Abstract
A die holder mounts a die to form heads on nails or screws. A top surface of the die includes a groove for longitudinally receiving and holding an elongate body. The die has a recess merging into the groove at one end of the groove to form a nail or screw head. The die is conical for press fit by contact with an inner surface of a bore or hole in the die holder. A top surface of the die is planar to a top surface of the die holder with a bottom surface engaging bottom part of the die holder. The bottom portion of the die has a recess or engaging with a corresponding protrusion die holder fixing an angular orientation of the groove relative to the die holder. Two opposite dies are brought together by two opposite die holders forming the head.
Claims
1. A die for mounting in an associated die holder for the production of heads on elongate bodies, the die comprising: a body with a top surface provided with a through-going groove to receive and hold an elongate body longitudinally in said groove, a recess at one end of the groove configured to form the heads on the elongate bodies, a side surface comprising a first portion with a curved shaped configured for press fit by contact with a cured portion of an inner surface of a bore or hole in the associated die holder, and a stop surface configured to engage a stop part in the hole or bore of the associated die holder, so as to determine a height of the die in relation to the associated die holder, wherein the side surface further comprises a second portion configured to engage with a corresponding portion of the inner surface of the bore or hole in the associated die holder to guide angular orientation of the groove relative to the associated die holder, wherein the first portion of the side surface has a cylindrical shape or a conical shape, wherein the second portion of the side surface comprises a plane portion configured to engage with a corresponding plane portion of the inner surface of the bore or hole in the associated die holder, and wherein said plane portion forms an angle of 0.5-2.0° with a central axis of the die.
2. The die according to claim 1, wherein said second portion of the side surface is further configured for press fit by contact with the corresponding portion of the inner surface of the bore or hole in the associated die holder.
3. The die according to claim 1, wherein an area of the second portion of the side surface is smaller than an area of the first portion of the side surface, wherein the area of the second portion of the side surface is 10-40% of the area of the first portion of the side surface.
4. The die according to claim 1, wherein the side surface has chamfered portions configured to interconnect said first and second portions of the side surface.
5. The die according to claim 1, wherein the die is configured to be placed in at least a portion of the hole or bore.
6. A machine for producing heads on elongated bodies, the machine comprising: at least one die comprising a body with a top surface provided with a through-going groove to receive and hold an elongate body longitudinally in said groove, a recess at one end of the groove configured to form the heads on the elongate bodies, a side surface comprising a first portion with a curved shaped configured for press fit by contact with a curved portion of an inner surface of a bore or hole in an associated die holder, and a stop surface configured to engage a stop part in the hole or bore of the associated die holder, so as to determine a height of the die in relation to the associated die holder, wherein the side surface further comprises a second portion configured to engage with a corresponding portion of the inner surface of the bore or hole in the associated die holder to guide angular orientation of the groove relative to the associated die holder, and the associated die holder a body having a surface part, and a plurality of holes or bores in the surface part, wherein each of the plurality of holes or bores has a first inner side surface portion with a curved shaped and configured for receiving a die of the at least one die and for press fit engagement with the die by contact with a side surface of the die, wherein each of the holes or bores has a second inner side surface portion are configured to engage with a corresponding side surface portion of the die to fix angular orientation of the die relative to the die holder, and wherein in each of the holes or bores has a stop part configured to fix a height of a top surface of the die in relation to the surface part of the die holder.
7. The machine according to claim 6, further comprising a head forming mechanism configured to apply a force onto the elongate body at the recess end of the groove of the die, when the elongate body is configured to engage the groove of the die, so as to form a head on the elongate body shaped corresponding to the recess of the die.
8. The machine according to claim 6, wherein said first portion of the side surface of the at least one die has a conical shape, wherein the conical shaped portion of the side surface forms a first angle relative to a central axis of the die, and wherein each of the plurality of holes or bores of the die holder has a first inner side surface portion with a conical shape which forms a second angle relative to a central axis of the holes or bores.
9. The machine according to claim 8, wherein the first angle is 0.02°-0.10° larger than the second angle.
10. A method of manufacturing a head on an elongate body, comprising: providing a die comprising a body with a top surface provided with a through-going groove to receive and hold an elongate body longitudinally in said groove, a recess at one end of the groove configured to form the heads on the elongate bodies, a side surface comprising a first portion with a curved shaped configured for press fit by contact with a curved portion of an inner surface of a bore or hole in the associated die holder, and a stop surface configured to engage a stop part in the hole or bore of the associated die holder, so as to determine a height of the die in relation to the associated die holder, wherein the side surface further comprises a second portion configured to engage with a corresponding portion of the inner surface of the bore or hole in the associated die holder to guide angular orientation of the groove relative to the associated die holder, and a ring-shaped die holder comprising a body having a surface part, and a plurality of holes or bores in the surface part, wherein each of the plurality of holes or bores has a first inner side surface portion with a curved shaped and configured for receiving a die and for press fit engagement with the die by contact with a side surface of the die, wherein each of the holes or bores has a second inner side surface portion are configured to engage with a corresponding side surface portion of the die to fix angular orientation of the die relative to the die holder, and wherein in each of the holes or bores has a stop part configured to fix a height of a top surface of the die in relation to the surface part of the die holder.
11. The method according to claim 10, further comprising mounting the die in the hole or bore of the die holder in a tool-less mounting process.
12. The method according to claim 10, further comprising: providing first and second die holders, each of the first and second die holders comprising: a body having at least a surface part, a hole or bore in the surface part, wherein the hole or bore has a first inner surface portion with a curved shaped and arranged for receiving the die and for press fit by contact with a first side surface portion of the die, a stop part located in the hole or bore for engaging with a bottom surface of the die when being pressed into the hole or bore, so as to fix a height of the top surface of the die in relation to the surface part of the die holder, and a second inner surface portion of the bore or hole engaging with a corresponding second side surface portion of the die, in order to fix angular orientation of the groove of the die relative to the die holder, providing first and second dies, each of the first and second dies comprising: a body with a top surface provided with a through-going groove for receiving and holding an elongate body longitudinally in said groove, a recess at one end of the groove suitable for forming the head on the elongate body, a first side surface portion with a curved shape for press fit by contact with a first inner surface portion of a bore or hole in the associated die holder, a stop surface for engaging with a stop part in the hole or bore of the associated die holder, so as to determine a height of the top surface of the die in relation to a surface part of the associated die holder, and a second side surface portion serving to engage with the corresponding second inner surface portion of the die holder, in order to fix angular orientation of the groove relative to the die holder, bringing the top surface of the first die so near to the top surface of the second die that the grooves of the first and second dies hold the elongate body, and providing force onto the elongate body at the recess end of the grooves so as to form a head on the elongate body.
Description
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES
(1) The die according to the subject application will now be described in more detail with regard to the accompanying figures. The figures show one way of implementing the subject application and is not to be construed as being limiting to other possible embodiments falling within the scope of the attached claim set.
