Forming tool for multiple-thickness blanks
AssigneeGM Global Technology Operations LLC
InventorsGary A. Kruger, James G. Schroth
Life of this patent
Estimating the term…
Abstract
An apparatus for forming blanks having two thicknesses separated by a blank step includes a forming tool defining a binder surface that is characterized by a tool step, a first region on a first side of the tool step, a second region on a second side of the tool step, and a bead segment having a surface contiguous with the second region. The bead segment is configured to pinch material from a blank into any gap created between the tool step and the blank step caused by misalignment of the blank in the tool, thereby ensuring an effective seal to form the blank against a forming surface.
Claims14
An apparatus for forming blanks having two thicknesses separated by a blank step, the apparatus comprising:
- a forming tool defining a binder surface, said binder surface characterized by a tool step, a first region on a first side of the tool step, a second region on a second side of the tool step, and a bead segment having a surface contiguous with the second region.
An apparatus for forming a metal blank characterized by two thicknesses, the apparatus comprising:
- a first tool defining a first binder surface;
- a second tool defining a second binder surface;
- one of said first and second tools defining a forming surface and the other of said first and second tools defining a pressure chamber;
- said first and second tools being selectively movable with respect to one another to a closed position in which the first binder surface opposes the second binder surface to grip the metal blank;
- and
- said first binder surface being characterized by a step, a first region on a first side of the step, a second region on a second side of the step, and a bead segment having an upper surface contiguous with the second region.
An apparatus for forming blanks having multiple thicknesses, the apparatus comprising:
- a forming tool defining a binder surface characterized by a step, a first region on a first side of said step and a second region on a second side of said step, and a bead segment protruding from the step and having a surface that is substantially contiguous with the second region.
Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.