EP0614405A4 - Improved panel clinching methods. - Google Patents

Improved panel clinching methods.

Info

Publication number
EP0614405A4
EP0614405A4 EP92923611A EP92923611A EP0614405A4 EP 0614405 A4 EP0614405 A4 EP 0614405A4 EP 92923611 A EP92923611 A EP 92923611A EP 92923611 A EP92923611 A EP 92923611A EP 0614405 A4 EP0614405 A4 EP 0614405A4
Authority
EP
European Patent Office
Prior art keywords
slug
rivet
panels
punch
clinched joint
Prior art date
Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
Granted
Application number
EP92923611A
Other versions
EP0614405B2 (en
EP0614405B1 (en
EP0614405A1 (en
Inventor
Stuart Edmund Blacket
Ralph Fuhrmeister
Current Assignee (The listed assignees may be inaccurate. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation or warranty as to the accuracy of the list.)
Atlas Copco IAS UK Ltd
Original Assignee
Henrob Ltd
Priority date (The priority date is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the date listed.)
Filing date
Publication date
Family has litigation
First worldwide family litigation filed litigation Critical https://patents.darts-ip.com/?family=3775852&utm_source=***_patent&utm_medium=platform_link&utm_campaign=public_patent_search&patent=EP0614405(A4) "Global patent litigation dataset” by Darts-ip is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License.
Application filed by Henrob Ltd filed Critical Henrob Ltd
Publication of EP0614405A1 publication Critical patent/EP0614405A1/en
Publication of EP0614405A4 publication Critical patent/EP0614405A4/en
Application granted granted Critical
Publication of EP0614405B1 publication Critical patent/EP0614405B1/en
Publication of EP0614405B2 publication Critical patent/EP0614405B2/en
Anticipated expiration legal-status Critical
Expired - Lifetime legal-status Critical Current

Links

Classifications

    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B21—MECHANICAL METAL-WORKING WITHOUT ESSENTIALLY REMOVING MATERIAL; PUNCHING METAL
    • B21J—FORGING; HAMMERING; PRESSING METAL; RIVETING; FORGE FURNACES
    • B21J15/00—Riveting
    • B21J15/02—Riveting procedures
    • B21J15/025—Setting self-piercing rivets
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B21—MECHANICAL METAL-WORKING WITHOUT ESSENTIALLY REMOVING MATERIAL; PUNCHING METAL
    • B21D—WORKING OR PROCESSING OF SHEET METAL OR METAL TUBES, RODS OR PROFILES WITHOUT ESSENTIALLY REMOVING MATERIAL; PUNCHING METAL
    • B21D39/00—Application of procedures in order to connect objects or parts, e.g. coating with sheet metal otherwise than by plating; Tube expanders
    • B21D39/03—Application of procedures in order to connect objects or parts, e.g. coating with sheet metal otherwise than by plating; Tube expanders of sheet metal otherwise than by folding
    • B21D39/031—Joining superposed plates by locally deforming without slitting or piercing
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B21—MECHANICAL METAL-WORKING WITHOUT ESSENTIALLY REMOVING MATERIAL; PUNCHING METAL
    • B21J—FORGING; HAMMERING; PRESSING METAL; RIVETING; FORGE FURNACES
    • B21J15/00—Riveting
    • B21J15/10—Riveting machines
    • B21J15/36—Rivet sets, i.e. tools for forming heads; Mandrels for expanding parts of hollow rivets

