DE102017125621A1 - Connecting element for fiber composite components, method for connecting fiber composite components, apparatus for connecting fiber composite components and fiber composite component assembly - Google Patents

Abstract

The invention relates to a fiber composite component connector (12,14) comprising a plate (24) and a plurality of spaced pins (30) seated on the plate (24), the pins (30) being connected to the plate Penetrating into a matrix material (18) of the fiber composite material, wherein the pins (30) are plastically deformable, and wherein in a fixing position of the connecting element, a pin (30) by plastic deformation at least partially transverse to a penetrating direction (44) of the corresponding pin (30) 30) is oriented in the matrix material (18) and / or bent at least in regions relative to its orientation in a starting position and / or at least partially has a transverse orientation to its orientation in the starting position.

Description

The invention relates to a connecting element for fiber composite components.

The invention further relates to a method for joining fiber composite components.

Furthermore, the invention relates to a device for connecting fiber composite components.

Furthermore, the invention relates to a fiber composite component assembly.

In the article "STRENGTH OF SELF-PIERCING RIVETED JOINTS FOR CFRP / ALUMINUM SHEETS" by L. Kroll et al., 18th International Conference on Composite Materials describes bonding technologies for hybrid materials and structures ,

The invention has for its object to provide a connecting element of the type mentioned, with which can be easily connect fiber composite components.

This object is achieved in the above-mentioned connecting element according to the invention in that a plate is provided, and that a plurality of spaced pins are provided, which sit on the plate, wherein the pins are provided for penetration into a matrix material of the fiber composite material, wherein the pins are plastically deformable, and wherein in a fixing position of the connecting element, a pin is oriented by plastic deformation at least partially transverse to a direction of penetration of the corresponding pin in the matrix material and / or at least partially bent relative to its orientation in a starting position and / or at least partially a Has transverse orientation to its orientation in the starting position.

The connecting element can be introduced into the fiber composite components via its pins during the production of the connection.

Due to the spaced pins, which do not form areas enclosed by semi-hollow punch rivets, there is no local separation of material.

In particular, no fibers are severed in the fiber composite, but these are merely displaced; the fibers can dodge and are not damaged.

Due to the plastic deformability of the pins, an anchoring of the connecting element in the fiber composite components can be achieved and these can be fixed relative to each other.

To make the connection, no pilot holes are necessary and there are no chip contamination in the environment.

By connecting fiber composite components with connecting elements according to the invention, advantageous crack stop properties result.

Furthermore, fiber composite components can be combined with greater tolerances, since the corresponding joining partners do not have to have parallel surfaces across large areas.

A corresponding connecting element can be produced in a simple and cost-effective manner.

Furthermore, a connection can be produced in a simple and cost-effective manner.

It is favorable if at least three pins, preferably at least five pins and in particular at least seven pins are provided. This results in a good connectivity.

It is particularly advantageous if the pins are spaced apart and in particular evenly spaced on a closed line. For example, they are arranged on a circle. A corresponding connecting element then has the approximate structure of a semi-hollow punch rivet, but no area is enclosed. This means that no material has to be separated when penetrating into a joining partner, that is, there is no local separation of material instead. Furthermore, fibers can escape and by this fiber displacement, a separation of fibers can be avoided.

It is favorable if a pin has a tapering area at one end, which faces away from the plate. This tapering region can be produced, for example, by one or more wedge surfaces, by a conical or partially conical surface, etc. The tapering region allows easy penetration into matrix material of a fiber composite material (which in particular is heated).

In an advantageous embodiment, a pin has a tapering area parallel to the plate with respect to its cross section, in particular, a region of greater width is closer to an edge of the plate than a region of smaller width. As a result, it is easy to specify a direction for the plastic deformation and thus for a type of bending of a pin. In particular, this makes it possible in a simple manner to bend a pin away from a central region of the plate with appropriate exertion of force in order to obtain an effective anchoring and thus again to achieve a good connection between fiber composite components.

It is advantageous if the pins are connected to the plate and in particular are integrally connected. This results in a connecting element which can be used and produced in a simple manner.

In one embodiment, at least one barb is disposed on a pin. These barbs form a kind of spines. It can be used to achieve an additional (positive) anchoring. This results in an improved connection between (at least) two fiber composite components.

According to the invention, a method is provided for joining fiber composite components with at least one connecting element according to the invention, in which the at least one connecting element is moved from a first side of a fiber composite component assembly in a direction from the first side to a second side of the fiber composite component. Arrangement is pressed into the fiber composite component assembly, and in which on the second side, a counter-element is or is positioned.

