JP2002526264A - Apparatus and method for manufacturing wheel by electromagnetic high energy capacity forming method - Google Patents

Abstract

(57) [Summary] A method for manufacturing a vehicle wheel, comprising a step of preparing a wheel rim and a spider, and a step of holding the spider inside the wheel rim. The wheel rim and spider are located in the high volume molding machine. At least one of a part of the wheel rim and a part of the outer periphery of the spider arranged adjacent to the outer periphery of the spider are permanently deformed toward the other of the wheel rim and the spider, and the wheel rim is fixed to the spider. You. A bottom die, a bottom inner rim stabilizer supported on the bottom die, a spider supported on the bottom inner rim stabilizer, a top inner rim stabilizer, and a wheel supported by the bottom rim stabilizer and the top inner rim stabilizer A device for fixing a wheel rim to a spider, comprising: a rim.

Description

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

TECHNICAL FIELD The present invention relates to a method and an apparatus for manufacturing a vehicle wheel, and more particularly, to a method and an apparatus for fixing a spider to a wheel rim. "Spider" is defined as the decorative surface inside the wheel rim of a motor vehicle wheel or as the center dish or hub of a truck or vehicle wheel.

BACKGROUND ART [0002] Vehicle wheels are usually formed in one piece (single piece) by a method such as casting or forging.
It is manufactured as. Vehicle wheels are also manufactured as two-piece or three-piece, in which case the one-piece slim or two-piece slim is connected to the one-piece spider by welding, bolting or riveting. However, all of these known methods are time consuming and quite expensive. Welding is performed in a reduced material condition in the area affected by heat.
). Bolting or riveting has the disadvantage that a non-uniform stress distribution occurs in the annular joint between the wheel rim and the spider.

[0003] Manufacturers have therefore begun manufacturing one-piece wheels by casting rims for vehicle wheels and forming the rim by spinning the rim from the spider. However, this method is time consuming and expensive. Also, casting wheels have problems in use. Because cast wheels are relatively porous, they tend to leak when fitted with tubeless tires. Cast wheels also lose their shine if the vehicle owner wants the wheels to remain intact. The most common industrial method at present is to produce one-piece cast rims and two-piece rims and weld the cast spider to a rim section formed by a method other than casting. Due to the shortcomings of the conventional vehicle wheel manufacturing methods, there is a need for better wheel manufacturing methods.

[0004] There are several special forming methods known, which are commonly referred to as high energy rate forming processes. These methods may be more accurate to refer to as high speed molding techniques. Such methods include explosive forming, electrohydraulic forming, electromagnetic forming and high speed forging. Related high-speed molding techniques include stress peening molding and ultrasonically activated molding. These methods transfer high speed and high strain rates to the material being formed by high speed energy transfer. The molding speed transmitted to the material is generally 10 m /
Seconds or more. The exact means used to achieve this fast energy transfer is:
It changes for each process. However, the effect of most of these processes is the same. The speed component of the forming operation becomes very large, and the forming of sheet metal results in improved formability and tighter tolerances. One group of processes known as explosive molding uses chemical energy provided in the form of explosives, propellants or gas mixtures. Both electrohydraulic and electromagnetic molding use large amounts of electrical energy emitted through high voltage capacitor discharge. Mechanical energy is applied via compressed gas and a high speed hammer to perform operations such as high speed forging and peening.

[0005] A high energy rate molding method is disclosed in "Tool and Manufacturing Engineer 'Handbook, Fourth Edition (Fourth Edition) published by Society of Manufacturing Engineering.
Tools and Manufacturing Engineers Handbook: Fourth Edition) ", Volume 2, Chapter 19. The title of Volume 2 is "Forming" and the title of Chapter 19 is "Special Forming Methods".

Due to the disadvantages described above in connection with conventional methods of assembling vehicle wheels, such as welding, bolting, riveting, forging, and casting, some of the high energy rate forming methods as methods of manufacturing vehicle wheels. Is considered.

[0007] It is also known to apply electromagnetic forming or magna forming methods to the manufacture of vehicle wheels. One patent disclosing this concept is U.S. Pat. No. 4,334,417.
And teaches a wheel blank having a circular flange surrounded by a split rim. The flange is placed between a pair of dies and the split rim is exposed around the dies. Both dies together have an outer surface that reproduces the intended contour of the wheel rim. If magna forming is applied, the split rim is pressed against the outer surface of the die to produce the rim of the wheel.

Another known method of making a wheel having a step of magna forming is disclosed in US Pat. No. 4,592,121. In this method, the spider is secured to the wheel rim using conventional techniques, and after the tire is mounted on the rim, the final flange of the rim is formed by electromagnetic forming techniques.

[0009] However, none of these known techniques have gained widespread commercial acceptance. Also, none of the techniques are suitable for securing the spider to the wheel rim.

DISCLOSURE OF THE INVENTION [0010] Accordingly, there is a need to develop a new and improved method of manufacturing a wheel and an apparatus for the method that can overcome the above difficulties and at the same time provide better overall results. Is considered desirable.

According to the present invention, there is provided a method of manufacturing a vehicle wheel.

More specifically, the method of the present invention includes providing a wheel rim and a spider, holding the spider adjacent to the wheel rim, and positioning the wheel rim and the spider in a high volume molding machine. And Permanently deforming at least one of a part of the wheel rim and a part of the outer periphery of the spider arranged adjacent to the outer periphery of the spider toward the other of the wheel rim and the spider,
Fix the wheel rim to the spider.

