Punch-Handling Tool for Filler-Free Workpiece Clinching
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for producing strengthened workpieces lack process safety and position accuracy, particularly during the connection of workpiece parts, and require filler materials, which increases processing time and complexity.
Innovation Solution
A punch-handling tool with an upper tool having a punching stamp and a clinch tool, and a lower tool with a punching die and clinch die, allows for precise alignment and connection of workpiece parts without filler materials by holding the first workpiece part in a clamped or tensioned manner, enabling direct transfer and clinching for a stable connection.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If a base board is cut and strengthening elements are connected by joining techniques such as adhesion, welding or soldering, then the workpiece can be strengthened, but the process safety is reduced and position accuracy deteriorates due to multiple handling steps and filler material requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The invention extracts and eliminates the filler material from the joining process, using direct mechanical connection through punching and clinching. This removes the source of position accuracy issues and process safety problems associated with filler material application and curing
Solution Approach 2:
The invention combines multiple operations (cutting, positioning, and connecting) into a single integrated punch-handling tool that performs all steps in one continuous motion, eliminating intermediate handling steps and improving both process safety and position accuracy
2Strength
If joining techniques such as adhesion, welding or soldering are used to connect strengthening elements, then the workpiece can be strengthened, but the processing time increases due to filler material application and curing requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The invention extracts and eliminates the time-consuming filler material application and curing steps from the process, replacing them with immediate mechanical connection through punching and clinching operations
Solution Approach 2:
The punch-handling tool performs preliminary positioning and clamping of the workpiece part before the actual connecting operation, ensuring that the workpiece is already in the correct position when connection begins, thereby eliminating positioning time during the connection process
3Ease of manufacture
If multiple handling steps are used between cutting free and connecting workpiece parts, then the workpiece can be processed, but the process safety is reduced and position accuracy deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The invention combines cutting free, positioning, and connecting operations into a single integrated punch-handling tool that performs all steps in one continuous motion without intermediate handling, thereby maintaining process safety and position accuracy
Solution Approach 2:
The tool performs preliminary clamping and positioning of the workpiece part immediately after cutting free, holding it in the correct position before the connecting operation begins, eliminating the need for separate positioning steps
4Strength
If filler materials are used for connecting workpiece parts, then the workpiece can be strengthened, but the processing time increases and the process becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The invention extracts and eliminates filler materials from the joining process, replacing them with a simple mechanical punching and clinching operation that requires no additional materials or complex application equipment
Solution Approach 2:
The workpiece parts themselves serve as the connecting medium through direct mechanical interlocking via punched connections, eliminating the need for external filler materials and their associated application and curing processes
Data Source
AI summary
This disclosure relates to methods and apparatuses for production of a workpiece. A first workpiece part is cut free from a first plate-shaped material by a separating cut made via the punch-handling tool. The first workpiece part is held in at least one of a clamped manner and tensioned manner via at least one of an upper tool and a lower tool of a punch-handling tool while being cut free. The workpiece part is aligned with the first plate-shaped material, a further plate-shaped material that differs from a material of the first workpiece part, and a second workpiece part and the aligned pieces are clinching with a clinch tool to connect the pieces at a connection point that is free from a filler material.