It is first introduced a connecting element in the fiber composite component assembly. The pins can penetrate into the fiber composite material. A plastic deformation can be achieved via the counter element in order to achieve a "hooking" of the pins in the combination of fiber composite components.

It may be provided that the counter element is pressed in a direction from the second side to the first side. This allows the plastic deformation of pins can be achieved. Furthermore, a workpiece (the fiber composite component assembly) can be clamped.

It is particularly advantageous if the fiber composite component assembly is heated and, in particular in the case of thermoplastic matrix material of the fiber composite material of the fiber composite component assembly, heating takes place in a thermoplastic state or flowable state of the matrix material. In particular, heating takes place via a consolidation temperature. As a result, the pins can be easily inserted into the fiber composite material. Fibers can dodge and are not severed. This is supported by the increased viscosity of the matrix material. Subsequent consolidation gives a strong bond with excellent crack-stop properties. In addition, an additional cohesive connection in the manner of a thermoplastic welding can also be achieved at an interface between fiber composite components.

In an advantageous embodiment, the counter element, adapted to the at least one connecting element, has a recess for positioning pins. By a corresponding depression can be targeted control a positioning of pins. For example, a direction for the plastic deformation, such as by bending, can be achieved thereby. Furthermore, a kind of diversion can be achieved.

It is favorable if the depression surrounds a central area in a ring-shaped manner, wherein in particular the central area corresponds to a closed line on which the pin elements are arranged on the plate of the at least one connecting element. It can be specifically controlled the plastic deformation of the pins and thus their position within the fiber composite component assembly.

It is particularly advantageous if the depression has a decreasing and in particular continuously decreasing depth towards a first edge which faces the central region and / or the depression leads to a second edge which is remote from the central region, has a decreasing and in particular continuous decreasing depth. There are so edges and the like avoided. It can thus be achieved in a simple manner targeted bending of the pins.

In one embodiment, the counter element is movably guided on a first sleeve, which is placed in particular on the fiber composite component assembly on the second side, in particular, the counter element and / or the first sleeve is heated and / or heated. By way of the first sleeve (in correspondence, in particular, with a second sleeve), a workpiece (the fiber composite component assembly) can be clamped in a defined manner and the corresponding connection process can be carried out. Furthermore, can be defined by the first sleeve, the counter element lead to a defined, spatially controlled optimized positioning of To reach connecting element with plastically deformed pins. Furthermore, a targeted heating can be carried out in order to soften the matrix material of the fiber composite material and bring it above its consolidation temperature, for example.

For the same reason, it is expedient for the at least one connecting element to be pressed via a punch in the direction from the first side to the second side, in particular the punch being guided on a second sleeve which, on the first side, is guided onto the fiber composite material. Component assembly is placed, in particular, the punch and / or the second sleeve is heated and / or heated. A workpiece can be clamped between the first sleeve and the second sleeve. The second sleeve can also be used as a guide for the stamp. The punch exerts the necessary compressive force to push a connector into the fiber composite component assembly.

It is advantageous if a heating element can be guided and / or guided on the second sleeve. This second heating element, which may also be the stamp, is used in particular to heat a large surface area, and in particular to heat a region in which then subsequently a connecting element is pressed.

In one embodiment, it is provided that a height of pins of the at least one connecting element above the associated plate is higher than or equal to a height (thickness) of the fiber composite component assembly. This achieves a good connection. Furthermore, it can be easily recognized whether one or more pins are broken during the connection process.

In particular, it is provided that, when the connection is made, pins of the at least one connecting element are bent by plastic deformation in comparison to an initial state and lie in the matrix material of the fiber composite material of the fiber composite component arrangement. In particular, they have such a bend that a deflection region is present. For example, when two fiber composite components are to be interconnected, it is advantageous for pins to be in both the first fiber composite component and the second fiber composite component to achieve a secure connection.

In a device according to the invention for connecting fiber composite components, a pressing device for pressing in a connecting element according to the invention is provided, and it is provided a counter element (die) for the deformation of pins of the connecting element.

The method according to the invention can be carried out on the device according to the invention.

The device according to the invention can be used to carry out the method according to the invention.

In particular, it is provided that the counter element is guided in a first sleeve and / or a punch of the pressing device is guided in a second sleeve, and in particular a heating device is arranged on at least one of the following: the counter element, the punch, the first sleeve , the second sleeve, a heating element, which is guided on the second sleeve. As a result, in particular a workpiece between the first sleeve and the second sleeve can be pressed. Furthermore, a connecting element can be pressed into the fiber composite component assembly via the punch and the counter element, and a plastic deformation of pins can be achieved. Matrix material of the fiber composite material can be made "soft" via the at least one heating device. This in turn can be achieved in a simple manner, a pressing of the connecting element. Fibers in the fiber composite material can be displaced and it is a separation prevented.

