CA2185378A1 - Actuator for forming a flange on a wheelhouse - Google Patents
Actuator for forming a flange on a wheelhouseInfo
- Publication number
- CA2185378A1 CA2185378A1 CA002185378A CA2185378A CA2185378A1 CA 2185378 A1 CA2185378 A1 CA 2185378A1 CA 002185378 A CA002185378 A CA 002185378A CA 2185378 A CA2185378 A CA 2185378A CA 2185378 A1 CA2185378 A1 CA 2185378A1
- Authority
- CA
- Canada
- Prior art keywords
- rod
- fluid
- piston
- aperture
- housing
- 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.)
- Abandoned
Links
Classifications
-
- 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
- B21D39/02—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 by folding, e.g. connecting edges of a sheet to form a cylinder
Abstract
An actuator for forming a flange on a wheelhousing includes wall surfaces defining at least first and second separate, elongated, coaxial fluid chambers. The first and second chambers have coaxial apertures extending therethrough. A fluid passage selectively communicates with at least the first and second chambers for delivering pressurized fluid and for removing fluid from the chambers. An elongated rod extends through the coaxial apertures and has at least first and second pistons connected thereto for reciprocating respectively in the first and second chambers in response to fluid delivered and removed by the fluid passage.
Description
2 1 8537~
our Reference: PTC-196-A . PATENT
ACT~A~OR FOR FORIS~NG A FTANGE ON A WXEEL~01J8E
FIELD OF THE INVENTION . ~_ The present invention relates to an actuator for moving one tool with respect to another tool in a 5 generally predetprminpd path, each tool having a surface or wall portion extending forwardly of the tool face and in substantial alignment with the direction of relative motion between the tools, where the surfaces or wall portions on co-acting tools are laterally of~set to 10 ~c - '~te work therebetween, and are each arranged to overlap and engage a lateral surf ace on the co-acting tool during the approach of the tools for a deforming operation, and in particular, to an actuator having a plurality of coaxial pistons connected to a single rod 15 member while being disposed in~ separate P~ n~l~hle fluid chambers .
BACKGRO~JND OF THE INVENTION
It is generally known to perform a bending operation on a flange of a wheelhouse by clamping the 20 flange from both sides of the clamp while wiping the free end of the flange with a wiping block, so as to bend the free end of the flange upward and away from the wheelhouse. The clamp and wiping block typically have an arcuate configuration in order to A~ qte the arcuate 25 shaped wheelhouse flange. Typically, the middle arcuate wheel portion of the wheelhousing is bent in this fashion, since this is the only portion of the whPPlhollcing where interference may occur, such as with chains placed on tires during adverse weather conditions 30 or the like. In order to develop the force nP~ t~cfi~ry to form the flange, a large actuator has been required. The size and weight of the actuator was greater than could be 1~ -tl~ted for automated robotic manipulation, and theref ore has required manual manipulation in combination 35 with a counter balance ---h~nicm for use in current production line assembly operations.
SUMMARY OF TH~ INVENTION
It is desirable in the present invention to provide an actuator capable of generating sufficient force to form the flange in a wheelhouse, while 5 maintaining a size and weight small enough to enable means for manipulating, such as robotic manipulation, or manual manipulation without the need for a counter balance r~ ` ~n;~m. The present invention relates to an actuator, or a cylinder, for flanging a wheelhouse of a 10 motor vehicle to prevent the f lange of ~the wheelhouse from contacting and interfering with chains placed on the tires of the vehicle in response to adverse snow conditions. The present invention provides a light-weight design that still provides the nP~cs~ry loads for 15 perf orming the bending process of the f lange . The apparatUs provides a housing having a pair of shaf ts disposed within separate chambers of the housing for performing a pair of sequential steps. Each shaft has a plurality of pistons for providing the high loads 20 required of the flange forming operation. The clamp is connect~d to one end of the first shaft and moves to and from a fixed block connected to the housing in order to secure the flange of the wheelhousing. The wiping block is connected to the second shaft of the apparatus, 25 providing the wiping block with reciprocal movement to bend the free end of the flange upward and away from the motor vehicle tire.
The housing of the apparatus is essentially divided into two chambers for housing the first and 3 o second shaf ts . Both the f irst and second shaf ts have four ;ndprpn~pnt chambers defined by cylindrical dividers. Within each of the chambers, a piston is attached to its corresponding shaft. Each of the shafts has a bore extending along the longitudinal axis of the 35 shafts with a port leading from the bore of the shaft into each of the chambers def ined by the dividers . Ports are also provided from the outside of the housing leading into each of the chambers, such that the ports open into the chambers on one side of the pistons and the ports leading into the longitudinal bore of the shaft open into the chambers on the opposite side of the pistons. Thus, 5 ~ SY uLe is provided through one set of ports on one side of the pistons to move the shafts in one direction, while the ro--ining ports may supply air pressure to thê
opposite side of the pistons in order to move the shafts in the opposite direction. Adjustable, positive stops at 10 the end of the shafts providê positive stops to limit the amount of travel f or the clamp and wiping block .
In operation, the clamp is positioned over and clamped onto the f lange of the wheelhouse of the motor vehicle . The clamp is actuated by supplying f luid 15 ~LeS jULê, such as ~ ~ ~ssed air, to a bottom port of the f irst chamber so that pressure is provided to one side of all four pistons on the first shaft, and the first shaft moves outward to positively clamp the f lange in a clamped position. The wiping block is actuated by providing 20 pressure to a bottom port of the second chamber, such that fluid yLes~uLe is provided to one side of the four pistons attached to the second shaft. The second shaft moves outward, and the wiping block bends the flange of the WhF-~l ht~ e . Aftêr the wiping block completes its 25 stroke, fluid pressure is withdrawn from one side of the pistons and supplied to the opposite side of the pistons in order to provide the return sweep of the wiping block.
Once the wiping block is returned, the clamp is lln~ lnp~cl by withdrawing fluid pLèS:~ULe from one side of the 30 pistons and providing fluid pressure to the opposite side of the pistons. Thus, the shaft retracts, the clamp opens, and the apparatus is moved away from the motor vehicle .
Therefore, in its simplest form, the present 35 invention provides an actuator including wall means for defining at least first and second separate, elongated, coaxial fluid chambers. The first and second fluid 2~ 85:~7~
our Reference: PTC-196-A . PATENT
ACT~A~OR FOR FORIS~NG A FTANGE ON A WXEEL~01J8E
FIELD OF THE INVENTION . ~_ The present invention relates to an actuator for moving one tool with respect to another tool in a 5 generally predetprminpd path, each tool having a surface or wall portion extending forwardly of the tool face and in substantial alignment with the direction of relative motion between the tools, where the surfaces or wall portions on co-acting tools are laterally of~set to 10 ~c - '~te work therebetween, and are each arranged to overlap and engage a lateral surf ace on the co-acting tool during the approach of the tools for a deforming operation, and in particular, to an actuator having a plurality of coaxial pistons connected to a single rod 15 member while being disposed in~ separate P~ n~l~hle fluid chambers .
BACKGRO~JND OF THE INVENTION
It is generally known to perform a bending operation on a flange of a wheelhouse by clamping the 20 flange from both sides of the clamp while wiping the free end of the flange with a wiping block, so as to bend the free end of the flange upward and away from the wheelhouse. The clamp and wiping block typically have an arcuate configuration in order to A~ qte the arcuate 25 shaped wheelhouse flange. Typically, the middle arcuate wheel portion of the wheelhousing is bent in this fashion, since this is the only portion of the whPPlhollcing where interference may occur, such as with chains placed on tires during adverse weather conditions 30 or the like. In order to develop the force nP~ t~cfi~ry to form the flange, a large actuator has been required. The size and weight of the actuator was greater than could be 1~ -tl~ted for automated robotic manipulation, and theref ore has required manual manipulation in combination 35 with a counter balance ---h~nicm for use in current production line assembly operations.
