Patent ID: 8202388
Filing Date: 2012-06-19
Classification: B21D,B32B,Y10T

Abstract:
1. A machine cell for forming a body panel by joining of a first metal panel to a second metal panel, the machine cell comprising: a lower nest including a frame and an upper surface defined to substantially conform to a perimeter region of the first metal panel, the upper surface having a generally flat material-contacting area extending to a boundary of the upper surface to enable unobstructed lateral movement of a forming tool from the material-contacting area across the boundary; a vacuum pad supported by said frame adjacent to a portion of said material-contacting portion, said vacuum pad having a sealing surface defined to substantially conform to an interior region of the first metal sheet and an elongated channel formed therein; a vacuum system to enable fluid communication between a vacuum source and said elongated channel for selectively evacuating said elongated channel; wherein said vacuum pad and said vacuum system are operable to generate a downward clamping force sufficient to laterally immobilize the first metal sheet during an operation clinching together the first metal panel and the second metal panel.