According to the invention, a fiber composite component assembly is further provided, comprising at least two fiber composite components, which are interconnected, wherein the connection is made with at least one connecting element according to the invention.

In addition, there may also be a cohesive connection at interfaces between two fiber composite components. This connection is achieved in particular via thermoplastic welding.

• 1 Eine schematische (Teilschnitt-)Ansicht von zwei Faserverbundwerkstoff-Bauteilen, welche über ein Ausführungsbeispiel eines erfindungsgemäßen Verbindungselements verbunden sind;
• 2 eine erste perspektivische Darstellung eines Ausführungsbeispiels eines Verbindungselements;
• 3 eine andere perspektivische Darstellung des Verbindungselements gemäß 2;
• 4 eine schematische Ansicht eines Ausführungsbeispiels einer Vorrichtung zur Verbindung von Faserverbundwerkstoff-Bauteilen;
• 5 bis 7 verschiedene Verfahrensschritte zur Herstellung der Verbindung mit der Vorrichtung gemäß 4;
• 8 schematisch eine hergestellte Verbindung (ähnlich zu 1);
• 9 eine erste perspektivische Ansicht eines weiteren Ausführungsbeispiels eines Verbindungselements;
• 10 eine zweite perspektivische Ansicht des Verbindungselements gemäß 9;
• 11 eine erste perspektivische Ansicht eines weiteren Ausführungsbeispiels eines Verbindungselements;
• 12 eine zweite perspektivische Ansicht des Verbindungselements gemäß 11;
• 13 eine erste perspektivische Ansicht eines weiteren Ausführungsbeispiels eines Verbindungselements; und
• 14 eine zweite perspektivische Ansicht des Verbindungselements gemäß 13.

The following description of preferred embodiments is used in conjunction with the drawings for further explanation of the invention. Show it:

• 1 A schematic (partial sectional) view of two fiber composite components, which are connected via an embodiment of a connecting element according to the invention;
• 2 a first perspective view of an embodiment of a connecting element;
• 3 another perspective view of the connecting element according to 2 ;
• 4 a schematic view of an embodiment of an apparatus for connecting fiber composite components;
• 5 to 7 various process steps for the preparation of the connection with the device according to 4 ;
• 8th schematically a prepared compound (similar to 1 );
• 9 a first perspective view of another embodiment of a connecting element;
• 10 a second perspective view of the connecting element according to 9 ;
• 11 a first perspective view of another embodiment of a connecting element;
• 12 a second perspective view of the connecting element according to 11 ;
• 13 a first perspective view of another embodiment of a connecting element; and
• 14 a second perspective view of the connecting element according to 13 ,

A fiber composite component assembly according to the invention, which in 1 shown schematically and with 10 is designated comprises (at least) a first fiber composite component 12 and a second fiber composite component 14 ,

The first fiber composite component 12 and the second fiber composite component 14 are made of a fiber composite material 16 prepared (cf. 4 ), which is a matrix material 18 includes and over fibers 20 fiber reinforced. The fibers 20 For example, they may be single fibers or may be in a woven, knitted or the like.

The matrix material 18 is in particular a thermoplastic material such as PEEK (polyetheretherketone).

In principle, the first fiber composite component 12 and the second fiber composite component 14 of the same material with respect to matrix material 18 and fibers 20 or of different materials with respect to matrix material 18 and / or fibers 20 be prepared.

The first fiber composite component 12 and the second fiber composite component 14 are about one and especially several fasteners 22 connected with each other. A connecting element 22 is a kind of rivet.

A connecting element 22 ( 2 and 3 ) includes a plate 24 , The dish 24 has a first page 26 and an opposite second side 28 on.

In one embodiment, the first page is 26 just trained. The second page 28 is in particular just trained. In a preferred embodiment, the first page is located 26 and the second page 28 parallel to each other.

The dish 24 is formed for example in the manner of a circular disk.

The first page 26 forms a contact surface with the first fiber composite component 12 , The second page 28 forms in the manufacture of the fiber composite component assembly 10 with connection via the at least one connecting element 22 a pressure surface for pressing the connecting element 22 in the fiber composite components 12 and 14 ,

The dish 24 especially on the second page 28 rounded to be sharp edges or the like on the second side 28 to avoid.

On the plate 28 sit a plurality of pins 30 , The pencils 30 are spaced from each other.

It is specifically intended that the pins 30 spaced on a closed line 32 ( 3 ) sit. This line 32 is in one embodiment ( 2 . 3 ) a circle line.