SUMMARY OF TH~ INVENTION
It is desirable in the present invention to provide an actuator capable of generating sufficient force to form the flange in a wheelhouse, while 5 maintaining a size and weight small enough to enable means for manipulating, such as robotic manipulation, or manual manipulation without the need for a counter balance r~ ` ~n;~m. The present invention relates to an actuator, or a cylinder, for flanging a wheelhouse of a 10 motor vehicle to prevent the f lange of ~the wheelhouse from contacting and interfering with chains placed on the tires of the vehicle in response to adverse snow conditions. The present invention provides a light-weight design that still provides the nP~cs~ry loads for 15 perf orming the bending process of the f lange . The apparatUs provides a housing having a pair of shaf ts disposed within separate chambers of the housing for performing a pair of sequential steps. Each shaft has a plurality of pistons for providing the high loads 20 required of the flange forming operation. The clamp is connect~d to one end of the first shaft and moves to and from a fixed block connected to the housing in order to secure the flange of the wheelhousing. The wiping block is connected to the second shaft of the apparatus, 25 providing the wiping block with reciprocal movement to bend the free end of the flange upward and away from the motor vehicle tire.
The housing of the apparatus is essentially divided into two chambers for housing the first and 3 o second shaf ts . Both the f irst and second shaf ts have four ;ndprpn~pnt chambers defined by cylindrical dividers. Within each of the chambers, a piston is attached to its corresponding shaft. Each of the shafts has a bore extending along the longitudinal axis of the 35 shafts with a port leading from the bore of the shaft into each of the chambers def ined by the dividers . Ports are also provided from the outside of the housing leading into each of the chambers, such that the ports open into the chambers on one side of the pistons and the ports leading into the longitudinal bore of the shaft open into the chambers on the opposite side of the pistons. Thus, 5 ~ SY uLe is provided through one set of ports on one side of the pistons to move the shafts in one direction, while the ro--ining ports may supply air pressure to thê
opposite side of the pistons in order to move the shafts in the opposite direction. Adjustable, positive stops at 10 the end of the shafts providê positive stops to limit the amount of travel f or the clamp and wiping block .
In operation, the clamp is positioned over and clamped onto the f lange of the wheelhouse of the motor vehicle . The clamp is actuated by supplying f luid 15 ~LeS jULê, such as ~ ~ ~ssed air, to a bottom port of the f irst chamber so that pressure is provided to one side of all four pistons on the first shaft, and the first shaft moves outward to positively clamp the f lange in a clamped position. The wiping block is actuated by providing 20 pressure to a bottom port of the second chamber, such that fluid yLes~uLe is provided to one side of the four pistons attached to the second shaft. The second shaft moves outward, and the wiping block bends the flange of the WhF-~l ht~ e . Aftêr the wiping block completes its 25 stroke, fluid pressure is withdrawn from one side of the pistons and supplied to the opposite side of the pistons in order to provide the return sweep of the wiping block.
Once the wiping block is returned, the clamp is lln~ lnp~cl by withdrawing fluid pLèS:~ULe from one side of the 30 pistons and providing fluid pressure to the opposite side of the pistons. Thus, the shaft retracts, the clamp opens, and the apparatus is moved away from the motor vehicle .
Therefore, in its simplest form, the present 35 invention provides an actuator including wall means for defining at least first and second separate, elongated, coaxial fluid chambers. The first and second fluid 2~ 85:~7~
chambers have coaxial apertures extending therethrough.
Fluid passage means selectively communicates with at least the first and second fluid chambers for delivering pressurized fluid, and fo~ removing fluid from the fluid chambers. Elongated rod means extend through the coaxial apertures and have at least f irst and second pistons connected thereto for reciprocating respectively in the f irst and second f luid chambers in response to f luid delivered and removed by the f luid passage means .
Other objects, advantages and applications of the present invention will become apparent to those skilled in the art when the following description of the best mode contemplated for practicing the invention is read in conjunction with the accompanying drawings.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF ~E~E DRA~INGS
~he description herein makes ref erence to the accompanying drawings wherein like reference numerals refer to Iike parts throughout the several views, and wherein:
Figure 1 is a cross-sectional view of an apparatus for forming a flange on a whe~lh~llc;nq according to the present invention with a clamp and a wiping block both in a closed position;
Flgure 2 is a cross-sectional detailed view showing the clamp and the wiping block both in an open position;
Figure 3 is a cross-sectional detailed view of a f luid chamber or piston chamber according to the present invention with rods connected to the clamp and the wiping block both in an open position with ~_uLL~a~llding stops on each rod limiting reciprocal - v I_ of the rod;
Figure 4 is a cross-sectional detA; 1 ecl view showing the clamp in a closed position while the wiper block is still in an open position;
Figure 5 is an end view of the apparatus according to the present invention; and Figure 6 is a plan view of the apparatus.
DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENT
The present invention discloses an apparatus and method for bending a flange 10 of a wheelhouse 12 by clamping the flange 10 from both sides with a clamp 18, while wiping the free end 14 of the flange 10 with a wiping block 16, so as to bend the free end 14 of the flange 10 upward away from the wheelhouse 12. The clamp 18 and wiping block 16 both have an arcuate conf iguration in order to a~ te the arcuate shaped wheelhouse 12.
Only the middle arcuate portion of the wheelhouse 12 is bent in order to provide clearance ~or the tire of the vehicle, particularly when enlarged due to the inclusion of additional optional equipment, such as snow chains.
The apparatus 20 of the present invention assembles a f irst element or portion thereof along an edge of a second element and into overlapping relationship with the second element. The assembly is accomplished in whole or in part by deforming the first element. The deformation is accomplished by stressing the f irst element beyond the elastic limit . The apparatus 20 according to the present invention includes means, such as wiping block 16, to juxtapose, a3sociate or fasten together a plurality of work parts by stressing one part beyond the elastic limit thereof. The apparatus 20 according to the present invention also includes, means, such as clamp 18 r for engaging a f irst work part and including means, such as wiping block 16, for engaging a second work part which means are adapted to bring the two parts into juxtaposed relationship, or cause one of the work parts to intimately engage the other to thereby fasten the work parts together. The apparatus 20 according to the present invention is employed to perform a bending operation on a sheet or thin plate of material in the plane of the width for forming the flange, the added wall means on the dies serve to inhibit crumpling or buckling of the thin material .
The apparatus 20 for forming the flange 10 provides a light-weight d,esign capable of delivering the nec~csi~ry loads for performing the bending process. The apparatus 20 includes a housing 22 having a pair of shafts 24, 26 disposed within separate chambers 28, 30 respectively, of the housing 22 for performing a pair of sequential steps. Each shaft 24, 26 has a plurality of pistons 32, 34 respectively for providing the high loads required during the f lange f orming operation . The clamp 18 is connected to one end of the first shaft 24 and moves reciprocally toward and away from a fixed block 36 connected to the housing 22 in order to secure the flange 10 of the wheelhousing 12. The wiping block 16 is connected to the second shaft ~26 of the apparatus 20 to provide the wiping block 16 with reciprocal movement to bend the free end 14 of the flange 10 away from the future location of a vehicle tire.
The housing 22 of the apparatus 10 is es6entially divided into the two chambers 28, 30 for housing the first and second shafts 24, 26. Both the first and second shafts 24, 26 have four ;nfl~r~n~l~nt chambers 38, 40 respectively, defined by cylindrical dividers 42, 44 respectively. Within each of the chambers 38, 40, a piston 32, 34 is attached to the ~ ULL.~J~ ;n~ shaft 24, 26. Each of the shafts 24, 26 has a bore 46, 48 respectively, extending along the longitudinal axis of the shafts 24, 26 with a port 50, 52 leading from the bore 46, 48 of the shaft 24, 26 into each of the chambers 38, 40 defined by the dividers 42, 44. Ports 54, 56 are also provided from the outside of the housing 22 leading into each of the chambers 38, 40 respectively, such that the ports 54, 56 open into the chambers 38, 40 on one side of the pistons 32, 34 and the ports 50, 52 leading into the longitudinal bores 46, 48 of the shafts 24, 26 open into the chambers 38, 40 on the 2 ~ 8~7~
opposite side of the pist~ns 32, 34. Fluid pressure can therefore be provided through one set of ports on one side of the pistons 32, 34 to move the shafts 24, 26 in one direction, while the ~emaining port5 may supply fluid 5 pressure to the opposite sides of the pistons 32, 34 in order to move the shafts 24, 26 in the opposite direction. Adjustable positive stops 58, 60 at the end of the shafts 24, 26 respectively, provide positive stops to limit the amount of travel for the clamp 18 and wiping 10 block 16.
