Patent ID: 8245555
Filing Date: 2012-08-21
Classification: B21D

Abstract:
1. A method of forming a notch in an elongated tube, comprising: providing an elongated tube defining an axis and an outer surface, wherein the elongated tube comprises a plastically-deformable material; providing a machine having a forming member configured to move along a plurality of forming passes; fixing the elongated tube in the machine; forming a notch in the elongated tube by bringing the forming member into contact with the elongated tube utilizing a plurality of forming passes to plastically deform the outer surface inwardly, the forming member traveling along a nonlinear path relative to the elongated tube being formed during at least one of the forming passes, the nonlinear path being defined by movement of the forming member while the forming member is in contact with the elongated tube, the movement of the forming member including components of motion in a first direction relative to the elongated tube and components of motion in a second direction relative to the elongated tube, wherein the second direction is transverse to the first direction.