The closed line 32 is in the embodiment according to the 2 and 3 parallel spaced to an edge 34 of the plate 24 ,

The pencils 30 are particularly evenly spaced on the plate 24 arranged, that is, a distance between adjacent pins 30 is the same for all pens.

A pen 30 juts across to the first page 26 over the plate 24 out there.

In the embodiment shown is a pin 30 perpendicular to the first page 26 of the plate 24 oriented.

A pen 30 indicates at one end 36 which faces away from the plate 24 is, a rejuvenation area 38 on. This rejuvenation area 38 is for example a wedge surface ( 2 . 3 ) educated. It can also be formed over a plurality of wedge surfaces or, for example, via a conical tip (cf. 9 to 12 ).

The rejuvenation area 38 serves to facilitate penetration into the fiber composite components 12 . 14 ,

The number of pens 30 is preferably at least three and more preferably at least five and especially at least seven.

In the in the 2 and 3 shown embodiment are ten pins 30 available.

Basically, the number of pens depends 30 and their dimensions and the dimensions of the plate 24 to the application, that is to the fiber composite components 12 . 14 which are to be connected with each other.

In a preferred embodiment, a height H corresponds to the pins 30 a height D (Thickness D ) of the fiber composite component assembly 10 (see. 1 ), or this height H is greater than the thickness D ,

When the height H of the pens 30 is greater than the thickness D and especially slightly larger than the thickness D , then control can be done easily, whether pens 30 are broken off during the manufacturing process of the connection.

It is possible that all pins 30 the same height H have, or that different heights H for different pens 30 are provided.

The fat D the produced fiber composite component assembly 10 is the sum of the thicknesses d ₁ of the first fiber composite component 12 and d ₂ of the second fiber composite component 14 , A typical order of magnitude for the thicknesses d ₁ and d ₂ is 1 to 3 mm.

At the connecting element 22 according to the 2 . 3 is an even number of pens 30 intended. These are on the line 32 positioned. connecting lines 40 between diametrically opposed pins 30 intersect at one point 42 which is a center of the line 32 is. This results in a uniform force distribution.

The connecting element 22 is in particular made of a metallic material. The pencils 30 are plastically deformable. In the 2 . 3 is an initial state of the connecting element 22 shown. Due to the plastic deformability, the pins 30 change their orientation relative to the initial state. In particular, they can be bent at least in certain areas (and relative to the plate 24 to bend). Relative to a penetration direction 44 of the connecting element 22 in a fiber composite component 12 respectively 14 (indicated in 2 ) let the pins 30 at least partially cross-oriented. Relative to the starting position, which in particular perpendicular to the plate 24 is, let the pins 30 at least partially provided by plastic deformation with a transverse orientation.

In 1 is a fixing position of the connecting element 22 shown at which the pins 30 to the plate 24 and based on the starting position in accordance with 2 . 3 are bent.

Due to the plastic deformability and bending of the pins 30 These can be when penetrating into a fiber composite component 12 respectively 14 on fibers 20 be passed and it can be an anchorage in the fiber composite components 12 . 14 take place, whereby a connection between these is possible to the fiber composite component assembly 10 manufacture.

The pencils 30 are on the plate 24 in particular arranged and designed such that a plastic deformability of the pins 30 (a bendability) is present, which of the line 32 outward (towards the edge 34 out) takes place. In particular, there is a bendability in a radial direction 46 ( 3 ) away from the point 42 in front.

In addition to the connection with the connecting elements 22 can also be a weld at an interface 48 between the fiber composite components 12 and 14 available.

An embodiment of a device 50 ( 4 to 7 ) for connecting fiber composite components 12 . 14 (In which more than two fiber composite components can be connected to each other), includes a stamp 52 ( 6 ), via which a connecting element 22 with his pencils 30 in fiber composite components 12 . 14 can be pressed by penetrating the pins 30 in the direction of penetration 44 into the corresponding matrix material 18 and with displacement of fibers 20 if these are the pins 30 should be in the way.

The stamp 52 is a counter element 54 (Matrix) assigned. A fiber composite component assembly 56 before the connection has a first page 58 and an opposite second side 60 , It is envisaged that a connecting element 22 on the first page 58 is positioned and the stamp 52 in one direction 62 from the first page 58 to the second page 60 is moved to the connecting element 22 with the penetration direction 44 of the pens 30 into the matrix material 18 the fiber composite component assembly 56 bring to.

The counter element 54 will be on the second page 60 positioned to act as a counter-element.

It may also be provided in particular that the counter element 54 in one direction 64 which is an opposite direction to the direction 62 is, and a direction from the second page 60 to the first page 58 corresponds to, against the fiber composite component assembly 56 is pressed.

