Patent ID: 6913666
Filing Date: 2005-07-05
Classification: B29C,B29K,F16B,Y10S

Abstract:
1. A method for anchoring a joining element in a part consisting of porous material, the joining element having a distal end and a proximal end and including a thermoplastic material at least at said distal end, the method comprising the steps of: forming a bore in the part, the bore having an inner closed end and being matched to the shape and dimensions of the joining element so that the joining element can be positioned in the bore with substantially no force and with the distal end of the inserted joining element disposed against the inner closed end of the bore, inserting the joining element in the bore such that the distal end of the joining element is disposed against the inner closed end of the bore, applying pressure to the proximal end of the joining element to force the joining element deeper into the bore, the pressure being applied substantially along a central axis of the bore and producing an increase of pressure of the distal end of the joining element against the inner closed end of the bore, during the application of pressure, applying vibration energy to the joining element to cause the thermoplastic to plasticize at the distal end of the joining element, the pressure causing the plasticized thermoplastic material to flow into pores of the part beyond the inner closed end of the bore in the axial direction of the bore, thereby forming a macroscopic anchoring connection between the part and the distal end of the joining element.