Definitions

  • This invention relates to improved panel clinching methods.
  • the term “clinching” is also known as “press joining” or “integral fastening”.
  • Spot welding is the most commonly used technique for joining vehicle body components in the automotive industries. As the strength of each spot weld cannot be guaranteed, eg. due to the inclusion of rubbish between the components, or poor weld penetration, designers must increase the number of welds to ensure adequate joint strength. Spot welding has not yet been developed as an accurate, reliable method for joining galvanised steel or aluminium components.
  • a further alternative method is metal clinching, where two sheets of metal are deformed into a locking engagement using a punch-and-die combination.
  • metal clinching methods are disclosed in: 1. DE 4009813 (Fraunhoffer-Ges Ford Ange); 2. DE 1452820 (Philips Patentscience GmbH);
  • EP 330061 (Eckold W. & Co GmbH); 5. EP 215449 (Rapp E.);
  • the present invention resides in a panel clinching method wherein: a hollow rivet or full tubular slug is driven or inserted into a clinched joint and at least the inner end of the shank of the rivet or slug is outwardly-deformed within the joint.
  • outwardly-deformed shall be used to include deformation of all or part of the shank or stem of the rivet or slug in at least one direction lateral
  • the rivet or slug may be inserted into the joint as the joint is formed, the rivet or slug co-operating with the punch to deform the panels into the supporting die.
  • the rivet or slug co-operates with the metal panels into the die, and a sleeve external to the punch then deforms the rivet or slug within the joint.
  • the bore of the rivet or slug may be threaded, serrated or otherwise profiled to engage and support an anchor for, eg. a wiring loom support, a trim cover panel fastener or the like.
  • a plastic insert may be fitted to the rivet or slug to provide a flush outer face.
  • the panels are pre-clamped to the die before the punch drives the rivet or slug into the panels to form the clinched joint; or before the clinched joint is formed and the rivet or slug is then inserted into the joint.
  • the present invention resides in a panel clinching method where a solid or semi-tubular rivet or slug is driven or inserted into a clinched joint and at least the inner end of the shank of the rivet or slug is outwardly-deformed within the joint.
  • the rivet or slug is interposed between the punch and the outer panel (to be joined) and the rivet or slug is used to deform the metal panels into the die as the clinched joint is formed.
  • a conventional button-type clinched joint is formed and then the rivet or slug is pressed into the joint by the punch.
  • the panels are pre-clamped to the die before the clinched joint is formed.
  • the present invention resides in a panel clinching method where a ring, or a body or component having a tapered bore or recess, is supported by a die and at least one panel is deformed into the ring or the bore or recess to form a clinched joint therewith.
  • the panels are deformed behind the ring or into engagement with inwardly-divergent walls in the recess.
  • the method of the third aspect is used in combination with the hollow rivet or tubular slug of the first aspect, or the solid or semi- tubular rivet or slug of the second aspect.
  • the present invention resides in a clinched joint for panels formed by the method of any one of the first to fourth aspects.
  • the invention is particularly suitable for joining sheet metal panels, it is also suitable for polymeric materials (eg. polyethylene, polyurethane, polypropylene, nylon) where one or more metal panels are substituted by panels of polymeric material.
  • polymeric materials eg. polyethylene, polyurethane, polypropylene, nylon
  • the methods are suitable for joining, eg. an aluminium sheet to a polypropylene sheet, where the polymeric sheet may be locally preheated (eg. by the supporting die) to assist in the "flow" of the polymeric material as the joint is formed.
  • the rings or components may also be formed of polymeric material and be clinched to metal and/or polymeric material sheets.
  • the shanks of the rivets or slugs may be provided with external splines, grooves, teeth or other protrusions or recesses to provide additional grip between the rivets or slugs and the panels in the clinched joint.
  • Adhesives can be applied, eg. to the shanks of the rivets or slugs to assist bonding of the rivets or slugs to the panels. Adhesives may also be provided within the bore of the tubular or semi-tubular rivets or slugs to be extruded into the clinched joint, as the rivets or slugs are deformed, to assist the bonding of the rivets or slugs to the panels.
  • FIG 1 is a sectional side view of a hollow rivet or tubular slug suitable for clinching two panels of metal together;
  • FIGS 2 to 5 are sectional side views of the steps in a two-stage process of forming a clinched joint of a first embodiment
  • FIG 6 is a sectional side view of the clinched joint of the first embodiment
  • FIG 7 is a sectional side view of a modified tubular rivet or slug
  • FIGS 8 to 11 are sectional side views of the steps in a single-stage process of forming a clinched joint of a second embodiment
  • FIG 12 is a sectional side view of the clinched joint of the second embodiment
  • FIG 13 is a sectional side view of a solid rivet or slug
  • FIGS 14 and 15 are sectional side views of the steps of forming a clinched joint of a third embodiment
  • FIG 16 is a sectional side view of the clinched joint of the third embodiment
  • FIG 17 is a sectional side view of a semi- tubular rivet or slug
  • FIGS 18 to 22 are sectional side views of the steps of forming a clinched joint of the fourth embodiment
  • FIG 23 is a sectional side view of the clinched joint of the fourth embodiment.
  • FIG 24 is a (a) top plan, (b) sectional side, and (c) bottom plan view of a ring;
  • FIG 25 is a sectional view of the clinched joint of the fifth embodiment.
  • FIG 26 is a similar view of a modified form of the clinched joint of FIG 25;
  • FIG 27 is a (a) top plan, (b) sectional side, and (c) bottom plan view of a component;
  • FIG 28 is a sectional side view of a clinched joint of a sixth embodiment
  • FIG 29 is a similar view of a modified form of the clinched joint of FIG 28;
  • FIG 30 is a (a) top plan, (b) sectional side, and (c) bottom plan view of a second component;
  • FIG 31 is a sectional side view of a clinched joint of a seventh embodiment
  • FIG 32 is a sectional side view showing the clinched joint of FIG 31 where the component is supported in a die.
  • the metal panels 12, 13 to be joined together are supported on the die assembly 14 of a clinching tool(s), the die assembly having expandable and contractable collets 16 associated with a collet holder 17 and anvil 18 arranged to allow the joint 11 to be released when formed.
  • the clinching tool 15 has a pre-clamping head 19 which clamps the metal panels 12, 13 to the die assembly and has internal (spring-loaded) balls 19A to locate and centralise the rivet 10.
  • a punch 20 is slidably journalled in a sleeve 21, slidably journalled in the pre-clamping head 19, and the punch 20 and sleeve 21 are connected to respective hydraulic rams (not shown) .
  • the punch 20 is driven through the rivet 10 into engagement with the upper panel 12; the sleeve 21 engaging the rivet 10.
  • the punch 20 and rivet 10 are advanced to deform the metal panels 12, 13 into the die assembly 14 (see FIG 4).
  • the sleeve 21 is then advanced to cause the inner end of the rivet 10 to be outwardly-deformed (see FIGS 5 and 6) .
  • the anvil 18 can be spring-loaded or forcibly raised as a post-forming operation against the punch 20 to assist in deforming the rivet or slug.
  • the insertion and deformation of the rivet assists in locking the metal panels 12, 13 together, with increase in the shear and axial separation strength(s) (ie. in the direction of arrows A and B, respectively) .
  • the bore 22 of the rivet 10 may be threaded to receive a fastener or plug to support, eg. an electrical wiring loom or a plastic insert to form a flush cover for the clinched joint 11.
  • a modified tubular rivet 110 has a tapered end 123 to its inner bore 122.
  • the sleeve 21 is eliminated and the punch 120 is slidably journalled in the pre-clamping head 119.
  • the metal sheets 112, 113 are supported by the die assembly 114 and clamped thereto by the clamping head 119.
  • the punch 120 engages the rivet 110 (see FIG 9) and drives the rivet 110 into the metal panels 112, 113 which are deformed into the die assembly 114 (see FIG 10).
  • the punch 120 is further advanced (see FIG 11) to deform the inner end of the rivet 110 to form the clinched joint 111 (see FIG 12).
  • a solid or semi-tubular rivet or slug may be used. Referring now to FIGS 13 to 16, a solid slug
  • FIG 13 has a concave recess 222 at its lower end and is used to form the clinched joint 211 of FIG 16.
  • the metal sheets 212, 213 are clamped to the die assembly 214 by the clamping head 219 (see FIG 14).
  • the punch 220 is advanced to drive the slug 210 (as an extension of the punch 220) into the metal panels 212, 213 to deform the panels into the die assembly 214 to form the clinched joint 211.
  • the head of the slug 210 is flush with the outer face of panel 212 and such a joint is suitable where aesthetic appeal is required, eg. on a visible surface of a vehicle body.
  • the semi-tubular slug 310 (see FIG 17) has a tapered end 323 to its bore 322. In the two-stage process shown in FIGS 18 to 18
  • the metal panels 312, 313 are pre-clamped to the die assembly 314 by the clamping head 319 and the punch 320 is advanced (see FIG 19) to form a conventional button- type clinched joint 311A (see FIG 20).
  • the punch 320 is retracted and a semi-tubular slug 310 is placed in the clinching tool.
  • the pre-clamping head 319 clamps the panels (see FIG 21) and the punch 320 is advanced to drive the slug 310 into the clinched joint 311A to deform the slug 310 to form the clinched joint 311 (see FIG 23).
  • the rivets or slugs (10, 110, 210, 310) may be substituted by a (metal or plastic) ring 410 which engages the lower panel 413 to lock the clinched joint 411, the panels 412, 413 being deformed into the divergently tapered bore 422 of the ring 410.
  • the ring 410 is supported by a die assembly (not shown) as the punch (not shown) deforms the panels 412, 413, the ring 410 acting as the die body.
  • straps or clips 424 may be formed integrally with the ring 410, eg. to secure wiring to a vehicle body. If requested, the ring 410 can be combined with the method of FIGS 17 to 23, where a solid or semi-tubular slug is pressed into the clinched joint 411 to form a flush surface with panel 412.
  • a component 510 (see FIGS 27 to 29), with a tapered recess or bore 522, and a screw-threaded hole 525 (as part of a sub-assembly - not shown) can also be employed as the die for the clinched joint 511 and provide a mount for the sub-assembly secured to the panels 512, 513.
  • a solid slug 210 can be pressed into the clinched joint 511.
  • the slug 210 may be screw-threaded and have a slot, Philips-head slot or an Allen-head recess to enable the slug 210 to be removed later if required for dis-assembly of the joint 511.
  • FIGS 30 to 32 show the attachment of a second component 610, with a bore 622 and a plain spigot (FIG 30) or screw-threaded end spigot 626 (FIG 31), secured to the clinch-joint 611.
  • the spigot may also be profiled, eg. engageable in a catch or lock means.
  • FIG 32 shows the component 610 supported by a die assembly 614 during the clinching step.
  • one or both panels may be a polymeric sheet (eg. polypropylene) , it being preferred that the inner sheet, (eg. 13, 113) being the polymeric sheet and the die assembly may be heated at the location of the clinched joint to assist "flow" of the polymeric material.
  • a polymeric sheet eg. polypropylene
  • the rivets 10, 110; slugs 210, 310; ring 410; or components 510, 610 be of the same type of material as the panels as this will obviate the need for disassembly of the joints.
  • the use of an 8mm solid rivet or slug in conjunction with a clinched joint increase the shear strength of a sheet metal joint by 50% and the strength to both the shear and axial separation directions can be maintained within controlled limits, unlike spot welds.