In one embodiment, a first sleeve 66 intended. The first sleeve 66 is for positioning on the second side 60 certainly.

The first sleeve 66 has a guide recess 68 on, in which the counter element 54 slidably guided. The first sleeve 66 is configured in particular ring-shaped, for example in the form of a circular ring. The guide recess 68 is in particular formed as a hollow cylinder. The counter element 54 is then formed in particular cylindrically.

The first sleeve 66 is for fixed positioning on the second side 60 intended. In the guide recess 68 can then be the counter element 54 in that direction 64 lead and thereby to the fiber composite component assembly 56 press it.

In one embodiment, the counter element comprises 54 a heating device 70 , About this heater 70 is the fiber composite component assembly such heated, that in particular a consolidation temperature for the matrix material 18 can be reached. The heating preferably takes place via the heating device 70 such that matrix material 18 can be brought into a "soft" or flowable state.

It may alternatively or additionally be provided that the first sleeve 66 a heating device 72 to achieve the same heating effect.

In one embodiment, a second sleeve 74 provided, which for positioning on the first page 58 serves. The second sleeve 74 is formed in particular in the form of a cylinder ring.

A workpiece can be placed between the first sleeve 66 and the second sleeve 74 Clamp.

The second sleeve 74 has a guide recess 76 on. The guide recess 76 is adapted to the dimensions of the connecting element 22 and at the same time the plate 24 , This can be through the guide recess 66 pass it to the pins 30 in the fiber composite component assembly 56 to be able to bring. The second sleeve 74 forms a positioning template for the connecting element 22 ,

Furthermore, the guide recess serves 76 to the stamp 52 to lead and with the stamp 52 the plate 24 (on the second page 28 ) to apply to the connecting element 22 with his pencils 30 in the fiber composite component assembly 57 to press.

It is particularly provided that the second sleeve 74 a heating device 78 over which the fiber composite component assembly 56 from the first page 58 is heated ago.

It can also be a heating element 80 be provided ( 4 . 5 ), which is also a heater 82 having. It is provided in particular, this heating element 80 in the guide recess 76 lead to the area at the fiber composite component assembly 56 which is not from the second sleeve 74 is touched and thus not in thermal contact with this, to heat. This will cause the heating element 80 in the guide recess 76 to the first page 58 pressed for a thermal contact.

The heating element 80 is used before the connecting element 22 in the guide recess 76 is brought and stamped 52 in the fiber composite component assembly 56 is pressed.

The heating element 80 can by the stamp 52 be formed or separated from this.

Basically, it is possible that the stamp 52 itself has a heating device, and so in particular the connecting element 22 , which is then preferably made of a metallic material, heats.

The inventive method for producing the fiber composite component assembly 10 with connected first fiber composite component 12 and second fiber composite component 14 by one or more connecting elements 22 from the fiber composite component assembly 56 before the connection takes place as follows:

The first fiber composite component 12 and the second fiber composite component 14 are put together.

It may be provided that, as mentioned above, the interface 48 between the first fiber composite component 12 and the second fiber composite component 14 is heated and in particular a flat welded joint is performed.

It will then be on the device 50 the first sleeve 66 to the second page 60 the fiber composite component assembly 56 created before the connection. Further, the second sleeve 74 created while the corresponding workpiece clamped.

The first sleeve 66 and the second sleeve 74 in particular have at least approximately the same transverse measurements and are aligned with each other.

It can be provided that these are pressed together.

It becomes the counter element 54 in the guide recess 68 brought and to the second page 60 guided. The heating element 80 gets into the guide recess 76 brought and to the first page 58 guided.

There is a heating to heat the corresponding fiber composite and thereby the matrix material 18 to heat, so that it is in a thermoplastic state or is flowable.

If, for example, PEEK as a matrix material 18 is used, then heating to about 400 ° C, according to the consolidation temperature of the matrix material 18 to reach. Parallel to this is the connecting element 22 heated.

It will then pass through the guide recess 76 a connecting element 22 to the first page 58 guided and stamped 52 in the fiber composite component assembly 56 pressed. The pencils 30 penetrate in the direction of penetration 44 into the matrix material 18 on.

fibers 20 when they are in the range of pens 30 come, repressed, and not severed. Heating causes the viscosity of the matrix material 18 so diminished that just this evasion of the fibers 20 is possible.

The counter element 54 is firmly positioned in this process step, that is such that it is not in the direction 62 can dodge.

If the pins 30 the counter element 54 apply (directly or with matrix material 18 in between), these are plastically deformed ( 7 ) and based on the initial state, the pins 30 bent over ( 7 ). These can thereby be in the matrix material 18 both of the first fiber composite component 12 as well as the second fiber composite component 14 anchored and the connection is reached.