In operation, the clamp 18 is lln~ nrc~d and positioned over the flange 10 of the whPPlh~ ce 12 of a motor vehicle. The clamp 18 is actuated by supplying fluid ~es,,u~e to a bottom port 62 of the first chamber 15 28, so that pressure is provided to one side of all four pistons 32 on the first shaft 24, such that the first shaft 24 moves outward to positively clamp the flange 10 in a clamped position. The wiping block 16 is then actuated by providing fluid pressure to a bottom port 64 20 of the second chamber 30, such that fluid pressure provided to one side of the four pistons 32 attach to the second shaft 26, such that the second shaft 26 moves outward, and the wiping block 16 bends the flange 10 of the whPPlhollce 12. After the wiping block 16 completes 25 its stroke, fluid pressure is withdrawn from one side of the pistons 34 and supplied to the opposite side of the pistons 34 in order to provide the return sweep of the wiping block 16. Once the wiping block 16 has returned, the clamp 18 is unclamped by withdrawing fluid pressure 30 from the one side of the pistons 32 and providing fluid pressure to the opposite side of the pistons 32. Thus, the shaft 24 retracts, the clamp 18 opens, and the apparatus is moved away f rom the motor vehicle .
The apparatus 20 of the present invention 35 reduces the weight of existing flange forming devices by as much as 50%, while still providing the nPcPcs~ry press loads to bend the wheelhouse f lange during the forming 2 ~ 85378 operation. The apparatus 20 according to the present invention uses a single ho~sing 22 having a pair of parallel shafts 24, 26 with a plurality of tandem pistons 32, 34 in order to perform the two step sequential operation.
The apparatus 20 may include actuator means 122 for moving, or means 124 for guiding, one tool, such as wiping block 16 with respect to another tool, such as support means 126 in a generally predetermined path.
Each tool may include a surface 128, or wall portion, extending forwardly of the tool face and in substantial alignment with the direction of relative motion between the tools, which surfaces or wall portions on co-acting tools are laterally offset to a~ te work therebetween, and are each arranged to overlap and engage a lateral surface 130 on the co-acting tool 126 during the approach of the tools for a de~orming operation.
The present invention discloses actuator means 122 for forming a flange lO on a wheelhouse 12. The actuator means 122 may include a cylinder or actuator 132 having wall means 134 for deflning at least first and second separate, elongated, coaxial f luid chambers or piston chambers 136, 138. The first and second fluid or piston chambers 136, 138 have coaxial apertures 140 extending therethrough. Fluid passage means 142 selectively communicate with at least the f irst and second chambers 136, 138 for delivering pressurized fluid and ~or removing fluid from the chambers 136, 138.
Elongated rod means 144 extends through the coaxial apertures 140 and has at least first and second pistons 146, 148 c~nnP~ t-~d thereto for reciprocating respectively in the f irst and second chambers 13 6, 13 8 in response to f luid delivered and removed by the f luid passage means 142 .
The wall means 134 may also include at least a third separate, elongated, coaxial fluid or piston chamber 150 . The third f luid or piston chamber 150 has g an aperture 140 extending coaxial with the other coaxial apertures 140 of the first and second chambers 136, 138.
The fluid passage means 142 may also selectively communicate with the third chamber 150 for delivering pressurized fluid and for removing fluid from the chamber 150. The elongated rod means 144 also may extend through the coaxial aperture 14 0 and include at least a third piston 152 connected thereto for reciprocating respectively in the third chamber 150 in response to f luid delivered and removed by the f luid passage means 142 .
The wall means 134 may also include at least a fourth separate, elongated, coaxial fluid or piston chamber 154 with an aperture 140 extending coaxial with the coaxial apertures 140 of the first, ~second and third chambers 136, 138 and 150. The fluid passage means 142 may also selectively communicate with the fourth chamber 154 for delivering pressurized fluid and for removing f luid from the fourth chamber 154 . The elongated rod means 144 may also extend through the coaxial apertures 140 and include at least a fourth piston 156 connected thereto for reciprocating respectively in the fourth chamber 154 in response to fluid delivered and removed by the fluid passage means 142.
The fluid passage means 142 may extend at least in part through the elongated rod means 144 for communicating between at least cu, Le~unding sides of the first and second pistons 146, 148 within the first and second chambers 136, 138 respectively. The elongated rod means 144 may also include stepped progressive reductions in diameter spaced longitudinally along a length thereof corrF~sp~n~; n~ to at least the f irst and second chambers 136, 138. The first and second pistons 146, 148 may have equal outer peripheries and be connected to the rod means 144 through first and second apertures o~ different diameters corresponding to the stepped progressive reductions in diameter of the elongated rod means 144.
218~78 .
The wall means 134 may include the housing 22 having at least one elongated aperture 158 extending therethrough. Pirst and second elongated sleeve or liner means 160, 162 slidably e,ngage within the aperture 158 and have inner surfaces 164, 166 respectively defining the first and second ~luid or piston chambers 136, 138.
An in~ te wall means 168 slidably engages within the aperture 158 and is interposed between the first and second means 160, 162 for forming a stationary divider wall between the first and second chambers 136, 138. The fluid passage means 142 may be formed at least in part between the housing 22 and the f irst and second means 160, 162, such as sleeve means or liner means, for communicating with the f irst and second f luid or piston chambers 136, 138.
The housing 22 may include a second elongated aperture 170 extending therethrough. First and second elongated liner or sleeve means 136, 138 can be slidably engaged within the second aperture 170. The first and second means 136, 138 have inner surfaces 164, 166 as previously described with respect to the f irst aperture in the housing 22 . In~ ; ate wall means 168 can be slidably engaged within the second aperture 170 and interposed between the f irst and second liner means 13 6, 138 for forming a stationary divider wall between the first and second fluid or piston chambers 136, 138. The first and second piston chambers 136, 138 have coaxial apertures 140 extending therethrough . Second f luid passage means 172 is provided for selectively 3 0 , ; cating with the f irst and second piston chambers 136, 138 of the second aperture 170 for delivering pressurized fluid for removing fluid from the chambers 136, 138. Second elongated rod means 174 extends through the coaxial apertures 140 of the first and second piston chambers 136, 138 and has at least first and second pistons 146, 148 connected thereto ~'or reciprocating respectively in the first and second chambers 136, 138 in 2~ 85378 response to f luid delivered and removed by the second fluid passage means 172. The wall means 134 can include first and second end cap means 176, 178 connected to opposite ends of the aper,ture extending through the housing 22 for closing the aperture while allowing at least one end of the elongated rod means 144 to extend outwardly through one of the end cap means 176, 178.
The apparatus 20 according to the present invention may also include at least one wheelhouse f lange die means 180 connected to one end of the second elongated rod means 174 ~or forming a flange on a wheelhousing of a vehicle side panel. An opposing support means 126 is connected to the housing 122 for supporting the housing 22 and die means 180 during the flange forming operation. The support means 126 is positionable in opposing relationship to the clamp 18 for interposing the wh~ lhollcing therebetween while the die means 180, such as wiping block 16 moves with respect to the clamped flange of the vehicle side panel to bend the flange between the surfaces 128 of the die means 180 and support means 126. Guide means 182 is proYided for guiding movement of the die means 180 and support means 126 while forming the flange on the wheelhousing of the vehicle side panel.
The actuator means 122 according to the present invention can be assembled by a method comprising the steps of providing the housing means 22 with an aperture extending th~:Le ~ ugh, connecting f irst end cap means 176 to close one end of the aperture in the housing means 22. The first end cap means 176 has a rod receiving aperture 140 extending therethrough. Rod means 144 is inserted through the rod receiving aperture 140 of the first end cap means 176 for reciprocating between first and second end li~its of movement. The rod means 144 may have longi~llAin~lly spaced, progressively reduced diameter portions extending from a first end to a second end. ~irst liner means or sleeve means 160 is inserted 2 1 8~78 in the aperture of the housing means 22 for abutting against the first end cap means 176. A first piston 146 can be connected on the rod means 144 for engaging between the rod means 144, and the first sleeve means 160.
5 The f irst piston 14 6 is connected to a f irst reduced diameter portion 182 of the rod means 144 for reciprocating with the rod means 144 between the f irst and second end limits of movement. An intermediate, radially extending, wall means 168 is slidably inserted on the rod means 144 to enclose the first piston 146 within a f irst chamber 13 6 def ined by the f irst end cap means 176, the first sleeve means 160 and the int~ te wall means 168. Second liner means or sleeve means 162 is inserted in the aperture of the housing means 22 for interposing the int~ te wall means 168 between the first and second sleeve means 160, 162. A second piston 148 can be connected on the rod means 144 for engaging between the rod means 144 and the second sleeve means 162. The second piston 148 is connected to a second reduced diameter portion 184 of the rod means 144. Second end cap means 178 is connected to the housing means 22 for closing an opposite end of the aperture in the housing means 22.