(2) FIG. 1 is a trimetric view of a die embodiment.
(3) FIG. 2 is a side view of a die embodiment.
(4) FIG. 3 is a trimetric view of a section of a die holder with a mounted die embodiment.
(5) FIG. 4 is a trimetric view of a section of a die holder with an unmounted die embodiment.
(6) FIG. 5 is a top view of a section of a die holder embodiment.
(7) FIG. 6 is a side view of a cross-section of a die holder and die, the die not entirely mounted into the die holder.
(8) FIG. 7 is a side view of a cross-section of a die holder and die, the die pressed into the die holder.
(9) FIG. 8 is a trimetric view of an elongate body fixed in a die and a die holder embodiment.
(10) FIG. 9 is a trimetric view of an elongate body fixed between two corresponding dies and a section of a die holder.
(11) FIG. 10 is a side view of a cross-section of an elongate tool, placed in an opening of a die holder, between the die holder and a die, according to an embodiment.
(12) FIG. 11 is a trimetric view of a cross-section of an elongate tool, placed in an opening of a die holder, between the die holder and a die.
(13) FIG. 12 is a trimetric view of a cross-section of an elongate tool and associated press tool, the press tool mounted on the die holder.
(14) FIG. 13 is a side view of two ring-shaped die holders oriented towards each other, such as for forming part of a nail producing machine.
(15) FIG. 14 is a cross-section of a side view of two corresponding dies mounted in two corresponding die holders.
(16) FIG. 15 is a cross-section of a side view of a nail, fixed between two corresponding dies mounted in two corresponding die holders.
(17) FIG. 16 is trimetric view of a section of a ring-shaped die holder with a mounted die and a corresponding, free-floating die to illustrate cooperation of recesses of two dies for producing a head on a nail.
(18) FIGS. 17A, 17B and 17C show three different views of an alternative die.
(19) FIG. 18 is a flow-chart of a method according to the subject application.
(20) FIG. 19 is a trimetric view of a die embodiment with a groove at a bottom surface.
(21) FIG. 20 is another trimetric view of a die embodiment with a groove at a bottom surface.
(22) FIG. 21 is trimetric view of a section of a ring-shaped die holder with a mounted die and a corresponding, free-floating die, with an inclined groove to illustrate cooperation of recesses of two dies for producing a head on a nail.
(23) FIG. 22 is a trimetric view of a cross-section of an elongate tool, placed in an opening of a die holder, between the die holder and a die with an inclined groove at the bottom surface.
(24) FIG. 23 is a cross-section of a side view of an elongate body formed into a nail with a head, fixed between two corresponding dies with an inclined groove at the bottom surface.
(25) FIG. 24 is a trimetric view of a die holder embodiment in the form of a tool ring for a nail producing machine for holding 36 dies.
(26) FIG. 25 is a side view of a cross-section of a die holder and die, the die pressed into the die holder with a bushing attached to the die holder.
(27) FIG. 26 is a side-view of a cross-section of an elongate tool, placed in an opening of a die holder.
(28) FIG. 27 is a trimetric view of a die embodiment with a rounded groove at a bottom surface.
(29) FIG. 28 is a trimetric view of a die embodiment with a v-shaped groove at a bottom surface.
(30) FIG. 29 is a trimetric view of a die embodiment.
(31) FIG. 30 is a frontal view of a die embodiment.
(32) FIG. 31 is a side view of a die embodiment.
(33) FIG. 32 is another trimetric view of a die embodiment.
(34) FIG. 33 is a trimetric view of a die holder with a mounted die embodiment.
(35) FIG. 34 is a trimetric view of a cross-section of a die holder and a mounted die embodiment.
(36) FIG. 35 is a top view of a section of a die holder embodiment.
(37) FIG. 36 is a trimetric view of a cross-section of a die holder and an unmounted die embodiment.
(38) FIG. 37 is a trimetric view of a cross-section of a die holder and amounted die embodiment.
(39) FIG. 38 is a side view of a cross-section of an elongate tool, placed in an opening of a die holder, between the die holder and a die, according to an embodiment.
(40) FIG. 39 is a trimetric view of an elongate body fixed between two corresponding dies and a section of a die holder.
(41) FIG. 40 is trimetric view of a section of a ring-shaped die holder with a mounted die and a corresponding, free-floating die to illustrate cooperation of recesses of two dies for producing a head on a nail.
(42) FIG. 41 is a side view of two ring-shaped die holders oriented towards each other, such as for forming part of a nail, in a nail producing machine.
(43) FIG. 42 is a flow-chart of a method according to the subject application.
(44) FIG. 43a and FIG. 43b are trimetric views of alternative die embodiments.
(45) FIG. 44a and FIG. 44b are trimetric views of other alternative die embodiments.
(46) FIG. 45a and FIG. 45b are trimetric views of yet other alternative die embodiments.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF EMBODIMENTS
(47) FIG. 1 is a trimetric view of a die 1 embodiment. The figure illustrates a die 1 for mounting in an associated die holder for the production of heads on elongate bodies, such as a metal nail or screw. The die 1 comprises a body 2 with a top surface 3. The top surface has a through-going groove 4 suitable for receiving and holding the elongate body longitudinally in the groove 4. The groove 4 may have gripper marks (not visible) for increased friction with the elongate body to improve the holding effect. The body 2 of the die 1 has a cut-out surface 9 on one side and the cut-out surface 9 has a recess 5, which extends from the cut-out surface 9 and merges into the groove 4. The recess 5 is shaped to form half of the head on the elongate body. The die 1 has a side surface 6 shaped for press fit by contact with an inner surface of a bore or hole in the associated die holder. The die 1 has a bottom surface 7 with a chamfer 10 for easy mounting of the die 1 into the hole or bore of the associated die holder. At the lower portion of the body 2 there are two opposite recesses 8 serving to engage with a corresponding protrusion of the associated die holder, in order to fix angular orientation of the groove 4 relative to the die holder.
(48) FIG. 2 is a side view of a die 1 embodiment having a conical shaped side surface 6. The figure illustrates the body 2 of the die 1 when viewed directly towards the cut-out surface 9. The cut-out surface has a recess 5, which merges into the groove 4 on the top surface 3 of the die 1. The recess 5 is substantially round, shapes so at to form half of the head of a nail or screw. The side surface 6 of the die 1 is angled, suitable for press fitting into a corresponding shape of a die holder. The angle of the side surface 6 with a central axis of the body 2 is between one and two degrees in this particular embodiment, but could be in the range of a tenth of a degree to 5 degrees. On the bottom portion of the die 1 two opposite recesses 8 are shaped to engage with corresponding protrusions or shoulders to fix the angular orientation of the recess 5 and groove 4 relative to the die holder. The bottom surface 7 of the die 1 is chamfered 10 for easy insertion and guiding of the die 1 into the die holder.