The first page 26 of the plate 24 lies on the first page 58 of the first fiber composite component 12 and it is prevented further penetration.

In a fixation position 84 (see. 8th ) are the pins 30 in comparison to the starting position (cf. 6 ) bent. They have regionally a transverse orientation to the penetration direction 44 on and are regionally oriented transversely to this starting position.

By heating the fiber composite components 12 . 14 can, if previously no welded connection is made, a material connection at the interface 48 respectively.

In one embodiment, the counter element 54 on one side 86 , which is the second page 60 the fiber composite component assembly 46 faces in the preparation of the compound, a depression 88 on which ring a central area 90 surrounds. This depression 88 is through a first edge 92 to the central area 90 limited to, and by a second edge 94 to an outside of the counter element 54 limited.

The central area 90 is in its transverse dimensions to the plate 24 adapted (and thereby to the Führungsausnehmung 76 or the stamp 52 ). The central area 90 has in particular in a circular disk-shaped design of the plate 24 a slightly smaller diameter than the plate 24 ,

A depth T of the depression 88 shrinks to the first edge 92 down continuously and shrinks to the second edge 94 continuous. Between the first edge 92 and the second edge 94 indicates the depression 88 their greatest depth. There are in particular edges and the like on the recess 88 avoided.

The depression 88 is aligned with the position of the pins 30 on a connecting element 22 ,

If a connecting element 22 in the fiber composite component assembly 56 is pressed ( 6 ), then the pins can 30 into the depression 88 dodge and experience a kind of diversion there ( 7 ). It can be a kind of barb positioning in the fiber composite component assembly 56 reach just in the fiber composite component assembly 10 the fiber composite components 12 . 14 to connect with each other.

The depression 88 ensures appropriate adaptation to the connecting element 22 with the arrangement of his pins 30 for a targeted guidance of the plastic deformation of the pins 30 and in particular for a deflection for a purposeful bending.

Preferably, the central area corresponds 90 with the line 32 and especially these are in terms of direction 62 aligned with each other.

It can be provided that after positioning of the connecting element 22 with his pencils 30 for cooling the workpiece a defined cooling of the counter element 54 or the first sleeve 66 or the second sleeve 74 with the heating element 80 , which now acts as a cooling element, takes place in order to consolidate the joining partners 12 and 14 to reach.

The result is then the fiber composite component assembly 10 ( 1 respectively 8th ).

The method according to the invention is composed of a punched rivet of the connecting element 22 with elements of a thermoplastic welding process in which the matrix material 18 is brought over its consolidation temperature, just to be thermoplastic or to be flowable. Thereby, that several spaced pins 30 on the plate 24 are arranged, finds no local separation on the fiber composite components 12 . 14 instead of; it is a completely enclosed area as avoided in semi-hollow punching.

About the pins 30 can fibers 20 be displaced; a transection of fibers 20 is avoided. The heating of the matrix material 18 supports this displacement process by lowering the viscosity of the matrix material 18 ,

The plastic deformation of the pins 30 enables optimized positioning of the pins 30 in the fiber composite 16 the fiber composite component assembly 10 , The pencils 30 can, so to speak, get caught up in it and thus make the connection.

In addition to the mechanical connection via a connecting element 22 can also have a cohesive connection at the interface 58 by a previously performed thermoplastic welding process, or by appropriate heating during the "riveting process" by fasteners 22 respectively.

The connection via a connecting element 22 can be produced without having to pre-drill. As a result, no chips are created which cause contamination of the environment.

Through existing fasteners 22 obtained for a manufactured fiber composite component assembly 10 Very good crack-stop properties, ie the propagation of cracks can be limited.

Furthermore, fiber composite components can be 12 . 14 produce with relatively high tolerances in the joining partners, as not necessarily parallel or exactly parallel surfaces must be present.

A connecting element 22 can be produced easily. It may be made, for example, from a deep-drawing steel or from an alloy such as Ti-6Al-4V.

A device 50 for the preparation of a compound can be formed in a structurally simple way and use universally.

Fiber composite material component assemblies 10 which by the method according to the invention or by means of connecting elements according to the invention 22 can be used in many areas such as aircraft, automotive, sports equipment, etc. use. In principle, all fiber composite components with thermoplastic matrix material can be 18 connect.

As mentioned above, the arrangement and design of the pins depends 30 on the plate 24 as well as the number of pens 30 from the respective application.

In a further embodiment of a connecting element 96 ( 9 . 10 ) are on a plate 98 pencils 100 arranged. In their initial position, these pins protrude 100 vertically from the plate 98 path. A pen 100 refers to a cross section 102 parallel to the plate 98 a rejuvenation area 104 on. At this rejuvenation area 104 is a width 106 to an edge 108 of the plate 98 larger than a width 110 to a center.