Preferably, the high-capacity forming machine has a work piece at least occasionally in contact with the wheel rim, and the step of deforming the wheel rim comprises the step of forming a capacitor bank electrically connected to the circuit of the work part. And an auxiliary step of rapidly discharging the capacitor bank to the circuit, which discharge then acts on the workpiece. If desired, the deforming step further comprises an auxiliary step of electro-hydraulic driving the work piece of the high volume molding machine. Alternatively, the workpiece has a coil body, and the deforming step further includes an auxiliary step of using the coil body to generate an electric current in the wheel rim and generate a magnetic pulse on the wheel rim. Preferably, the deforming step has an auxiliary step of generating a speed of at least 10 m / sec on at least one of a part of the wheel rim and the outer periphery of the spider.

According to another aspect of the present invention, there is provided an apparatus for securing a wheel rim to a spider.

More specifically, an apparatus according to this aspect of the invention includes a bottom die, a bottom inner rim stabilizer supported on the bottom die, and a spider supported on the bottom inner rim stabilizer. I have. The top rim stabilizer is located on the spider, and the wheel rim is supported by the bottom rim stabilizer and the top rim stabilizer. The high volume forming machine surrounds the wheel rim. The high volume molding machine has a work piece that contacts the wheel rim, at least occasionally, and a circuit disposed adjacent the work piece. The capacitor bank is electrically connected to an electric circuit of the high-capacity molding machine. A switching circuit for controlling discharge from the capacitor bank to the electromagnetic coil body is electrically connected between the capacitor bank and the circuit of the high-capacity molding machine.

If desired, the high-capacity forming machine can be comprised of an electro-hydraulic forming apparatus, wherein the electric circuit has a pair of spaced apart electrodes, at least one electrode being electrically connected to the capacitor bank; The high volume molding machine further has a die structure with a fluid storage cavity in which a pair of electrodes are located, the work piece of the high volume molding machine being secured to the die structure and forming a wall of the fluid storage cavity. It consists of an elastic flat member. The electro-hydraulic forming apparatus further includes a plurality of tightening bolts for securing the elastic wall to the die structure. If desired, the electrohydraulic forming device further includes an insulator surrounding the electrode and electrically insulating the electrode from the die structure. Preferably, the elastic wall is made of an elastic material. Preferably, the electro-hydraulic forming apparatus further comprises a fluid inlet conduit communicating with the fluid storage cavity and a fluid discharge conduit communicating with the fluid storage cavity.

If desired, the high volume molding machine has an electromagnetic device, the work piece has a coil body,
The electric circuit has a compression coil. If desired, the high volume molding machine further has a magnetic field shaping body. Preferably, the high volume molding machine further comprises:
A detection circuit that receives information from the capacitor bank, a control circuit that receives information from the detection circuit, a charging circuit that receives information from the control circuit, and a restriction that is controlled by the charging circuit and supplies information to the control circuit. / Safety circuit.

One advantage of the present invention is that it provides a new and improved method of manufacturing wheels.

Another advantage of the present invention is to provide a new and improved device for securing a spider and a wheel rim together.

Yet another advantage of the present invention is to provide a high speed molding method for securing a wheel rim and a spider together. High speed forming means that at least one of the wheel rim and the spider generates a speed of at least 10 m / sec, thereby pressing the element against the other of the wheel rim and the spider. As the high-speed molding method, an electro-hydraulic molding method or an electromagnetic molding method can be adopted.

[0021] Yet another advantage of the present invention is that the radially outer periphery of the spider is spaced apart from one another.
It is an object of the present invention to provide an apparatus that allows electro-hydraulic or electromagnetic forming of a wheel by compressing an annular portion of a wheel rim into an annular cavity formed between a pair of annular protrusions.

Another advantage of the present invention is to provide a wheel having a wheel rim and a spider that can be made of different materials. These two elements are successfully joined in a high speed molding process by a mechanical interlock formed between the elements.

Yet another advantage of the present invention is to provide a lightweight vehicle wheel that is lighter than conventional wheels and that can improve the fuel efficiency of the vehicle. The wheel is manufactured by a high-speed molding method.

Yet another advantage of the present invention is that when a wheel rim of a wheel is damaged, only the wheel rim can be replaced without replacing the wheel spider.

[0025] Other benefits and advantages of the present invention will become apparent to one of ordinary skill in the art upon reading and understanding the following detailed description.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION The present invention may be comprised of certain structures and components that are described in detail herein below and illustrated in the accompanying drawings.

Reference will now be made to the accompanying drawings, which are intended to illustrate some embodiments of the present invention and not to limit the invention. FIG. 1 shows an electro-hydraulic forming machine for fixing a wheel rim to a spider, while FIG. 7 shows an electromagnetic forming machine for the same purpose. Although the wheel manufacturing method and apparatus of the present invention are primarily designed and described in connection with vehicle wheels, those skilled in the art will appreciate that the present invention can be used in a wide variety of other types of wheels. It can be understood that the present invention can also be applied to the manufacture of Also, while electrohydraulic and electromagnetic forming methods are specifically disclosed, other high energy rate forming methods, such as, for example, explosive forming or high speed forging, may be used to manufacture the wheel.