(49) FIG. 3 is a trimetric view of a section of a die holder 20 with three mounted dies 1. The figure illustrates a section of a rings-shaped die holder 20 with a cross-section view of the die holder 20 and a mounted die 1. The top surface 3 of the die 1 and the top surface part 21 of the die holder 20 are plane in respect to each other. A side surface 22 of the die holder 20 is furthermore plane in respect to the cut-out surface 9 of the die 1, wherein the recess 5 of the die 1 for shaping the head of the elongate body is placed. On a third surface 23 of the die holder 20, parallel to the top surface 21, a pin or bolt 24 is seated for mounting the die holder 20 to a machine (not illustrated). On an inner side 25 of the die holder 20, an opening 26 is located, the opening 26 extending to the bottom surface 7 of the die 1.
(50) FIG. 4 is a trimetric view of a section of a die holder 20 with an unmounted die. The figure illustrates a section of a rings-shaped die holder 20 with a cross-section view of the die holder 20 and a mounted die 1. Furthermore, an unmounted die 1 is floating above a bore 30 in the top surface 21 of the die holder 20. The floating die 1 has a bottom surface 7 corresponding to a bottom surface 28 of the die holder 20. The top surface 3 of the die 1 and the surface part 21 of the die holder 20 are plane in respect to each other when the stop or bottom surface 7 of the die 1 is abutting the bottom surface 28 of the die holder 20.
(51) FIG. 5 is a top view of a section of a ring-shaped die holder 20, according to the subject application. In the middle of the figure, the bore 30 in the top surface 21 of the die holder 20 is located. In the bottom of the bore 30, there is a bottom surface 28 and lower shoulder surfaces 27 parallel to each other. Furthermore, in the bottom of the bore, the opening 26 is visible, extending from the inner side 25 of the die holder 20. On a third surface 23 of the die holder 20, parallel to the top surface 21, a pin or bolt 24 is seated for mounting the die holder 20 to a machine (not illustrated).
(52) FIG. 6 is a side view of a cross-section of a die holder 20 and die 1, the die 1 not entirely mounted into the bore 30 in the die holder 20. The die 1 has a side surface 6 shaped for press fit by contact with an inner surface 29 of the bore 30 in the die holder 20. The press fit serves to interlock the die 1 within the bore 30 of the die holder 20. At the lower portion of the die 1 there are two opposite recesses 8 serving to engage with a lower shoulder surface 27 of the die holder 20, in order to fix angular orientation of the groove 4 relative to the die holder 20. Furthermore, when the bottom surface 7 of the die 1 engage with the bottom surface 28 of the die holder 20, the top surface 3 of the die 1 becomes flush or plane with the top surface 21 of the die holder 20.
(53) FIG. 7 is a side view of a cross-section of a die holder 20 and die 1, the die 1 pressed into the die holder 20. The side surface 6 of the die interlocks with the inner surface 29 of the bore and the bottom surface 7 of the die 1 functions as a stop surface for engaging with the bottom surface 28 in the bore of the die holder 20, so as to determine the height of the top surface 3 of the die 1 in relation to the top surface 21 of the die holder 20.
(54) FIG. 8 is a trimetric view of an elongate body 40 fixed in a die 1 and a ring-shaped die holder 20. The elongate body 40 is placed in the groove 4 of the die 1 and is furthermore locked in place by a locking mechanism 30. Part of the elongate body 40 protrudes at the recess 5 of the cut-out surface 9 of the die 1, seated to be formed onto the head of a nail.
(55) FIG. 9 is a trimetric view of an elongate body 40 fixed between two corresponding dies 1, 1′ and a section of a ring-shaped die holder 20. The recesses 5, 5′ on each die 1, 1′ forms the shape of the head of a nail, when the two dies 1, 1′ are positioned with their corresponding top surfaces facing towards each other and their grooves aligned.
(56) FIG. 10 is a side view of a cross-section of an elongate tool 50, placed in an opening 26 of a die holder 20, between the die holder 20 and a die 1, according to the subject application. The elongate tool has a tapered tip 52 abutting the bottom surface 7 of the die 1. Furthermore, the back end of the elongate tool 50 has a protrusion 51 to indicate to an operator how to orient the elongate tool about a longitudinal axis. When the elongate tool 50 is forced towards the die 1, the die 1 is forced away from the die holder 20, releasing the die 1 from the die holder 20 for maintenance of the die holder 20 or die 1.
(57) FIG. 11 is a trimetric view of a cross-section of an elongate tool 50, placed in an opening 26 on the inner side 25 of a ring-shaped die holder 20, between the die holder 20 and a die 1, according to the subject application. When the opening 26 is located at the inner side 25 of the ring-shaped die holder 20, the opening is unobstructed with the die holder 20 mounted for normal operation. The elongate tool 50 has a tapered tip 52 abutting the bottom surface 7 of the die 1. Furthermore, the back end of the elongate tool 50 has a protrusion 51 to indicate to an operator how to orient the elongate tool 50 about a longitudinal axis. When the elongate tool 50 is forced towards the die 1, the die 1 is forced away from the die holder 20, releasing the die 1 from the die holder 20 for maintenance of the die holder 20 or die 1.
(58) FIG. 12 is a trimetric view of a cross-section of an elongate tool 50 and associated press tool 60, the press tool 60 mounted on the die holder 20, according to the subject application. The press tool 60 is mounted through a bolt 61 engaging with a threaded section 70 of a neighbouring opening 26, in relation to the opening 26, which the elongate tool 50 is positioned within. When the press tool 60 is placed on the back end 51 of the elongate tool 50 and the bolt 70 is turned so as to move inwards according to the threading 70, towards the die holder 20, force is applied to the elongate tool 50. As a result, the elongate tool 50 and hence the tapered tip 52 is forced towards the die 1 and the die 1 is forced away from the die holder 20, releasing the die 1 from the die holder 20 for maintenance of the die holder 20 or die 1.
(59) FIG. 13 is a trimetric view of two ring-shaped die holder embodiments 20, 20′ oriented towards each other. The ring-shaped die holders 20, 20′ have a central axis of rotation 100, about which they are arranged to rotate. A plurality of dies 1 are positioned within the die holders 20, 20′ around the circumference. The dies 1 are mounted on each of the die holders 20, 20′ are arranged facing towards each other. Especially, one of the die holders 20, the bores or holes for the dies are parallel with the axis of rotation 100, while on the other die holder 20′, the bores or holes for the dies are slightly angled.
(60) FIG. 14 is a cross-section of a side view of two corresponding dies 1, 1′ mounted in two corresponding ring-shaped die holders 20, 20′, according to the subject application. The dies 1, 1′ are aligned with their grooves 4, 4′ and recesses 5, 5′ facing each other. Furthermore the openings 26, 26′ are illustrated, extending towards the dies 1, 1′.