In cross section 102 is a jetty 100 For example, at least approximately triangular.

In particular, such a rejuvenation area extends 104 over an entire height of a pen 100 into a rejuvenation area at one end.

The rejuvenation area 104 in cross section 102 is used in the plastic deformation bending outwards (from a center 112 away).

Through the rejuvenation area 104 can specify a bending direction.

In a further embodiment of a connecting element 114 ( 11 . 12 ) is a plate 116 provided on which pins 118 project vertically upwards in a starting position. A pen 108 has a circular cross-section and is at one end 120 with a tip 122 Provided; at the end 120 is a rejuvenation area 124 formed, which to the top 122 leads.

The pencils 118 are arranged in particular spaced on a circular line.

In a further embodiment of a connecting element 126 ( 13 . 14 ) is a plate 128 provided at which an initial state pins 130 project vertically upwards.

In the embodiment shown, the pins 130 a circular cross-section on and a rejuvenation area 132 in the area of one to the plate 128 opposite end.

At the pins 130 sit a plurality of barbs 134 ,

In one embodiment, a barb is formed in the manner of a pin which extends transversely from the pin 130 protrudes.

Such a barb 134 has, for example, a triangular shape.

The barbs 134 cause a surface enlargement of the combination of pen 130 with barbs 134 ,

The barbs 134 provide additional positive fixation in consolidated matrix material 18 ,

In particular, are circumferentially around the pin 130 distributes barbs 134 arranged. These can be at different heights relative to the distance to the plate 128 be arranged.

In one embodiment, a barb 134 based on a coat 136 of a pen 130 a first flank 138 and a second flank 140 on. The first flank 138 is arranged and designed so that they are at an obtuse angle 142 (greater than 180 °) to the coat 136 lies. The first flank 138 is facing away from the plate 128 ,

The second flank 140 is facing the plate 128 , It is especially at an acute angle 144 to the coat 136 ,

The arrangement of the first flank 138 in the obtuse angle 142 facilitates the penetration of a pen 130 during insertion into the fiber composite component assembly 56 ,

LIST OF REFERENCE NUMBERS

10

Fiber composite material component assembly

12

First fiber composite component

14

Second fiber composite component

16

Fiber composite material

18

matrix material

20

fibers

22

connecting element

24

Plate

26

First page

28

Second page

30

pencils

32

line

34

edge

36

The End

38

tapering region

40

connecting line

42

Point

44

penetration device

46

Radial area

48

interface

50

device

52

stamp

54

counter-element

56

Fiber composite component arrangement before / at connection

58

First page

60

Second page

62

direction

64

direction

66

First sleeve

68

guide recess

70

heater

72

heater

74

Second sleeve

76

guide recess

78

heater

80

heating element

82

heater

84

fixation position

86

page

88

deepening

90

Central area

92

First edge

94

Second edge

96

connecting element

98

Plate

100

pencils

102

cross-section

104

tapering region

106

width

108

edge

110

width

112

center

114

connecting element

116

Plate

118

pen

120

The End

122

top

124

tapering region

126

connecting element

128

Plate

130

pen

132

tapering region

134

barb

136

coat

138

First flank

140

Second flank

142

Dull angle

144

acute angle

QUOTES INCLUDE IN THE DESCRIPTION

This list of the documents listed by the applicant has been generated automatically and is included solely for the better information of the reader. The list is not part of the German patent or utility model application. The DPMA assumes no liability for any errors or omissions.

Cited non-patent literature

• "STRENGTH OF SELF-PIERCING RIVETED JOINTS FOR CFRP / ALUMINUM SHEETS" by L. Kroll et al., 18 ^th International Conference on Composite Materials are interconnect technologies for hybrid materials and structures described [0005]

Claims (21)

