Patent ID: 7882718
Filing Date: 2011-02-08
Classification: B21D

Abstract:
1. A device for imparting a variable sweep into a beam, comprising: an adjustable sweep station adapted to be positioned in-line and downstream of a roll-forming apparatus to receive a continuous beam, the sweep station including at least first and second opposing rolls with the second roll being movable about an axis of the first roll to form the continuous beam around the first roll, the sweep station further including external mandrels and a sled that are longitudinally adjustable parallel to the direction of upstream or downstream to selectively wrap partially around the first roll during adjustment of the second roll, the external mandrels including a layer of mandrels in contact with the continuous beam and including a curved support that supports the external mandrels as the external mandrels are moved around the first roll; wherein the curved support includes a stationary curved surface and further includes a second layer of segments that engage the stationary curved surface and that support segments in the layer of the external mandrel.