The actuator 132 according to the present invention can also be assembled including the steps of inserting a second int~ te radially extending wall means 168 slidably on the rod means 144 to enclose the second piston 148 within the second fluid chamber 138 defined by the second int~-- ~';ate wall means 168, the seconc~ sleeve means 162 and the first intermediate wall means 168. Third sleeve means or liner means 186 can be inserted in the aperture of the housing means 22 for interposing the second int~ te wall means 168 between the second and third sleeve means or liner means 148, 186. A third piston 152 can be connected on the rod means 144 for engaging between the rod means 144 and the third sleeve means 186. The third piston 152 can be - 2 1 85~78 connected to a third reduced diameter portion 190 of the rod means 144.
The assembling method can also include the steps of inserting a third intermediate radially extending wall means 192 slidably on the rod means 144 to enclose the third piston 152 within a third fluid chamber 150 defined by the third in~ iAte wall means 192, the third sleeve means 186 and the second in~ iate wall means 185. Fourth sleeve or liner means 196 can be inserted in the aperture of the housing means 22 for interposing the third intP -~;~te wall means 192 between the third and fourth sleeve or liner means 186, 196. A
fourth piston 156 can be connected on the rod means 144 for engaging between the rod means 144 and the fourth sleeve or liner means 196. The fourth piston 156 can be connected to a fourth reduced diameter portion 200 of the rod means 144.
The assembling method for the actuator 132 can also include the housing means 22 having a second 2 0 elongated aperture 17 0 extending therethrough and connecting the first cap means 176, or a third cap means, to close one end of the second aperture 170 in the housing means 22. The assembling process ~or the second rod means 174 is the same as previously described for the first drive means 144 ;ncl~l~in~ inserting the first liner means 160, connecting a first piston head 146, inserting an intermediate radially extending plate means 168, inserting second liner means 162, connecting a second piston head 148 and connecting second cap means 178. In the preferred configuration, one of the rod means is connected to clamp 18, while the other is connoC~ ed to the wiping block 16. The rod means 144, 174 are operable inrloron~ontly of one another to form the flange 10 in a wheolho~lce 12 as previously described.
While the invention has been described in connection with what is presently considered to be the most practical and preferred ~mhQ~lir-nt, it is to be understood that the invention is not to be limited to the disclosed ~mho~lir-nts but, on the contrary, is intended to cover various modif ications and equivalent arrangements included within the spirit and scope o~ the 5 appended claims, which scope is to be accorded the broadest interpretation so as to ~nc-~r iqc all such modif ications and equivalent structures as is permitted under the law.
Fluid passage means selectively communicates with at least the first and second fluid chambers for delivering pressurized fluid, and fo~ removing fluid from the fluid chambers. Elongated rod means extend through the coaxial apertures and have at least f irst and second pistons connected thereto for reciprocating respectively in the f irst and second f luid chambers in response to f luid delivered and removed by the f luid passage means .
Other objects, advantages and applications of the present invention will become apparent to those skilled in the art when the following description of the best mode contemplated for practicing the invention is read in conjunction with the accompanying drawings.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF ~E~E DRA~INGS
~he description herein makes ref erence to the accompanying drawings wherein like reference numerals refer to Iike parts throughout the several views, and wherein:
Figure 1 is a cross-sectional view of an apparatus for forming a flange on a whe~lh~llc;nq according to the present invention with a clamp and a wiping block both in a closed position;
Flgure 2 is a cross-sectional detailed view showing the clamp and the wiping block both in an open position;
Figure 3 is a cross-sectional detailed view of a f luid chamber or piston chamber according to the present invention with rods connected to the clamp and the wiping block both in an open position with ~_uLL~a~llding stops on each rod limiting reciprocal - v I_ of the rod;
Figure 4 is a cross-sectional detA; 1 ecl view showing the clamp in a closed position while the wiper block is still in an open position;
Figure 5 is an end view of the apparatus according to the present invention; and Figure 6 is a plan view of the apparatus.
DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENT
The present invention discloses an apparatus and method for bending a flange 10 of a wheelhouse 12 by clamping the flange 10 from both sides with a clamp 18, while wiping the free end 14 of the flange 10 with a wiping block 16, so as to bend the free end 14 of the flange 10 upward away from the wheelhouse 12. The clamp 18 and wiping block 16 both have an arcuate conf iguration in order to a~ te the arcuate shaped wheelhouse 12.
Only the middle arcuate portion of the wheelhouse 12 is bent in order to provide clearance ~or the tire of the vehicle, particularly when enlarged due to the inclusion of additional optional equipment, such as snow chains.
The apparatus 20 of the present invention assembles a f irst element or portion thereof along an edge of a second element and into overlapping relationship with the second element. The assembly is accomplished in whole or in part by deforming the first element. The deformation is accomplished by stressing the f irst element beyond the elastic limit . The apparatus 20 according to the present invention includes means, such as wiping block 16, to juxtapose, a3sociate or fasten together a plurality of work parts by stressing one part beyond the elastic limit thereof. The apparatus 20 according to the present invention also includes, means, such as clamp 18 r for engaging a f irst work part and including means, such as wiping block 16, for engaging a second work part which means are adapted to bring the two parts into juxtaposed relationship, or cause one of the work parts to intimately engage the other to thereby fasten the work parts together. The apparatus 20 according to the present invention is employed to perform a bending operation on a sheet or thin plate of material in the plane of the width for forming the flange, the added wall means on the dies serve to inhibit crumpling or buckling of the thin material .
The apparatus 20 for forming the flange 10 provides a light-weight d,esign capable of delivering the nec~csi~ry loads for performing the bending process. The apparatus 20 includes a housing 22 having a pair of shafts 24, 26 disposed within separate chambers 28, 30 respectively, of the housing 22 for performing a pair of sequential steps. Each shaft 24, 26 has a plurality of pistons 32, 34 respectively for providing the high loads required during the f lange f orming operation . The clamp 18 is connected to one end of the first shaft 24 and moves reciprocally toward and away from a fixed block 36 connected to the housing 22 in order to secure the flange 10 of the wheelhousing 12. The wiping block 16 is connected to the second shaft ~26 of the apparatus 20 to provide the wiping block 16 with reciprocal movement to bend the free end 14 of the flange 10 away from the future location of a vehicle tire.
The housing 22 of the apparatus 10 is es6entially divided into the two chambers 28, 30 for housing the first and second shafts 24, 26. Both the first and second shafts 24, 26 have four ;nfl~r~n~l~nt chambers 38, 40 respectively, defined by cylindrical dividers 42, 44 respectively. Within each of the chambers 38, 40, a piston 32, 34 is attached to the ~ ULL.~J~ ;n~ shaft 24, 26. Each of the shafts 24, 26 has a bore 46, 48 respectively, extending along the longitudinal axis of the shafts 24, 26 with a port 50, 52 leading from the bore 46, 48 of the shaft 24, 26 into each of the chambers 38, 40 defined by the dividers 42, 44. Ports 54, 56 are also provided from the outside of the housing 22 leading into each of the chambers 38, 40 respectively, such that the ports 54, 56 open into the chambers 38, 40 on one side of the pistons 32, 34 and the ports 50, 52 leading into the longitudinal bores 46, 48 of the shafts 24, 26 open into the chambers 38, 40 on the 2 ~ 8~7~
opposite side of the pist~ns 32, 34. Fluid pressure can therefore be provided through one set of ports on one side of the pistons 32, 34 to move the shafts 24, 26 in one direction, while the ~emaining port5 may supply fluid 5 pressure to the opposite sides of the pistons 32, 34 in order to move the shafts 24, 26 in the opposite direction. Adjustable positive stops 58, 60 at the end of the shafts 24, 26 respectively, provide positive stops to limit the amount of travel for the clamp 18 and wiping 10 block 16.