Landscapes

  • Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
  • Mechanical Engineering (AREA)
  • Insertion Pins And Rivets (AREA)
  • Connection Of Plates (AREA)
  • Joining Of Building Structures In Genera (AREA)
  • Dry Formation Of Fiberboard And The Like (AREA)
  • Chemical And Physical Treatments For Wood And The Like (AREA)
  • Finishing Walls (AREA)

Abstract

In a clinched joint (11) to secure panels (12, 13) together, a rivet or slug (10) is driven into the clinched joint (11) as it is formed, and the inner end of the rivet or slug (10) is outwardly-deformed to increase both the shear and axial separation load strengths of the clinched joint (11). Rings (410) or components (510, 610), which may form parts of sub-assemblies, may also be secured to the pannels (412, 413; 512, 513; 612, 613) by the clinching methods, the rings (410) or components (510, 610) acting as the dies for the joints (411, 511, 611).

Description

i
Title: "IMPROVED PANEL CLINCHING METHODS" BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
1. Field of the Invention
This invention relates to improved panel clinching methods. The term "clinching" is also known as "press joining" or "integral fastening".
2. Prior Art
Spot welding is the most commonly used technique for joining vehicle body components in the automotive industries. As the strength of each spot weld cannot be guaranteed, eg. due to the inclusion of rubbish between the components, or poor weld penetration, designers must increase the number of welds to ensure adequate joint strength. Spot welding has not yet been developed as an accurate, reliable method for joining galvanised steel or aluminium components.
With galvanised steel, welding action destroys the galvanising about the weld site, making it liable to corrosion.
Aluminium has great potential in the automobile field due to its light weight, but the lack of a suitable spot welding method is one reason which has minimised its application. One alternative to spot welding is the use of self-piercing rivets, and a method of, and apparatus for, the fastening of metal panels with self-piercing rivets is disclosed in US Patent No 4,615,475 (Fuhrmeister) (= International Publication Number WO 84/04710).
A further alternative method is metal clinching, where two sheets of metal are deformed into a locking engagement using a punch-and-die combination. Examples of metal clinching methods are disclosed in: 1. DE 4009813 (Fraunhoffer-Ges Ford Ange); 2. DE 1452820 (Philips Patentverwaltung GmbH);
3. DE 3726392 (Kuka Schweissanlage);
4. EP 330061 (Eckold W. & Co GmbH); 5. EP 215449 (Rapp E.);
6. GB 2244946 (Fairacre Limited);
7. GB 2123734 (BTM Corporation);
8. US 3919955 (Du Vernay); and
9. US 387599 (Ladouceur et al) . While these methods enable metal sheets to be joined together, they have relatively low shear and axial load strengths, and the joints do not have an outer face substantially flush with the surrounding sheet metal (and are so not applicable in exposed areas, eg. within an engine compartment) .
SUMMARY OF THE PRESENT INVENTION It is an object of the present invention to provide a panel clinching method where the shear strengths of the clinching joint is increased. It is a preferred object to provide a method where the axial load strength of the clinched joint is increased.
It is a further preferred object to provide a method where the outer face of the joint may be substantially flush with the surrounding sheet metal.
It is a still further preferred object to provide a method where ancillary components may be supported by or from the clinched joint.
It is a still further preferred object to provide a method where the clinched joint may be "capped" to constrain any stress lines in the metal panels in the region of the joint.
Other preferred objects will become apparent from the following description. In one aspect, the present invention resides in a panel clinching method wherein: a hollow rivet or full tubular slug is driven or inserted into a clinched joint and at least the inner end of the shank of the rivet or slug is outwardly-deformed within the joint.
The term "outwardly-deformed" shall be used to include deformation of all or part of the shank or stem of the rivet or slug in at least one direction lateral
(or transverse) to the longitudinal axis of the shank or stem.
In a single stage method, the rivet or slug may be inserted into the joint as the joint is formed, the rivet or slug co-operating with the punch to deform the panels into the supporting die. In a two-stage process, the rivet or slug co-operates with the metal panels into the die, and a sleeve external to the punch then deforms the rivet or slug within the joint.
The bore of the rivet or slug may be threaded, serrated or otherwise profiled to engage and support an anchor for, eg. a wiring loom support, a trim cover panel fastener or the like. A plastic insert may be fitted to the rivet or slug to provide a flush outer face.
Preferably, the panels are pre-clamped to the die before the punch drives the rivet or slug into the panels to form the clinched joint; or before the clinched joint is formed and the rivet or slug is then inserted into the joint.
In a second aspect, the present invention resides in a panel clinching method where a solid or semi-tubular rivet or slug is driven or inserted into a clinched joint and at least the inner end of the shank of the rivet or slug is outwardly-deformed within the joint. In a single stage process, the rivet or slug is interposed between the punch and the outer panel (to be joined) and the rivet or slug is used to deform the metal panels into the die as the clinched joint is formed. In a two-staged process, a conventional button-type clinched joint is formed and then the rivet or slug is pressed into the joint by the punch.
Preferably, the panels are pre-clamped to the die before the clinched joint is formed. In a third aspect, the present invention resides in a panel clinching method where a ring, or a body or component having a tapered bore or recess, is supported by a die and at least one panel is deformed into the ring or the bore or recess to form a clinched joint therewith.
Preferably, the panels are deformed behind the ring or into engagement with inwardly-divergent walls in the recess.
In a fourth aspect, the method of the third aspect is used in combination with the hollow rivet or tubular slug of the first aspect, or the solid or semi- tubular rivet or slug of the second aspect.
In a. fifth aspect, the present invention resides in a clinched joint for panels formed by the method of any one of the first to fourth aspects.
While the invention is particularly suitable for joining sheet metal panels, it is also suitable for polymeric materials (eg. polyethylene, polyurethane, polypropylene, nylon) where one or more metal panels are substituted by panels of polymeric material. For example, the methods are suitable for joining, eg. an aluminium sheet to a polypropylene sheet, where the polymeric sheet may be locally preheated (eg. by the supporting die) to assist in the "flow" of the polymeric material as the joint is formed. The rings or components may also be formed of polymeric material and be clinched to metal and/or polymeric material sheets.
The shanks of the rivets or slugs may be provided with external splines, grooves, teeth or other protrusions or recesses to provide additional grip between the rivets or slugs and the panels in the clinched joint.
Adhesives can be applied, eg. to the shanks of the rivets or slugs to assist bonding of the rivets or slugs to the panels. Adhesives may also be provided within the bore of the tubular or semi-tubular rivets or slugs to be extruded into the clinched joint, as the rivets or slugs are deformed, to assist the bonding of the rivets or slugs to the panels. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
FIG 1 is a sectional side view of a hollow rivet or tubular slug suitable for clinching two panels of metal together;
FIGS 2 to 5 are sectional side views of the steps in a two-stage process of forming a clinched joint of a first embodiment;
FIG 6 is a sectional side view of the clinched joint of the first embodiment;
FIG 7 is a sectional side view of a modified tubular rivet or slug;