[0028] A mechanical compression interlock joint can be formed between the wheel rim and the spider by some of the high energy rate forming methods described above. Each of these methods transmits high workpiece speed to the wheel rim or spider. The high energy rate forming method utilizes a known relationship between metal springback and the dependency of the springback on the strain rate. As the strain rate increases, the amount of metal springback decreases or disappears. As the metal springback disappears, the ring is radially compressed to keep the working joint in an acceptable compressed state. This material state is the basis on which high energy rate or high speed molding methods are based. The joint formed by compression allows for a great deal of processing flexibility during wheel manufacture. The size of the wheels produced in this way is only limited by the device variables for transferring the energy required to form the joint.

In a preferred embodiment of the high volume molding machine, electrohydraulic molding is used, without being limited to the features of the molding material having high or low conductivity. However,
As mentioned above, any other high energy rate molding method can produce high speeds in the workpiece to create a compressed state in the joint that prevents separation. Therefore, any other high energy rate molding method described above is acceptable.

The electro-hydraulic forming method is a method of converting electric energy into mechanical energy to form a metal part. The amount of electrical energy discharged is controlled by changing the charging voltage. The discharge energy causes an explosion in a suitable fluid medium contained within the hollow workpiece. These explosions generate shock waves that are emitted in all directions in the medium until some obstacle is encountered. If this energy is of sufficient magnitude, the work piece (usually a flexible bladder (bag) fixed on the fluid chamber) will be deformed. Deformation of the workpiece is controlled by applying external constraints to the workpiece. Such external constraints can be configured in the form of a die. The main advantage of electrohydraulic molding is that it can form hollow shapes that usually require more expensive manufacturing techniques.

Referring now to FIG. 1, the die assembly used in the method and apparatus of the present invention has a bottom die inner half 10 that supports a bottom die inner rim stabilizer 12. A hole 16 extends laterally through the rim stabilizer 12, and the hole 16
It is arranged coaxially with a hole 18 passing laterally through the bottom die inner half 10. A knockout rod 20 extends through both alignment holes 16, 18. A centering plate 22 is provided on the top of the knockout rod 20. The centering plate 22 centers the spider 30 supported by the inner rim stabilizer 12. Above the spider 30, a top inner rim stabilizer 32 is arranged. The top medial rim stabilizer 32 comprises first and second sections 34, 36, both sections 34, 36.
Can be separated from one another so that the spiders 30 can be placed below them and the manufactured wheel can be removed from the die assembly A.

The wheel rim 40 with the recessed center portion is provided on the bottom die inner rim stabilizer 12.
And on the top inner rim stabilizer 32. FIG. 1 shows a wheel rim 4
It should be understood that the zeros and spiders 30 are only shown schematically. As mentioned above, the wheel is preferably a vehicle wheel as more clearly shown in FIG.

Referring now to FIG. 4, the wheel rim 40 has a cylindrical shape and has a concave annular section 42 disposed on a cylindrical wall 44 of the rim 40. A first flange 46 is arranged at one end of the wall 44. The other end of the wall 44 has a second flange 4
8 are arranged. The spider 30 is arranged inside the wheel rim 40. The spider 30 has a spider body 50 which has a central hole 52 therethrough and a perimeter of the central hole 52 which also penetrates the spider body 50 and as best shown in FIG. And a plurality of bolt holes 54 spaced apart from each other. The spider body 50 can also be provided with a plurality of decorative pockets 56 spaced from one another, and the decorative pockets 56 can be of any suitable shape and depth. An annular concave portion 58 formed by a pair of projecting portions 60 and 62 spaced apart from each other is formed on a radially outer peripheral portion of the spider 30. The protrusions 60, 62 are in contact with the inner surface of the annular section 42 of the wheel rim 40. As shown in FIG. 6, a tire stem 64 is disposed at a predetermined position on the outer peripheral portion of the spider 30. As is known, a tire stem 64 extends through the wheel rim 40 and is secured to the wheel between the flanges 46,48 (
(Not shown).

Referring again to FIG. 1, a high volume molding machine B surrounds the die assembly A. The molding machine B has a lower outer main die half 70 and an upper outer main die half 72 supported thereon. These two elements form a cavity 74 between them. Cavity 74 is in fluid communication with fluid inlet 76 so that a suitable fluid, such as water, can flow into cavity 74. Each die half 70,
Note that 72 has an annular nature. Therefore, the cavity 74 formed between them also has an annular shape. A bore 78 extends laterally through the die half 72 from the upper periphery of the upper die half 72 to the cavity 74. In the bore 78, a sleeve 80 surrounding the first electrode 82 is arranged. Sleeve 80 is made of a suitable insulating material, such as a conventional elastomer, and includes a die half 72.
Is insulated from the electrode 82. One such elastomer is a rubber material.

A bore 86 extends laterally through the main die half 70 from the lower outer periphery of the main die half 70 to the cavity 74. A bore 86 surrounds and electrically insulates the second electrode 90 from the die half 70. Two electrodes 8
2, 90 extend into cavity 74 such that their adjacent ends are spaced from each other by a desired gap 92. The high capacity molding machine B further has a lower outer lock ring 96 and an upper outer lock ring 98. These locking rings 96, 98 have a flexible wall or bladder 100 made of a suitable conventional elastomeric material therebetween and between the lower and upper outer main die halves 70, 72 adjacent thereto. Has been captured. The wall 100 forms a flexible annular workpiece that selectively contacts the outer periphery of the wheel rim 40. Suitable conventional torque bolts 102 are provided to secure the wall 100 in place. Cavity 74
Communicates with a second bore 104 for allowing fluid to be drained.