In operation, the clamp 18 is lln~ nrc~d and positioned over the flange 10 of the whPPlh~ ce 12 of a motor vehicle. The clamp 18 is actuated by supplying fluid ~es,,u~e to a bottom port 62 of the first chamber 15 28, so that pressure is provided to one side of all four pistons 32 on the first shaft 24, such that the first shaft 24 moves outward to positively clamp the flange 10 in a clamped position. The wiping block 16 is then actuated by providing fluid pressure to a bottom port 64 20 of the second chamber 30, such that fluid pressure provided to one side of the four pistons 32 attach to the second shaft 26, such that the second shaft 26 moves outward, and the wiping block 16 bends the flange 10 of the whPPlhollce 12. After the wiping block 16 completes 25 its stroke, fluid pressure is withdrawn from one side of the pistons 34 and supplied to the opposite side of the pistons 34 in order to provide the return sweep of the wiping block 16. Once the wiping block 16 has returned, the clamp 18 is unclamped by withdrawing fluid pressure 30 from the one side of the pistons 32 and providing fluid pressure to the opposite side of the pistons 32. Thus, the shaft 24 retracts, the clamp 18 opens, and the apparatus is moved away f rom the motor vehicle .
The apparatus 20 of the present invention 35 reduces the weight of existing flange forming devices by as much as 50%, while still providing the nPcPcs~ry press loads to bend the wheelhouse f lange during the forming 2 ~ 85378 operation. The apparatus 20 according to the present invention uses a single ho~sing 22 having a pair of parallel shafts 24, 26 with a plurality of tandem pistons 32, 34 in order to perform the two step sequential operation.
The apparatus 20 may include actuator means 122 for moving, or means 124 for guiding, one tool, such as wiping block 16 with respect to another tool, such as support means 126 in a generally predetermined path.
Each tool may include a surface 128, or wall portion, extending forwardly of the tool face and in substantial alignment with the direction of relative motion between the tools, which surfaces or wall portions on co-acting tools are laterally offset to a~ te work therebetween, and are each arranged to overlap and engage a lateral surface 130 on the co-acting tool 126 during the approach of the tools for a de~orming operation.
The present invention discloses actuator means 122 for forming a flange lO on a wheelhouse 12. The actuator means 122 may include a cylinder or actuator 132 having wall means 134 for deflning at least first and second separate, elongated, coaxial f luid chambers or piston chambers 136, 138. The first and second fluid or piston chambers 136, 138 have coaxial apertures 140 extending therethrough. Fluid passage means 142 selectively communicate with at least the f irst and second chambers 136, 138 for delivering pressurized fluid and ~or removing fluid from the chambers 136, 138.
Elongated rod means 144 extends through the coaxial apertures 140 and has at least first and second pistons 146, 148 c~nnP~ t-~d thereto for reciprocating respectively in the f irst and second chambers 13 6, 13 8 in response to f luid delivered and removed by the f luid passage means 142 .
The wall means 134 may also include at least a third separate, elongated, coaxial fluid or piston chamber 150 . The third f luid or piston chamber 150 has g an aperture 140 extending coaxial with the other coaxial apertures 140 of the first and second chambers 136, 138.
The fluid passage means 142 may also selectively communicate with the third chamber 150 for delivering pressurized fluid and for removing fluid from the chamber 150. The elongated rod means 144 also may extend through the coaxial aperture 14 0 and include at least a third piston 152 connected thereto for reciprocating respectively in the third chamber 150 in response to f luid delivered and removed by the f luid passage means 142 .
The wall means 134 may also include at least a fourth separate, elongated, coaxial fluid or piston chamber 154 with an aperture 140 extending coaxial with the coaxial apertures 140 of the first, ~second and third chambers 136, 138 and 150. The fluid passage means 142 may also selectively communicate with the fourth chamber 154 for delivering pressurized fluid and for removing f luid from the fourth chamber 154 . The elongated rod means 144 may also extend through the coaxial apertures 140 and include at least a fourth piston 156 connected thereto for reciprocating respectively in the fourth chamber 154 in response to fluid delivered and removed by the fluid passage means 142.
The fluid passage means 142 may extend at least in part through the elongated rod means 144 for communicating between at least cu, Le~unding sides of the first and second pistons 146, 148 within the first and second chambers 136, 138 respectively. The elongated rod means 144 may also include stepped progressive reductions in diameter spaced longitudinally along a length thereof corrF~sp~n~; n~ to at least the f irst and second chambers 136, 138. The first and second pistons 146, 148 may have equal outer peripheries and be connected to the rod means 144 through first and second apertures o~ different diameters corresponding to the stepped progressive reductions in diameter of the elongated rod means 144.
218~78 .
The wall means 134 may include the housing 22 having at least one elongated aperture 158 extending therethrough. Pirst and second elongated sleeve or liner means 160, 162 slidably e,ngage within the aperture 158 and have inner surfaces 164, 166 respectively defining the first and second ~luid or piston chambers 136, 138.
An in~ te wall means 168 slidably engages within the aperture 158 and is interposed between the first and second means 160, 162 for forming a stationary divider wall between the first and second chambers 136, 138. The fluid passage means 142 may be formed at least in part between the housing 22 and the f irst and second means 160, 162, such as sleeve means or liner means, for communicating with the f irst and second f luid or piston chambers 136, 138.
The housing 22 may include a second elongated aperture 170 extending therethrough. First and second elongated liner or sleeve means 136, 138 can be slidably engaged within the second aperture 170. The first and second means 136, 138 have inner surfaces 164, 166 as previously described with respect to the f irst aperture in the housing 22 . In~ ; ate wall means 168 can be slidably engaged within the second aperture 170 and interposed between the f irst and second liner means 13 6, 138 for forming a stationary divider wall between the first and second fluid or piston chambers 136, 138. The first and second piston chambers 136, 138 have coaxial apertures 140 extending therethrough . Second f luid passage means 172 is provided for selectively 3 0 , ; cating with the f irst and second piston chambers 136, 138 of the second aperture 170 for delivering pressurized fluid for removing fluid from the chambers 136, 138. Second elongated rod means 174 extends through the coaxial apertures 140 of the first and second piston chambers 136, 138 and has at least first and second pistons 146, 148 connected thereto ~'or reciprocating respectively in the first and second chambers 136, 138 in 2~ 85378 response to f luid delivered and removed by the second fluid passage means 172. The wall means 134 can include first and second end cap means 176, 178 connected to opposite ends of the aper,ture extending through the housing 22 for closing the aperture while allowing at least one end of the elongated rod means 144 to extend outwardly through one of the end cap means 176, 178.
The apparatus 20 according to the present invention may also include at least one wheelhouse f lange die means 180 connected to one end of the second elongated rod means 174 ~or forming a flange on a wheelhousing of a vehicle side panel. An opposing support means 126 is connected to the housing 122 for supporting the housing 22 and die means 180 during the flange forming operation. The support means 126 is positionable in opposing relationship to the clamp 18 for interposing the wh~ lhollcing therebetween while the die means 180, such as wiping block 16 moves with respect to the clamped flange of the vehicle side panel to bend the flange between the surfaces 128 of the die means 180 and support means 126. Guide means 182 is proYided for guiding movement of the die means 180 and support means 126 while forming the flange on the wheelhousing of the vehicle side panel.
The actuator means 122 according to the present invention can be assembled by a method comprising the steps of providing the housing means 22 with an aperture extending th~:Le ~ ugh, connecting f irst end cap means 176 to close one end of the aperture in the housing means 22. The first end cap means 176 has a rod receiving aperture 140 extending therethrough. Rod means 144 is inserted through the rod receiving aperture 140 of the first end cap means 176 for reciprocating between first and second end li~its of movement. The rod means 144 may have longi~llAin~lly spaced, progressively reduced diameter portions extending from a first end to a second end. ~irst liner means or sleeve means 160 is inserted 2 1 8~78 in the aperture of the housing means 22 for abutting against the first end cap means 176. A first piston 146 can be connected on the rod means 144 for engaging between the rod means 144, and the first sleeve means 160.
5 The f irst piston 14 6 is connected to a f irst reduced diameter portion 182 of the rod means 144 for reciprocating with the rod means 144 between the f irst and second end limits of movement. An intermediate, radially extending, wall means 168 is slidably inserted on the rod means 144 to enclose the first piston 146 within a f irst chamber 13 6 def ined by the f irst end cap means 176, the first sleeve means 160 and the int~ te wall means 168. Second liner means or sleeve means 162 is inserted in the aperture of the housing means 22 for interposing the int~ te wall means 168 between the first and second sleeve means 160, 162. A second piston 148 can be connected on the rod means 144 for engaging between the rod means 144 and the second sleeve means 162. The second piston 148 is connected to a second reduced diameter portion 184 of the rod means 144. Second end cap means 178 is connected to the housing means 22 for closing an opposite end of the aperture in the housing means 22.