FIGS 8 to 11 are sectional side views of the steps in a single-stage process of forming a clinched joint of a second embodiment;
FIG 12 is a sectional side view of the clinched joint of the second embodiment;
FIG 13 is a sectional side view of a solid rivet or slug;
FIGS 14 and 15 are sectional side views of the steps of forming a clinched joint of a third embodiment; FIG 16 is a sectional side view of the clinched joint of the third embodiment;
FIG 17 is a sectional side view of a semi- tubular rivet or slug;
FIGS 18 to 22 are sectional side views of the steps of forming a clinched joint of the fourth embodiment;
FIG 23 is a sectional side view of the clinched joint of the fourth embodiment;
FIG 24 is a (a) top plan, (b) sectional side, and (c) bottom plan view of a ring;
FIG 25 is a sectional view of the clinched joint of the fifth embodiment;
FIG 26 is a similar view of a modified form of the clinched joint of FIG 25; FIG 27 is a (a) top plan, (b) sectional side, and (c) bottom plan view of a component;
FIG 28 is a sectional side view of a clinched joint of a sixth embodiment;
FIG 29 is a similar view of a modified form of the clinched joint of FIG 28;
FIG 30 is a (a) top plan, (b) sectional side, and (c) bottom plan view of a second component;
FIG 31 is a sectional side view of a clinched joint of a seventh embodiment; and FIG 32 is a sectional side view showing the clinched joint of FIG 31 where the component is supported in a die.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS
Referring now to FIGS 1 to 6, the tubular rivet 10 of FIG 1 is driven into the metal panels to form the clinched joint 11 of FIG 6.
The metal panels 12, 13 to be joined together are supported on the die assembly 14 of a clinching tool(s), the die assembly having expandable and contractable collets 16 associated with a collet holder 17 and anvil 18 arranged to allow the joint 11 to be released when formed.
The clinching tool 15 has a pre-clamping head 19 which clamps the metal panels 12, 13 to the die assembly and has internal (spring-loaded) balls 19A to locate and centralise the rivet 10. A punch 20 is slidably journalled in a sleeve 21, slidably journalled in the pre-clamping head 19, and the punch 20 and sleeve 21 are connected to respective hydraulic rams (not shown) .
The operation of the clinching tool 15 will now be described.
After the metal panels 12, 13 are clamped to the die assembly 14 by the pre-clamping head 19, the punch 20 is driven through the rivet 10 into engagement with the upper panel 12; the sleeve 21 engaging the rivet 10. The punch 20 and rivet 10 are advanced to deform the metal panels 12, 13 into the die assembly 14 (see FIG 4). The sleeve 21 is then advanced to cause the inner end of the rivet 10 to be outwardly-deformed (see FIGS 5 and 6) .
The anvil 18 can be spring-loaded or forcibly raised as a post-forming operation against the punch 20 to assist in deforming the rivet or slug. The insertion and deformation of the rivet assists in locking the metal panels 12, 13 together, with increase in the shear and axial separation strength(s) (ie. in the direction of arrows A and B, respectively) . The bore 22 of the rivet 10 may be threaded to receive a fastener or plug to support, eg. an electrical wiring loom or a plastic insert to form a flush cover for the clinched joint 11.
Referring now to FIGS 7 to 12, a modified tubular rivet 110 has a tapered end 123 to its inner bore 122.
In this one-stage method, the sleeve 21 is eliminated and the punch 120 is slidably journalled in the pre-clamping head 119. The metal sheets 112, 113 are supported by the die assembly 114 and clamped thereto by the clamping head 119. The punch 120 engages the rivet 110 (see FIG 9) and drives the rivet 110 into the metal panels 112, 113 which are deformed into the die assembly 114 (see FIG 10). The punch 120 is further advanced (see FIG 11) to deform the inner end of the rivet 110 to form the clinched joint 111 (see FIG 12).
To increase the strength of the clinched joints 11, 111, a solid or semi-tubular rivet or slug may be used. Referring now to FIGS 13 to 16, a solid slug
210 (FIG 13) has a concave recess 222 at its lower end and is used to form the clinched joint 211 of FIG 16.
The metal sheets 212, 213 are clamped to the die assembly 214 by the clamping head 219 (see FIG 14). The punch 220 is advanced to drive the slug 210 (as an extension of the punch 220) into the metal panels 212, 213 to deform the panels into the die assembly 214 to form the clinched joint 211. It will be noted that the head of the slug 210 is flush with the outer face of panel 212 and such a joint is suitable where aesthetic appeal is required, eg. on a visible surface of a vehicle body.
The semi-tubular slug 310 (see FIG 17) has a tapered end 323 to its bore 322. In the two-stage process shown in FIGS 18 to
23, the metal panels 312, 313 are pre-clamped to the die assembly 314 by the clamping head 319 and the punch 320 is advanced (see FIG 19) to form a conventional button- type clinched joint 311A (see FIG 20). The punch 320 is retracted and a semi-tubular slug 310 is placed in the clinching tool.
The pre-clamping head 319 clamps the panels (see FIG 21) and the punch 320 is advanced to drive the slug 310 into the clinched joint 311A to deform the slug 310 to form the clinched joint 311 (see FIG 23).
Referring now to FIGS 24 and 25, the rivets or slugs (10, 110, 210, 310) may be substituted by a (metal or plastic) ring 410 which engages the lower panel 413 to lock the clinched joint 411, the panels 412, 413 being deformed into the divergently tapered bore 422 of the ring 410. The ring 410 is supported by a die assembly (not shown) as the punch (not shown) deforms the panels 412, 413, the ring 410 acting as the die body. As shown in FIG 26, straps or clips 424 may be formed integrally with the ring 410, eg. to secure wiring to a vehicle body. If requested, the ring 410 can be combined with the method of FIGS 17 to 23, where a solid or semi-tubular slug is pressed into the clinched joint 411 to form a flush surface with panel 412.
A component 510 (see FIGS 27 to 29), with a tapered recess or bore 522, and a screw-threaded hole 525 (as part of a sub-assembly - not shown) can also be employed as the die for the clinched joint 511 and provide a mount for the sub-assembly secured to the panels 512, 513.
As shown in FIG 29, a solid slug 210 can be pressed into the clinched joint 511. (The slug 210 may be screw-threaded and have a slot, Philips-head slot or an Allen-head recess to enable the slug 210 to be removed later if required for dis-assembly of the joint 511.)
FIGS 30 to 32 show the attachment of a second component 610, with a bore 622 and a plain spigot (FIG 30) or screw-threaded end spigot 626 (FIG 31), secured to the clinch-joint 611. (The spigot may also be profiled, eg. engageable in a catch or lock means.)
FIG 32 shows the component 610 supported by a die assembly 614 during the clinching step. In the methods shown in FIGS 24 to 26; 27 to
29; and 30 to 32, two panels 412, 413; 512, 513; 612, 613 are shown secured in the ring 410, and components 510, 610. The methods are also applicable to securing a single panel to the ring 410 on components 510, 610. In addition, in all of the methods, one or both panels may be a polymeric sheet (eg. polypropylene) , it being preferred that the inner sheet, (eg. 13, 113) being the polymeric sheet and the die assembly may be heated at the location of the clinched joint to assist "flow" of the polymeric material.
For improved recycling, it is preferred that the rivets 10, 110; slugs 210, 310; ring 410; or components 510, 610 be of the same type of material as the panels as this will obviate the need for disassembly of the joints.
As an indication of the advantage of methods of the present invention, the use of an 8mm solid rivet or slug in conjunction with a clinched joint increase the shear strength of a sheet metal joint by 50% and the strength to both the shear and axial separation directions can be maintained within controlled limits, unlike spot welds. This means the number of clinched joints can be much less than the number of spot welds, and the joints can also support sub-assemblies. Various changes and modifications may be made to the embodiments described and illustrated without departing from the scope of the present invention defined in the appended claims.

