US 7,320,239 B1 | ||
Forming tool for multiple-thickness blanks | ||
Gary A. Kruger, Troy, Mich. (US); and James G. Schroth, Troy, Mich. (US) | ||
Assigned to GM Global Technology Operations, Inc., Detroit, Mich. (US) | ||
Filed on Mar. 28, 2007, as Appl. No. 11/692,440. | ||
Int. Cl. B21D 26/02 (2006.01); B21D 22/22 (2006.01) |
U.S. Cl. 72—350 [72/60; 72/57] | 14 Claims |
5. An apparatus for forming a metal blank characterized by two thicknesses, the apparatus comprising:
a first tool defining a first binder surface;
a second tool defining a second binder surface;
one of said first and second tools defining a forming surface and the other of said first and second tools defining a pressure
chamber;
said first and second tools being selectively movable with respect to one another to a closed position in which the first
binder surface opposes the second binder surface to grip the metal blank; and
said first binder surface being characterized by a step, a first region on a first side of the step, a second region on a
second side of the step, and a bead segment having an upper surface contiguous with the second region.
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