The upper and lower outer lock rings 98 and 96 are provided with air vent holes 106 for allowing air to be vented when necessary. An air passage 108 extends through the bottom die inner half 10 and communicates with the lower air vent 106 so that air can be exhausted. Lock rings 98, 96 also clamp the upper and lower ends of wheel rim 40.

In the embodiment of FIG. 1, the electric energy of the high-capacity molding machine is converted into mechanical energy by a spark discharge method. In this method, a spark converter is used. Energy is discharged from the transducer as it crosses the gap between the electrodes 82, 90,
The liquid located in the gap is vaporized.

However, it should be noted that another method known in the art for converting electrical energy to mechanical energy is the exploding bridge wire method (not shown). The detonating bridge method is superior in that it is more efficient than the spark gap method. The detonating bridge method could be used in the manufacture of vehicle wheels, but the disadvantage of this method is when the equipment is used continuously. A new wire must be installed after each use, thus increasing the manufacturing time.

Referring now to FIG. 2, there is shown the electrical components of the electrohydraulic forming system of FIG. These components include a high voltage power supply 110, such as a rectifier, a charging circuit 112, and a capacitor bank 114 for storing charge from the charging circuit 112. The capacitor bank 114 includes a switching circuit 116.
The switching circuit 116 controls the discharge from the capacitor bank 114 to the electrode 90 through the electrode 2. The energy capacity of such devices is usually rated in kilojoules (1 kJ = 738 ft-lbs),
１５０150 kJ or more. Typically, maximum energy is achieved within 10-25 microseconds.

The electro-hydraulic forming method uses a liquid (usually water) as a medium to transmit pressure to the workpiece, ie, the flexible bladder 100, and the speed at which the work is performed, and thus the workpiece and the wheel Air trapped between the rim must be able to escape. The air vent 106 and the passage 108 are provided for this purpose.

Although two sets of electrodes 82, 90 are shown in the cross-sectional views of FIGS. 1 and 3, any suitable number of electrodes required for a particular molding operation may be placed in annular fluid cavity 74. Note that it can be used for Note that bladder 100 is inflated by pumping liquid into fluid cavity 74 until the bladder approaches wheel rim 40 before the electrohydraulic forming operation begins.

The die material is usually selected based on the operation to be performed and the quality of the part to be manufactured. Low carbon steel is the most common die material used. However, if a very long die life is desired, a heat treated tool steel can also be used. Die for electrohydraulic molding can also be made from epoxy cast resin. This is because such dies can be manufactured inexpensively and require little or no machining because they are formed into patterns of the required shape. However, such dies have disadvantages in the manufacture of vehicle wheels. This is because the life of these dies can usually only produce 1-2 dozen parts.

Referring now to FIG. 3, wheel rim 40 is secured to spider 30 by activating switching circuit 116 to allow electricity to flow from capacitor bank 114 to electrode 82. Electricity then jumps over gap 92,
It flows to the electrode 90. When jumping over the gap, a spark is formed between the electrodes 82,90. The spark generates the required energy to cause local vaporization of the liquid located between the pair of electrodes 82,90. In this regard, it should be noted that the size of gap 92 between adjacent ends of a pair of electrodes is important.

The sudden vaporization of the liquid in the cavity 74 releases a transient high pressure wave traveling outward in the liquid from the gap 92 toward the walls of the cavity. The pressure wave causes the flexible wall 100 to expand, which causes the wall 100 to assume the shape of the outer surface of the wheel rim 40. In all other directions, the pressure waves are constrained by the rigid walls of the die halves 70,72. The flexible wall 100 is restrained from expanding by the lock rings 96 and 98. Thus, wall 100 exerts pressure on wheel rim 40. Since the wheel rim 40 itself is supported by the inner rim stabilizer 12 and the top die inner rim stabilizer 32, the wall 100 can only push the wheel rim 40 inward in the region of the annular recess 58 of the spider 30. Absent.

The pressure wave thus inflates the flexible wall or rubber-containing bladder 100 in the region of the annular recess 58 of the spider 30 and pushes the portion of the wheel rim 40 resting on the annular recess 58 radially inward. The portion of the wheel rim at the annular recess 58 is displaced in the opposite direction to the pressure wave, and thus yields with permanent radial compression, forming a continuous circumferential joint between the wheel rim and the spider I do. The end result is that an integral mechanical compression interlock is formed between the rim 40 and the spider 30. The pressure waves of the fluid contained in cavity 74 are also transmitted to the fluid contained in inlet 76 and outlet 104. However, each of these is shut off by a respective valve 124, 126. These valves are conventional on / off valves, which are operated manually or automatically with solenoids, pneumatic actuators and the like.

Upon completion of the electro-hydraulic forming process, fluid is discharged from cavity 74 through valve 126. This reduces the fluid pressure in cavity 74 and reduces bladder 10
The bladder 100 can move away from the wheel rim 40 because the 0 can contract due to its natural elasticity. Next, the top die inner rim stabilizer 32 is removed. Next, the newly formed wheel is lifted from the high-capacity forming machine B using the knockout rod 20.

