Edgefolding Device with Heated Riveting Die

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing folding devices for decorative layers on workpieces, particularly those produced by back injection molding, face inefficiencies in processing and integration of components due to the lateral protrusion of decorative layers, which complicates further processing steps like riveting and assembly in high-value applications such as motor vehicle interior design.

Innovation Solution

A device and method that incorporates a holder with a heatable riveting die for thermal riveting of components while folding over the decorative layer, allowing simultaneous machining operations like folding and riveting, utilizing a pressurized fluid actuated system and sensor feedback for precise control and error prevention.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If separate folding and riveting operations are performed, then processing reliability is improved, but processing time increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveprocessing reliabilityVSAvoidprocessing time
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The patent combines the folding operation and riveting operation into a single integrated device and process. The folding die folds the decorative layer while the riveting die simultaneously rivets the component to the workpiece, eliminating the need for separate operations and reducing total processing time while maintaining reliability through coordinated execution

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

2Manufacturing precision

If multiple components are assembled before folding, then assembly precision is improved, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveassembly precisionVSAvoiddevice complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Manufacturing precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent employs preliminary positioning features including locating pins and positioning surfaces that ensure components are correctly positioned before the folding and riveting operations begin. This preliminary action ensures assembly precision without requiring complex assembly mechanisms, as the positioning is achieved through simple geometric features

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

3Ease of manufacture

If the decorative layer is cut instead of folded, then processing simplicity is improved, but aesthetic quality deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveprocessing simplicityVSAvoidaesthetic quality
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of manufactureVSShape

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces the mechanical cutting process with a thermal-riveting process. Instead of cutting the decorative layer, the system uses heat and pressure to rivet components through the folded decorative layer, achieving both aesthetic quality by preserving the continuous decorative surface and processing efficiency through integration with the folding operation

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

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

Enables efficient and reliable integration of multiple components with a folded decorative layer, reducing processing time and ensuring defect-free assembly by allowing simultaneous folding and riveting operations, enhancing the complexity and value of workpieces like motor vehicle interior components.

Implementation Method 1

at least one rivet pin, which is arranged on the component and is inserted through a rivet hole in another component, can be deformed by the riveting die. The rivet pin on the component is in the form of a pin or wedge, so that it protrudes through a rivet hole into a rear area. By contacting the heated riveting die, the rivet pin is deformed from a thermoplastic material and formed into a rivet head.

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectThermal deformation: Heat Treatment

Data Source

PatentEP3037243B1Method and device for edgefolding
Publication Date: 2018.11.21 DR STOFFEL KAI KONSTANTIN
  • EP3037243B1 patent drawingFigure 1~2
  • EP3037243B1 patent drawingFigure 3
  • EP3037243B1 patent drawingFigure 4

AI summary

The invention relates to a device and a method for folding over a protruding decorative layer at the edge of a workpiece, wherein the workpiece is held in a holder and the protruding decorative layer is folded over and applied to the rear side of the workpiece's edge by means of at least one folding die. According to the invention, the workpiece is formed from at least two components, the components are arranged in the holder, and the components are riveted to the workpiece by means of a riveting device with at least one heated riveting die while the workpiece is held in the holder.