Claims

1. A panel clinching method wherein: a hollow rivet or tubular slug is driven or inserted into a clinched joint and at least the inner end of the shank of the rivet or slug is outwardly- deformed within the joint.
2. A method according to Claim 1 wherein: the rivet or slug is inserted into the clinched joint as the clinched joint is formed, the rivet or slug co-operating with a punch to deform the panels being joined into a supporting die.
3. A method according to Claim 1 wherein: the rivet or slug co-operates with a punch to deform the panels being joined into a supporting die, and a sleeve external to the punch is advanced relative to the punch to deform the rivet or slug within the clinched joint.
4. A method according to any one of Claims 1 to 3 wherei : the panels to be joined are pre-clamped to the die before the punch drives the rivet or slug into the panels to form the clinched joint.
5. An apparatus for effecting the method of claim 2 or Claim 4 including: a die to support the panels to be joined; and a punch having a nose receivable in a bore through the rivet or slug; so arranged that the nose of the punch enters the bore and the punch is advanced so that the rivet or slug and the nose of the punch deform the panels into the clinched joint in the die, to outwardly- deform at least the inner end of the shank of the rivet or slug in the clinched joint. 6. An apparatus for effecting the method of Claims 3 or 4 including: a die to support the panels to be joined; a punch having a nose receivable in a bore through the rivet or slug; and a sleeve external to the punch; so arranged that the nose of the punch enters the bore and the punch is advanced so that the rivet or slug and the nose of the punch deform the panels into a clinched joint in the die; and the sleeve is then advanced to outwardly- deform at least the inner end of the shank of the rivet or slug in the clinched joint.
7. An apparatus according to Claim 5 or Claim 6 wherein: a pre-clamping head to clamp the panels to the die before the punch, and rivet or slug, is advanced.
8. A clinched joint between two panels formed by the method of any one of Claims 1 to 4. 9. A panel clinching method wherein: a solid or semi-tubular rivet or slug is driven or inserted into a clinched joint and at least the inner end of the shank of the rivet or slug is outwardly-deformed within the clinched joint. 10. A method according to Claim 9 wherein: the rivet or slug is interposed between a punch and the outer of the panels to be joined, and the rivet or slug deform the panels into a die as the punch is advanced and the clinched joint is formed, the punch being further advanced to deform at least the inner end of the shank of the rivet or slug within the clinched joint. 11. A method according to Claim 9 wherein: a punch forms a conventional button-type clinched joint in the panels to be joined, the panels being supported by a die; and the rivet or slug is interposed between the punch and the clinched joint; and the punch is advanced to drive the rivet or slug into the clinched joint and then further advanced to deform at least the inner end of the shank of the rivet or slug in the clinched joint.
12. A method according to any one of Claims 9 to 11 wherein: the panels to be joined are pre-clamped to the die before the punch drives the rivet or slug into the panels to form the clinched joint.
13. An apparatus for effecting the method of any one of Claims 9 to 12 including: a die to support the panels to be joined; and a punch to drive the rivet or slug, or the panels, into the die to deform the panels to form the clinched joint, and to deform at least the inner end of the shank of the rivet or slug in the clinched joint.
14. An apparatus according to Claim 13 and further including: a pre-clamping head to clamp the panels to the die before the punch, or rivet or slug, are advanced.
15. A clinched joint between two panels formed by the method of any one of Claims 9 to 12.
16. A panel clinching method wherein: a ring, or a component having a tapered bore recess, is supported by a die; and at least one panel is deformed into the ring, or the bore or recess, to form a clinched joint between the panel(s) and the ring or component.
17. A method according to Claim 16 wherein: the panel(s) are deformed behind the ring or into engagement with the inwardly-divergently tapered wall of the bore or recess.
18. An apparatus for effecting the method of Claim 16 or Claim 17 including: a die to support the ring or component, the panel(s) to be joined being supported by the ring or component; and a punch to deform the panel(s) into the ring, or the tapered bore or recess of the component, to form the clinched joint.
19. A clinched joint formed by the method of Claim 16 or Claim 17.
20. A panel clinching method as claimed in any one of Claims 1 to 4; or Claims 9 to 12; or Claims 16 or 17; wherein: at least one panel is a metal sheet and at least one panel is a polymeric sheet, the polymeric sheet being pre-heated in the zone of the clinched joint to encourage the "flow" of the polymeric material as the panels are deformed.
21. A panel clinching method as claimed in any one of Claims 16, 17 or 20 wherein: the• ring or component is formed of metal or polymeric material. 22. A panel clinching method as claimed in any one of Claims 1 to 4; or Claims 9 to 12; or Claims 16 or 17; or Claims 20 or 21; wherein: an adhesive is applied to the rivet, slug, ring or component to assist bonding between the panels and the rivet, slug, ring or component.
23. A panel clinching method as claimed in any one of Claims 1 to 4 wherein: an adhesive is applied to the bore of the tubular rivet or slug, the adhesive being extruded into the clinched joint when the tubular rivet or slug is deformed to assist bonding between the panels and the rivet or slug.
24. A panel clinching method as claimed in any one of Claims 1 to 4; or Claims 9 to 12; wherein: the rivet or slug has a shank with external splines, grooves, teeth or other protrusions or recesses to provide additional grip between the rivet or slug and the panels in the clinched joint.
EP92923611A 1991-11-27 1992-11-25 Improved panel clinching methods Expired - Lifetime EP0614405B2 (en)

