Riveting device, riveting machine and riveting robot

Abstract

The present invention relates to a riveting device (1) comprising a device housing (5), a mouthpiece (10) and a mandrel holder (20) which can be moved relative to the mouthpiece (10) along an axis of action (W). The mandrel holder (20) is designed to execute a setting stroke (S), in order to set a rivet (100). The mandrel holder (20) is also designed to execute a loading stroke (L), in order to reload a rivet (200) between the mouthpiece (10) and the mandrel holder (20). In the case of the riveting device (1), two drive units are provided in the device housing (5), of which one drive unit (30) serves as a drive for the mandrel holder (20) for executing the loading stroke (L) and the other drive unit serves as a drive for the mandrel holder (20) for executing the setting stroke (S). The drive unit for executing the setting stroke (S) is an electromechanical drive unit (40). The present invention further relates to a riveting machine (300) and to a riveting robot (400) comprising such a riveting device (1).

Description

[0001] Riveting tool, riveting machine and riveting robot

[0002] The present disclosure relates to a riveting device, such as a blind rivet setting device, a riveting machine and a riveting robot.

[0003] Riveting tools are typically used to create a riveted joint between two or more materials, such as sheet metal, at a joint where the materials meet. A plastically deformable, usually cylindrical, fastener, generally called a rivet, is used to form the riveted joint. The rivet usually has a pre-formed setting head at one end. To create the riveted joint, the rivet is inserted into a pre-drilled hole at the joint until the setting head is reached, and then the other end of the rivet is plastically deformed into a closed head.

[0004] Riveting tools can also be used to thread thin-walled components. This is achieved using rivet nuts or rivet screws, which combine a rivet with a threaded element. The rivet nuts or rivet screws are inserted into a pre-drilled rivet hole in the component, and then a portion of the rivet is plastically deformed to form a closing head.

[0005] Conventional riveting tools typically comprise a riveting die designed to effect a plastic deformation forming the rivet head. To actuate the riveting die, the riveting tools usually have a drive mechanism. Further details in this regard are disclosed in German patent application DE 24 41 707 A1, to which reference is made here for the purpose of supplementing the disclosure, with the note that the patent may assign a meaning to identical terms that differs from the meaning given here.

[0006] The riveting device disclosed therein is designed and configured for blind riveting, by applying a pulling motion to extract a rivet mandrel from the rivet body of a blind rivet under a compression of the rivet body that creates a closing head, until the rivet mandrel breaks off. For this purpose, the riveting device has a mandrel receptacle for receiving the rivet mandrel, which is movable relative to a nozzle along an axis of action and performs a setting stroke to apply the pulling motion.

[0007] This riveting tool is an automatic riveting device that performs a pre-riveting operation and automatically loads another blind rivet for the subsequent riveting operation. For this purpose, the mandrel holder can be moved beyond the stroke required for riveting, creating a receiving space between the nozzle and the mandrel holder to accommodate a rivet and thus enable reloading. The drive mechanism is pneumatically hydraulic to enable both the setting stroke of the mandrel holder and the reloading of the rivet. The setting stroke is hydraulically actuated to achieve the high force required to set the rivet.

[0008] In practice, it has been shown that hydraulic leaks can occur as the riveting tool ages, which makes trouble-free operation of the riveting tool difficult and / or leads to undesirable contamination or soiling of the working area of ​​the riveting tool.

[0009] Against this background, there is a need to propose an alternative drive for a riveting tool of the type mentioned above. This is based on the expectation that the alternative drive will counteract, if not completely prevent, any leaks and the associated contamination of the riveting tool's working area.

[0010] In this regard, a riveting tool is proposed comprising a housing, a nozzle, and a mandrel holder movable relative to the nozzle along or in the direction of an effective axis. The nozzle is preferably located at the front end of the riveting tool. The mandrel holder is specifically configured to perform a setting stroke to set a rivet. Furthermore, the mandrel holder is specifically configured to perform a loading stroke, for example, to reload a rivet between the nozzle and the mandrel holder.

[0011] The proposed riveting tool has two, preferably separate, drive units, for example, within the tool housing. One drive unit serves to drive the mandrel holder for the loading stroke, and the other drive unit serves to drive the mandrel holder for the setting stroke. The drive unit for the setting stroke is an electromechanical drive unit. This provides a drive for the setting stroke that can generate the required high drive force to deform a rivet to be set and / or break off its mandrel. At the same time, this drive is leak-free, thus preventing potential contamination or soiling of the riveting tool's working area due to leakage.

[0012] In the present disclosure, the term “setting stroke” refers in particular to a path traveled from the mandrel receptacle, preferably in the direction away from the mouthpiece, in order to set a rivet.

[0013] In the present disclosure, the term "loading stroke" refers in particular to a path traveled from the mandrel receptacle, preferably in the direction away from the mouthpiece, in order to reload a new rivet to be set, for example, to reload between the mouthpiece and the mandrel receptacle.

[0014] In one embodiment, the electromechanical drive unit, the drive unit for the loading stroke, and the mandrel holder are operatively connected in such a way that, during the execution of the setting stroke, the drive unit for the loading stroke acts as a transmission element, and the electromechanical drive unit exerts a driving force on the mandrel holder via the drive unit for the loading stroke. In order to drive the mandrel holder to execute the setting stroke using the electromechanical drive unit, a force flow via the drive unit for the loading stroke is proposed in this embodiment. The drive unit for the loading stroke thus serves as a transmission element for the driving force of the electromechanical drive unit on the mandrel holder. The drive unit for the loading stroke itself can be without drive, i.e., its own driving effect can be switched off or deactivated.

[0015] The drive unit for the loading stroke thus has a dual function. Firstly, it acts as a drive, executing the loading stroke. Secondly, it has a transmission function, transferring the drive force generated by the electromechanical drive unit to the mandrel holder. This dual function allows for component savings. The proposed design facilitates a technically simple and / or compact riveting tool. It also reduces costs.

[0016] In particular, the electromechanical drive unit, the drive unit for the loading stroke, and the mandrel holder are operatively connected in such a way that, during the execution of the setting stroke, the electromechanical drive unit exerts a compressive drive force on the drive unit for the loading stroke, which in turn acts as a tensile drive force on the mandrel holder. This promotes a longer service life of the stressed components, for example, compared to the reverse load case, i.e., the case of tensile stress. This design also offers structural advantages. For example, fasteners for securing any force-transmitting components against each other in the compressive force-transmitting load path can be omitted or dimensioned smaller, since the first component in the load path already transmits the drive force through contact with the next component.

[0017] In particular, the electromechanical drive unit, the drive unit for the loading stroke, and the mandrel holder are operatively linked in such a way that, during the loading stroke, the electromechanical drive unit is decoupled from the mandrel holder. This allows the mandrel holder to perform the loading stroke without the electromechanical drive unit moving as well. This aims to minimize the mass moved during the loading stroke. Consequently, the drive unit that powers the mandrel holder for the loading stroke can be made smaller. This saves weight and / or reduces the overall size. It also leads to cost savings.

[0018] In order to achieve the movement decoupling described above, it is advantageous for the electromechanical drive unit, the drive unit for the loading stroke and the mandrel holder to be operatively connected in such a way that when the setting stroke is executed, the electromechanical drive unit exerts a pushing drive force on the drive unit for the loading stroke, which from there acts as a pulling drive force on the mandrel holder.

[0019] In particular, the electromechanical drive unit and the drive unit for the loading stroke are operatively connected in such a way that the electromechanical drive unit performs a setting stroke movement which is synchronized with a loading stroke movement caused by the drive unit for the loading stroke. Specifically, the setting stroke movement and / or the loading stroke movement runs along the axis of action. This at least one measure facilitates a technically simple and / or compact design of the riveting tool, especially in the embodiment that uses the drive unit for the loading stroke as a transmission element for the drive force of the electromechanical drive unit.