Referring now to FIG. 5, a final wheel C is shown. The wheel C has a spider 30 on which the wheel rim 40 is permanently fixed via a compression groove 130 in the region of the annular recess 58. The tensile force required to separate the rim from the spider is greater than the tensile force used to yield the wheel rim 40 by compression due to the strain hardening effect of the wheel rim on the metal.

The wheel joint is stronger than the joint obtained with the prior art assembly method due to the strain hardening of the wheel rim in the groove 130. Thus, the basic characteristics of the wheel rim 40 in the region of the groove 130 are greater than the basic characteristics in other regions of the wheel rim 40. Also, in this joint, both the rim 40 and the spider 30 are radially compressed with each other.

The high energy rate molding method shown in FIG. 3 has many advantages. First, Spider 30
And the rim 40 can be made of different materials due to the mechanical locking interface. For example, the material of the spider may be an alloy such as aluminum, magnesium or steel, or a non-metallic material, while the rim may be made of a suitable metallic material such as steel.

The joint structure of the present invention also makes the wheel assembly itself newer and lighter. New materials with lower density / strength ratios can be introduced to the market, thereby increasing the fuel efficiency of the vehicle. Further, since the thickness of the wheel rim can be reduced, the weight and material cost of the product are reduced.

Both the wheel rim 40 and the spider 30 can be decoratively finished before assembling them with the high volume molding machine B shown here. The finished wheel assembly C is distinguished in that there is no local thermal gradient in the process of fixing the wheel rim to the spider, as in the conventional method of welding the wheel rim to the spider. The area joining the wheel rim and the spider is not constrained by the thin material conditions associated with welding due to the zones affected by the heat. The method of the present invention also
Since there is no need to cool down later, work at higher speeds than welding is possible.

There is no non-uniform stress distribution induced in bolting or riveting in wheels made according to the present invention. Thus, the joint between the wheel rim and the spider can be located anywhere within the rim. This allows multiple rim and spider offsets as useful or as desired.

If the wheel rim is damaged, for example, by falling into a depression during running or being rubbed against a curb, only the wheel rim can be replaced without replacing the spider. This saves the consumer having to take out the spider without having to replace the entire wheel. Spiders can be reused.

The production of the rim and the spider by the electrohydraulic molding method uses an existing production technique, and therefore, the present invention can be quickly deployed in the currently used production method.

The energy requirements of the electro-hydraulic forming method for manufacturing a vehicle wheel are determined based on the thickness and material of the wheel rim, and the heat strain hardening characteristics and history of the material. The energy condition is also determined based on the contact surface area of the wheel rim which rests on the annular recess of the spider (this surface area is the surface area subject to local deformation).

FIGS. 1 to 6 disclose a method of fixing the wheel rim to the spider by forming the annular compression groove 130 in the wheel rim. However, by deforming the spider radially outward, the spider is fixed to the wheel rim. You can also consider fixing it. Also, while the annular compression groove 130 has been shown, it is possible to consider forming several spaced apart recesses in the wheel rim to secure the wheel rim to the spider. The geometry of the connection between the spider and the wheel rim is determined based on the shape of the wheel rim and the spider to be fixed together. What is important is that at least one of these two elements is permanently deformed and locked into engagement with the other element. Also, both elements or a part thereof can be deformed simultaneously or continuously to permanently fix both elements together.

In order to increase the strength of the joint between the wheel rim and the spider, use of an adhesive such as epoxy or adhesive resin can be considered.

It should be noted here that the wheel rim can be fixed to the spider using a high energy rate forming method other than the electrohydraulic forming method and apparatus disclosed in FIGS. 1 to 6 as shown in FIG. . In addition, an electromagnetic molding method can be used. This method is also known as magnetic pulse shaping, which converts electrical energy via a magnetic field into mechanical energy that exerts a force on a current carrying conductor or metal workpiece.
When current flows through a conductor (eg, a length of wire in a magna forming device), a magnetic field is created that fills the space tightly surrounding the conductor. This magnetic field surrounds the wire as long as the current flows. The magnetic field has a certain direction of influence, as inferred from the fact that a simple bar magnet can attract or repel the second magnet. When a magnetic field is created by a current flowing in a conductor, the direction of the magnetic field is determined from the direction of the current.

As the wire loop is moved through the existing magnetic field, current occurs in the wire loop due to a phenomenon known as induction. Conversely, the same inductive effect occurs when the wire loop is held stationary and the magnetic field source is moved closer to the loop, causing a closer relative movement between the loop and the magnetic field. When the magnetic field source is an electromagnet, the magnetic field generating current is usually called primary current, and the induced current is secondary or eddy current,
Further, it is called an image current. Each of these two currents, the primary current of the magnet forming device and the induced current of the wheel rim, establishes its own magnetic field. However, because the primary and induced currents flow in opposite directions, the established magnetic field is in the opposite direction. Therefore, a repulsive force is generated between the magnetic field formed around the wire loop of the magna forming device and the magnetic field induced by the wheel rim. This repulsive force then acts as a pressure on the wheel rim in the region of the annular recess (ie, only in the region of the wheel rim not restrained by the inner wheel rim stabilizer), forming a groove in the wheel rim in the annular recess. Fix the wheel rim to the spider.

