Abstract:
A method for forming a hollow part (18) that allows the use of hydroforming in cases where the part interconnects between sections having extreme variations in cross-section. A complete hollow part (18) is formed by joining a hydroformed hollow section with hollow sections. A method for securing a fastener sleeve (102) insert in a pre-fabricated hollow part (100) is also provided. In this method, the hollow part (100) is deformed slightly to form flanges (108) that secure the insert (102) in the part. Once the insert (102) is secure in the hollow part, fasteners can be applied to the part without collapsing it.
Abstract:
A method for manufacturing a hydroforming member includes the step of providing a blank (10). The blank (10) is defined by blank wall (16). The blank (10) is placed in a die assembly (14) having a die cavity (12) defined by a die surface (24). The blank (10) is expanded so that the blank wall (16) is forced against the die surface (24) to form the hydroformed member. A portion of the blank wall conforms against a wall-thinning element (26, 28) positioned along the die surface (24) to form a removable wall section (46, 50) in a portion of the blank wall (24). The removable wall section (46, 50) is then removed from the blank wall (16) to form an opening in the hydroformed member.
Abstract:
A hydroforming apparatus (10) includes a hydroforming die member (14) and a hydroforming press (16, 18). A fastener (24) couples the press to the die member, the fastener having a shaft (30) and a shoulder (32). A spacer (29) positioned on the fastener spaces the die member from the press. The shaft is secured to the press housing. The shoulder is positioned within a slot (28) in the die member configured to receive the shoulder as the shoulder is inserted into the slot in a direction transverse to a longitudinal axis of the fastener.
Abstract:
An assembly of supporting members includes a first member (14) overlapping a second member (16) and positioned within a recess (176) of the second member. The second member has a flange (168) on which the first member rests. In front of a leading edge (148) of said flange, a protrusion (150) extending away from the first member permits the flange and the connection between the first and second members to be protected. The first and second members may be hydroformed with the protrusion being an integral element of the first member.