Integrated Rivet Fastening Unit for Die-Free Sheet Joining
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Solution Overview
Problem
In the automotive sector and other areas, components with varying material properties often cannot be directly connected due to material limitations, and direct screw connections are not feasible, especially with thin components like sheet metal parts, making traditional fastening methods impractical.
Innovation Solution
A fastening unit comprising a rivet element and a reshaping element, where the reshaping element acts as a die to deform the rivet section radially, eliminating the need for a separate die and allowing for efficient and reliable attachment to workpieces, even in geometrically challenging situations.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If a separate die is used for reshaping the rivet section, then the reshaping process can be performed, but the device complexity increases and the ease of operation deteriorates due to the need for pre-assembly and separate components
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the die and rivet element into a single integrated fastening unit. The die element is coupled to the rivet element such that they move together during the fastening process, eliminating the need for separate pre-assembly steps and reducing operational complexity while maintaining the reshaping function.
Solution Approach 2:
The fastening unit serves multiple functions: the rivet element provides the fastening function while the integrated die element provides the reshaping function. This multi-functional design eliminates the need for separate tools and simplifies the overall fastening process.
2Manufacturing precision
If a separate die is required for the fastening process, then the reshaping can be achieved, but the productivity decreases due to additional preparation and assembly steps
Solution Approach 1:
The die element is pre-integrated to the rivet element during manufacturing, so that the fastening unit is ready for immediate use without requiring pre-assembly or preparation of separate components. This preliminary integration eliminates additional steps and improves productivity.
3Ease of operation
If the reshaping element is integrated to the rivet element, then the ease of operation improves, but the manufacturing complexity increases due to the coupling mechanism
Solution Approach 1:
The integrated fastening unit is manufactured as separate elements (rivet element and die element) that are then coupled together. This segmentation allows each element to be optimized and manufactured independently using standard processes, while the coupling mechanism provides the necessary integration functionality.
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 reliable and efficient fastening of components without the need for a separate die, simplifying the process and enhancing mechanical stability by providing a self-contained solution for reshaping and securing the fastening unit to the workpiece.
Implementation Method 1
the rivet section cooperates with the reshaping section and can be reshaped by it in a radial direction
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention relates to a fastening unit for fastening to a workpiece, said fastening unit comprising a rivet element and a reshaping element coupled to the rivet element and movable relative thereto, wherein the rivet element has a rivet section and the reshaping element has a reshaping section and a support section, which is arranged at a region of the reshaping element remote from the reshaping section, for axially supporting the fastening unit at an abutment. The rivet section and the reshaping section are designed such that, on an axial relative movement between the rivet element and the reshaping element that is produced by an introduction movement, the rivet section cooperates with the reshaping section and can be reshaped by it in a radial direction.