[0020] In one possible embodiment, the drive unit for the loading stroke comprises a first drive element and a second drive element. In particular, the first drive element is movable relative to the device housing in the direction of the effective axis. In particular, the second drive element is movable relative to the first drive element in the direction of the effective axis. Furthermore, the second drive element is connected to the mandrel receptacle in a displacement-resistant manner. For example, the first drive element is a drive housing. For example, the second drive element is a drive element of the drive housing. For example, the first drive element and the second drive element form a drive housing with a drive element.

[0021] In this embodiment, the electromechanical drive unit comprises, for example, a drive element that is movable relative to the device housing in the direction of the effective axis and is connected to the first drive element of the drive unit for the charging stroke in a displacement-resistant manner. Such a design is suitable in order to use the drive unit for the charging stroke as a transmission element for the drive force of the electromechanical drive unit.

[0022] Regarding the drive unit for the loading stroke, the first and second drive elements can be configured such that, during the execution of the setting stroke, the first drive element exerts a driving force on the second drive element via a transverse surface extending transversely, and in particular orthogonally, to the axis of action. This allows a driving force exerted by the electromechanical drive unit on the first drive element to be transmitted via the second drive element to the mandrel receptacle. For example, the second drive element of the drive unit for the loading stroke is arranged relative to the transverse surface such that, during the execution of the setting stroke, the first drive element exerts a compressive force on the second drive element of the drive unit for the loading stroke via the transverse surface.

[0023] It is advantageous that, looking from the mouthpiece towards the axis of action (i.e., from the mouthpiece towards the electromechanical drive unit), the first drive element of the drive unit for the loading stroke is arranged downstream of the electromechanical drive unit. This facilitates a technically simple and / or compact design, particularly to enable the drive unit for the loading stroke to be used as a transmission element when performing the setting stroke, thus allowing the entire drive unit for the loading stroke to be moved away from the mouthpiece.

[0024] In particular, the second drive element of the drive unit for the loading stroke is connected to the mandrel receptacle via a drawbar in a way that prevents displacement. Specifically, the drive element of the electromechanical drive unit is displaceable relative to the drawbar, for example, by being slidably mounted on the drawbar. This at least one measure facilitates a technically simple and / or compact design in order to realize the dual function of the drive unit for the loading stroke proposed above.

[0025] In another possible embodiment, the electromechanical drive unit comprises an electric motor. In particular, the electric motor has an output shaft and is configured to impart a rotary drive motion to the output shaft. Specifically, the electric motor is fixed to the housing of the device.

[0026] In particular, the electromechanical drive unit comprises a linear drive. The linear drive is specifically designed to convert a rotary drive motion emanating from the output shaft into a translational drive motion. The linear drive, for example, has a rotary element that is operatively connected on the one hand to the output shaft of the electric motor and on the other hand to the drive element of the electromechanical drive unit.

[0027] The proposed riveting tool can be designed such that the rotating element is supported axially with respect to the axis of action by an axial bearing on the nozzle. This allows a counterforce caused by the applied setting force to be transmitted from the rotating element via the axial bearing into the nozzle during the riveting process, which then rests against the edge of the connecting hole on the material to be riveted.

[0028] The proposed riveting device can further be designed such that the electric motor is arranged axially between the linear drive and the drive unit for the loading stroke with respect to the effective axis. This promotes a compact design in the radial direction with respect to the effective axis.

[0029] The proposed riveting device can further be designed such that the output shaft of the electric motor is arranged parallel to the axis of the linear drive. Preferably, the axis of the linear drive is coaxial with respect to the effective axis. This also promotes a compact design in the axial direction with respect to the effective axis.

[0030] The proposed riveting device can further be designed such that the electric motor is connected to the linear drive, in particular the rotary element, via a preferably multi-stage intermediate gear. For example, the intermediate gear is a spur gear. Preferably, the intermediate gear is a reduction gear. This makes it possible to convert the speed / force ratio of the electric motor's output shaft to a higher force, so that sufficient drive force is available to power the mandrel holder during the setting stroke.

[0031] In a further embodiment, the mouthpiece comprises at least two mouth segments. In particular, the mouth segments are spread apart from a closed position to an open position. In the closed position, the mouthpiece is configured, in particular, to hold a rivet to be set in a starting position for a setting operation. In the open position, the mouth segments form, for example, a passage to allow a reloaded rivet to pass forward, in particular to the front end of the riveting device, so that the reloaded rivet can assume the starting position on the mouthpiece.

[0032] Preferably, the proposed riveting device comprises a locking element which, in a locking position, locks the mouth segments in the closed position and is particularly configured to perform an unlocking stroke to release the locking of the mouth segments in the closed position. Preferably, the proposed riveting device comprises a further drive unit which serves as a drive for the locking element to perform the unlocking stroke.

[0033] In this embodiment, the proposed riveting device can be configured such that, axially with respect to the axis of action, the rotating element is supported against the axial bearing in the direction of the nozzle and, in the opposite direction, borders an axial clearance and is specifically designed to be moved in the direction of this axial clearance. This allows, firstly, a counterforce caused by the applied setting force to be transmitted from the rotating element, via the axial bearing, into the nozzle during the riveting process, which is supported against the edge of the connecting hole on the material to be riveted. Secondly, the linear drive can be moved into an alternative position by being displaceable towards the axial clearance.

[0034] In one embodiment, the drive unit for the unlocking stroke comprises a drive element that is movable relative to the device housing in the direction of the effective axis and is connected to the locking element in a displacement-resistant manner. The proposed riveting device can be designed such that, in the locking position of the locking element, the drive element is supported on one side against the axial bearing and on the other side against the nozzle, whereby, when the unlocking stroke is executed, the drive element exerts a driving force on the locking element, so that the rotating element is displaced into the axial clearance. The above embodiment proposes a mechanism for unlocking the nozzle segments, which is provided in combination with the electromechanical drive unit, i.e., the drive unit for the setting stroke.The drive element of the drive unit for the unlocking stroke has a dual function: firstly, it acts as a drive, applying force to the locking element, and secondly, it has a transmission function, absorbing the counterforce generated during the setting process from the axial bearing and transferring it to the nozzle. To execute the unlocking stroke, the proposed riveting device utilizes the axial displacement of the axial bearing and the linear drive.

[0035] In the proposed riveting device, the linear drive can be a spindle drive. In this case, the drive element of the electromechanical drive unit can be a threaded spindle and the rotating element a spindle nut of the spindle drive. In one embodiment, the spindle drive can be or include a ball screw drive. This promotes a long service life of the drive, as the ball screw drive is particularly suitable for transmitting large forces, such as those required to perform the force-intensive setting stroke.

[0036] The drive unit for executing the loading stroke is preferably a fluidic, and in particular pneumatic, drive unit, for example with a piston and a piston housing. For instance, the piston is formed by the second drive element and the piston housing by the first drive element of the drive unit for executing the loading stroke. Such a drive unit is advantageous for providing a longer stroke length during the loading stroke compared to the set stroke. It also facilitates a relatively fast execution of the loading stroke.

[0037] The drive unit for performing the unlocking stroke is preferably a fluid-tight, and in particular pneumatic, drive unit, for example with a piston and a piston housing. In particular, the piston is formed by the second drive element of the drive unit for performing the loading stroke. The piston housing is specifically fixed to the device housing. The piston housing can be a component of the device housing or a tool housing in which the mandrel receptacle is slidably mounted and on which the nozzle is arranged or formed. For example, the piston is supported by the nozzle via the piston housing when the proposed riveting device performs a setting operation.