(61) FIG. 15 is a cross-section of a side view of an elongate body 40 formed into a nail with a head 41, fixed between two corresponding dies 1, 1′ mounted in two corresponding ring-shaped die holders 20, 20′, according to the subject application.
(62) FIG. 16 is trimetric view of a section of a ring-shaped die holder 20 with a mounted die 1 and a corresponding, free-floating die 1′. The two opposing dies 1, 1′ form the head of a nail with their corresponding recesses 5, 5′. The figure illustrates how the die 1 is seated in the die holder 20 by observing the visible bottom surface 7′ of the floating die 1′ and the recess 8′ shaped to ensure angular fixation of the groove on the top surface of the die 1′.
(63) FIG. 17 shows three different views of an alternative die embodiment, where the groove is offset from a longitudinal axis through the body of the die from top surface 3 to bottom of the die body. FIG. 17A is a trimetric view of a die 1, the die 1 having a groove 4 which is off-center in relation to the top surface 3 of the die 1. FIG. 17B is a top view of a die 1, the die 1 having a groove 4 which is off-center in relation to the top surface 3 of the die 1. FIG. 17C is a side view of a die 1, the die 1 having a groove 4 which is off-center in relation to the top surface 3 of the die 1.
(64) FIG. 18 is a flow-chart of a method embodiment for manufacturing a head on an elongate body, such as metal nails or screws, the method comprising: S1 providing first and second die holders, each of the first and second die holders comprising: 1. a body having at least a substantially plane top surface part, 2. a hole or bore in the substantially plane top surface part, wherein the hole or bore has an inner surface shaped for receiving the die and for press fit by contact with a side surface of the die, 3. a stop part located in the hole or bore for engaging with a bottom surface of the die when being pressed into the hole or bore, so as to fix a height of the top surface of the die in relation to the top surface part of the die holder, and 4. a protrusion or recess serving to engage with a corresponding recess or protrusion of the die, in order to fix angular orientation of the groove of the die relative to the die holder.
(65) S2 providing first and second dies, each of the first and second dies comprising: 1. a body with a top surface provided with a through-going groove for receiving and holding an elongate body longitudinally in said groove, 2. a recess at one end of the groove suitable for forming the head on the elongate body, 3. a side surface shaped for press fit by contact with an inner surface of a bore or hole in the associated die holder, 4. a bottom surface for engaging with a stop part in the hole or bore of the associated die holder, so as to determine a height of the top surface of the die in relation to a surface part of the associated die holder, and 5. a recess or protrusion serving to engage with a corresponding protrusion or recess of the associated die holder, in order to fix angular orientation of the groove relative to the die holder,
(66) S3 bringing the top surface of the first die so near to the top surface of the second die that the grooves of the first and second dies hold the elongate body, and
(67) S4 providing force onto the elongate body at the recess end of the grooves so as to form a head on the elongate body.
(68) In a further embodiment, the method may comprise the step of removing the die by pushing a bottom part of the die, such as by a dedicated tool, through an opening in the die holder.
(69) FIG. 19 is a trimetric view of a die 1 embodiment with a groove 75 at a bottom surface 7. The figure illustrates a die 1 for mounting in an associated die holder for the production of heads on elongate bodies, such as a metal nail or screw. The die 1 comprises a body 2 with a top surface 3. The top surface has a through-going groove 4 suitable for receiving and holding the elongate body longitudinally in the groove 4. The groove 4 may have gripper marks (not visible) for increased friction with the elongate body to improve the holding effect. The body 2 of the die 1 has a cut-out surface 9 on one side and the cut-out surface 9 has a recess 5, which extends from the cut-out surface 9 and merges into the groove 4. The recess 5 is shaped to form half of the head on the elongate body. The die 1 has a side surface 6 shaped for press fit by contact with an inner surface of a bore or hole in the associated die holder. The die 1 has a bottom surface 7 with a chamfer 10 for easy mounting of the die 1 into the hole or bore of the associated die holder. At the lower portion of the body 2 there are two opposite recesses 8 serving to engage with a corresponding protrusion of the associated die holder, in order to fix angular orientation of the groove 4 relative to the die holder.
(70) On the bottom surface 7, a groove 75 has been cut into the body 2 of the die 1. The purpose of this groove 75 is to allow an elongate tool with a tip matching the groove 75 to engage with the groove in order to push the die 1 upwards, when press fit mounted in a die holder. Especially, such elongate tool can be inserted in an opening in the die holder and thus facilitate removing the die for replacement.
(71) FIG. 20 is another trimetric view of a die 1 embodiment with a groove 75 at a bottom surface 7. The figure illustrates a die 1 for mounting in an associated die holder for the production of heads on elongate bodies, such as a metal nail or screw. The die 1 comprises a body 2 with a cut-out surface 9 on one side and the cut-out surface 9 has a recess 5, which extends from the cut-out surface 9. The recess 5 is shaped to form half of the head on the elongate body. The die 1 has a side surface 6 shaped for press fit by contact with an inner surface of a bore or hole in the associated die holder. The die 1 has a bottom surface 7 with a chamfer 10 for easy mounting of the die 1 into the hole or bore of the associated die holder. At the lower portion of the body 2 there are two opposite recesses 8 (one recess not shown) serving to engage with a corresponding protrusion of the associated die holder, in order to fix angular orientation of the groove 4 relative to the die holder.
(72) On the bottom surface 7, an inclined groove 75 has been cut into the body 2 of the die 1. In the present embodiment, the inclined groove 75 is a plane surface being parallel with an axis 300 perpendicular to a central axis/length axis 200 of the die 1. The angle of inclination is preferably 2°-20°. The inclined plane surface helps to provide a force in an upward direction to drive out the die 1 from a die holder. The tool preferably has a tip with an inclination angle matching the inclination angle of the plane surface of the groove 75. An example of such tool will be given below.
(73) FIG. 21 is trimetric view of a section of a ring-shaped die holder with a mounted die and a corresponding, free-floating die, with an inclined groove to illustrate cooperation of recesses of two dies for producing a head on a nail. The two opposing dies 1, 1′ form the head of a nail with their corresponding recesses 5, 5′. The figure illustrates how the die 1 is seated in the die holder 20 by observing the visible bottom surface 7′ of the floating die 1′ and the recess 8′ shaped to ensure angular fixation of the groove on the top surface of the die 1′. On the bottom surface 7 of the floating die 1′, an inclined groove 75′ is visible, i.e. a groove 75′ with the functionality as explained for the groove 75 above.
(74) Preferably, the die holder 20 is a monolithic element made of metal, preferably a metal which is softer than the metal or other material which forms the associated dies to be press fit in the holes or bores 30. The dies are preferably made of a hard material, e.g. a hard metal, to provide a long life time. By the press fitting principle, the hard material die is securely fastened in the hole or bore 30, thus providing optimal support of the edge of the hard material die, thereby providing a long life time of the die.
