KALTGENIETETE BEFESTIGUNGSKONSTRUKTION UND ARBEITSVERFAHREN.

摘要

An improved joint structure and tooling apparatus are provided for assembling a self-clinching fastener (12) to sheet material (14), particularly sheet metal. The fastener (12) includes head (20) and shank portions with an intermediate locking groove (24) formed in the shank. The fastener shank projects through the aperture and the head (20) is at least partially embedded within the peripheral material (18) surrounding the sheet metal aperture (16). A portion of the peripheral sheet metal is disposed within the groove to form a mechanical interlock for securement of the joint assembly. The shank has an outwardly flared end portion (22) which is staked so that it has an exposed surface coplanar or flush with the exposed, opposite surface of the sheet material (14) relative to the embedded fastener head (20), which provides a smooth continuous undersurface of the joint.