The high-capacity molding machine D shown in FIG. 7 has a coil housing / magnetic shield 140,
An insulating layer 142 is accommodated in the coil housing / magnetic housing 140, and a glass fiber reinforcing layer 144 is disposed radially inward of the insulating layer 142. A primary winding 146 composed of four wire loops spaced apart from each other is arranged inside the glass fiber reinforcement layer 144 in the radial direction. A coil main body 148 is disposed radially inward of the primary winding 146. If desired, coil body 14
8, the magnetic field shaper 152 can be disposed radially inward. The magnetic field shaper 152
Two spaced apart annular halves 1 that can separate the magnetic field shaper 152 in case a need arises, such as when releasing the assembled vehicle wheel
54, 156.

The present invention has been described with reference to several embodiments. Various modifications will be apparent to those who have read and understood the present specification. All such modifications are intended to be included herein insofar as they come within the scope of the appended claims or equivalents thereof.

[Brief description of the drawings]

FIG. 1 is a schematic side sectional view showing an electro-hydraulic high-capacity forming machine for fixing a wheel rim to a spider according to the present invention.

FIG. 2 is a schematic side sectional view showing a part of the electrohydraulic forming machine of FIG. 1 and an electric circuit thereof.

FIG. 3 is a schematic side sectional view of the electro-hydraulic forming apparatus of FIG. 1, showing a bladder of the electro-hydraulic forming apparatus expanded during a step of forming and fixing a wheel rim to a spider.

FIG. 4 is an enlarged side sectional view showing both the wheel rim and the spider before they are fixed to each other.

FIG. 5 is a side sectional view showing a part of the wheel of FIG. 4 after the wheel rim is fixed to the spider.

6 is a front view showing the wheel of FIG. 4 after the wheel rim has been fixed to the spider.

FIG. 7 is a partially cutaway perspective view of an electromagnetic high-capacity forming machine for fixing a wheel rim to a spider according to the present invention.

[Procedure amendment]

[Submission date] April 5, 2001 (2001.4.5)

[Procedure amendment 1]

[Document name to be amended] Statement

[Correction target item name] Claims

[Correction method] Change

[Correction contents]

[Claims]

1. A high energy capacity molding machine configured to surround an associated wheel rim and an associated spider disposed adjacent to the wheel rim, and a radius of the associated wheel rim disposed within the high volume molding machine. The wheel rim is fixed to the spider, the electromagnetic coil body being disposed outward in the direction, a capacitor bank electrically connected to the coil body, and a die assembly for holding and stabilizing the wheel rim. Device for retaining an associated spider in an associated wheel rim and a high energy capacity molding machine, and a magnetic field shaping body surrounding the associated wheel rim and disposed radially inward of the electromagnetic coil body. And equipment.

2. A switching circuit electrically connected between the capacitor bank and the electromagnetic coil body for controlling discharge from the capacitor bank into the electromagnetic coil body. An apparatus according to claim 1.

3. A high-capacity molding machine further comprising: a detection circuit for receiving information from a capacitor bank; a control circuit for receiving information from the detection circuit; a charging circuit for receiving information from the control circuit; 3. The device according to claim 1, further comprising a limiting / safety circuit controlled by the circuit and supplying information to the control circuit.

Wherein said die assembly is characterized by having a bottom die, and a bottom inner rim stabilizer supported by the bottom die, a top inner rim stabilizer is disposed on the bottom inner rim stabilizer The device according to claim 1.

Wherein said top inner rim stabilizer has two sections, the section is to be able to retrieve these wheels are molded spider can and completely disposed under the die assembly, to each other 5. The device according to claim 4, wherein the device can be separated.

6. The method according to claim 1, wherein the means for holding the related spider includes a knockout rod and a centering plate for centering the related spider. apparatus.

7. The magnetic field shaping body according to claim 1, wherein said body comprises two separate annular halves which can be separated to release the assembled vehicle wheel. Equipment.

8. Providing a wheel rim and spider; holding and stabilizing the wheel rim; supporting the spider adjacent to the wheel rim; and providing the wheel rim and spider in a high energy capacity molding machine. Positioning the electromagnetic coil main body around the outer peripheral surface of the wheel rim; energizing the coil main body; and permanently deforming one of the annular portions of the wheel rim and the spider to obtain the wheel rim and the spider. Contacting the other part of the spider with the annular portion of the vehicle, wherein the magnetic field shaper is disposed radially inward of the coil body; Manufacturing method characterized by permanently hardening the wheel rim to the spider by strain hardening the annular part of Law.

Wherein said deforming step is characterized by having an auxiliary step of charging circuit electrically connected to the capacitor bank of high capacity forming machine, and an auxiliary step for rapidly discharging the capacitor bank into the circuit The method of claim 8.

10. The method according to claim 8, wherein the deforming step further comprises an auxiliary step of generating a current in the wheel rim using the coil body and generating a magnetic pulse on the rim. .

11. any one method of claims 8-10, characterized by further comprising a step of taking out the wheel rim and the spider from the high capacity forming machine.

12. The method according to claim 11, wherein the deforming step includes:
12. An auxiliary process for generating a speed of 0 m / sec.
The described method.