(75) The holes or bores 30 each has an inner surface shaped for receiving a die and for press fit by contact with the side surface of the die. In the hole or bore 30, a stop part is formed so as to allow engagement with a stop surface of the die when the die is being pressed into the hole or bore, so as to fix a height of a top surface of the die in relation to the top surface part of the die holder 20. Further, the die holder 20 has a protrusion or recess serving to engage with a corresponding recess or protrusion of the die, in order to fix angular orientation of the die relative to the die holder, thereby facilitating precise angular orientation of the die during the mounting in the die holder 20, e.g. after replacement of the die.
(76) Examples of the stop part and protrusion or recess for angular orientation fixing of the die can be seen in FIGS. 4-7. These features may be made in the die holder 20 by a milling process in the hole or bore 30.
(77) FIG. 22 is a trimetric view of a cross-section of an elongate tool 50, placed in an opening 26 on the inner side 25 of a ring-shaped die holder 20, between the die holder 20 and a die 1, according to the subject application. When the opening 26 is located at the inner side 25 of the ring-shaped die holder 20, the opening is unobstructed with the die holder 20 mounted for normal operation. The elongate tool 50 has an inclined tip 52 abutting a corresponding inclined groove 75 on the bottom surface 7 of the die 1. Furthermore, the back end of the elongate tool 50 has a protrusion 51 to indicate to an operator how to orient the elongate tool 50 about a longitudinal axis. When the elongate tool 50 is forced towards the die 1, the die 1 is forced away from the die holder 20, releasing the die 1 from the die holder 20 for maintenance of the die holder 20 or die 1.
(78) FIG. 23 is a cross-section of a side view of an elongate body 40 formed into a nail with a head 41, fixed between two corresponding dies 1, 1′ mounted in two corresponding ring-shaped die holders 20, 20′, according to the subject application. On the bottom surface 7′ of the die 1′, an inclined groove 75′ is visible.
(79) FIG. 24 is a trimetric view of an embodiment of a die holder 20 in the form of a ring shaped tool ring for a nail manufacturing machine. The die holder 20 comprises a top surface 21 with a plurality of evenly distributed holes or bores 30 each formed to receive a die shaped for press fit mounting. The die holder 20, further comprises a side surface 22 with openings 26, corresponding to each of the holes or bores 30. These openings 26 serve to insert an elongate tool for removing the dies when press fit mounted in the holes or bores 30.
(80) FIG. 25 is a side view of a cross-section of a die holder 20 and die 1, the die 1 being pressed into the die holder 20 with a bushing 80 attached to the die holder 20. In order to remove the die 1 from the die holder 20, a hydraulic pressure P may be applied into a cavity C within the die holder 20, so as to eject the die 1 from said die holder 20. In order to contain the hydraulic pressure P within the cavity C, a plug 85 has been inserted into the opening 26 in the side surface 22 of the die holder 20.
(81) FIG. 26 is a side-view of a cross-section of an elongate tool 50, placed in an opening 26 of a die holder 20. The elongate tool 50 is inserted through the opening 26 of a side surface 22 of said die holder 20 and the figure illustrates how the inclined tip 52 on the elongate tool 50 corresponds to the inclination of the groove 75 on the bottom surface 7 of the die 1. In this way the elongate tool 50 can apply an upwards force on the die 1 based on a wedge principle.
(82) FIGS. 27 and 28 serve to illustrate other examples of shapes of the groove 75 than the plane groove shape shown above. Preferably, as already described, an elongate tool for removing the die has a tip shaped to match the shape of the groove 75 of the die embodiments in FIGS. 27 and 28, i.e. rounded or v-shaped.
(83) FIG. 27 is a trimetric view of a die 1 embodiment with a rounded groove 75 at a bottom surface 7. The figure illustrates a die 1 for mounting in an associated die holder for the production of heads on elongate bodies, such as a metal nail or screw. The die 1 comprises a body 2 with a cut-out surface 9 on one side and the cut-out surface 9 has a recess 5, which extends from the cut-out surface 9. The recess 5 is shaped to form half of the head on the elongate body. The die 1 has a side surface 6 shaped for press fit by contact with an inner surface of a bore or hole in the associated die holder. The die 1 has a bottom surface 7 with a chamfer 10 for easy mounting of the die 1 into the hole or bore of the associated die holder. At the lower portion of the body 2 there are two opposite recesses 8 serving to engage with a corresponding protrusion of the associated die holder, in order to fix angular orientation of the groove 4 relative to the die holder. On the bottom surface 7, a rounded groove 75 has been cut into the body 2 of the die 1. The purpose of this groove 75 is to allow an elongate tool with a rounded tip matching the rounded groove 75 to engage with the groove in order to push the die 1 upwards, when press fit mounted in a die holder.
(84) FIG. 28 is a trimetric view of a die 1 embodiment with a v-shaped groove 75 at a bottom surface 7. The figure illustrates a die 1 for mounting in an associated die holder for the production of heads on elongate bodies, such as a metal nail or screw. The die 1 comprises a body 2 with a cut-out surface 9 on one side and the cut-out surface 9 has a recess 5, which extends from the cut-out surface 9. The recess 5 is shaped to form half of the head on the elongate body. The die 1 has a side surface 6 shaped for press fit by contact with an inner surface of a bore or hole in the associated die holder. The die 1 has a bottom surface 7 with a chamfer 10 for easy mounting of the die 1 into the hole or bore of the associated die holder. At the lower portion of the body 2 there are two opposite recesses 8 serving to engage with a corresponding protrusion of the associated die holder, in order to fix angular orientation of the groove 4 relative to the die holder. On the bottom surface 7, a v-shaped groove 75 has been cut into the body 2 of the die 1. The purpose of this groove 75 is to allow an elongate tool with a corresponding v-shaped tip matching the v-shaped groove 75 to engage with the groove in order to push the die 1 upwards, when press fit mounted in a die holder.
(85) To sum up, the subject application provides a die (1) for mounting in an associated die holder (20) for the production of heads on elongate bodies such as nails or screws. The die has a body (2) with a top surface (3) provided with a through-going groove (4) for receiving and holding an elongate body longitudinally in said groove. Furthermore, the die has a recess in the form of a cut-out (9) on one side merging into the groove (4) at one end of the groove (4) suitable for forming the head of a nail or screw. The die is preferably shaped tapered or conical for press fit by contact with the inner surface of a bore or hole (30) in the associated die holder. The top surface (3) of the die (1) is plane in relation to the top surface (21) of the die holder (20) through a stop or bottom surface (7) which engages with a stop or bottom part (28) within the hole or bore (30) of the die holder (20). Furthermore, the bottom portion of the die has at least one recess (8) or protrusion serving to engage with a corresponding protrusion (27) or recess of the associated die holder, in order to fix angular orientation of the groove (4) relative to the die holder (20). In order to produce a nail or screw from an elongate body (40), two opposite dies are brought together by two opposite die holders, the dies together forming the head (41) with their combined recesses.