[0038] The proposed riveting tool can be a hand-held riveting tool, which may, for example, have a handle. For example, the handle may extend longitudinally transversely to the axis of action. For example, the riveting tool may be pistol-shaped due to the handle. For example, the handle may be attached to a tool housing or the tool housing described above, for example, by being formed or, in particular, molded onto it. The handle allows the riveting tool to be held in the hand or guided manually. In particular, the handle enables the riveting tool to be manually positioned at the point to be riveted.

[0039] Based on one aspect, a riveting machine is proposed. The riveting machine comprises the riveting device described above, for example, as a rivet head. The riveting machine specifically includes a feeding device for supplying the riveting device with a rivet, for example, during reloading. The riveting machine may include a disposal device for residual mandrels. The riveting machine may also include an electronic control device, for example, for monitoring the setting process and / or the reloading process.

[0040] Another aspect is the proposal for a riveting robot. The riveting robot comprises the riveting tool and / or riveting machine described above. For example, the riveting robot has a robot arm on which the riveting tool, for example as a riveting head, is mounted.

[0041] Further details and features will become apparent from the following description of at least one embodiment with reference to the drawing. The drawing shows...

[0042] Fig. 1 shows an exemplary embodiment of a riveting device in a longitudinal section, with a nozzle and a mandrel receptacle which is movable along an axis of action, wherein the mandrel receptacle is in a starting position for a setting process.

[0043] Fig. 2 shows the exemplary riveting device of Figure 1, wherein the mandrel holder is in a setting position.

[0044] Fig. 3 shows the exemplary riveting device of Figure 1, wherein the mandrel receptacle is in a loading end position.

[0045] Fig. 4 shows the exemplary riveting device of Figure 1, wherein a rivet is reloaded via a loading tube.

[0046] Fig. 5 shows the exemplary riveting device of Figure 1 in the area of ​​the mouthpiece and the mandrel receptacle, wherein the reloaded rivet is brought into a predetermined position for insertion into the mandrel receptacle.

[0047] Fig. 6 shows the exemplary riveting device of Figure 1, wherein the rivet mandrel of the reloaded rivet is inserted into the mandrel receptacle.

[0048] Fig. 7 shows the exemplary riveting device of Figure 1, wherein the mouth segments of the mouthpiece are spread apart in order to bring the mandrel receptacle with the rivet held therein forward to the starting position of Figure 1,

[0049] Fig. 8 shows the exemplary riveting device of Figure 1 in a perspective view.

[0050] Fig. 9 shows the exemplary riveting device of Figure 1 as a component of a riveting machine, and

[0051] Fig. 10 shows the exemplary riveting device of Figure 1, mounted on a robot arm of a riveting robot.

[0052] Figure 1 shows – in a simplified representation – the structure of an exemplary embodiment of a riveting tool 1, which is also referred to in technical circles as a setting tool. The exemplary riveting tool 1 is suitable for setting rivets using the blind riveting method and is designed for the use of blind rivets. The exemplary riveting tool 1 is preferably elongated. For example, the exemplary riveting tool 1 has two preferably opposing longitudinal ends. For example, the two longitudinal ends form a front end 2 and a rear end 3 of the exemplary riveting tool 1. For better illustration of the technical details, the exemplary riveting tool 1 is shown stretched transversely to its longitudinal extent in Figure 1.

[0053] The exemplary riveting device 1 preferably comprises a nozzle 10 and a mandrel holder 20 movable relative to the nozzle 10 along an effective axis W. For example, the effective axis W extends in the direction of the longitudinal extent of the exemplary riveting device 1. For example, the nozzle 10 is located at the front end 2 of the exemplary riveting device 1. The mandrel holder 20 has, for example, a chuck housing 21 and at least one, preferably several, clamping elements 22, 22' movable in the chuck housing 21 along a clamping path, in particular clamping jaws. Preferably, the nozzle 10 and / or the mandrel holder 20 and / or the chuck housing 21 and / or the clamping elements 22, 22' are made of metal.

[0054] For example, the mandrel receptacle 20 is associated with a tool housing 4, in particular being movably mounted therein in the direction of the effective axis W. For example, the chuck housing 21 is also located in the tool housing 4. For example, the tool housing 4 is tubular or sleeve-shaped, which is why the tool housing 4 is also referred to as a setting sleeve in technical circles. For example, the nozzle 10 is arranged at a longitudinal end of the tool housing 4, in particular attached or integrally formed therein.

[0055] The nozzle 10 serves, for example, to receive a rivet 100 to be set, in particular a blind rivet, which is shown by way of example in Figure 1. The nozzle 10 has, for example, a through-hole 10.1 in order to insert the mandrel 110 of the rivet 100. The mandrel receptacle 20 serves, for example, to fix the mandrel 110 so that a non-displaceable connection is created between the received mandrel 110 and the mandrel receptacle 20. This can be achieved, for example, via the chuck housing 21 with the clamping elements 22, 22' movably arranged therein, by which the mandrel 110 is fixed in the chuck housing 21, in particular clamped. In Figure 1, the clamping elements 22, 22' are only indicated.

[0056] In the exemplary riveting device 1, the mandrel holder 20 is configured to perform a setting stroke to set a rivet, such as rivet 100. Preferably, the mandrel holder 20 is further configured to perform a loading stroke to reload a rivet (not shown in Figure 1) via a loading tube 6, in particular between the nozzle 10 and the mandrel holder 20. To perform the setting stroke and the loading stroke, the mandrel holder 20 is preferably moved relative to the tool housing 4 along the effective axis W. Preferably, the setting stroke is performed first, followed by the loading stroke, whereby the setting stroke moves the mandrel holder 20 away from the nozzle 10, and the subsequent loading stroke moves the mandrel holder 20 even further away from the nozzle 10.

[0057] Preferably, the exemplary riveting device 1 comprises two drive units 30, 40, in particular separate drive units 30, 40, one of which serves as a drive for the mandrel holder 20 to perform the loading stroke and the other drive unit 40 serves as a drive for the mandrel holder 20 to perform the setting stroke. Preferably, the two drive units 30, 40 are associated with a device housing 5, in particular a common device housing 5, and in particular are accommodated therein. The device housing 5 can be designed as a single piece or in multiple parts. For example, the device housing 5 comprises several housing parts 5.1, 5.2, 5.3, 5.4, which, viewed in the direction of the effective axis W, are arranged, for example, one behind the other. For example, the tool housing 4 is arranged on the device housing 5, in particular detachably. For example, the tool housing 4 is connected to the device housing 5 in a way that prevents displacement, in particular by fastening.

[0058] In the exemplary riveting device 1, the other drive unit, i.e., the drive unit for executing the setting stroke, is an electromechanical drive unit 40. The electromechanical drive unit 40 is a drive for executing the setting stroke that, on the one hand, can and does provide the required high drive force to achieve the deformation of the rivet 100 and / or the shearing off of the rivet mandrel 110, and, on the other hand, is leak-free, thus counteracting any undesirable leakage-related contamination or soiling of the working area of ​​the exemplary riveting device 1.

[0059] The electromechanical drive unit 40 allows the mandrel holder 20 or the chuck housing 21, with the rivet mandrel 100 fixed therein, to be moved away from the nozzle 10 in the direction of the effective axis W. This is achieved, for example, by the electromechanical drive unit 40 pulling the mandrel holder 20 or the chuck housing 21 away from the nozzle 10. This known operating principle and the blind riveting process that can be carried out with it are described in more detail in publication EP 0 116 954 A2, to which reference is hereby made for the purpose of completing and supplementing the present disclosure, with the note that the publication may assign a meaning to identical terms that differs from the meaning given here.

