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It is also important for e-mobility because the green innovation capacity counts on the know-how in the battery and lightweight technology. While chasing ever greater reach, lightweight construction is particularly essen- tial to further promote electro-mobility. However, efficient lightweight construction also sets high standards for multi-material concepts thus requiring innovative fastening technology such as the established RIVSET self-pierce riveting technology from Böllhoff. This technology allows to join different ma- terials in a single production step without pre-punching. Another important factor is the energy effi- ciency of process devices – a decisive as- pect for car manufacturers. That was reason enough for Böllhoff to develop alternatives for the self-pierce riveting technology with semi-tubular rivets in addition to the estab- lished hydraulic drive. When modern multi-material designs electrify By Annette Löwen, Leader FAT Marketing Germany, Böllhoff Verbindungstechnik GmbH The automotive industry cannot do without them: modern lightweight concepts. On the contrary: Not only do they considerably improve vehicle dynamics, but they also help reduce emissions. Lightweight construction thus continues to be a key technology for future cars. Powerful drive unit and minimum maintenance Böllhoff breaks new ground again with the in- novative assembly system Automation E. This assembly system focusses on a robust drive and its functionality and flexibility during use. In combination with maximum availability and minimum maintenance, that makes it anoth- er basis for a successful product originating from the think tank. The main requirements for this system are a 100 % electrical installation on robots, the compact design of setting tools and short process times – for some applications < 1.5 s. These systems are hard to outperform, since a TPM concept is also provided. With this posi- tion-controlled system, setting forces of 60 kN and 78 kN can be realised by two different mandrel designs. The maximum movement speed is 320 mm/s. The coaxial motor leads to a low interfering contour. The intelligent machine variants – modular, comprehensive range – allow high flexibility from prototyping to large-scale production. The fast and high-performance control pro- vides open software interfaces for robot com- munication as well as for provision of data via OPC UA. Modularity in perfection The RIVSET Automation E benefits from the symbiosis with further new developments such as the C-frame generation and the rivet feeder. RIVSET Automation E Setting tool with 100% electrical installation for setting forces 60 kN and 78 kN New C-frame generation – the modular system With a minimum number of base frames a maximum number of setting tools can be generated. Images: © Böllhoff Group S H A R E