(86) FIG. 29 is a trimetric view of a die 101 embodiment. The figure illustrates a die 101 for mounting in an associated die holder (not shown) for the production of heads on elongate bodies, such as a metal nail or screw. The die 101 comprises a body 102 with a top surface 103. The top surface has a through-going groove 104 suitable for receiving and holding the elongate body longitudinally in the groove 104. The groove 104 may have gripper marks (not visible) for increased friction with the elongate body to improve the holding effect. The body 102 of the die 101 has a side surface 106 comprising a first, substantially round portion and a second portion 109. The second portion 109 has a recess 105, which extends from the second portion 109 and merges into the groove 104. The recess 105 is shaped to form half of the head on the elongate body. The side surface 106 is shaped for press fit by contact with an inner surface of a bore or hole in the associated die holder. The die 101 has a bottom surface 107 with a chamfer 110 for easy mounting of the die 101 into the hole or bore of the associated die holder. The second portion 109 of the side surface 106 is flat for higher durability and furthermore serves to engage with a corresponding flat surface of the associated die holder, in order to fix angular orientation of the groove 104 relative to the associated die holder. On the side surface 106 of the body 102 of the die 101, a first chamfered portion 111 and a second chamfered portion 111′ is positioned, interconnecting the first portion of the side surface 106 with the second portion 109. In some embodiments of the die 101, the first and second chamfered portions 111, 111′ extends from the bottom surface 107 to the top surface 103 of the die 101. On the bottom surface 107, a groove 175 has been cut into the body 102 of the die 101, extending from the bottom surface 107 to the second portion 109 of the side surface 106. The purpose of this groove 175 is to allow an associated elongate tool (not shown) with a tip matching the groove 175 to engage with the groove in order to push the die 101 upwards, when press fit mounted in an associated die holder 120. Especially, such elongate tool can be inserted in an opening in the associated die holder 120 and thus facilitate removing the die for replacement.
(87) In some embodiments, the inclined groove 175 is a plane surface being parallel with an axis perpendicular to the central axis, as shown in FIG. 2 and FIG. 3, of the die 101. The angle of inclination is preferably 2°-20°. The inclined plane surface helps to provide a force in an upward direction to drive out the die 101 from a die holder. The tool preferably has a tip with an inclination angle matching the inclination angle of the plane surface of the groove 175.
(88) FIG. 30 is a side view of a die 101 embodiment having a conical shaped side surface 106. The figure illustrates the body 102 of the die 101 when viewed directly towards the second portion 109 of the side surface 106. The second portion has a recess 105, which merges into the groove 104 on the top surface 103 of the die 101. The recess 105 is substantially round, shaped so at to form half of the head of a nail or screw. On the side surface 106 of the body 102 of the die 101, a first chamfered portion 111 and a second chamfered portion 111′ is positioned, interconnecting the first portion of the side surface 106 with the second portion 109. The side surface 106 of the die 101 is angled, suitable for press fitting into a corresponding shape of an associated die holder. The angle of the side surface 106 with a central axis (dotted line) of the body 102 is between one and two degrees in this particular embodiment, but could be in the range of a tenth of a degree to 5 degrees. The bottom surface 107 of the die 101 is chamfered 10 for easy insertion and guiding of the die 101 into the die holder. In some embodiments of the die 101, the first and second chamfered portions 111, 111′ extends from the bottom surface 107 to the top surface 103 of the die 101. On the bottom surface 107, a groove 175 has been cut into the body 102 of the die 101, extending from the bottom surface 107 to the second portion 109 of the side surface 106.
(89) FIG. 31 is another side view of a die 101 embodiment having a conical shaped side surface 106. The figure illustrates the body 102 of the die 101 when viewed perpendicular, relative to the second portion 109 of the side surface 106. On the side surface 106 of the body 102 of the die 101, a first chamfered portion 111 and a second chamfered portion (not shown) is positioned, interconnection the first portion of the side surface 106 with the second portion 109. The side surface 106 of the die 101 is angled, suitable for press fitting into a corresponding shape of an associated die holder. The angle of the side surface 106 with a central axis (dotted line) of the body 102 is between one and two degrees in this particular embodiment, but could be in the range of a tenth of a degree to 5 degrees. The bottom surface 107 of the die 101 is chamfered 10 for easy insertion and guiding of the die 101 into the die holder.
(90) FIG. 32 is another trimetric bottom view of a die 101 embodiment. The figure illustrates a die 101 for mounting in an associated die holder (not shown) for the production of heads on elongate bodies, such as a metal nail or screw. The body 102 of the die 101 has a side surface 106 comprising a first, substantially round portion and a second portion 109. The second portion 109 has a recess 105, shaped to form half of the head on the elongate body. The side surface 106 is shaped for press fit by contact with an inner surface of a bore or hole in the associated die holder. The die 101 has a bottom surface 107 with a chamfer 110 for easy mounting of the die 101 into the hole or bore of the associated die holder. The second portion 109 of the side surface 106 is flat for higher durability and furthermore serves to engage with a corresponding flat surface of the associated die holder, in order to fix angular orientation of the die 101, relative to the associated die holder. On the side surface 106 of the body 102 of the die 101, a first chamfered portion 111 and a second chamfered portion 111′ is positioned, interconnecting the first portion of the side surface 106 with the second portion 109. On the bottom surface 107, a groove 175 has been cut into the body 102 of the die 101, extending to the second portion 109 of the side surface 106.
(91) FIG. 33 is a trimetric view of a section of a die holder 120 with a mounted die 101. The figure illustrates a mounted die 101 and a section of a rings-shaped die holder 120. A side surface 122 (not visible) of the die holder 120 is furthermore plane in respect to the second portion 109 of the side surface of the die 101, wherein the recess 105 of the die 101 for shaping the head of the elongate body is placed. On a third surface 123 of the die holder 120, parallel to the top surface 121 of the die holder 120, a pin or bolt 124 is seated for mounting the die holder 120 to a machine (not shown).
(92) FIG. 34 is a trimetric view of a section of a die holder 120 with a mounted die 101. The figure illustrates a section of a rings-shaped die holder 120 with a cross-section view of the die holder 120 and a mounted die 101. The top surface 103 of the die 101 and the top surface part 121 of the die holder 120 are plane in respect to each other. A side surface 122 (not visible) of the die holder 120 is furthermore plane in respect to the second portion 109 of the side surface of the die 101, wherein the recess 105 of the die 101 for shaping the head of the elongate body is placed. On the inner side 125 of the die holder 120, an opening 126 is located, the opening 126 extending to the bottom surface 107 of the die 101. In this particular embodiment, a plug 145 has been inserted into the opening 126 of the die holder 120.
