the cross-sectional shape of the ground section (50) (second cross-sectional shape: see FIG. 6) are each described as being line-symmetric with respect to a straight line passing through a half-line (270a), but the rotational positions of the pilot section and the ground section are not limited to this.

[0121] For example, in the case of the first embodiment, the pilot section (30) rotates around the axis (30a) from the position of FIG. 5, so that the cross-sectional shape of the pilot section (30) does not have to be symmetric with respect to the straight line passing through the half-line (70a). Likewise, the ground shape section (50) rotates around the axis (30a) from the position of FIG. 6, so that the cross-sectional shape of the ground shape section (50) does not have to be symmetric with respect to the straight line passing through the half-line (70a).

[0122] In other words, if we generalize the positional relationship between the pilot section and the ground shape section, after aligning the axes of the pilot section and the ground shape section,

[0123] (1a) The first cross-sectional shape of the pilot section and the second cross-sectional shape of the ground section may each be symmetric with respect to the same straight line, and also,

[0124] (1b) With respect to the first straight line of interest in which the first cross-sectional shape of the pilot section is symmetrical, the second cross-sectional shape of the ground section does not have to be symmetrical, and also

[0125] (1c) In addition, the first cross-sectional shape of the pilot section does not have to be line-symmetric with respect to the second straight line of interest in which the second cross-sectional shape of the ground shape section is line-symmetric.

[0126] (2) In the first embodiment, the cross-sectional shape of the pilot part (30) (first cross-sectional shape) on the first intersection surface (PL11) intersecting the stretching direction (AR1) is a “square shape” (see FIG. 5), and the cross-sectional shape of the ground shape part (50) (second cross-sectional shape) on the second intersection surface (PL12) intersecting the stretching direction (AR1) is an “octagonal shape”.

[0127] In addition, in the second embodiment, the cross-sectional shape (first cross-sectional shape) of the pilot part (130) on the first intersection surface (PL21) intersecting the elongation direction (AR1) becomes a "hexagonal shape" (see FIG. 14), and the cross-sectional shape (second cross-sectional shape) of the ground shape part (150) on the second intersection surface (PL22) intersecting the elongation direction (AR1) becomes a "dotagonal shape."

[0128] In addition, in the third embodiment, the cross-sectional shape of the pilot part (130) on the first intersection surface (PL21) intersecting the elongation direction (AR1) is a "hexagonal shape" (see FIG. 19), and the cross-sectional shape of the ground part (50) on the second intersection surface (PL12) intersecting the elongation direction (AR1) is an "octagonal shape," but is not limited to this.

[0129] (2a) For example, the first cross-sectional shape of the pilot section on the first intersection surface intersecting the elongation direction (AR1) may be an n-angle shape (where n is a natural number greater than or equal to 4), and the second cross-sectional shape of the ground section on the second intersection surface intersecting the elongation direction (AR1) may be an m-angle shape (where m is a natural number greater than or equal to 5 and different from n).

[0130] (2b) In addition, the above-mentioned m and n may be set to satisfy Equation (1).

[0131] m=2n···(1) Explanation of the symbols

[0132] 10, 110, 210: Pierce Nut 15, 115, 215: Gyeongbu 16, 116, 216: Gap 20: Main body 23: Flat surface 30, 130: Pilot Division 30a, 130a: Axis 32, 132: Outsourcing 34, 134: Outsourcing line 36, 136: Frontal view 50, 150: Site shape section 51, 151: Dangu-myeon 51a, 151a: outermost 70(70a to 70g), 170(170a to 170g), 270(270a to 270g): Half-line 71 (71a to 71g), 171 (171a to 171g), 271 (271a to 271g): First intersection point 72 (72a to 72g), 172 (172a to 172g), 272 (272a to 272g): Second intersection point 75 (75a to 75g), 175 (175a to 175g), 275 (275a to 275g): Gap length 76a, 76b, 176a, 176b, 276a, 276b: Angles A1: Angle of inclination AR1: Extension direction PL11, PL21: First intersection surface PL12, PL22: Second intersection

