| 摘要 |
<p>A hydroforming apparatus capable of deforming relatively large and thick-walled workpieces, yet which is relatively small, simple, and inexpensive in construction and operation, includes a pressure vessel that is disposed within a frame. The pressure vessel includes upper and lower vessel members that support respect ive die sections therein. When the upper and lower vessel members are moved adjacent to one another, the die sections cooperate to define a die cavity in which a workpi ece to be hydroformed is disposed. An inflatable bladder is disposed between one or bot h of the die sections and the associated upper and lower vessel members. During the hydroforming operation, pressurized fluid is introduced within the workpiece so as to expand it outwardly into conformance with the die cavity defined by the die sect ions. At the same time, pressurized fluid is introduced into the inflatable bladder, c ausing it to expand between the die sections and the associated upper and lower vessel members. The inflatable bladder allows for limited expansion of the upper and lo wer vessel members while preventing relative movement between the die sections. As a result, the size, complexity, and cost of the hydroforming apparatus can be main tained at a minimum while facilitating the hydroforming of relatively large and thick-w alled workpieces, such as vehicle frame components.</p> |