(93) FIG. 35 is a top view of a section of a ring-shaped die holder 120, according to the subject application. In the middle of the figure, the bore 130 in the top surface 121 of the die holder 120 is located. In the bottom surface 128 of the die holder 120, the opening 126 of die holder 120 is visible. On a third surface 123 of the die holder 120, parallel to the top surface 121, a pin or bolt 124 is seated for mounting the die holder 120 to a machine (not illustrated).
(94) Preferably, the die holder 120 is a monolithic element made of metal, preferably a metal, which is softer than the metal or other material which forms the associated dies to be press fit in the holes or bores 130. The dies are preferably made of a hard material, e.g. a hard metal, to provide a long lifetime. By the press fitting principle, the hard material die is securely fastened in the hole or bore 130, thus providing optimal support of the edge of the hard material die, thereby providing a long life time of the die.
(95) The holes or bores 130 each has an inner surface shaped for receiving a die and for press fit by contact with the side surface of the die. In the hole or bore 130, a stop part is formed so as to allow engagement with a stop surface of the die when the die is being pressed into the hole or bore, so as to fix a height of a top surface of the die in relation to the top surface part of the die holder 120. Further, the die holder 120 has a protrusion or recess serving to engage with a corresponding recess or protrusion of the die, in order to fix angular orientation of the die relative to the die holder, thereby facilitating precise angular orientation of the die during the mounting in the die holder 120, e.g. after replacement of the die.
(96) FIG. 36 is a trimetric view of a section of a die holder 120 with an unmounted die 101. The figure illustrates a section of a rings-shaped die holder 120 with a cross-section view of the die holder 120 and an unmounted die 101, floating above a bore 130 in the top surface 121 of the die holder 120. The floating die 101 has a bottom surface 107 corresponding to a bottom surface 128 of the die holder 120. The top surface 103 of the die 101 and the surface part 121 of the die holder 120 are plane in respect to each other when the stop or bottom surface 107 of the die 101 is abutting the bottom surface 128 of the die holder 120.
(97) FIG. 37 is a side view of a cross-section of a die holder 120 and die 101, the die 101 mounted into the bore in the die holder 120. The die 101 has a side surface 106 shaped for press fit by contact with a corresponding inner surface of the bore in the die holder 120. The press fit serves to interlock the die 101 within the bore 130 of the die holder 120. When the bottom surface 107 of the die 101 abuts with the bottom surface 128 of the die holder 120, the top surface 103 of the die 101 becomes flush or plane with the top surface 121 of the die holder 120.
(98) FIG. 38 is a side view of a cross-section of an elongate tool 50, placed in an opening of a die holder 120, between the die holder 120 and a die 101, according to the subject application. The elongate tool has a tapered tip 152 abutting the bottom surface 107 of the die 101. When the elongate tool 50 is forced towards the die 101, the die 101 is forced away from the die holder 120, releasing the die 101 from the die holder 120 for maintenance of the die holder 120 or die 101.
(99) FIG. 39 is a trimetric view of an elongate body 140 fixed between two corresponding dies 10101, 101′ and a section of a ring-shaped die holder 120. The recesses 105, 105′ on each die 101, 101′ forms the shape of the head of a nail, when the two dies 10101, 101′ are positioned with their corresponding top surfaces facing towards each other and their grooves aligned and the head end 140′ of the elongate body 140 is pressed in a longitudinal direction, towards the recesses 105, 105′ of the dies 10101, 101′.
(100) FIG. 40 is a trimetric view of two corresponding dies 10101, 101′ and a section of a ring-shaped die holder 120. In the illustration, one die 101 is mounted in the die holder 120 and the second die 101′ is floating, as how it would be mounted in a second die holder (not shown), and wherein the top surfaces of the dies 10101, 101′ are abutting each other. The recesses 105, 105′ on each die 101, 1′ forms the shape of the head of a nail, when the two dies 10101, 101′ are positioned with their corresponding top surfaces facing towards each other and their grooves are aligned.
(101) FIG. 41 is a trimetric view of two ring-shaped die holder embodiments 20, 20′ oriented towards each other. The ring-shaped die holders 120, 120′ have a central axis of rotation 100, about which they are arranged to rotate. A plurality of dies 101 are positioned within the die holders 120, 120′ around the circumference. The dies 101 are mounted on each of the die holders 120, 120′ are arranged facing towards each other. Especially, one of the die holders 20, the bores or holes for the dies are parallel with the axis of rotation 100, while on the other die holder 120′, the bores or holes for the dies are slightly angled. It is to be understood, that the position and angle of the die holders 120, 120′ are configured so as to be closer at one point, such as at the bottom portions, than at the top portions, to enable the plurality of dies 101 of a first die holder 120, to abut with corresponding dies of the opposite die holder 120′.
(102) FIG. 42 is a flow-chart of a method embodiment for manufacturing a head on an elongate body, such as metal nails or screws, the method comprising: e. providing S1 first and second die holders 120, 120′, each of the first and second die holders comprising: i. a body having at least a surface part 121, ii. a hole or bore 130 in the surface part, wherein the hole or bore has a first inner surface portion 129 with a curved shaped and arranged for receiving the die and for press fit by contact with a first side surface portion 6 of the die, iii. a stop part 28 located in the hole or bore for engaging with a bottom surface 107 of the die when being pressed into the hole or bore, so as to fix a height of the top surface 103 of the die in relation to the surface part of the die holder, and iv. a second inner surface portion of the bore or hole engaging with a corresponding second side surface portion of the die, in order to fix angular orientation of the groove 104 of the die relative to the die holder, f. providing S2 first and second dies 101, 101′, each of the first and second dies comprising: vi. a body 102 with a top surface provided with a through-going groove for receiving and holding an elongate body longitudinally in said groove, vii. a recess 105 at one end of the groove suitable for forming the head on the elongate body, viii. a first side surface portion with a curved shape for press fit by contact with a first inner surface portion of a bore or hole in the associated die holder, ix. a stop surface for engaging with a stop part in the hole or bore of the associated die holder, so as to determine a height of the top surface of the die in relation to a surface part of the associated die holder, and x. a second side surface portion serving to engage with the corresponding second inner surface portion of the die holder, in order to fix angular orientation of the groove relative to the die holder, g. bringing S3 the top surface of the first die 101 so near to the top surface of the second die 101′ that the grooves of the first and second dies hold the elongate body, and h. providing S4 force onto the elongate body at the recess end of the grooves so as to form a head on the elongate body.
(103) FIG. 43a and FIG. 43b are trimetric views of alternative die embodiments.