The actuator 132 according to the present invention can also be assembled including the steps of inserting a second int~ te radially extending wall means 168 slidably on the rod means 144 to enclose the second piston 148 within the second fluid chamber 138 defined by the second int~-- ~';ate wall means 168, the seconc~ sleeve means 162 and the first intermediate wall means 168. Third sleeve means or liner means 186 can be inserted in the aperture of the housing means 22 for interposing the second int~ te wall means 168 between the second and third sleeve means or liner means 148, 186. A third piston 152 can be connected on the rod means 144 for engaging between the rod means 144 and the third sleeve means 186. The third piston 152 can be - 2 1 85~78 connected to a third reduced diameter portion 190 of the rod means 144.
The assembling method can also include the steps of inserting a third intermediate radially extending wall means 192 slidably on the rod means 144 to enclose the third piston 152 within a third fluid chamber 150 defined by the third in~ iAte wall means 192, the third sleeve means 186 and the second in~ iate wall means 185. Fourth sleeve or liner means 196 can be inserted in the aperture of the housing means 22 for interposing the third intP -~;~te wall means 192 between the third and fourth sleeve or liner means 186, 196. A
fourth piston 156 can be connected on the rod means 144 for engaging between the rod means 144 and the fourth sleeve or liner means 196. The fourth piston 156 can be connected to a fourth reduced diameter portion 200 of the rod means 144.
The assembling method for the actuator 132 can also include the housing means 22 having a second 2 0 elongated aperture 17 0 extending therethrough and connecting the first cap means 176, or a third cap means, to close one end of the second aperture 170 in the housing means 22. The assembling process ~or the second rod means 174 is the same as previously described for the first drive means 144 ;ncl~l~in~ inserting the first liner means 160, connecting a first piston head 146, inserting an intermediate radially extending plate means 168, inserting second liner means 162, connecting a second piston head 148 and connecting second cap means 178. In the preferred configuration, one of the rod means is connected to clamp 18, while the other is connoC~ ed to the wiping block 16. The rod means 144, 174 are operable inrloron~ontly of one another to form the flange 10 in a wheolho~lce 12 as previously described.
While the invention has been described in connection with what is presently considered to be the most practical and preferred ~mhQ~lir-nt, it is to be understood that the invention is not to be limited to the disclosed ~mho~lir-nts but, on the contrary, is intended to cover various modif ications and equivalent arrangements included within the spirit and scope o~ the 5 appended claims, which scope is to be accorded the broadest interpretation so as to ~nc-~r iqc all such modif ications and equivalent structures as is permitted under the law.
Claims (20)
1. An actuator for forming a flange on a wheelhousing comprising:
wall means for defining at least first and second separate, elongated, coaxial fluid chambers, said first and second fluid chambers having coaxial apertures extending therethrough;
fluid passage means for selectively communicating with at least said first and second fluid chambers for delivering pressurized fluid and for removing fluid from said fluid chambers; and elongated rod means, extending through said coaxial apertures and having at least first and second pistons connected thereto, for reciprocating respectively in said first and second fluid chambers in response to fluid delivered and removed by said fluid passage means.
wall means for defining at least first and second separate, elongated, coaxial fluid chambers, said first and second fluid chambers having coaxial apertures extending therethrough;
fluid passage means for selectively communicating with at least said first and second fluid chambers for delivering pressurized fluid and for removing fluid from said fluid chambers; and elongated rod means, extending through said coaxial apertures and having at least first and second pistons connected thereto, for reciprocating respectively in said first and second fluid chambers in response to fluid delivered and removed by said fluid passage means.
2. The actuator of claim 1 further comprising:
said wall means further defining at least a third separate, elongated, coaxial fluid chamber, said third fluid chamber having an aperture extending coaxial with said coaxial apertures of said first and second fluid chambers;
said fluid passage means for selectively communicating with at least said third fluid chamber for delivering pressurized fluid and for removing fluid from said fluid chamber; and said elongated rod means, extending through said coaxial aperture and having at least a third piston connected thereto, for reciprocating respectively in said third fluid chamber in response to fluid delivered and removed by said fluid passage means.
said wall means further defining at least a third separate, elongated, coaxial fluid chamber, said third fluid chamber having an aperture extending coaxial with said coaxial apertures of said first and second fluid chambers;
said fluid passage means for selectively communicating with at least said third fluid chamber for delivering pressurized fluid and for removing fluid from said fluid chamber; and said elongated rod means, extending through said coaxial aperture and having at least a third piston connected thereto, for reciprocating respectively in said third fluid chamber in response to fluid delivered and removed by said fluid passage means.
3. The actuator of claim 2 further comprising:
said wall means further defining at least a fourth separate, elongated, coaxial fluid chamber, said fourth fluid chamber having an aperture extending coaxial with said coaxial apertures of said first, second and third fluid chambers;
said fluid passage means for selectively communicating with at least said fourth fluid chamber for delivering pressurized fluid and for removing fluid from said fluid chamber; and said elongated rod means, extending through said coaxial apertures and having at least a fourth piston connected thereto, for reciprocating respectively in said fourth fluid chamber in response to fluid delivered and removed by said fluid passage means.
said wall means further defining at least a fourth separate, elongated, coaxial fluid chamber, said fourth fluid chamber having an aperture extending coaxial with said coaxial apertures of said first, second and third fluid chambers;
said fluid passage means for selectively communicating with at least said fourth fluid chamber for delivering pressurized fluid and for removing fluid from said fluid chamber; and said elongated rod means, extending through said coaxial apertures and having at least a fourth piston connected thereto, for reciprocating respectively in said fourth fluid chamber in response to fluid delivered and removed by said fluid passage means.
4. The actuator of claim 1 further comprising:
said fluid passage means extending at least in part through said rod means for communicating between at least corresponding sides of said first and second pistons within said first and second fluid chambers respectively.
said fluid passage means extending at least in part through said rod means for communicating between at least corresponding sides of said first and second pistons within said first and second fluid chambers respectively.
5. The actuator of claim 1 further comprising:
said elongated rod means having stepped progressive reductions in diameter spaced longitudinally along a length thereof corresponding to said first and second fluid chambers.
said elongated rod means having stepped progressive reductions in diameter spaced longitudinally along a length thereof corresponding to said first and second fluid chambers.
6. The actuator of claim 5 further comprising:
said first and second pistons having equal outer peripheries and connected to said rod means through first and second apertures.
said first and second pistons having equal outer peripheries and connected to said rod means through first and second apertures.
7. The actuator of claim 1 further comprising:
said wall means including a housing having an elongated aperture extending therethrough, first and second elongated sleeve means, slidably engaged within said aperture and having an inner surface, for defining said first and second fluid chambers, and intermediate wall means, slidably engaged within said aperture and interposed between said first and second sleeve means, for forming a stationary divider wall between said first and second fluid chambers.
said wall means including a housing having an elongated aperture extending therethrough, first and second elongated sleeve means, slidably engaged within said aperture and having an inner surface, for defining said first and second fluid chambers, and intermediate wall means, slidably engaged within said aperture and interposed between said first and second sleeve means, for forming a stationary divider wall between said first and second fluid chambers.
8. The actuator of claim 7 further comprising:
said fluid passage means at least in part formed between said housing and said first and second sleeve means for communicating with said first and second fluid chambers.
said fluid passage means at least in part formed between said housing and said first and second sleeve means for communicating with said first and second fluid chambers.
9. The actuator of claim 7 further comprising:
said housing having a second elongated aperture extending therethrough, first and second elongated liner means, slidably engaged within said second aperture and having an inner surface, for defining first and second piston chambers, and intermediate wall means, slidably engaged within said second aperture and interposed between said first and second liner means, for forming a stationary divider wall between said first and second piston chambers, said first and second piston chambers having coaxial apertures extending therethrough;
second fluid passage means for selectively communicating with said first and second piston chambers for delivering pressurized fluid and for removing fluid from said piston chambers; and second elongated rod means, extending through said coaxial apertures of said first and second piston chambers and having at least first and second pistons connected thereto, for reciprocating respectively in said first and second piston chambers in response to fluid delivered and removed by said second fluid passage means,
said housing having a second elongated aperture extending therethrough, first and second elongated liner means, slidably engaged within said second aperture and having an inner surface, for defining first and second piston chambers, and intermediate wall means, slidably engaged within said second aperture and interposed between said first and second liner means, for forming a stationary divider wall between said first and second piston chambers, said first and second piston chambers having coaxial apertures extending therethrough;
second fluid passage means for selectively communicating with said first and second piston chambers for delivering pressurized fluid and for removing fluid from said piston chambers; and second elongated rod means, extending through said coaxial apertures of said first and second piston chambers and having at least first and second pistons connected thereto, for reciprocating respectively in said first and second piston chambers in response to fluid delivered and removed by said second fluid passage means,
10. The actuator of claim 7 further comprising:
said wall means including first and second end cap means connected to opposite ends of said aperture extending through said housing for closing said aperture while allowing at least one end of said rod means to extend outwardly through one of said end cap means.
said wall means including first and second end cap means connected to opposite ends of said aperture extending through said housing for closing said aperture while allowing at least one end of said rod means to extend outwardly through one of said end cap means.