[0060] The exemplary riveting tool 1 demonstrates one way in which the electromechanical drive unit 40, i.e., the drive unit for executing the setting stroke, and the drive unit 30, which serves to execute the loading stroke, can be operatively coupled with respect to the mandrel holder 20. For example, the electromechanical drive unit 40, the drive unit 30 for the loading stroke, and the mandrel holder 20 are operatively connected in such a way that, when the setting stroke is executed, the drive unit 30 for the loading stroke serves as a transmission element, and the electromechanical drive unit 40 exerts a driving force on the mandrel holder 20 via the drive unit 30 for the loading stroke.

[0061] In this regard, the electromechanical drive unit 40, the drive unit 30 for the loading stroke, and the mandrel holder 20 can be operatively connected such that, during the execution of the setting stroke, the electromechanical drive unit 40 exerts a pushing drive force on the drive unit 30 for the loading stroke, which from there acts as a pulling drive force on the mandrel holder 20. Furthermore, the electromechanical drive unit 40, the drive unit 30 for the loading stroke, and the mandrel holder 20 can be operatively connected such that, during the execution of the loading stroke, the electromechanical drive unit 40 is motionally decoupled from the mandrel holder 20.In this respect, the electromechanical drive unit 40 and the drive unit 30 for the loading stroke can be configured such that the electromechanical drive unit 40 performs a setting stroke movement which is in the same direction as a loading stroke movement caused by the drive unit 30 for the loading stroke.

[0062] In the exemplary riveting tool 1, for example, the drive unit 30 for the loading stroke is provided to have a first drive element 31 and a second drive element 32. For example, the first drive element 31 is movable relative to the tool housing 5 in the direction of the effective axis W. For example, the second drive element 32 is movable relative to the first drive element.

[0063] 31 is movable in the direction of the effective axis W and is connected to the mandrel receptacle 20 in a displacement-resistant manner. For example, the electromechanical drive unit 40 has a drive element 42 which is movable relative to the device housing 5 in the direction of the effective axis W and is connected to the first drive element 31 of the drive unit 30 for the loading stroke at least in the direction of the setting stroke, for example via a push rod 35, in a displacement-resistant manner.

[0064] With regard to the drive unit 30 for the loading stroke, the first drive element 31 and the second drive element 32 are, for example, arranged such that when the setting stroke is executed, the first drive element 31 moves onto the second drive element via a transverse surface 33 extending transversely, in particular orthogonally to the effective axis W.

[0065] The drive element 32 acts to transmit a driving force exerted by the electromechanical drive unit 40 on the first drive element 31 via the second drive element 32 to the mandrel receptacle 20. For example, viewed from the mandrel receptacle 20 in the direction of the effective axis W, the first drive element 31 of the drive unit 30 for the loading stroke is arranged downstream of the drive element 42 of the electromechanical drive unit 40.

[0066] For example, the second drive element 32 of the drive unit 30 for the loading stroke is connected to the mandrel receptacle 20 via a drawbar 34 in a displacement-resistant manner. For example, the drawbar 34 is attached on one side to the second drive element 32 of the drive unit 30 and on the other side to the mandrel receptacle 20. For example, the drive element 42 of the electromechanical drive unit 40 is displaceable relative to the drawbar 34 in the direction of the effective axis W. For example, the drive element 42 of the electromechanical drive unit 40 is displaceably held on the drawbar 34. The electromechanical drive unit 40 comprises, for example, an electric motor 41 with a rotatable output shaft 41.1. Preferably, the electromechanical drive unit 40 further comprises a linear gear unit 43, which can be driven by the electric motor 41. For example, the gear axis of the linear gear unit 43 is coaxial with respect to the effective axis W.For example, the output shaft 41.1 of the electric motor 41 is arranged parallel to the gear axis of the linear gear unit 43 and / or the effective axis W. For example, the electric motor 41 is arranged axially with respect to the effective axis W between the linear gear unit 43 and the drive unit 30 for the charging stroke.

[0067] Preferably, the linear drive 43 is configured to convert a rotary drive motion originating from the output shaft 41.1 into a translational drive motion acting along the effective axis W to drive the mandrel holder 20. For example, the linear drive 43 has a rotary element 44 on the drive side. For example, the rotary element 44 is rotatably mounted in the radial direction with respect to the drive axis or the effective axis W, preferably via at least one radial bearing (not shown in Figure 1), opposite and / or on the device housing 5. For example, the rotary element 44 is operatively connected on one side to the output shaft 41.1 of the electric motor 41 and on the other side to the drive element 42 of the electromechanical drive unit 40.

[0068] For example, the rotary element 44 is axially supported with respect to the transmission axis or the effective axis W by means of an axial bearing 45 in a support structure 49, in particular a support ring, which serves, for example, as a bearing housing, wherein in the axial direction the support structure 49 is supported on the nozzle 10 via the tool housing 4. The tool housing 4 itself can be held on the support structure 49 by means of a retaining structure 49.3, such as an annular cover element, and in particular may be held loosely. The support structure 49 can comprise at least two support parts 49.1, 49.2, in particular annular support parts. The support parts 49.1, 49.2 are, for example, arranged one behind the other in the direction of the force flow from the axial bearing 45 to the nozzle 10. For example, one of the support parts 49.1, 49.2 serves as a bearing housing for the axial bearing 45 and the retaining structure 49.3 is attached to the other support part 49.2, for example by screwing it on.Preferably, the electric motor 41 is connected to the linear drive 43 via an intermediate gear unit 47. The intermediate gear unit 47 can be single-stage or multi-stage. For example, the intermediate gear unit 47 has at least two gear stages 47.1, 47.2, 47.3. For example, the gear stages 47.1, 47.2, 47.3 are connected in series in the power flow. For example, a gear element of the gear stages 47.1, 47.2, 47.3 is arranged on the rotary element 44, in particular, for example, integrally formed.

[0069] For example, the gear stages 47.1, 47.2, 47.3 utilize at least one common intermediate shaft 48.1, 48.2. The gear stages 47.1, 47.2, 47.3 are, for example, spur gear stages, with the associated gear elements being spur gear wheels. Preferably, the intermediate gear 47 is a reduction gear. Preferably, the electric motor 41 and / or the linear gear 43 and / or the intermediate gear 47 are arranged in the device housing 5. Preferably, the device housing 5 is used for the radial mounting of the intermediate gear 47, in particular the gear stages 47.1, 47.2, 47.3. Preferably, the device housing 5 is also used for the radial mounting of the electric motor 41.

[0070] Preferably, the linear drive 43 is a spindle drive, for example, a ball screw drive. In this case, for example, the drive element 42 of the electromechanical drive unit 40 is a threaded spindle and the rotary element 44 is a spindle nut of the spindle drive. Preferably, the spindle nut engages with the threaded spindle or can be brought into engagement with the threaded spindle. Preferably, the threaded spindle has a front end facing the mandrel receptacle 20, in particular the chuck housing 21, and an opposite rear end, which faces the first drive element 31 of the drive unit 30 for the loading stroke.

[0071] In the exemplary riveting tool 1, the drive unit 30 for performing the loading stroke is designed as a fluidic drive unit, in particular a pneumatic drive unit. The drive unit 30 has, for example, a reciprocating piston and a piston housing that receives the reciprocating piston. For example, the second drive element 32 of the drive unit 30 is formed by or includes the reciprocating piston. For example, the first drive element 31 is formed by or includes the piston housing. At least one sealing element 36 can be provided to seal the reciprocating piston against the piston housing. A further sealing element 37 can be provided to seal the piston housing against the device housing 5. The reciprocating piston and the piston housing are arranged, for example, in the device housing 5, for example, assigned to the rear end 3 of the exemplary riveting tool 1, in particular arranged in the region of the rear end 3.

