Patent ID: 7421785
Filing Date: 2008-09-09
Classification: B21K,B23P,F16C,Y10T

Abstract:
1. A method of forming a socket, the method comprising: providing a housing having a central bore, the central bore including at least one open end having a counterbore defining a circumferential seat adjacent said open end; providing one or more joint components, including a stud; providing a deformable cover-plate, said cover-plate having an outer diameter sized to seat within said counterbore on said circumferential seat; inserting said stud and joint components into said central bore; placing said cover-plate over said joint components at said open end of said central bore, said cover-plate seating on said circumferential seat; applying a controlled load to said cover-plate, said controlled load plastically deforming said cover plate into a desired configuration and engaging said cover-plate into pressed contact with said circumferential seat; and deforming a circumferential sidewall of said housing adjacent to said counterbore in a radially inward direction, capturing a peripheral edge of said cover-plate; wherein said stud and joint components are retained within said central bore by said captured and deformed cover-plate.