Patent ID: 6108893
Filing Date: 2000-08-29
Classification: B23P,F16B,Y10T

Abstract:
A method for attaching a fastener to a workpiece, said method comprising the steps of:providing a workpiece;providing a fastener having a flange and barrel defining a retention area between said flange and barrel;providing an installation mechanism for driving said fastener into said workpiece without piercing said workpiece;providing a die button having a recessed portion defined by at least a wall and a bottom for controlling the deformation of said workpiece as said fastener is driven into said workpiece;inserting a fastener into said installation mechanism;positioning said workpiece between said die button and said fastener;driving said fastener into said workpiece without deforming said barrel to initially engage said barrel of said fastener against said workpiece and deform said workpiece into said recessed portion of said die button, placing said workpiece adjacent said barrel in tension;continuing to drive said fastener against said workpiece to thin said workpiece adjacent said barrel;driving said flange into said workpiece and reversing forces applied on said workpiece from tensile forces to compressive forces to squeeze said workpiece adjacent said retention area and push said workpiece adjacent said retention area into said retention area;completing said installation locking said fastener into said workpiece with said barrel not being deformed through method steps and said workpiece not being pierced.