A fiber composite component connector (12, 14) comprising a plate (24; 98; 116; 128) and a plurality of spaced apart pins (30; 100; 118; 130) attached to the plate (24; 98; 116) 128), wherein the pins (30; 100; 118; 130) are provided for penetration into a matrix material (18) of the fiber composite material, wherein the pins (30; 100; 118; 130) are plastically deformable, and wherein in one Fixing position of the connecting element is a pin (30; 100; 118; 130) by plastic deformation at least partially transverse to a penetration direction (44) of the corresponding pin (30; 100; 118; 130) oriented in the matrix material (18) and / or at least is partially bent in relation to its orientation in a starting position and / or at least partially has a transverse orientation to its orientation in the starting position. Connecting element after Claim 1 characterized by at least three pins (30; 100; 118; 130), preferably at least five pins (30; 100; 118; 130) and in particular by at least seven pins (30; 100; 118; 130). Connecting element after Claim 1 or 2 , characterized in that the pins (30; 100; 118; 130) are spaced and in particular evenly spaced on a closed line (32). A connector according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that a pin (30; 100; 118; 130) has a tapered portion (38; 104; 124; 132) at one end (36) which faces the plate (24; 98; 116) 128) faces away from. Connecting element according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that a pin (100) with respect to its cross section (102) parallel to the plate (98) has a tapering region (104), wherein in particular a region of greater width (106) closer to one Edge (108) of the plate (98) lies as a smaller width region (110). Connecting element according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the pins (30; 100; 118; 130) are connected to the plate (24; 98; 116; 128) and in particular are integrally connected. Connecting element according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that at least one barb (134) is arranged on a pin (130). A method of joining fiber composite components (12; 14) to at least one connecting element (22; 96; 114; 126) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein said at least one connecting element (22; 96; 114; 126) is from a first side (58) a fiber composite component assembly (56) in a direction (60) from the first side (58) to a second side (60) of the fiber composite component assembly (56) in the fiber composite component assembly (56). 56) is pressed, and on the second side (60) a counter-element (54) is or is positioned. Method according to Claim 8 characterized in that the mating member (54) is urged in a direction from the second side (60) to the first side (58). Method according to Claim 8 or 9 , characterized in that the fiber composite component assembly (56) is heated and in particular in thermoplastic matrix material (18) of the fiber composite material of the fiber composite component assembly, a heating in a thermoplastic state or flowable state of the matrix material (18). Method according to one of Claims 8 to 10 , characterized in that the counter element (54) adapted to the at least one connecting element (22; 96; 114; 126) has a recess (98) for positioning pins (30; 100; 118; 130). Method according to Claim 11 , characterized in that the recess (88) annularly surrounds a central region (90), wherein in particular the central region (90) corresponds to a closed line (32) on which the pins (30; 100; 118; 130) abut the plate (24; 98; 116; 128) of the at least one connecting element (22; 96; 114; 126) are arranged. Method according to Claim 12 , characterized in that the depression (88) towards a first edge (92) which faces the central region (90) has a decreasing and in particular continuously decreasing depth and / or that the depression (88) becomes a second edge (94) facing away from the central region (90) has a decreasing and in particular continuously decreasing depth. Method according to one of Claims 8 to 13 , characterized in that the counter element (54) is movably guided on a first sleeve (66) which is placed in particular on the Faserverbundwerksoff-component arrangement (56) on the second side (60), wherein in particular the Counter-element (54) and / or the first sleeve (66) is heated and / or heated. Method according to one of Claims 8 to 14 characterized in that the at least one connecting element (22; 96; 114; 126) is pressed via a punch (52) in the direction (62) from the first side (58) to the second side (60), wherein in particular Stamp (52) on a second sleeve (74) is guided, which is placed on the first side (58) on the fiber composite component assembly (56), wherein in particular the punch (52) and / or the second sleeve (74 ) is heated and / or heated. Method according to Claim 15 , characterized in that on the second sleeve (74), a heating element (80) can be guided and / or guided. Method according to one of Claims 8 to 16 characterized in that a height (H) of pins (30; 100; 118; 130) of the at least one connecting element (22; 96; 114; 126) above the associated plate (24; 98; 116; 128) is higher than or equal to is like a height (D) of the fiber composite component assembly (56; 10). Method according to one of Claims 8 to 17 characterized in that, when the connection is made, pins (30; 100; 118; 130) of the at least one connecting element (22; 96; 114; 126) are bent relative to their initial state and in the matrix material (18) of the fiber composite material is the fiber composite component Arrangement (10) lie. Device for connecting fiber composite components, comprising a pressing device (52) for pressing in a connecting element (22; 96; 114; 126) according to one of Claims 1 to 7 in a fiber composite component assembly (56), and a counter element (54) for deforming pins (30; 100; 118; 130) of the connecting element (22; 96; 114; 126). Device after Claim 19 , characterized in that the counter element (54) in a first sleeve (66) is guided and / or a punch (52) of the pressing device in a second sleeve (74) is guided, and in particular a heating device (70, 72, 78; 82) is arranged on at least one of the following: the counter element (54), the punch (52), the first sleeve (66), the second sleeve (74), a heating element (80) mounted in the second sleeve (74 ) is guided. A fiber composite component assembly comprising at least two fiber composite components (12, 14) connected to at least one connecting element (22; 96; 114; 126) according to any one of Claims 1 to 7 are connected.

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