Applications Claiming Priority (4)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
AU9742/91 1991-11-27
AUPK974291 1991-11-27
AU974291 1991-11-27
PCT/AU1992/000631 WO1993010925A1 (en) 1991-11-27 1992-11-25 Improved panel clinching methods

Publications (4)

Publication Number Publication Date
EP0614405A1 EP0614405A1 (en) 1994-09-14
EP0614405A4 true EP0614405A4 (en) 1997-02-05
EP0614405B1 EP0614405B1 (en) 1999-11-10
EP0614405B2 EP0614405B2 (en) 2004-12-29

Family

ID=3775852

Family Applications (1)

Application Number Title Priority Date Filing Date
EP92923611A Expired - Lifetime EP0614405B2 (en) 1991-11-27 1992-11-25 Improved panel clinching methods

Country Status (12)

Country Link
EP (1) EP0614405B2 (en)
JP (1) JP3346566B2 (en)
KR (1) KR100270634B1 (en)
CN (1) CN1041287C (en)
AT (1) ATE186484T1 (en)
BR (1) BR9206821A (en)
CA (1) CA2123886A1 (en)
DE (1) DE69230291T3 (en)
ES (1) ES2141115T3 (en)
IN (1) IN178893B (en)
MX (1) MX9206870A (en)
WO (1) WO1993010925A1 (en)

Families Citing this family (48)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
GB9226517D0 (en) * 1992-12-19 1993-02-10 Henrob Ltd Improvements in or relating to sefl-piercing riveting
GB9601181D0 (en) * 1996-01-20 1996-03-20 Trico Ltd Improvements relating to wiper arm assemblies
GB2314794B (en) * 1996-07-04 1999-01-06 Avdel Textron Ltd Self piercing riveting
DE19701780A1 (en) 1997-01-20 1998-07-23 Emhart Inc Punch rivet and rivet connections created with it as well as riveting tools and process manufacture of a rivet connection
DE19714129A1 (en) * 1997-04-05 1998-10-15 Eckold Vorrichtung Joining method and device
JP4038248B2 (en) * 1997-07-02 2008-01-23 三洋機工株式会社 Bonding method of metal sheets
US9015920B2 (en) 1997-07-21 2015-04-28 Newfrey Llc Riveting system and process for forming a riveted joint
US6276050B1 (en) 1998-07-20 2001-08-21 Emhart Inc. Riveting system and process for forming a riveted joint
ES2188037T3 (en) * 1997-11-17 2003-06-16 Univ Dresden Tech PROCEDURE AND DEVICE FOR THE MECHANICAL ASSEMBLY OF JOINTS THERMALLY.
US6722013B1 (en) 1998-03-25 2004-04-20 Tox Pressotechnik Gmbh Method, tool and punch for joining components to a plate
WO2001003881A1 (en) * 1999-07-09 2001-01-18 Profil Verbindungstechnik Gmbh & Co. Kg Method for placing a functional element; die, functional element; assembly element and die arrangement
DE60014413T2 (en) 1999-10-26 2006-02-16 Toyota Jidosha K.K., Toyota NIET AND NIET CONNECTION
GB0111265D0 (en) * 2001-05-05 2001-06-27 Henrob Ltd Fastener insertion apparatus and method
CA2446424C (en) * 2001-05-11 2007-12-18 Tox Pressotechnik Gmbh & Co Kg Tool for the mechanical connection of plates
DE10238020A1 (en) 2001-08-23 2004-03-04 Brose Fahrzeugteile Gmbh & Co. Kommanditgesellschaft, Coburg Motor vehicle assembly
DE10213793A1 (en) * 2002-03-27 2003-10-09 Fraunhofer Ges Forschung Method, device and auxiliary joining part for joining at least two components
DE10250342A1 (en) * 2002-10-29 2004-05-19 Daimlerchrysler Ag Jointing process for connecting overlapping components involves exerting counter-pressure to deform first component to form undercut in stamped region of second one
JP4306507B2 (en) * 2004-03-26 2009-08-05 日産自動車株式会社 Caulking and joining method for plate material and caulking and joining apparatus for plate material
DE102004029230A1 (en) * 2004-06-17 2006-01-12 Thyssenkrupp Stahl Ag Metallic join partners` connecting method for manufacturing vehicle body, involves grouting two join partners, so that material of latter partner penetrates into recess of former partner to produce fixed connection between partners
CN100383409C (en) * 2004-06-25 2008-04-23 达方电子股份有限公司 Riveting method and device for metal plate
DE102005031917A1 (en) † 2004-09-24 2006-04-13 Böllhoff Verbindungstechnik GmbH Method for joining and device for actuating a joining tool
CN100513005C (en) * 2005-11-16 2009-07-15 深圳市比克电池有限公司 Pallet part riveting device and method for riveting the pallet using the device
GB0813883D0 (en) 2008-07-30 2008-09-03 Henrob Ltd Joining apparatus and method
GB201017004D0 (en) 2010-10-08 2010-11-24 Henrob Ltd Fastener delivery apparatus
US9339899B2 (en) 2010-11-10 2016-05-17 Henrob Limited Fastening method and apparatus
CN103619504B (en) * 2011-06-02 2016-12-28 株式会社青山制作所 Method and device for fitting of fitting member
JP2013059770A (en) * 2011-09-12 2013-04-04 Toyota Motor Corp Member connecting method
DE102012001068A1 (en) * 2012-01-20 2013-07-25 Profil Verbindungstechnik Gmbh & Co. Kg A method of attaching a hollow member such as a rivet or a nut member to a component made of a composite material
DE102012001088A1 (en) 2012-01-20 2013-07-25 Profil Verbindungstechnik Gmbh & Co. Kg Two-piece nut element for plastic components
DE102012001086A1 (en) * 2012-01-20 2013-07-25 Profil Verbindungstechnik Gmbh & Co. Kg Bolt element and method for attaching a bolt element to a component made of a composite material
DE102012003819A1 (en) * 2012-02-27 2013-08-29 Profil Verbindungstechnik Gmbh & Co. Kg Functional element for fluid-tight attachment to a sheet metal part, assembly part and method
DE102012008798B4 (en) * 2012-03-31 2016-01-14 Johnson Controls Gmbh Method of joining and connecting element
US9027220B2 (en) 2012-08-07 2015-05-12 Newfrey Llc Rivet setting machine
CN103410261B (en) * 2013-08-01 2016-02-03 斯泰科技（杭州）有限公司 A kind of high safety is cut end riveting bolt and builds appendicular syndeton
KR101834320B1 (en) 2014-01-16 2018-03-05 헨롭 리미티드 Linear actuator assembly
DE102014000624B4 (en) * 2014-01-18 2016-07-28 Audi Ag Method for joining at least two joining parts, which are overlapping at least in a joining zone, using a padding element
DE102014007330A1 (en) * 2014-05-15 2015-11-19 Fraunhofer-Gesellschaft zur Förderung der angewandten Forschung e.V. Semi-hollow punching rivet and method for producing a joint connection
ES2664340T3 (en) * 2014-10-24 2018-04-19 Nedschroef Plettenberg Gmbh Nut for fixing to a sheet
CN105478646B (en) * 2015-11-20 2017-11-03 西安交通大学 A kind of sheet material connection method of use hard riveting post one-step method riveting
CN105414437B (en) * 2015-11-20 2018-01-16 西安交通大学 A kind of precompressed hole using soft riveting post and the compound sheet material connection method of riveting
KR101811416B1 (en) * 2016-08-29 2017-12-21 (주)호원 Coupling device for different materials
CN107626875B (en) * 2017-09-30 2019-07-16 昆明理工大学 A kind of the semi-hollow self-pierce riveting riveting device and clinching method of solid nail rod auxiliary
JP7035695B2 (en) * 2018-03-26 2022-03-15 トヨタ自動車株式会社 Joining equipment and manufacturing method of joined body
KR102081737B1 (en) * 2018-10-02 2020-02-26 주식회사 성우하이텍 hybrid jointing apparatus and method for manufacturing joint structure using the same
KR102081742B1 (en) * 2018-10-02 2020-02-26 주식회사 성우하이텍 hybrid jointing apparatus and method for manufacturing joint structure using the same
KR102081744B1 (en) * 2018-10-02 2020-02-26 주식회사 성우하이텍 hybrid jointing apparatus and method for manufacturing joint structure using the same
WO2020102176A1 (en) * 2018-11-15 2020-05-22 Penn Engineering & Manufacturing Corp. Machine tooling with rotary punch
US11185912B2 (en) * 2019-10-29 2021-11-30 The Boeing Company Automated rivet apparatus for automated installation of semi-tubular fastener rivets

