32 Current challenges Work in production halls is presently undergoing a change. The reasons for that are the increasingly global competition and changed market demand. Product life cycles are becoming shorter. That is also true for the automotive sector, of course. Alternating model series require quick and flexible solutions. However, lightweight construction, the technology of today and tomorrow to save material and energy, also demands for expert knowledge. Especially 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 to reduce emissions. Lightweight construction continues to be essential for future cars and is also important for e-mobility. Key technologies for lightweight construction Though, lightweight construction also sets high standards for multi-material concepts thus requiring innovative fastening technologies. With many of its technologies, Böllhoff already addresses modern body construction with distinctive material combination today. They offer a great potential of productive solutions providing key technologies for mechanical fastening. One of those, the self-pierce riveting technology with semi-tubular rivets, RIVSET Automation EH, allows to join lightweight materials as well as highstrength steels at very short process times. The material components do not require pre-drilling or pre-punching. In one step, the semi-tubular rivet punches through the top material layers and in the bottom material layer forms an undercut and also the characteristic locking head. This process convinces by relatively high dynamic and quasi-static strengths and high reproducibility. It is also easy to automate. For this system, the focus is on functionality, variability and design. With a long life at maximum availability and minimum maintenance, this is the foundation for a successful production. Böllhoff permanently pursues the further development and thus Two experts, one goal. Böllhoff and KUKA put the automation of self-pierce riveting processes in a nutshell By Annette Löwen, Head of FAT Marketing Germany, Böllhoff Verbindungstechnik GmbH Böllhoff, one of the leading international providers of fastening and assembly technologies, and KUKA, one of the leading international providers of automated production and assembly solutions, decided to embark on a new cooperation and jointly develop a project: the ready2_rivet package. Images: © Böllhoff Group Böllhoff and KUKA put the automation of self-pierce riveting processes in a nutshell.
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