초록 ▼

In the present invention a tubular blank and an article such as a bushing to be assembled are loaded into a die. The tube is hydroformed using typical methods and, while the blank is still pressurized, a punch pierces a hole in the tube. The punch also has an article loaded onto it and, as the punch

In the present invention a tubular blank and an article such as a bushing to be assembled are loaded into a die. The tube is hydroformed using typical methods and, while the blank is still pressurized, a punch pierces a hole in the tube. The punch also has an article loaded onto it and, as the punch advances, the article is pushed into the tube through the pierced hole. The punch continues to advance such that it pierces a hole in the opposite side of the tube. The punch then retracts leaving the bushing in the tube. The article may alternately be inserted by means separate from the punch.

대표청구항 ▼

1. A method for hydroforming a tubular member comprising the steps of:(a) providing a die having a cavity therein, said cavity having an internal surface corresponding to a configuration of a desired final tubular member; (b) providing a tubular blank, said tubular blank having an internal chamber;

1. A method for hydroforming a tubular member comprising the steps of:(a) providing a die having a cavity therein, said cavity having an internal surface corresponding to a configuration of a desired final tubular member; (b) providing a tubular blank, said tubular blank having an internal chamber; (c) confining said tubular blank in said cavity; (d) sealing said internal chamber; (e) pressurizing said internal chamber to cause said blank to conform to said internal surface of said cavity to create said tubular member having a wall; (f) making a hole in said wall of said tubular member while said tubular member is in said die and while maintaining the wall under internal pressure; and (g) inserting an article into said hole while said tubular member is in said die and while maintaining the wall under internal pressure.