Joining Head Retaining Mechanism Driven by the Punch
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing joining systems for workpieces require complex and cumbersome drive units for retaining devices, often needing pressurized air and time-consuming calibration, and are not adaptable to a wide range of joining elements.
Innovation Solution
A joining method and apparatus where the punch drives the retaining device in translation, eliminating the need for a dedicated drive unit, allowing passive movement and adaptation to different joining elements without additional resources.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a dedicated drive unit is used for the retaining device, then the retaining device can be precisely controlled, but the system becomes complex and requires additional resources such as pressurized air
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the drive function for both the punch and the retaining device into a single drive unit. The punch, when actuated by the drive unit, directly drives the retaining device through mechanical contact, eliminating the need for a separate dedicated drive unit for the retaining device. This merging of drive functions reduces system complexity while maintaining control precision.
Solution Approach 2:
The retaining device is designed to be self-driven by the punch during the joining operation. As the punch moves toward the workpiece, it automatically drives the retaining device forward without requiring external actuation. This self-service mechanism eliminates the need for additional drive systems and pressurized air supplies.
2Ease of operation
If a dedicated drive unit is used for the retaining device, then the retaining device can be independently actuated, but the calibration becomes complex and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
By merging the control of the punch and retaining device into a single drive unit, the system eliminates the need for separate calibration procedures. The retaining device's position and movement are automatically synchronized with the punch through direct mechanical coupling, removing the time-consuming calibration step while maintaining independent actuation capability.
3Adaptability or versatility
If a dedicated drive unit is used for the retaining device, then the system can handle various joining elements, but the manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the drive functions into a single unit that can accommodate different joining elements through the punch mechanism. The retaining device is designed with a universal holding structure that can retain various types of joining elements, and the single drive unit controls both the punch and retaining device for all joining operations, simplifying manufacturing while maintaining versatility.
Solution Approach 2:
The single drive unit and retaining device are designed with multi-functionality to handle various joining elements. The retaining device can adapt to different joining element types through its mechanical design, and the drive unit performs multiple functions by controlling both the punch and retaining device, reducing manufacturing complexity while preserving adaptability.
4Measurement precision
If a second dedicated drive unit is used, then the retaining device can be precisely positioned, but the overall system becomes cumbersome
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the positioning control of the retaining device with the punch actuation into a single drive unit. The mechanical coupling between the punch and retaining device ensures precise positioning of the retaining device through the controlled movement of the punch, eliminating the need for a separate drive unit and reducing system bulk.
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 provides a compact, efficient, and adaptable joining process that reduces complexity and resource consumption, ensuring reliable positioning and insertion of joining elements without additional calibration.
Implementation Method 1
The first portion (30) is a resilient portion adapted to apply a radial holding force. The punch, when being inserted into the first portion of the retaining device, deforms the first portion. A gripping action of the first portion to the punch is performed.
Data Source
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AI summary
Joining method for joining a workpiece arrangement and joining apparatus (10) for joining workpieces comprising a joining head (12) having: - a retaining device (14) for a joining element and by means of which the joining element can be guided along or arranged on a joining axis (X), - a punch (16) with which a setting movement of the joining element (24) can be executed, the punch (16) being movable along the joining axis by a drive unit (36), characterized in that the retaining device (14) is moved along the joining axis by the punch (16) and/or the clamping device (18).