[0072] In the exemplary riveting device 1, the mouthpiece 10 comprises, for example, at least two mouth segments 11, 12, which can be spread apart from a closed position G to an open position O (Figure 7). In the closed position G, the mouthpiece 10 is configured, for example, to hold the rivet 100 to be set in a starting position for the setting stroke. In the open position O, the mouth segments 11, 12 form, for example, a passage 13 (Figure 7) to allow a reloaded rivet to pass forward, so that the reloaded rivet can assume the starting position on the mouthpiece 10.

[0073] For example, the exemplary riveting tool 1 has a locking element 50 which, in a locking position V, locks the mouth segments 11, 12 in the closed position G and is, for example, configured to perform a release stroke to release the locking of the mouth segments 11, 12. For example, the exemplary riveting tool 1 has a further drive unit 60, which serves as a drive for the locking element 50 to perform the release stroke. For example, the further drive unit 60 comprises a drive element 61, which is movable relative to the tool housing 5 in the direction of the effective axis W and is, for example, connected to the locking element 50 in a displacement-resistant manner.

[0074] For example, the additional drive unit 60 uses an axial clearance 46 in the device housing 5 of the exemplary riveting device 1 for its drive movement with respect to the effective axis W. The axial clearance 46 adjoins the rotary element 44 of the electromechanical drive unit 30 on the side facing the rear end 3 of the exemplary riveting device 1. In the exemplary riveting device 1, for example, the axial bearing 45 and / or the rotary element 44 are configured to be moved in the direction of and / or into the axial clearance 46.

[0075] For example, it is provided that when the unlocking stroke is executed, the drive element 61 acts drivingly on the locking element 50, thereby displacing the axial bearing 45 and the rotary element 44 in the direction of the axial clearance 46. It is further provided, for example, that in the locking position V of the locking element 50, the drive element 61 is supported on one side against the axial bearing 45 and on the other side against the nozzle 10.

[0076] In the exemplary riveting tool 1, one possible embodiment of the drive unit 60 for the unlocking stroke is implemented. The drive unit 60 is, for example, a fluidic, in particular pneumatic, drive unit. The drive unit 60 has, for example, a reciprocating piston and a piston housing that receives the reciprocating piston. The reciprocating piston forms, for example, the drive element 61. The piston housing forms, for example, a drive housing 62 of the drive unit 60. The drive unit 60 utilizes, for example, the support structure 49. This is implemented, for example, such that the drive element 61 is formed by one support part 49.1 and the drive housing 62 by the other support part 49.2.

[0077] In the exemplary riveting device 1, for example, an actuating mechanism is provided for actuating the clamping elements 22, 22'. The actuating mechanism is configured, for example, to move the clamping elements 22, 22' against the rivet mandrel 110 into a clamping position. In the clamping position, the rivet mandrel 110 is preferably fixed in the mandrel receptacle 20 or the chuck housing 21 via the clamping elements 22, 22' such that the mandrel receptacle 20 can perform the setting stroke while maintaining the fixation of the rivet mandrel 110. Preferably, the actuating mechanism is configured to move the clamping elements 22, 22' out of the clamping position and thus release the fixation of the rivet mandrel 110 in the mandrel receptacle 20 or the chuck housing 21. In Figure 1, the actuating mechanism is shown in a simplified form and only indicated in the area of ​​the clamping elements 22, 22'. The rivet mandrel 110 is in the clamping position there.The actuating mechanism has, for example, a piston-cylinder unit, which is configured, for example, to act on the clamping elements 22, 22' via a control rod 23. The piston-cylinder unit can comprise or be formed from a single-acting cylinder. The piston-cylinder unit comprises a control piston 24 and a piston housing 25 that receives the control piston 24. For example, the control piston 24 is slidably held in the piston housing 25 along the axis of action W. For example, the control piston 24 is connected to the control rod 23 in a manner that prevents displacement. For example, the control rod 23 is connected to at least one of the clamping elements 22, 22' in a manner that prevents displacement.

[0078] For example, the piston housing 25 is movable relative to the device housing 5, in particular, it is displaceable along the effective axis W. For example, the piston housing 25 forms the second drive element 32 of the drive unit 30 for the loading stroke. This ensures that the opening mechanism can follow the stroke movements of the mandrel receptacle 20. For example, the piston-cylinder unit is fluidically, in particular pneumatically, actuated. A sealing element 26 can be provided to seal the control piston 24 against the piston housing 25.

[0079] The piston-cylinder unit is configured, for example, such that the clamping elements 22, 22' are brought into the clamping position by a fluidic actuation of the control piston 24 in the piston housing 25. For example, a spring element 27 is provided, which is configured, for example, to cause the rivet mandrel 110 to be released from its fixation or at least to assist in this process. For example, the spring element 27 acts with its spring force against the control piston 24, preferably in the direction away from the mandrel receptacle 20 or the chuck housing 21. For example, the spring element 27 is supported on one side against the control piston 24 and on the other side against the piston housing 25.

[0080] In the exemplary riveting device 1, for example, a discharge tube 7 or a discharge sleeve is provided through which a remaining part of a rivet mandrel, such as the rivet mandrel 110, from a riveting operation can be discharged. The discharge tube 7 is, for example, a component of a mandrel disposal path to a collection container for mandrel remnants (not shown in Figure 1). For example, the discharge tube 7 is elongated and extends, for example, to the rear end 3 of the exemplary riveting device 1. For example, the discharge tube 7 is arranged coaxially with respect to the effective axis W. For example, the discharge tube 7 is arranged so as to be displaceable relative to the device housing 5 in the direction of the effective axis W, in particular it is held against the device housing 5.

[0081] For example, the control rod 23 is designed as a control tube. For example, the drawbar 34 is designed as a draw tube. For example, the drive element 42 of the electromechanical drive unit 40 is designed as a hollow body with a passage extending in the direction of its longitudinal extent. For example, the push rod 35 is designed as a pressure tube. For example, the discharge tube 7 and the drawbar 34, and in particular the control rod 23, are arranged in the passage of the drive element 42 of the electromechanical drive unit 40, for example, concentrically with respect to the effective axis W in the radial direction, such that first comes the drive element 42 of the electromechanical drive unit 40, then the drawbar 34, then optionally the control rod 23, and then the discharge tube 7.

[0082] For example, the drive unit 30 for the loading stroke, in particular the first drive element 31 and / or the second drive element 32, is arranged concentrically to the discharge tube 7 and is displaceable relative to the discharge tube 7 in the direction of the effective axis W. For example, the control piston 24 and the piston housing 25 are arranged concentrically with respect to the discharge tube 7 and are displaceable relative to the discharge tube 7 in the direction of the effective axis W.

[0083] One possible way in which the exemplary riveting device 1 works is described below:

[0084] Figure 1 shows the exemplary riveting tool 1 in a starting state for a setting operation. The rivet 100 to be set is inserted into the nozzle 10, and the rivet mandrel 110 of the rivet 100 is fixed in the mandrel receptacle 20. The mandrel receptacle 20 is in a starting position A relative to the nozzle 10. The rivet 100 is also in the starting position described above. For example, in the starting position A of the mandrel receptacle 20, the first drive element 31 of the drive unit 30 for the loading stroke is located with its side facing the front end 2 of the exemplary riveting tool 1 in contact with an axial limiting surface 5 of the tool housing 5.For example, in the starting position A of the mandrel holder 20, the first drive element 31 of the drive unit 30 for the loading stroke is located with its side facing the rear end 3 of the exemplary riveting device 1 at an axial distance from the device housing 5 in order to have sufficient axial space for the displacement movement when transmitting the drive movement for the setting stroke of the mandrel holder 20.

