Patent ID: 6688147
Filing Date: 2004-02-10
Classification: B21D

Abstract:
A method for curving a panel having a center portion and flanges angularly depending therefrom, comprising the steps of:simultaneously and substantially equally applying lengthwise dimensional changes in opposed side portions of the flanges to impart a curvature to the panel adjacent the dimensionally changed opposed side portions either (a) by stretching the panel opposed side portions to impart a concave curvature to the or (b) by shrinking the opposed side portions to impart a convex curvature to the panel; appropriately repeating said stretching and shrinking steps to successive opposed side portions of the flanges; sensing the panel during said applying steps to obtain information of the curvature; comparing the curvature information thus obtained with a pre-established specification; and adjusting said applying and repeating steps to conform the curvature to the specification.