11. The actuator of claim 10 further comprising:
at least one wheelhouse flange die means connected to said one end of said rod means extending outwardly from one of said end caps for forming a wheelhousing flange on a vehicle side panel.
at least one wheelhouse flange die means connected to said one end of said rod means extending outwardly from one of said end caps for forming a wheelhousing flange on a vehicle side panel.
12. The actuator of claim 11 further comprising:
an opposing support means connected to said housing for supporting said housing and die means during a flange forming operation, said support means positionable in opposing relationship to said die means for interposing said wheelhousing therebetween.
an opposing support means connected to said housing for supporting said housing and die means during a flange forming operation, said support means positionable in opposing relationship to said die means for interposing said wheelhousing therebetween.
13. The actuator of claim 11 further comprising:
guide means for guiding movement of said die means while forming said wheelhousing flange.
guide means for guiding movement of said die means while forming said wheelhousing flange.
14. An actuator for forming a flange on a wheelhousing comprising:
wall means for defining at least first and second separate, elongated, coaxial fluid chambers, said first and second fluid chambers having coaxial apertures extending therethrough, said wall means including a housing having an elongated aperture extending therethrough, first and second elongated sleeve means, slidably engaged within said aperture and having an inner surface, for defining said first and second fluid chambers, and intermediate wall means, slidably engaged within said aperture and interposed between said first and second sleeve means, for forming a stationary divider wall between said first and second fluid chambers;
fluid passage means for selectively communicating with at least said first and second fluid chambers for delivering pressurized fluid and for removing fluid from said fluid chambers; and elongated rod means, extending through said coaxial apertures and having at least first and second pistons connected thereto, for reciprocating respectively in said first and second fluid chambers in response to fluid delivered and removed by said fluid passage means, said elongated rod means having progressive stepped reductions in diameter spaced longitudinally along a length thereof corresponding to said first and second fluid chambers.
wall means for defining at least first and second separate, elongated, coaxial fluid chambers, said first and second fluid chambers having coaxial apertures extending therethrough, said wall means including a housing having an elongated aperture extending therethrough, first and second elongated sleeve means, slidably engaged within said aperture and having an inner surface, for defining said first and second fluid chambers, and intermediate wall means, slidably engaged within said aperture and interposed between said first and second sleeve means, for forming a stationary divider wall between said first and second fluid chambers;
fluid passage means for selectively communicating with at least said first and second fluid chambers for delivering pressurized fluid and for removing fluid from said fluid chambers; and elongated rod means, extending through said coaxial apertures and having at least first and second pistons connected thereto, for reciprocating respectively in said first and second fluid chambers in response to fluid delivered and removed by said fluid passage means, said elongated rod means having progressive stepped reductions in diameter spaced longitudinally along a length thereof corresponding to said first and second fluid chambers.
15. The actuator of claim 14 further comprising:
said fluid passage means extending at least in part through said rod means for communicating between at least corresponding sides of said first and second pistons within said first and second fluid chambers respectively.
said fluid passage means extending at least in part through said rod means for communicating between at least corresponding sides of said first and second pistons within said first and second fluid chambers respectively.
16. An actuator for forming a flange on a wheelhousing comprising:
an elongated housing having a constant diameter bore therethrough;
a first end cap at one end of said housing having a first rod-receiving bore therethrough;
a rod having a first diameter engageable through said first rod-receiving bore, said rod having first and second shoulders spaced longitudinally from one another to define at least first and second reduced diameter portions of said rod diameter, wherein said first rod diameter is greater than said first reduced diameter, and said first reduced diameter is greater than said second reduced diameter;
a first piston engageable with said first reduced diameter portion of said rod adjacent said first shoulder and having an outer diameter less than said constant diameter bore;
a first cylindrical sleeve having an outer diameter engageable with said constant diameter bore of said housing and an inner diameter engageable with said outer diameter of said first piston;
an intermediate, radially extending, piston chamber wall having a first periphery engageable with said constant diameter bore of said housing and a second periphery engageable with said inner diameter of said first cylindrical sleeve, said wall having an aperture therethrough engageable with said first reduced diameter portion of said rod to enclose said first piston within a first piston chamber;
a second piston engageable with said second reduced diameter portion of said rod adjacent said second shoulder and having an outer diameter less than said constant diameter of said bore;
a second cylindrical sleeve having an outer diameter engageable with said constant diameter bore of said housing and an inner diameter engageable with said outer diameter of said second piston; and a second end cap at an opposite end of said housing having a second rod-receiving bore therethrough.
an elongated housing having a constant diameter bore therethrough;
a first end cap at one end of said housing having a first rod-receiving bore therethrough;
a rod having a first diameter engageable through said first rod-receiving bore, said rod having first and second shoulders spaced longitudinally from one another to define at least first and second reduced diameter portions of said rod diameter, wherein said first rod diameter is greater than said first reduced diameter, and said first reduced diameter is greater than said second reduced diameter;
a first piston engageable with said first reduced diameter portion of said rod adjacent said first shoulder and having an outer diameter less than said constant diameter bore;
a first cylindrical sleeve having an outer diameter engageable with said constant diameter bore of said housing and an inner diameter engageable with said outer diameter of said first piston;
an intermediate, radially extending, piston chamber wall having a first periphery engageable with said constant diameter bore of said housing and a second periphery engageable with said inner diameter of said first cylindrical sleeve, said wall having an aperture therethrough engageable with said first reduced diameter portion of said rod to enclose said first piston within a first piston chamber;
a second piston engageable with said second reduced diameter portion of said rod adjacent said second shoulder and having an outer diameter less than said constant diameter of said bore;
a second cylindrical sleeve having an outer diameter engageable with said constant diameter bore of said housing and an inner diameter engageable with said outer diameter of said second piston; and a second end cap at an opposite end of said housing having a second rod-receiving bore therethrough.
17. An actuator assembled by a method comprising the steps of:
providing housing means having an aperture extending therethrough;
connecting first end cap means to close one end of said aperture in said housing means, said first end cap means having a rod-receiving aperture extending therethrough;
inserting rod means through said rod-receiving aperture of said first end cap means for reciprocating between first and second end limits of movement, said rod means having longitudinally spaced, progressively reduced diameter portions extending from a first end to a second end;
inserting first sleeve means in said aperture of said housing means for abutting against said first end cap means;
connecting a first piston on said rod means for engaging between said rod means and said first sleeve means, said first piston connected to a first reduced diameter portion of said rod means for reciprocating with said rod means between said first and second end limits of movement;
inserting an intermediate radially extending wall means slidably on said rod means to enclose said first piston within a first fluid chamber defined by said first end cap means, said first sleeve means and said intermediate wall means;
inserting second sleeve means in said aperture of said housing means for interposing said intermediate wall means between said first and second sleeve means;
connecting a second piston on said rod means for engaging between said rod means and said second sleeve means, said second piston connected to a second reduced diameter portion of said rod means; and connecting second end cap means to said housing means for closing an opposite end of said aperture in said housing means.
providing housing means having an aperture extending therethrough;
connecting first end cap means to close one end of said aperture in said housing means, said first end cap means having a rod-receiving aperture extending therethrough;
inserting rod means through said rod-receiving aperture of said first end cap means for reciprocating between first and second end limits of movement, said rod means having longitudinally spaced, progressively reduced diameter portions extending from a first end to a second end;
inserting first sleeve means in said aperture of said housing means for abutting against said first end cap means;
connecting a first piston on said rod means for engaging between said rod means and said first sleeve means, said first piston connected to a first reduced diameter portion of said rod means for reciprocating with said rod means between said first and second end limits of movement;
inserting an intermediate radially extending wall means slidably on said rod means to enclose said first piston within a first fluid chamber defined by said first end cap means, said first sleeve means and said intermediate wall means;
inserting second sleeve means in said aperture of said housing means for interposing said intermediate wall means between said first and second sleeve means;
connecting a second piston on said rod means for engaging between said rod means and said second sleeve means, said second piston connected to a second reduced diameter portion of said rod means; and connecting second end cap means to said housing means for closing an opposite end of said aperture in said housing means.