[0085] To set the rivet 100, the setting process now takes place by the mandrel holder 20 performing the setting stroke described above, in particular by moving it along the effective axis W in the direction away from the nozzle 10. Figure 2 shows an example of the exemplary riveting device 1, in which the mandrel holder 20 is in a setting position B, which is present, for example, after the setting stroke has been executed. In the setting position B, for example, only a residual mandrel 110' of the rivet mandrel 110 remains fixed in the mandrel holder 20, in particular in the chuck housing 21. The setting stroke executed by the mandrel holder 20 is marked "S" in Figure 2.

[0086] The execution of the setting stroke S is effected by the electromechanical drive unit 40. The electromechanical drive unit 40 uses, for example, the drive unit 30 for the loading stroke as a transmission element to exert a driving force on the mandrel receptacle 20. For example, the electric motor 41 acts via the drive element 42 of the electromechanical drive unit 40 and, for example, via the push rod 35, with a pushing force on the first drive element 31 of the drive unit 30 for the loading stroke. The pushing force is transmitted, for example, via the transverse surface 33 to the second drive element 32 of the drive unit 30 for the loading stroke, which from there acts, for example, via the pull rod 34, as a pulling force on the mandrel receptacle 20.

[0087] The drive element 42 of the electromechanical drive unit 40 thus presses against the first drive element 31 of the drive unit 30 for the loading stroke and pushes the first drive element 31 away from the nozzle 10 in the direction indicated by arrow 80. The second drive element 32 of the drive unit 30 for the loading stroke is also pushed away from the nozzle 10 via the transverse surface 33, thereby pulling the mandrel holder 20 away from the nozzle 10 due to the non-displaceable connection with the second drive element 32, thus bringing the mandrel holder 20 to execute the setting stroke S. The stroke path executed by the first drive element 31 of the drive unit 30 is labeled Hl in Figure 2 and preferably corresponds to the setting stroke S of the mandrel holder 20.

[0088] Following the setting process, the reloading of another rivet to be set is prepared by the mandrel holder 20 performing the loading stroke described above, in particular by moving further away from the nozzle 10 along the effective axis W. Figure 3 shows an example of the exemplary riveting device 1, in which the mandrel holder 20 is in a loading end position C, which is present, for example, after the loading stroke has been executed. The loading stroke executed by the mandrel holder 20 is labeled "L" in Figure 3. Preferably, the loading stroke L follows the setting stroke S, so that, starting from the initial position A (Figure 1), the mandrel holder 20 moves away from the nozzle 10 over a distance which is the sum of the setting stroke S and the loading stroke L, as shown by way of example in Figure 3.

[0089] The execution of the loading stroke L is effected by the drive unit 30 for the loading stroke, which now serves not as a transmission element but itself as the drive for the mandrel holder 20. For this purpose, the second drive element 32 of the drive unit 30 for the loading stroke acts, for example, via the drawbar 34, driving the mandrel holder 20, for example, by moving away from the nozzle 10 in the direction indicated by arrow 81, thereby pulling the mandrel holder 20 further away from the nozzle 10. The stroke path executed by the second drive element 32 is marked H2 in Figure 3 and preferably corresponds to the loading stroke L of the mandrel holder 20.

[0090] Preferably, during the drive movement of the second drive element 32 as performed here, the first drive element 31 remains unchanged in the same axial position relative to the device housing 5, for example, in the axial position reached after the execution of the setting stroke S of the mandrel holder 20. Preferably, the second drive element 32 moves in the direction indicated by arrow 81 until it reaches a rear end position facing the rear end 3 of the exemplary riveting device 1 and / or comes into contact with an axial limiting surface 31 . 1 of the first drive element 31.

[0091] If the first drive element 31 is a piston housing or has a piston housing, the driving effect of the drive unit 30 for the loading stroke can be effected by introducing fluid into the piston housing 31, for example via an inlet 38.1. Preferably, the fluid is introduced into a front chamber 31.2 of the piston housing 31, which is limited in the direction of the rear end 3 of the exemplary riveting device 1 by the second drive element 32. The fluid inlet is indicated by arrow 82 in Figure 3. For example, the fluid is compressed air. This allows the loading stroke L of the mandrel holder 20 to be executed relatively quickly.

[0092] Afterwards, for example, the remaining mandrel 110' still in the mandrel holder 20 is removed via the discharge tube 7, in particular by suction, and a new rivet 200 is loaded, for example, via the loading tube 6, as is indicated by way of example in Figure 4. A conveying medium, such as compressed air, can be used for reloading. This facilitates the transport of the new rivet 200 in the loading tube 6.

[0093] In order to remove the remaining mandrel 110' from the exemplary riveting device 1, the remaining mandrel 110' is released from its clamping position on the clamping elements 22, 22'. For this purpose, the control piston 24 is actuated, for example, by means of compressed air or another fluid and moved, for example, via a predetermined path H3 according to arrow 83, towards the rear end 3 of the exemplary riveting device 1, whereby the clamping elements 22, 22' are moved from their clamping position against the remaining mandrel 110', for example via the control rod 23.

[0094] For example, the reloaded rivet 200, which is located between the mandrel receptacle 20 and the front end of the nozzle 10 (Figure 4), is preferably conveyed by the conveying force of the conveying medium until it reaches the nozzle 10 and arrives there in a predetermined position to enable insertion into the mandrel receptacle 20. The predetermined position is shown by way of example in Figure 5. There, the reloaded rivet 200 is located coaxially or substantially coaxially with the effective axis W, and the rivet mandrel of the reloaded rivet 200 points with its free end towards the mandrel receptacle 20.

[0095] The mandrel holder 20 then performs a gripping stroke. For this, the mandrel holder 20 is moved along the effective axis W towards the nozzle 10. Figure 6 shows an example of the exemplary riveting tool 1, in which the mandrel holder 20 is in a gripping position D, which is present, for example, after the gripping stroke has been performed. The gripping stroke performed by the mandrel holder 20 is labeled "G" in Figure 6.

[0096] In the present disclosure, the term "gripping stroke" refers in particular to a path traveled by the mandrel receptacle 20, preferably in the direction of the nozzle 10, in order to pick up a rivet, in particular the reloaded rivet 200. Preferably, the gripping stroke G displaces the mandrel receptacle 20 towards the rivet or reloaded rivet 200 to such an extent that the mandrel of the rivet or reloaded rivet 200 is inserted into the chuck housing 21 and clamping occurs or can occur there against the clamping elements 22, 22'. Preferably, the gripping stroke G follows the loading stroke L.

[0097] The execution of the gripping stroke G is effected, for example, by the drive unit 30 for the loading stroke. For this purpose, the second drive element 32 of the drive unit 30 for the loading stroke acts, for example, via the drawbar 34 on the mandrel receptacle 20, for example, by the second drive element 32 moving in the direction of the mouthpiece 10 as indicated by arrow 83, or by exerting a compressive force on the mandrel receptacle 30. The stroke path executed by the second drive element 32 is marked H4 in Figure 6 and preferably corresponds to the gripping stroke G of the mandrel receptacle 20. Preferably, during the drive movement in the course of the gripping stroke G, the first drive element 31 remains unchanged in the same axial position relative to the device housing 5, for example, in the axial position that was reached after the execution of the setting stroke S of the mandrel receptacle 20.

[0098] If the first drive element 31 is a piston housing or has a piston housing, the driving effect of the drive unit 30 for the loading stroke can be effected during the gripping stroke G by introducing fluid into the piston housing 31, for example via an inlet 38.2. Preferably, the fluid is introduced into a rear chamber 31.3 of the piston housing 31, which is limited in the direction of the front end 2 of the exemplary riveting device 1 by the second drive element 32. The fluid inlet is indicated by arrow 84 in Figure 6. For example, the fluid is compressed air.