Claims

Claim 1 It is a pierce nut, comprising (a) a main body portion, (b) a plate-shaped ground portion provided near the center of a flat surface in the main body portion, and (c) a pilot portion protruding in the elongation direction from near the center of a spherical surface provided in the ground portion, wherein the spherical surface of the ground portion is formed to rise from the flat surface, and the outer surface of the pilot portion and the spherical surface of the ground portion are connected at a neck portion between the ground portion and the pilot portion, thereby forming a gap near the neck portion, wherein the first cross-sectional shape of the pilot portion on the first intersection surface intersecting the elongation direction is an n-angle shape (where n is a natural number greater than or equal to 4), and the second cross-sectional shape of the ground portion on the second intersection surface intersecting the elongation direction is an m-angle shape (where m is a natural number greater than or equal to 5 and different from n), and the outer circumference of the pilot portion on the first intersection surface A pierce nut characterized in that the length increases as the first intersection surface is spaced apart from the single surface toward the leading edge of the pilot part, (i) the intersection point between the half-line extending along the single surface from the axis of the pilot part and the outer surface is defined as the first intersection point, (ii) the intersection point between the half-line and the outermost edge of the single surface is defined as the second intersection point, and (iii) the length of the line segment connecting the first and second intersection points is defined as the gap length, and then when the rotational position of the half-line changes around the axis, the gap length at each rotational position changes. Claim 2 It is a pierce nut, comprising (a) a main body portion, (b) a plate-shaped ground portion provided near the center of a flat surface in the main body portion, and (c) a pilot portion protruding in the elongation direction from near the center of a spherical surface provided in the ground portion, wherein the spherical surface of the ground portion is formed to rise from the flat surface, and the outer surface formed in the pilot portion and the spherical surface of the ground portion are connected at a neck portion between the ground portion and the pilot portion, thereby forming a gap near the neck portion, wherein the first cross-sectional shape of the pilot portion on the first intersection surface intersecting the elongation direction is an n-angle shape (where n is a natural number greater than or equal to 4), and the second cross-sectional shape of the ground portion on the second intersection surface intersecting the elongation direction is an m-angle shape (where m is a natural number greater than or equal to 5 and different from n), and the outer circumference of the pilot portion on the first intersection surface A pierce nut characterized by the following: the length increases as the first intersection surface is spaced apart from the single surface toward the leading edge of the pilot part; (i) the intersection point between the half-line extending along the single surface from the axis of the pilot part and the outer surface is defined as the first intersection point; (ii) the intersection point between the half-line and the outermost edge of the single surface is defined as the second intersection point; (iii) the length of the line segment connecting the first and second intersection points is defined as the gap length; and (iv) the length of the line segment connecting the axis and the first intersection point is defined as the pilot diameter; and when the rotational position of the half-line changes around the axis, the gap length and the pilot diameter at each rotational position change, and the position of the gap corresponding to each rotational position changes. Claim 3 It is a pierce nut, comprising (a) a main body portion, (b) a plate-shaped ground portion provided near the center of a flat surface in the main body portion, and (c) a pilot portion protruding in the elongation direction from near the center of a spherical surface provided in the ground portion, wherein the spherical surface of the ground portion is formed to rise from the flat surface, and the outer surface of the pilot portion and the spherical surface of the ground portion are connected at a neck portion between the ground portion and the pilot portion, thereby forming a gap near the neck portion, wherein the first cross-sectional shape of the pilot portion on a first intersection surface intersecting the elongation direction is an n-angle shape (where n is a natural number greater than or equal to 4), and the second cross-sectional shape of the ground portion on a second intersection surface intersecting the elongation direction is an m-angle shape (where m is a natural number greater than or equal to 5 and different from n), and the outer circumference of the pilot portion on the first intersection surface A pierce nut characterized in that the length increases as the first intersection surface is spaced from the single surface toward the leading edge surface of the pilot section, and the third cross-sectional shape of the pilot section intersecting the single surface is surrounded by the outermost circumference of the single surface. Claim 4 A pierce nut characterized in that, in any one of claims 1 to 3, the angle of inclination formed by the outer surface and the short surface on a cross-section including the axis of the pilot part is 65 to 80 degrees. Claim 5 A pierce nut characterized by satisfying the following formula (C1), m=2n···(C1) in any one of claims 1 to 3.

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