Adjustable Upsetting Die for Multi-Rivet Fastening

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing fastening methods require multiple apparatus and interruptions to change upsetting dies for different rivet dimensions, hardnesses, and material combinations, leading to inefficiencies and increased production costs.

Innovation Solution

A control apparatus adjusts the upsetting die volume automatically based on stored information and feedback, allowing the same fastening apparatus to handle multiple rivet types and material combinations without interruptions, by changing the die volume rapidly between fastener insertions.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If multiple separate fastening apparatus are used to handle different rivet types, then the ability to accommodate different rivet dimensions and material combinations is improved, but the device complexity and production costs increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveability to accommodate different rivet typesVSAvoidquantity of fastening apparatus
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The upsetting die is designed with adjustable volume capability, allowing a single fastening apparatus to perform multiple functions by adapting to different rivet dimensions and material combinations. The control apparatus automatically adjusts the upsetting die volume based on stored information about the specific fastening task, enabling one device to replace multiple specialized devices.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The upsetting die volume is made dynamically adjustable rather than fixed. The control apparatus modifies the upsetting die volume in real-time based on the requirements of different rivet types and material combinations, allowing the system to adapt flexibly without physical reconfiguration or replacement of components.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

2Manufacturing precision

If the upsetting die is changed manually for different rivet types, then the manufacturing precision for different fastening requirements is improved, but the loss of time due to interruptions increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveupsetting precision for different rivetsVSAvoidinterruption time for die changes
Core Design Contradiction:
Manufacturing precisionVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The manual mechanical process of removing and installing different upsetting dies is replaced with an automated control system. The control apparatus electronically adjusts the upsetting die volume based on stored parameters for different rivet types, eliminating the need for physical die changes and associated time losses while maintaining precise upsetting control.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Solution Approach 2:

Information about the optimal upsetting die volume for different rivet types and material combinations is pre-stored in the control apparatus. Before each fastening operation, the control system retrieves the appropriate parameters and configures the upsetting die volume in advance, ensuring manufacturing precision without requiring manual intervention or time-consuming die changes.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

3Adaptability or versatility

If multiple fastening apparatus are deployed to handle different workpiece locations, then the adaptability to different fastening requirements is improved, but the quantity of peripheral equipment and production costs increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveflexibility for different workpiece locationsVSAvoidquantity of peripheral apparatus
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSQuantity of substance

Solution Approach 1:

A single fastening apparatus equipped with an adjustable-volume upsetting die and control system can handle multiple workpiece locations and different fastening requirements. The control apparatus stores information about various fastening configurations and automatically adjusts the upsetting die volume accordingly, eliminating the need for multiple specialized apparatus and reducing peripheral equipment requirements.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Data Source

PatentUS10005119B2Fastening method and apparatus
Publication Date: 2018.06.26 ATLAS COPCO IAS UK LIMITED
  • US10005119B2 patent drawing
  • US10005119B2 patent drawing
  • US10005119B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A fastening method comprising using a control apparatus to select a first upsetting volume of an upsetting die, using a punch to push a first fastener into a workpiece and using the upsetting die to upset the first fastener, then using the control apparatus to select a second upsetting volume of the upsetting die, using the punch to push a second fastener into a workpiece and using the upsetting die to upset the second fastener, or using the punch and the upsetting die to form a clinch joint.