Integration of multiple-linear and tumbling kinematics into self-piercing riveting

Conventional mechanical joining processes are typically rigid in their tool systems and can only react to changing process and disturbance variables to a limited extent. At the same time, various industries are increasingly trending towards multi-material systems consisting of parts with varying geometric and mechanical properties. Due to the varying properties, rigid mechanical joining processes require sampling procedures and periodic changes of tool components or auxiliary joining parts. Consequently, research is focusing on versatile mechanical joining processes that allow increased control by modifying the process parameters. Two processes based on self-piercing riveting can achieve a significant increase in process influence possibilities through a multi-linear actuator as versatile self-piercing riveting (V-SPR) and a tumbling superimposed actuator as tumbling self-piercing riveting (T-SPR). Initial research into V-SPR has shown that this process can be used to achieve a higher variation in overall package thickness by adapting the rivet geometry and using multiple linear actuators. The T-SPR process also enables increased material flow control by means of targeted compression of the rivet using the tumbling actuator, thereby extending the range of joints that can be manufactured. Based on these two processes, a combination of the two mechanisms of action is to be developed.