Metal deforming – By application of fluent medium – or energy field – Using fixed die
Patent
1997-07-30
1999-07-27
Jones, David
Metal deforming
By application of fluent medium, or energy field
Using fixed die
72 58, 72 63, B21D 2602
Patent
active
059271205
ABSTRACT:
A hydroforming apparatus capable of deforming relatively large and thick-walled workpieces, yet which is relatively small, simple, and inexpensive in construction and operation, includes a pressure vessel that is disposed within a frame. The pressure vessel includes upper and lower vessel members that support respective die sections therein. When the upper and lower vessel members are moved adjacent to one another, the die sections cooperate to define a die cavity in which a workpiece to be hydroformed is disposed. An inflatable bladder is disposed between one or both of the die sections and the associated upper and lower vessel members. During the hydroforming operation, pressurized fluid is introduced within the workpiece so as to expand it outwardly into conformance with the die cavity defined by the die sections. At the same time, pressurized fluid is introduced into the inflatable bladder, causing it to expand between the die sections and the associated upper and lower vessel members. The inflatable bladder allows for limited expansion of the upper and lower vessel members while preventing relative movement between the die sections. As a result, the size, complexity, and cost of the hydroforming apparatus can be maintained at a minimum, while facilitating the hydroforming of relatively large and thick-walled workpieces, such as vehicle frame components.
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Dana Corporation
Jones David
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