(104) FIG. 43a is a trimetric view of a die 101 embodiment. The figure illustrates a die 101 for mounting in an associated die holder (not shown) for the production of heads on elongate bodies, such as a metal nail or screw. The die 101 comprises a body 102 with has a side surface 106 comprising a first, substantially round portion and a second portion 109. The second portion 109 has a large surface area relative to some embodiments of the die 101. The side surface 106 is shaped for press fit by contact with an inner surface of a bore or hole in the associated die holder. The second portion 109 of the side surface 106 is flat for higher durability and furthermore serves to engage with a corresponding flat surface of the associated die holder, in order to fix angular orientation of the die 101, relative to the associated die holder. On the side surface 106 of the body 102 of the die 101, a first chamfered portion 111 and a second chamfered portion 111′ is positioned, interconnecting the first portion of the side surface 106 with the second portion 109. In some embodiments of the die 101, the first and second chamfered portions 111, 111′ extends from a bottom surface to a top surface of the die 101.
(105) FIG. 43b is a trimetric view of a die 101 embodiment. The figure illustrates a die 101 for mounting in an associated die holder (not shown) for the production of heads on elongate bodies, such as a metal nail or screw. The die 101 comprises a body 102 with has a side surface 106 comprising a first, substantially round portion and a second portion 109. The second portion 109 has a small surface area relative to some embodiments of the die 101. The side surface 106 is shaped for press fit by contact with an inner surface of a bore or hole in the associated die holder. The second portion 109 of the side surface 106 is flat for higher durability and furthermore serves to engage with a corresponding flat surface of the associated die holder, in order to fix angular orientation of the die 101, relative to the associated die holder. On the side surface 106 of the body 102 of the die 101, a first chamfered portion 111 and a second chamfered portion 111′ is positioned, interconnecting the first portion of the side surface 106 with the second portion 109. In some embodiments of the die 101, the first and second chamfered portions 111, 111′ extends from a bottom surface to a top surface of the die 101.
(106) FIG. 44a and FIG. 44b are trimetric views of other alternative die embodiments.
(107) FIG. 44a is a trimetric view of a die 101 embodiment. The figure illustrates a die 101 for mounting in an associated die holder (not shown) for the production of heads on elongate bodies, such as a metal nail or screw. The die 101 comprises a body 102 with has a side surface 106 comprising a first, substantially round portion and a second portion 109. The second portion 109 has a large surface area relative to some embodiments of the die 101. The side surface 106 is shaped for press fit by contact with an inner surface of a bore or hole in the associated die holder. The second portion 109 of the side surface 106 is flat for higher durability and furthermore serves to engage with a corresponding flat surface of the associated die holder, in order to fix angular orientation of the die 101, relative to the associated die holder. On the side surface 106 of the body 102 of the die 101, a first chamfered portion 111 and a second chamfered portion 111′ is positioned, interconnecting the first portion of the side surface 106 with the second portion 109. The chamfered portions have a small surface area, relative to some embodiments of the die 101. In some embodiments of the die 101, the first and second chamfered portions 111, 111′ extends from a bottom surface to a top surface of the die 101.
(108) FIG. 44b is a trimetric view of a die 101 embodiment. The figure illustrates a die 101 for mounting in an associated die holder (not shown) for the production of heads on elongate bodies, such as a metal nail or screw. The die 101 comprises a body 102 with has a side surface 106 comprising a first, substantially round portion and a second portion 109. The side surface 106 is shaped for press fit by contact with an inner surface of a bore or hole in the associated die holder. The second portion 109 of the side surface 106 is flat for higher durability and furthermore serves to engage with a corresponding flat surface of the associated die holder, in order to fix angular orientation of the die 101, relative to the associated die holder. On the side surface 106 of the body 102 of the die 101, a first chamfered portion 111 and a second chamfered portion 111′ is positioned, interconnecting the first portion of the side surface 106 with the second portion 109. The chamfered portions have a large surface area, relative to some embodiments of the die 101. In some embodiments of the die 101, the first and second chamfered portions 111, 111′ extends from a bottom surface to a top surface of the die 101.
(109) FIG. 45a and FIG. 45b are trimetric views of yet other alternative die embodiments.
(110) FIG. 45a is a trimetric view of a die 101 embodiment. The figure illustrates a die 101 for mounting in an associated die holder (not shown) for the production of heads on elongate bodies, such as a metal nail or screw. The die 101 comprises a body 102 with has a side surface 106 comprising a first, substantially round portion and a second portion 109. The side surface 106 is shaped for press fit by contact with an inner surface of a bore or hole in the associated die holder. The second portion 109 of the side surface 106 is flat for higher durability and furthermore serves to engage with a corresponding flat surface of the associated die holder, in order to fix angular orientation of the die 101, relative to the associated die holder.
(111) FIG. 45b is a trimetric view of a die 101 embodiment. The figure illustrates a die 101 for mounting in an associated die holder (not shown) for the production of heads on elongate bodies, such as a metal nail or screw. The die 101 comprises a body 102 with has a side surface 106 comprising a first, substantially round portion, a second portion 109 and a third portion 109′. The side surface 106 is shaped for press fit by contact with an inner surface of a bore or hole in the associated die holder. The second portion 109 of the side surface 106 is flat for higher durability during nail production. The third portion 109′ of the side surface 106 is curved and serves to engage with a corresponding curved surface of the associated die holder, in order to fix angular orientation of the die 101, relative to the associated die holder. In some embodiments, the curvature of the side surface 106 and the curvature of the third portion 109′ are substantially identical. In this particular embodiment, the curvature of the side surface 106 and the curvature of the third portion 109′ are different.
(112) To sum up, the subject application provides a die 101 for mounting in an associated die holder 120 for the production of heads on elongate bodies such as nails or screws. The die has a body 102 with a top surface 103 provided with a through-going groove 104 for receiving and holding an elongate body longitudinally in said groove. Furthermore, the die has a recess 105 on one side merging into the groove 104 at one end of the groove 104 suitable for forming the head of a nail or screw. The die has a side surface portion, e.g. conical, shaped for press fit by contact with a corresponding inner surface portion of a bore or hole 130 in the associated die holder. Further, a second side surface portion (9), e.g. a plane portion, of the die serves to engage with a corresponding inner surface portion of the bore or hole of the die holder. Hereby, it is ensured, that angular orientation of the groove 104 is fixed relative to the die holder 120, and it has been proven that the two different side surface portions of the die, e.g. with a conical portion and a plane portion, provides an efficient press fit which ensures a long lifetime of the die. Further, the die is very simple to mount in the die holder, e.g. by hand, and it is simple to eject by a tool. Thus, altogether a highly efficient nail production can be obtained with such die and die holder system.
(113) Although the subject application has been described in connection with the specified embodiments, it should not be construed as being in any way limited to the presented examples. The scope of the subject application is set out by the accompanying claim set. In the context of the claims, the terms “comprising” or “comprises” do not exclude other possible elements or steps. Also, the mentioning of references such as “a” or “an” etc. should not be construed as excluding a plurality. The use of reference signs in the claims with respect to elements indicated in the figures shall also not be construed as limiting the scope of the subject application. Furthermore, individual features mentioned in different claims, may possibly be advantageously combined, and the mentioning of these features in different claims does not exclude that a combination of features is not possible and advantageous.