Family Cites Families (14)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US2465534A (en) * 1944-09-18 1949-03-29 Judson L Thomson Mfg Company Rivet and method of making joints therewith
US3022687A (en) * 1953-11-20 1962-02-27 Arthur J Richards Method of riveting
GB912516A (en) * 1960-10-21 1962-12-12 Belling & Lee Ltd Improvements in or relating to a method of securing an insert in sheet material
US3198155A (en) * 1964-03-02 1965-08-03 Ermal C Fraze Method of interconnecting two sheets of deformable material
DE2140936B2 (en) † 1971-08-16 1973-08-09 Siebau Siegener Stahlbauten Gmbh, 5910 Kreuztal METHOD OF JOINING PANELS
EP0077932B1 (en) † 1981-10-28 1984-12-27 WALTER ECKOLD GmbH & Co. KG Vorrichtungs- und Gerätebau Apparatus for making a riveted joint of metal sheets
GB2141369B (en) * 1983-06-15 1986-11-19 Bl Tech Ltd Rivetting
US4859289A (en) * 1986-05-26 1989-08-22 Sumitomo Electric Industries, Ltd. Process for producing a metal wire useful as rubber product reinforcement
DE3726392A1 (en) * 1987-08-07 1989-02-16 Kuka Schweissanlagen & Roboter Method for connecting thin plates or plate sections resting on one another
DE3824817A1 (en) * 1988-07-21 1990-01-25 Hilti Ag METHOD FOR CONNECTING THIN COMPONENTS AND FASTENING ELEMENTS THEREFOR
DE3923182A1 (en) * 1989-07-13 1991-01-24 Fraunhofer Ges Forschung Joining metal sheets together - involves punch and undercut die to cause sheets to interlock
DE4009813C1 (en) * 1990-03-27 1991-01-24 Fraunhofer-Gesellschaft Zur Foerderung Der Angewandten Forschung Ev, 8000 Muenchen, De Overlapping single metal components - are located on circular recess on matrix with groove ring along box of recess
AU643992B2 (en) * 1990-04-03 1993-12-02 Edward Leslie Theodore Webb Clinching tool for sheet metal joining
US6212322B1 (en) * 1998-09-11 2001-04-03 Corning Incorporated Positive dispersion low dispersion slope fiber

Non-Patent Citations (1)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Title
No further relevant documents disclosed *

Also Published As

Publication number Publication date
JPH07503663A (en) 1995-04-20
EP0614405B2 (en) 2004-12-29
MX9206870A (en) 1993-07-01
EP0614405B1 (en) 1999-11-10
IN178893B (en) 1997-07-19
JP3346566B2 (en) 2002-11-18
BR9206821A (en) 1995-12-12
ATE186484T1 (en) 1999-11-15
ES2141115T3 (en) 2000-03-16
DE69230291T2 (en) 2000-06-08
EP0614405A1 (en) 1994-09-14
WO1993010925A1 (en) 1993-06-10
CN1078672A (en) 1993-11-24
DE69230291D1 (en) 1999-12-16
KR100270634B1 (en) 2000-12-01
DE69230291T3 (en) 2005-08-11
CA2123886A1 (en) 1993-06-10
CN1041287C (en) 1998-12-23

Similar Documents

Publication Publication Date Title
EP0614405B1 (en) Improved panel clinching methods
US5884386A (en) Panel clinching methods and apparatus
EP1396646B1 (en) Self-piercing blind fastener
EP0539793B1 (en) Method of attaching a fastening element to a panel and combination of a panel and at least one fastening element
EP1225990B1 (en) Rivet and riveted joint structure
US8911190B2 (en) Blind rivet with a plastic rivet body
US4407619A (en) Blind fastener with deformable clamping means
US4904133A (en) Fastener with integral locking means
US6276040B1 (en) Element, method of attaching the element to a plate-like component, component assembly and die buttons
EP0760722A1 (en) Improved means of fastening sheets by rivetting
US6921444B2 (en) Method of locally heating a part to reduce strength and increase ductility for subsequent manufacturing operation
US5333980A (en) Buckling semi-solid rivet
EP0907835B1 (en) Self-piercing riveting
US20040194284A1 (en) Adhesive encapsulated blind rivet system
CA2022711A1 (en) Method of installing self-attaching fastener and apparatus
US4767248A (en) Fastener for securing panels of composite materials
EP0663535A1 (en) Component mounting assembly and method
AU2936792A (en) Improved panel clinching methods
EP0725217B1 (en) Method of securing members together
EP0995915A2 (en) Pin fastener

