Patent ID: 7448528
Filing Date: 2008-11-11
Classification: B21D,B23K

Abstract:
1. A method of forming a workpiece to a desired non-planar configuration with a friction stir forming tool defining a shoulder and a pin, the method comprising: providing a die having a non-planar contour surface corresponding to the desired configuration of the workpiece; supporting the workpiece at least partially against the die; urging the shoulder of the forming tool against the workpiece and at least partially penetrating the workpiece with the pin such that the workpiece is bent against the contour surface; rotating the pin of the tool within the workpiece at least partially during said urging step to plasticize a portion of the workpiece; and adjusting the tool in a predefined path corresponding to the contour surface of the die at least partially during said urging step, such that the shoulder urges the workpiece to the desired configuration and the tool forms a friction stir formed region having a refined grain structure in the workpiece.