[0099] To clamp the clamping elements 20, 20' against the mandrel of the rivet or reloaded rivet 200, the control piston 24 is actuated, for example, by means of compressed air or another fluid and is moved, for example, relative to the second drive element 32, over a predetermined path H5 according to arrow 83 in the direction of the front end 2 of the exemplary riveting device 1, thereby bringing the clamping elements 22, 22' into the clamping position against the mandrel.

[0100] After the gripping stroke G, the reloaded rivet 20 is gripped by the mandrel holder 20 and fixed in the chuck housing 21 by the clamping jaws 22, 22'. The reloaded rivet 200 is still located in an area behind the nozzle 10, i.e., on the side of the nozzle 10 facing the rear end 3 of the exemplary riveting tool 1. In a further step, the mandrel holder 20 with the reloaded rivet 200 is moved forward to the starting position A as shown in Figure 1. For example, the mouth segments 11, 12 of the nozzle 10 are spread apart from the closed position G (Figure 6) to the open position O, thereby forming the passage 13 to allow the reloaded rivet 20 to pass forward towards the front end 2 of the exemplary riveting tool 1. Figure 7 shows an example of the exemplary riveting device 1 with spread mouth segments 11 , 12 in the open position O .

[0101] To bring the mouth segments 11, 12 into the open position O, they are unlocked. For this purpose, the additional drive unit 60 acts on the locking element 50, causing it to perform an unlocking stroke. This unlocking stroke moves the locking element 50 relative to the device housing 5 and / or the tool housing 4 away from the mouthpiece 10 and / or towards the rear end 3 of the exemplary riveting tool 1 along the axis of action W into an unlocked position. In the exemplary riveting tool 1, this is achieved, for example, by moving the drive element 61 away from the mouthpiece 10 over a stroke relative to the drive housing 62. This is accomplished, for example, by introducing fluid into the drive housing 62, for instance, via an inlet 39'.The inflow of the fluid is indicated by arrow 85 in Figure 7.

[0102] The drive movement of the drive element 61 is enabled, for example, by the axial clearance 46. The drive element 61 can perform its drive movement by pushing the axial bearing 45 and the linear drive 43 away from the nozzle 10 due to the available axial clearance 46. In Figure 7, the release element 50 is in the release position, and the position of the axial bearing 45 and the linear drive 43, in particular the rotary element 44 and the drive element 61, achieved by actuating the further drive unit 60, is indicated by way of example. The release stroke performed is marked by "E" in Figure 7 by way of example.

[0103] In the operating state shown in Figure 7, the drive element 42 of the electromechanical drive unit 40 may already have been partially moved back relative to the rotary element 44 in the direction of the front end 2 of the exemplary riveting tool 1. The entire linear drive 43 may also already have been partially moved back in the direction of the front end 2 of the exemplary riveting tool 1. For this purpose, the first drive element 31 of the drive unit 30 may be actuated for the loading stroke by introducing fluid into the device housing 5, for example via an inlet 39. The fluid inlet is indicated by arrow 86 in Figure 7. Preferably, the fluid is introduced into a chamber between the side of the first drive element 31 facing the rear end 3 of the exemplary riveting tool 1 and a wall of the device housing 5, so that a driving force is exerted in the direction of the nozzle 10.

[0104] The return movement of the drive element 42 of the electromechanical drive unit 40 relative to the rotary element 44 and / or the return movement of the first drive element 31 of the drive unit 30 for the loading stroke results in a return movement of the locking element 50 and a locking of the mouth segments 12, 13 in the locking position V. At the same time, the mandrel holder 20 together with the reloaded rivet 200 reaches the starting position A according to Figure 1 and the exemplary riveting device 1 can perform another riveting operation.

[0105] Figure 8 shows an exemplary perspective view of the riveting device 1. The riveting device 1 is shown in the state shown in Figure 1, with the rivet 100 inserted in the mouthpiece 10.

[0106] Figure 9 shows a possible embodiment of a riveting machine 300 with the exemplary riveting device 1. For example, a handle part 8 is provided on the exemplary riveting device 1. For example, the handle part 8 has a longitudinal extension transverse to the effective axis W. For example, the handle part 8 is arranged on the device housing 5, in particular attached to it or integrally formed therewith.

[0107] The riveting machine 300 includes, for example, a supply unit for providing, for example, the drive unit 30 for the loading stroke and / or the drive unit 60 for the unlocking stroke with fluid, in particular compressed air. The riveting machine 300 includes, for example, a loading device for reloading the exemplary riveting device 1 with rivets. The riveting machine 300 also includes, for example, a container for collecting the discharged residual mandrels.

[0108] The components of the riveting machine 300 described above can be housed in a casing 310 of the riveting machine 300. For example, the components described above are connected to the exemplary riveting device 1 via a supply hose 320. For example, the riveting machine 300 has a control unit 330, which is integrated, for example, in the casing 310.

[0109] Figure 10 shows an example of the riveting device 1, mounted on a robot arm 410 of a riveting robot 400. The riveting robot 400 can be installed in an assembly hall or other room 420. For example, the riveting robot 400 is a component of an assembly line for component assembly. The riveting device of the present disclosure allows for different drives to perform a setting stroke and a loading stroke, whereby the selection of the drives used is specifically tailored to the requirements of the setting stroke and the loading stroke, respectively. A significantly higher drive force is required to perform the setting stroke compared to the loading stroke in order to deform the rivet and / or break off the rivet mandrel. This setting stroke, also referred to as the power stroke, is made possible by an electromechanical drive unit.

[0110] For the loading stroke, a longer stroke is advantageous compared to the setting stroke, in order to achieve a sufficiently large clearance between the nozzle and the mandrel holder for receiving the rivet to be loaded as quickly as possible. This loading stroke, also referred to as the displacement stroke, is made possible by a suitable drive unit, such as a fluidic drive unit, in particular a pneumatic drive unit.

[0111] Reference number list

[0112] 1 riveting tool

[0113] 2 front end

[0114] 3 rear end

[0115] 4 tool housings

[0116] 5 device housings

[0117] 5.1, 5.2 Housing part

[0118] 5.3, 5.4 Housing part

[0119] 5.5 Boundary area

[0120] 6 charging pipe

[0121] 7 Drain pipe

[0122] 8 handle part

[0123] 10 Mouthpiece

[0124] 10.1 Through hole

[0125] 11, 12 Mouth segment

[0126] 13th round

[0127] 20 Spindle intake

[0128] 21 Feed housings

[0129] 22, 22 ' clamping element

[0130] 23 Control rod

[0131] 24 control pistons

[0132] 25 Piston housings

[0133] 26 sealing element

[0134] 27 Fe de re lerne nt

[0135] 30 Drive unit (charging stroke)

[0136] 31 first drive element

[0137] 31.1 Boundary area

[0138] 31. 2 anterior chamber

[0139] 31. 3 rear chamber

[0140] 32 second drive element

[0141] 33 Cross-sectional area

[0142] 34 pull rod

[0143] 35 Push rod

[0144] 36, 37 Sealing element

[0145] 38.1, 38.2 Admission

[0146] 39, 39 ' Inlet 40 Drive unit (setting stroke)

[0147] 41 Electric motor

[0148] 41.1 Output shaft

[0149] 42 Drive element

[0150] 43 linear gears

[0151] 44 Rotary element

[0152] 45 axial bearings

[0153] 46 Free space

[0154] 47 Intermediate gears

[0155] 47.1, 47.2 Gear stage

[0156] 47.3 Gear stage

[0157] 48.1, 48.2 Intermediate shaft

[0158] 49 Support structure

[0159] 49.1, 49.2 Support part

[0160] 49.3 Support structure

[0161] 50 locking element

[0162] 60 Drive unit (unlocking stroke)