Legal Events

Date Code Title Description
PUAI Public reference made under article 153(3) epc to a published international application that has entered the european phase

Free format text: ORIGINAL CODE: 0009012

17P Request for examination filed

Effective date: 19940610

AK Designated contracting states

Kind code of ref document: A1

Designated state(s): AT BE CH DE DK ES FR GB GR IE IT LI LU MC NL PT SE

A4 Supplementary search report drawn up and despatched

Effective date: 19960924

AK Designated contracting states

Kind code of ref document: A4

Designated state(s): AT BE CH DE DK ES FR GB GR IE IT LI LU MC NL PT SE

17Q First examination report despatched

Effective date: 19970612

GRAG Despatch of communication of intention to grant

Free format text: ORIGINAL CODE: EPIDOS AGRA

GRAG Despatch of communication of intention to grant

Free format text: ORIGINAL CODE: EPIDOS AGRA

GRAH Despatch of communication of intention to grant a patent

Free format text: ORIGINAL CODE: EPIDOS IGRA

GRAH Despatch of communication of intention to grant a patent

Free format text: ORIGINAL CODE: EPIDOS IGRA

GRAA (expected) grant

Free format text: ORIGINAL CODE: 0009210

AK Designated contracting states

Kind code of ref document: B1

Designated state(s): AT BE CH DE DK ES FR GB GR IE IT LI LU MC NL PT SE

PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: NL

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 19991110

Ref country code: LI

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 19991110

Ref country code: GR

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF NON-PAYMENT OF DUE FEES

Effective date: 19991110

Ref country code: FR

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF NON-PAYMENT OF DUE FEES

Effective date: 19991110

Ref country code: CH

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 19991110

Ref country code: BE

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 19991110

Ref country code: AT

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 19991110

REF Corresponds to:

Ref document number: 186484

Country of ref document: AT

Date of ref document: 19991115

Kind code of ref document: T

REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: CH

Ref legal event code: EP

PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: LU

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF NON-PAYMENT OF DUE FEES

Effective date: 19991125

PGFP Annual fee paid to national office [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: AT

Payment date: 19991125

Year of fee payment: 8

Ref country code: DK

Payment date: 19991125

Year of fee payment: 8

PGFP Annual fee paid to national office [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: NL

Payment date: 19991130

Year of fee payment: 8

Ref country code: IE

Payment date: 19991130

Year of fee payment: 8

REF Corresponds to:

Ref document number: 69230291

Country of ref document: DE

Date of ref document: 19991216

PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: MC

Free format text: THE PATENT HAS BEEN ANNULLED BY A DECISION OF A NATIONAL AUTHORITY

Effective date: 20000110

PGFP Annual fee paid to national office [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: BE

Payment date: 20000121

Year of fee payment: 8

REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: IE

Ref legal event code: FG4D

ITF It: translation for a ep patent filed

Owner name: MARIETTI E GISLON S.R.L.

PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: PT

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20000210

Ref country code: DK

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20000210

ET Fr: translation filed
REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: ES

Ref legal event code: FG2A

Ref document number: 2141115

Country of ref document: ES

Kind code of ref document: T3

NLV1 Nl: lapsed or annulled due to failure to fulfill the requirements of art. 29p and 29m of the patents act
REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: CH

Ref legal event code: PL

PLBQ Unpublished change to opponent data

Free format text: ORIGINAL CODE: EPIDOS OPPO

PLBI Opposition filed

Free format text: ORIGINAL CODE: 0009260

PLBF Reply of patent proprietor to notice(s) of opposition

Free format text: ORIGINAL CODE: EPIDOS OBSO

26 Opposition filed

Opponent name: ECKOLD GMBH & CO. KG

Effective date: 20000810

PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: IE

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF NON-PAYMENT OF DUE FEES

Effective date: 20001125

PLBF Reply of patent proprietor to notice(s) of opposition

Free format text: ORIGINAL CODE: EPIDOS OBSO

PLBF Reply of patent proprietor to notice(s) of opposition

Free format text: ORIGINAL CODE: EPIDOS OBSO

REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: IE

Ref legal event code: MM4A

RDAH Patent revoked

Free format text: ORIGINAL CODE: EPIDOS REVO

APAC Appeal dossier modified

Free format text: ORIGINAL CODE: EPIDOS NOAPO

APAE Appeal reference modified

Free format text: ORIGINAL CODE: EPIDOS REFNO

REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: GB

Ref legal event code: IF02

APAC Appeal dossier modified

Free format text: ORIGINAL CODE: EPIDOS NOAPO

PGFP Annual fee paid to national office [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: SE

Payment date: 20021106

Year of fee payment: 11

PGFP Annual fee paid to national office [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: FR

Payment date: 20021108

Year of fee payment: 11

PGFP Annual fee paid to national office [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: ES

Payment date: 20021209

Year of fee payment: 11

PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: SE

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF NON-PAYMENT OF DUE FEES

Effective date: 20031126

Ref country code: ES

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF NON-PAYMENT OF DUE FEES

Effective date: 20031126

APBU Appeal procedure closed

Free format text: ORIGINAL CODE: EPIDOSNNOA9O

EUG Se: european patent has lapsed
REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: FR

Ref legal event code: ST

PUAH Patent maintained in amended form

Free format text: ORIGINAL CODE: 0009272

STAA Information on the status of an ep patent application or granted ep patent

Free format text: STATUS: PATENT MAINTAINED AS AMENDED

27A Patent maintained in amended form

Effective date: 20041229

AK Designated contracting states

Kind code of ref document: B2

Designated state(s): AT BE CH DE DK ES FR GB GR IE IT LI LU MC NL PT SE

REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: ES

Ref legal event code: FD2A

Effective date: 20031126

APAH Appeal reference modified

Free format text: ORIGINAL CODE: EPIDOSCREFNO

PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: IT

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF NON-PAYMENT OF DUE FEES

Effective date: 20051125

EN Fr: translation not filed
PLAB Opposition data, opponent's data or that of the opponent's representative modified

Free format text: ORIGINAL CODE: 0009299OPPO

PGFP Annual fee paid to national office [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: DE

Payment date: 20101117

Year of fee payment: 19

PGFP Annual fee paid to national office [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: GB

Payment date: 20101124

Year of fee payment: 19

REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: DE

Ref legal event code: R071

Ref document number: 69230291

Country of ref document: DE

REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: DE

Ref legal event code: R071

Ref document number: 69230291

Country of ref document: DE

REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: GB

Ref legal event code: PE20

Expiry date: 20121124

PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: GB

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF EXPIRATION OF PROTECTION

Effective date: 20121124