Arcuate Metal Fixing Lug for Press Guidance
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing sheet metal plate fixing lugs are either too fragile when trying to reduce the distance between the part being formed and the guiding strip, or they lack sufficient resistance and mobility during cutting and stamping processes.
Innovation Solution
A method involving simultaneous cutting and deformation of the fixing lug using a press to create a projecting, arcuate profile that extends from the sheet metal plate, allowing for increased length while maintaining rigidity, thus reducing the distance between the part and the guiding strip without compromising structural integrity.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Length of stationary object
If the width of the fixing lug is reduced to decrease the distance between the part being formed and the guiding strip, then the distance is reduced, but the fixing lug becomes too fragile and risks breaking during cutting and stamping processes
Solution Approach 1:
The fixing lug is transformed from a planar element to a three-dimensional structure by forming it to protrude from the upper or lower face of the sheet metal plate. This dimensional change allows the fixing lug to maintain sufficient width for strength while reducing its projection distance to the guiding strip, resolving the contradiction between distance reduction and structural integrity.
Solution Approach 2:
The fixing lug is formed with an arcuate profile instead of a straight configuration. This curvature provides structural reinforcement that increases the fixing lug's resistance to breaking while maintaining a compact form that reduces the distance to the guiding strip, effectively resolving the strength-distance contradiction.
2Strength
If the width of the fixing lug is increased to improve its resistance and prevent breaking, then the strength is improved, but the distance between the part being formed and the guiding strip must be increased
Solution Approach 1:
By forming the fixing lug to protrude in the third dimension from the sheet metal plate face, the design achieves sufficient structural strength without increasing the in-plane width that would increase the distance to the guiding strip. The protruding configuration provides the necessary mechanical strength while maintaining a compact footprint.
Solution Approach 2:
The arcuate profile of the fixing lug provides structural reinforcement that increases strength without requiring increased width. The curved geometry distributes stresses more effectively, allowing the fixing lug to maintain high strength while keeping the distance to the guiding strip minimized.
3Adaptability or versatility
If a planar S-shaped fixing lug is used to provide mobility during forming, then the part can move freely, but the distance to the guiding strip must be at least twice the width of the fixing lug
Solution Approach 1:
The fixing lug is formed to protrude from the sheet metal plate face, creating a three-dimensional structure that provides mobility through its projection rather than through increased planar width. This allows the part to move and adapt during forming while maintaining a minimal distance to the guiding strip.
Solution Approach 2:
The arcuate profile of the fixing lug provides the necessary flexibility and mobility for the part to move during forming operations. The curved geometry allows for elastic deformation and movement while maintaining structural integrity, all within a compact configuration that minimizes the distance to the guiding strip.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The solution enables a resilient and effective guidance of the part being formed, reducing the distance between the part and the guiding strip while maintaining structural integrity, without increasing production costs.
Implementation Method 1
a second step consisting in deforming, by means of one of the presses, the fixing lug to lengthen it
Data Source
Figure 1~2
AI summary
The invention relates to a method for producing a fixing tab (2) formed in a sheet of metal (4), said sheet of metal (4) being intended to run along a succession of presses (3) so as to form components (5) by way of a succession of cutting and stamping steps, the fixing tab (2) forming a temporary connection, on at least a portion of the sheet of metal (4), between a first, thinned part (43) of said portion that forms a linear strip that is substantially aligned in the running direction of the sheet of metal (4), and at least one component (41, 42) which is being formed and is formed in a second part of said portion. The invention also relates to a sheet of metal (4) comprising a fixing tab (2) that can be produced by means of such a production method.