Process of claim 13 wherein said retaining the wheel rim and stabilization, a subsidiary step of placing the stabilizer inside the wheel rim, by contacting a portion of the inner surface of the wheel rim to the stabilizer, undesirable wheel rim 13. The method according to claim 8, further comprising an auxiliary step for preventing movement.

14. The method according to claim 8, further comprising the step of centering a spider on the wheel rim.

15. The centering step includes a subsidiary step of positioning a spider in a desired position relative to the width of the wheel rim, and a subsidiary step of centering the spider in a radial direction relative to the inner peripheral portion of the wheel rim The method of claim 14, comprising:

[Procedure amendment 2]

[Document name to be amended] Statement

[Correction target item name] 0009

[Correction method] Change

[Correction contents]

[0009] However, none of these known techniques have gained widespread commercial acceptance. Also, none of the techniques are suitable for securing the spider to the wheel rim. EP-A-0 028 393 discloses a rim and a spider, the disclosure of which relates to the manufacture of a vehicle wheel in which the spider is held adjacent to a wheel rim . The wheel rim and the spider are located in the high energy capacity molding machine, and a portion of the wheel rim located adjacent to the outer periphery of the spider is permanently deformed toward the spider , thereby forming a joint between the wheel rim and the spider. Is formed . However, this design does not use a magnetic field shaping body for pulsed magnetic shaping .

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The present invention has been described with reference to several embodiments. Various modifications will be apparent to those who have read and understood the present specification. Limit these changes Ru der intended to be encompassed by the claims is, all such modifications are intended to be included in the present invention.

──────────────────────────────────────────────────続 き Continuation of front page (81) Designated country EP (AT, BE, CH, CY, DE, DK, ES, FI, FR, GB, GR, IE, IT, LU, MC, NL, PT, SE ), OA (BF, BJ, CF, CG, CI, CM, GA, GN, GW, ML, MR, NE, SN, TD, TG), AP (GH, GM, KE, LS, MW, SD, SZ, UG, ZW), EA (AM, AZ, BY, KG, KZ, MD, RU, TJ, TM), AL, AM, AT, AU, AZ, BA, BB, BG, BR, BY, CA, CH, CN, CU, CZ, DE, DK, EE, ES, FI, GB, GE, GH, GM, HR, HU, ID, IL, IS, JP, KE, KG, KP , KR, KZ, LC, LK, LR, LS, LT, LU, LV, MD, MG, MK, MN, MW, MX, NO, NZ, PL, PT, RO, RU, SD, SE, SG, SI, SK, SL, TJ, TM, TR, TT, UA, UG, UZ, VN, YU, ZW

Claims (31)