18. The actuator assembled by the method of claim 17 further comprising the steps of:
inserting a second intermediate radially extending wall means slidably on said rod means to enclose said second piston within a second fluid chamber defined by said second intermediate wall means, said second sleeve means and said intermediate wall means;
inserting third sleeve means in said aperture of said housing means for interposing said second intermediate wall means between said second and third sleeve means; and connecting a third piston on said rod means for engaging between said rod means and said third sleeve means, said third piston connected to a third reduced diameter portion of said rod means.
inserting a second intermediate radially extending wall means slidably on said rod means to enclose said second piston within a second fluid chamber defined by said second intermediate wall means, said second sleeve means and said intermediate wall means;
inserting third sleeve means in said aperture of said housing means for interposing said second intermediate wall means between said second and third sleeve means; and connecting a third piston on said rod means for engaging between said rod means and said third sleeve means, said third piston connected to a third reduced diameter portion of said rod means.
19. The actuator assembled by the method of claim 17 further comprising the steps of:
inserting a third intermediate radially extending wall means slidably on said rod means to enclose said third piston within a third fluid chamber defined by said third intermediate wall means, said third sleeve means and said second intermediate wall means;
inserting fourth sleeve means in said aperture of said housing means for interposing said third intermediate wall means between said third and fourth sleeve means;
connecting a fourth piston on said rod means for engaging between said rod means and said fourth sleeve means, said fourth piston connected to a fourth reduced diameter portion of said rod means.
inserting a third intermediate radially extending wall means slidably on said rod means to enclose said third piston within a third fluid chamber defined by said third intermediate wall means, said third sleeve means and said second intermediate wall means;
inserting fourth sleeve means in said aperture of said housing means for interposing said third intermediate wall means between said third and fourth sleeve means;
connecting a fourth piston on said rod means for engaging between said rod means and said fourth sleeve means, said fourth piston connected to a fourth reduced diameter portion of said rod means.
20. The actuator assembled by the method of claim 17 further comprising the steps of:
providing housing means having a second aperture extending therethrough;
connecting first cap means to close one end of said second aperture in said housing means, said first cap means having a rod-receiving aperture extending therethrough;
inserting second rod means through said rod-receiving aperture of said first cap means for reciprocating between first and second end limits of movement, said second rod means having longitudinally spaced, progressively reduced diameter portions extending from a first end to a second end;
inserting first liner means in said second aperture of said housing means for abutting against said first cap means;
connecting a first piston head on said second rod means for engaging between said second rod means and said first liner means, said first piston head connected to a first reduced diameter portion of said second rod means for reciprocating with said second rod means between said first and second end limits of movement;
inserting an intermediate radially extending plate means slidably on said second rod means to enclose said first piston head within a first piston chamber defined by said first cap means, said first liner means and said intermediate plate means;
inserting second liner means in said second aperture of said housing means for interposing said intermediate plate means between said first and second liner means;
connecting a second piston head on said second rod means for engaging between said second rod means and said second liner means, said second piston head connected to a second reduced diameter portion of said second rod means; and connecting second cap means to said housing means for closing an opposite end of said second aperture in said housing means.
providing housing means having a second aperture extending therethrough;
connecting first cap means to close one end of said second aperture in said housing means, said first cap means having a rod-receiving aperture extending therethrough;
inserting second rod means through said rod-receiving aperture of said first cap means for reciprocating between first and second end limits of movement, said second rod means having longitudinally spaced, progressively reduced diameter portions extending from a first end to a second end;
inserting first liner means in said second aperture of said housing means for abutting against said first cap means;
connecting a first piston head on said second rod means for engaging between said second rod means and said first liner means, said first piston head connected to a first reduced diameter portion of said second rod means for reciprocating with said second rod means between said first and second end limits of movement;
inserting an intermediate radially extending plate means slidably on said second rod means to enclose said first piston head within a first piston chamber defined by said first cap means, said first liner means and said intermediate plate means;
inserting second liner means in said second aperture of said housing means for interposing said intermediate plate means between said first and second liner means;
connecting a second piston head on said second rod means for engaging between said second rod means and said second liner means, said second piston head connected to a second reduced diameter portion of said second rod means; and connecting second cap means to said housing means for closing an opposite end of said second aperture in said housing means.
Applications Claiming Priority (3)
| Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
|---|---|---|---|
| US53606095A | 1995-09-29 | 1995-09-29 | |
| US08/536,060 | 1995-09-29 | ||
| FR9612029A FR2739421A1 (en) | 1995-09-29 | 1996-09-30 | Machine tool for forming flange on vehicle wheel rim |
Publications (1)
| Publication Number | Publication Date |
|---|---|
| CA2185378A1 true CA2185378A1 (en) | 1997-03-30 |
Family
ID=26233016
Family Applications (1)
| Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
|---|---|---|---|
| CA002185378A Abandoned CA2185378A1 (en) | 1995-09-29 | 1996-09-12 | Actuator for forming a flange on a wheelhouse |
Country Status (4)
| Country | Link |
|---|---|
| CA (1) | CA2185378A1 (en) |
| DE (1) | DE19641514A1 (en) |
| FR (1) | FR2739421A1 (en) |
| GB (1) | GB2305695A (en) |
Families Citing this family (3)
| Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| DE10224075C1 (en) * | 2002-05-31 | 2003-11-27 | Audi Ag | Folding device for securing reinforcing frame on inside of automobile sliding roof opening by provision of folded connection flange |
| CA2536141C (en) | 2003-08-19 | 2010-02-02 | Honda Motor Co., Ltd. | Method and device for machining flange part of wheel arch |
| DE102005029030B4 (en) * | 2005-06-21 | 2014-05-15 | Volkswagen Ag | Method and device for producing a flanging in vehicle construction |
Family Cites Families (7)
| Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| SE396639B (en) * | 1976-03-03 | 1977-09-26 | Westin & Backlund Ab | CONTROLLER INCLUDING A NUMBER OF CHAMBER TO WHICH PRESSURE MEDIUM IS SUPPLIED OR DERIVATED IN ORDER TO VIA PRESSURE-TRANSFERENT ELEMENT BIBRINGA A SHELVING OUTGOING AXLE MOVEMENT IN THE REGULATOR |
| US4141220A (en) * | 1977-12-05 | 1979-02-27 | Caterpillar Tractor Co. | Multiple input, single output mechanical actuator |
| US4506867A (en) * | 1981-12-17 | 1985-03-26 | Mcdermott Incorporated | Jacking apparatus having a fast repositioning stroke |
| DE3408607A1 (en) * | 1984-03-09 | 1985-09-12 | Festo KG, 7300 Esslingen | PISTON CYLINDER AGGREGATE |
| GB2238010B (en) * | 1989-10-25 | 1993-02-17 | Hwa Chin Machinery Factory Co | Bicylinder actuator for a plastics injection moulding machine |
| DE4206319C2 (en) * | 1992-02-29 | 1994-04-28 | Otto Maenner | Needle valve with piston drive |
| JPH0762481B2 (en) * | 1992-03-19 | 1995-07-05 | 浩然 高 | Fluid cylinder |
-
1996
- 1996-09-12 CA CA002185378A patent/CA2185378A1/en not_active Abandoned
- 1996-09-24 GB GB9619918A patent/GB2305695A/en not_active Withdrawn
- 1996-09-27 DE DE19641514A patent/DE19641514A1/en not_active Withdrawn
- 1996-09-30 FR FR9612029A patent/FR2739421A1/en not_active Withdrawn
Also Published As
| Publication number | Publication date |
|---|---|
| FR2739421A1 (en) | 1997-04-04 |
| DE19641514A1 (en) | 1997-04-03 |
| GB2305695A (en) | 1997-04-16 |
| GB9619918D0 (en) | 1996-11-06 |
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Legal Events
| Date | Code | Title | Description |
|---|---|---|---|
| FZDE | Discontinued |
Effective date: 20000912 |