[0163] 61 Drive element

[0164] 62 Drive housings

[0165] 80 to 86 arrow

[0166] Hl to H5 lifting path

[0167] 100 rivets

[0168] 110 rivet mandrel

[0169] 110 ' Residual thorn

[0170] 200 rivets

[0171] 300 riveting machine

[0172] 310 cases

[0173] 320 Supply hose

[0174] 330 Control unit

[0175] 400 riveting robots

[0176] 410 robot arm

[0177] 420 Installation room

[0178] W effective axis

[0179] A Starting position (spindle grip)

[0180] B Setting position (mandrel receptacle)

[0181] C Loading end position (mandrel holder)

[0182] D Gripping position (mandrel grip) S Setting stroke (mandrel grip)

[0183] L loading hub (mandrel mount)

[0184] G Grip stroke (pin receptacle) V Locking position (locking element)

[0185] E Unlocking stroke (locking element)

[0186] G Closed position (mouthpiece)

[0187] 0 Open position (mouthpiece)

Claims

Patent claims 1. Riveting device (1) comprising a device housing (5), a nozzle (10) at a front end (2) of the riveting device (1) and a mandrel holder (20) movable relative to the nozzle (10) along an effective axis (W), which is configured to perform a setting stroke (S) to set a rivet (100) and which is configured to perform a loading stroke (L) to reload a rivet (200) between the nozzle (10) and the mandrel holder (20), two drive units in the device housing (5), one of which drive unit (30) serves as a drive for the mandrel holder (20) to perform the loading stroke (L) and the other drive unit serves as a drive for the mandrel holder (20) to perform the setting stroke (S), wherein the drive unit for performing the setting stroke (S) is an electromechanical drive unit (40).

2. Riveting device according to claim 1, wherein the electromechanical drive unit (40), the drive unit (30) for the loading stroke (L) and the mandrel holder (20) are operatively connected in such a way that when the setting stroke (S) is executed, the drive unit (30) for the loading stroke (L) serves as a transmission element and the electromechanical drive unit (40) acts drivingly on the mandrel holder (20) via the drive unit (30) for the loading stroke (L).

3. Riveting device according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the electromechanical drive unit (40), the drive unit (30) for the loading stroke (L) and the mandrel holder (20) are operatively connected in such a way that when the setting stroke (S) is executed, the electromechanical drive unit (40) exerts a pressing drive force on the drive unit (30) for the loading stroke (L), which from there acts as a pulling drive force on the mandrel holder (20).

4. Riveting device according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the electromechanical drive unit (40), the drive unit (30) for the loading stroke (S) and the mandrel holder (20) are operatively connected in such a way that when the loading stroke (L) is executed, the electromechanical drive unit (40) is decoupled from the mandrel holder (20) in terms of movement.

5. Riveting device according to one of the preceding claims, the drive unit (30) for the loading stroke (L) comprising a first drive element (31) and a second drive element (32), wherein the first drive element (31) is movable relative to the device housing (5) in the direction of the effective axis (W), and wherein the second drive element (32) is movable relative to the first drive element (31) in the direction of the effective axis (W) and is connected to the mandrel receptacle (20) in a displacement-resistant manner, the electromechanical drive unit (40) comprising a drive element (42) which is movable relative to the device housing (5) in the direction of the effective axis (W) and is connected to the first drive element (31) of the drive unit (30) for the loading stroke (L) in a displacement-resistant manner.

6. Riveting device according to claim 5, wherein with respect to the drive unit (30) for the loading stroke (L) the first drive element (31) and the second drive element (32) are arranged such that when the setting stroke (S) is executed the first drive element (31) acts on the second drive element (32) via a transverse surface (33) extending transversely to the axis of action (W) in order to transmit a driving force exerted by the electromechanical drive unit (40) on the first drive element (31) via the second drive element (32) to the mandrel receptacle (20).

7. Riveting device according to claim 5 or 6, wherein, starting from the mouthpiece (10) in the direction of the effective axis (W), the first drive element (31) of the drive unit (30) for the loading stroke (L) is arranged following the drive element (42) of the electromechanical drive unit (40).

8. Riveting device according to one of claims 5 to 7, wherein the second drive element (32) of the drive unit (30) for the loading stroke (L) is connected to the mandrel receptacle (20) via a drawbar (34) in a displacement-resistant manner and the drive element (42) of the electromechanical drive unit (40) is displaceable relative to the drawbar (34).

9. Riveting device according to one of claims 5 to 8, the electromechanical drive unit (40) comprising an electric motor (41) having an output shaft (41.1) and a linear drive (43) with a rotary element (44), wherein the rotary element (44) is operatively connected on the one hand to the output shaft (41.1) of the electric motor (41) and on the other hand to the drive element (42) of the electromechanical drive unit (40) and is supported axially with respect to the effective axis (W) via an axial bearing (45) on the nozzle (10).

10. Riveting device according to claim 9, wherein the gear axis of the linear gear (43) is coaxial with respect to the effective axis (W) and the output shaft (41.1) of the electric motor (41) is arranged offset from the axis.

11. Riveting device according to claim 9 or 10, wherein the electric motor (41) is connected to the linear drive (43) via a preferably multi-stage intermediate gear (47), in particular a reduction gear.

12. Riveting device according to one of claims 9 to 11, the nozzle (10) comprising at least two nozzle segments (11, 12) which can be spread apart from a closed position (G) to an open position (O), wherein in the closed position (G) the nozzle (10) is configured to hold a rivet (100) to be set in a starting position for a setting operation, and wherein in the open position (O) the nozzle segments (11, 12) form a passage (13) to allow a reloaded rivet (200) to pass forward, so that the reloaded rivet (200) can assume the starting position on the nozzle (10), the riveting device (1) comprising a locking element (50) which in a locking position (V) locks the nozzle segments (11, 12) in the closed position (G) and is configured to perform a release stroke (E) to to release the locking mechanism of the mouth segments (11, 12), another drive unit (60) ,which serves as a drive for the locking element (50) to execute the unlocking stroke (E).

13. Riveting device according to claim 12, wherein the rotating element (44) is supported axially with respect to the effective axis (W) in the direction towards the nozzle (10) against the axial bearing (45) and adjoins an axial clearance (46) in the opposite direction, and wherein the rotating element (44) is set up to be moved in the direction of the axial free space (46).

14. Riveting device according to claim 13, the drive unit (60) for the unlocking stroke (E) comprising a drive element (61) which is movable relative to the device housing (5) in the direction of the effective axis (W) and is connected to the locking element (50) in a displacement-resistant manner, wherein the drive element (61) is in the locking position (V) of the locking element (50) against the axial bearing on one side (45) and on the other hand against the mouthpiece (10), and wherein, when the unlocking stroke (E) is executed, the The drive element (61) acts on the locking element (50) and thereby moves the rotary element (44) into the axial free space. (46) is postponed.

15. Riveting device according to one of claims 9 to 14, wherein the linear drive (43) is a spindle drive, in particular a ball screw drive, and the drive element (42) of the electromechanical drive unit (40) is a threaded spindle and the rotating element (44) is a spindle nut of the spindle drive.

16. Riveting device according to one of claims 5 to 15, wherein the drive unit (30) for performing the loading stroke (L) is a fluidic drive unit with a reciprocating piston and a piston housing, wherein the reciprocating piston is formed by the second drive element (32) and the piston housing by the first drive element (31) of the drive unit (30) for performing the loading stroke (L).

17. Riveting device according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the riveting device (1) is a hand riveting device and has a handle part (7).

18. Riveting machine (300) comprising a riveting device (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 17.

19. Riveting robot (400) with a robot arm (410) and a riveting device (1) arranged thereon according to one of claims 1 to 16.

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