[Claims] A step of providing a wheel rim and a spider; a step of holding the spider adjacent to the wheel rim; a step of positioning the wheel rim and the spider in a high-capacity molding machine; and a step of providing a stabilizer inside the wheel rim. Placing the wheel rim in contact with a portion of the inner surface of the wheel rim to prevent undesired movement of the wheel rim; and forming the stabilizer radially inward of a joint to be formed between the wheel rim and the spider. A step of preventing contact with the spider; a part of the wheel rim and a part of the outer periphery of the spider arranged adjacent to the outer periphery of the spider to form a joint between the wheel rim and the spider Permanently deforming at least one of the wheel rim and the spider toward the other. Manufacturing method of a vehicle wheel. 2. The high-capacity molding machine has a processing member engaged with an outer surface of a wheel rim, and the step of deforming the wheel rim comprises: a capacitor bank electrically connected to a circuit of the high-capacity molding machine. 3. The method of claim 1, further comprising the steps of: charging the capacitor bank; and rapidly discharging the capacitor bank to the circuit. 3. The method according to claim 2, wherein said deforming step further comprises an auxiliary step of electro-hydraulic driving a workpiece of the high-capacity molding machine. 4. The processing member has a coil body, and the deforming step further includes an auxiliary step of generating a current in the wheel rim using the coil body and generating a magnetic pulse on the rim. The method according to claim 2, wherein 5. The method according to claim 1, wherein the deforming step includes an auxiliary step of generating a speed of at least 10 m / sec on at least one of a part of the wheel rim and a part of an outer peripheral part of the spider. Method. 6. A high volume molding machine configured to surround an associated wheel rim and an associated spider disposed adjacent to the wheel rim, and a radial direction of the associated wheel rim disposed within the high volume molding machine. An electromagnetic coil body disposed outside; a capacitor bank electrically connected to the coil body; and a magnetic field shaping body surrounding the wheel rim and disposed radially inward of the electromagnetic coil body. An apparatus for fixing a wheel rim to a spider. 7. A switching circuit electrically connected between the capacitor bank and the electromagnetic coil body for controlling discharge from the capacitor bank to the electromagnetic coil body. The described device. 8. The high-capacity molding machine further comprises: a detection circuit for receiving information from a capacitor bank; a control circuit for receiving information from the detection circuit; a charging circuit for receiving information from the control circuit; 8. The apparatus of claim 7, further comprising a limiting / safety circuit controlled by the circuit and supplying information to the control circuit. 9. The apparatus of claim 6, further comprising a die assembly for retaining said associated wheel rim in a high volume molding machine. 10. The die assembly includes a bottom die, a bottom inside rim stabilizer supported by the bottom die, and a top inside rim stabilizer disposed on the bottom inside rim stabilizer. An apparatus according to claim 9. 11. Providing a wheel rim and spider; supporting the spider adjacent to the wheel rim; positioning the wheel rim and spider in a high volume molding machine; Arranging an electromagnetic coil main body, arranging a magnetic field shaper radially inward of the coil main body, energizing the coil main body, and permanently deforming one annular portion of the wheel rim and the spider. Contacting the wheel rim and the spider with the other annular portion. The permanent deformation step includes strain-hardening one of the wheel rim and the spider annular portion to permanently fix the wheel rim to the spider. A method for manufacturing a vehicle wheel. 12. The deforming step includes an auxiliary step of charging a capacitor bank electrically connected to a circuit of the high-capacity molding machine, and an auxiliary step of rapidly discharging the capacitor bank to the circuit. The method of claim 11. 13. The method of claim 12, wherein the deforming step further comprises generating an electric current in the wheel rim using the coil body to generate a magnetic pulse on the wheel rim. 14. The method of claim 10, further comprising removing wheel rims and spiders from said high volume molding machine. 15. The method according to claim 15, wherein the deforming step includes:
The method according to claim 10, further comprising an auxiliary step for generating a speed of 0 m / sec. 16. The method according to claim 1, further comprising: arranging a stabilizer inside the wheel rim; and contacting a part of the inner surface of the wheel rim with the stabilizer to prevent undesired movement of the wheel rim. The method of claim 10. 17. A step of providing a substantially cylindrical wheel rim, providing a spider, positioning the spider adjacent to the wheel rim, providing a high capacity molding machine. Positioning the wheel rim and the spider in the volume forming machine; contacting the surface of the spider with the stabilizer to prevent undesired movement of the spider; and connecting one annular portion of the wheel rim and the spider to the wheel rim and the spider. Pressing radially toward the other, and at the same time, preventing the stabilizer and the spider from coming into contact radially inward of the joint formed between the wheel rim and the spider; one of the wheel rim and the spider Strain hardening an annular portion of the wheel to permanently fix the wheel rim to the spider. Method for producing a vehicle wheel, characterized. 18. The high-capacity molding machine has a working member engaged with and in contact with an outer surface of a wheel rim, and the step of pressing the annular portion includes: a capacitor bank electrically connected to a circuit of the high-capacity molding machine. 18. The method of claim 17, further comprising the steps of: charging the capacitor bank; and rapidly discharging the capacitor bank to the circuit. 19. The method of claim 18, wherein the step of pressing the annular portion further comprises an auxiliary step of electro-hydraulic driving a work piece of a high volume molding machine. 20. The working member has a coil body, and the step of pressing the annular portion further includes an auxiliary step of generating a current in the wheel rim using the coil body and generating a magnetic pulse on the rim. The method of claim 18, comprising: 21. The step of pressing the annular portion includes an assisting step of generating a speed of at least 10 m / sec on one of a portion of the wheel rim and a portion of the outer periphery of the spider. The method of claim 17. 22. The method of claim 17, further comprising bleeding air from a space between the wheel rim and the spider during the step of pressing the annular portion. 23. A bottom die, a bottom inside rim stabilizer supported on the bottom die, a spider supported on the bottom inside rim stabilizer, a top inside rim stabilizer disposed on the spider, A workpiece rim having a wheel rim supported by a bottom rim stabilizer and a top inside rim stabilizer; and a high volume molding machine surrounding the wheel rim, wherein the high volume molding machine is in at least occasional contact with the wheel rim and the machining A capacitor bank electrically connected to an electric circuit of the high-capacity molding machine, comprising: an electric circuit disposed adjacent to the member; and an electric connection between the capacitor bank and the circuit of the high-capacity molding machine. Done,
A switching circuit for controlling a discharge from the capacitor bank to the circuit, wherein the wheel rim is fixed to the spider. 24. The high-capacity molding machine has an electro-hydraulic device, the electric circuit has a pair of electrodes spaced apart from each other, at least one electrode being electrically connected to a capacitor bank, The volume forming machine further has a die structure having a fluid storage cavity in which the pair of electrodes are disposed, and the processing member of the high volume forming machine is fixed to the die structure and forms a wall of the fluid storage cavity. 24. The device of claim 23, comprising a formed elastic flat member. 25. The apparatus of claim 24, wherein the electro-hydraulic device further comprises a plurality of tightening bolts for securing the resilient wall to a die structure. 26. The apparatus of claim 24, wherein the electrohydraulic forming device further comprises an insulator surrounding the electrode and electrically insulating the electrode from the die structure. 27. The apparatus according to claim 2, wherein the elastic wall is made of an elastic material.
An apparatus according to claim 4. 28. The apparatus of claim 24, wherein the electro-hydraulic forming device further comprises a fluid inlet conduit communicating with the fluid storage cavity and a fluid discharge conduit communicating with the fluid storage cavity. 29. The apparatus according to claim 23, wherein the high-capacity forming machine has an electromagnetic device, the processing member has a coil body, and the electric circuit has a primary winding. 30. The apparatus of claim 29, wherein said high volume molding machine further comprises a magnetic field shaping body. 31. The high-capacity molding machine further comprises: a detection circuit for receiving information from the capacitor bank; a control circuit for receiving information from the detection circuit; a charging circuit for receiving information from the control circuit; 24. The apparatus of claim 23, further comprising a limiting / safety circuit controlled by a charging circuit and supplying information to the control circuit.