DESCRII'TION
HATS1 IAPED CROSS-SECTION COMPONENT MANUFACTURING APPARATIJS
Technical Field
[OOOI] The present i~iventionre lates to a hat-shaped cross-section conlponent manufacturing
apparatus for matmfacturing a component \vitli a hat-shaped cross-section.
Background Art
[0002] Pressed componetlts with a hat-shaped cross-section profile (also referred to as
"hat-shaped cross-section con~ponents"in the present specification), such as kont side
members, are knowvn structural tiienlbers configuring automotive vehicle body fraiilewvork.
Such hat-shaped cross-section cotilponents are formed by performing press working
(drawing) or tlie like on metal sheet materials (for example, steel sheets) (see, for example,
Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open (JP-A) Nos. 2003-103306,2004-154859,
2006-01 5404, and 2008-307557).
SUMMARY OF INVENTION
Technical Probletn
[0003] When a hat-shaped cross-section component is fol-~nedb y drawing a metal sheet, it is
important to retnove the hat-shaped cross-section component during demolding while
avoiding deformation as much as possible.
[0004] In consideration of the above circ:comstances, an object of the present invention is to
obtain a hat-shaped cross-section component manufacturing apparatus capable of suppressing
deformation of a hat-shaped cross-section component during detnolding.
Solution to Problem
[00051 A hat-shaped cross-section component manufacturing apparatus that addresses tlie
above issue includes: a die that includes a fanning face that presses both side portions of a
metal sheet, and that includes an opening;,a punch that is disposed facing tlie opening of the
die, wvlierein the punch is disposed inside the opening when a mold is closed, and wherein the
punch includes a forming face that presses a central portion of the tiletal sheet; a pad that is
disposed inside the opening formed in tlie die, wherein the pad i~lcludesa forming face that
presses and grips the central portion of tlie metal sheet against the punch when the mold is
closed so as to configure a forming face corresponding to the forming face of tlie punch; a
holder that is disposed facing the die, wherein tlie holder includes a forming face that presses
and grips both side portions of the tiletal sheet against the die when the ~noldis closed so as to
configure a fortiling face corresponding to tlie forming face of the die; arid a pressure limiting
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device that liniits a fortned hat-shaped cross-section cotnpollent \\it11 a hat-shaped
cross-section profile from being pressed bctween the pad and the holder during demolding.
[0006] The hat-shaped cross-section component nianufacturi~tga pparatus that addresses the
above issue fornls the hat-shaped cross-scction component that has a hat-shaped cross-scction
profile by gripping the central portion of the lnetal sheet with the punch and the pad, gripping
the both side portio~iso f the tiletal sheet with tlie die and the holder, and tllovi~lgth e holder
and die, and the punch and pad, up-down relative to each othel: The hat-shaped
cross-section component is rc~lloved from the mold (the holder, the die, the punch, and the
pad) in a state in wvliich the pressure lilniti~lgd evice limits tlie formed hat-shaped
cross-section con~ponelf~rot m being pressed betureen the pad and the holder during
demolding. Defolnlatiorl of the $at-shaped cross-section compo~lendt uritlg deriloldi~lgis
accordillgly suppressed.
Advantageous Effects of Invention
[0007] The hat-shaped cross-section component ~lia~lufacturinagp paratus of the present
itlventio~el xhibits the excellent advantageous effect of enabling deformation of a bat-shaped
cross-section component duritlg de~noldingto be suppressed.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS
[0008] Fig. IA is a perspective view illustrating an example of a curvitlg component
configured with a hat-shaped cross-section.
Fig. 1 B is a plan view of the curving component illustrated in Fig. 1 A, as viewed
from above.
Fig. 1C is a front view of the curving cornpotlent illustrated in Fig. 1A.
Fig. 1D is a side view of the curving component illustrated in Fig. IA, as viewed
from one end portion.
Fig. 2 is a perspective view corresponding to Fig. 1 A, illustrating a curving
component in order to explain ridge lilies at locations corresponding to a concave shaped
curved portion and a convex shaped curved portion.
Fig. 3A is a perspective view ilh~stratinga riletal stock sheet before fonning.
Fig. 3B is a perspective view illustrating a drawn panel.
Fig. 4 is a perspective view corresponding to Fig. 3B, illustrating locations in the
dra\vn panel where cracks atid creases are liable to occur.
Fig. 5 is an exploded perspective view illustrating relevarlt portions of a hat-shaped
cross-section co~ilpollenmt anufacturing apparatus.
Fig. 6A is a cross-section illustrating a stage at the start of processing of tile
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hat-shaped cross-section component ~nanufacturinga pparatus illustrated in Fig. 5
Fig. 6B is a cross-section illustrating the hat-shaped cross-section component
manufacturing apparatus illustrated in Fig. 5 at a stage at \\~l~icaI im etal stock sheet is gripped
and restrained between a die and pad, and a holder and a punch.
Fig. 6C is a cross-section illustrating a stage at \\rhic11 the punch has been pushed in
from the stage illustrated in Fig. 63.
Fig. 6D is a cross-section illustrating a state in \vllich the punch has bee11 pushcd in
f~~rthferor m the stage illustrated in Fig. 6C, such that the punch has been fully pushed in with
respect to the die.
Fig. 7 is an exploded perspective view illustrating another hat-shaped cross-section
component manufacturing apparatus.
Fig. 8A is a cross-section illustrating the hat-shaped cross-section co~nponent
~nanufacturinga pparatus illustrated in Fig. 7, at a stage at the start of processing.
Fig. 8B is a cross-section illustrating a stage at which the ~netaslt ock sheet is gripped
and restrained between a die and pad, and a holder and punch of the hat-shaped cross-section
component manufacturi~iga pparatus illustrated in Fig. 7.
Fig. 8C is a cross-section illustrating a stage at which the punch has been pushed in
from the stage illustrated in Fig. 8B.
Fig. 8D is a cross-section illustrating a state in which the punch has been pushed in
further from the stage illustrated in Fig. 8C, such that the punch has been fully pushed it1 with
respect to the die.
Fig. 9A is a cross-section illustrating a mold to explai~ai defect that occurs when
renloving a cur\ring component from the tnold after a punch has been fully pushed into a die
and a metal stock sheet has been formed into the curving component.
Fig. 9B is a cross-section illustrating the mold at a stage in which the punch is being
retracted from the die from the state illustrated in Fig. 9A.
Fig. 9C is a cross-section illustrating the mold at a stage in which the punch has been
fully retracted from the die from the state illustrated in Fig. 9B.
Fig. 10A is a cross-section illustrating a mold, in a state it1 which a punch has been
fully pushed into a die.
Fig. 10B is a cross-section illustrating the mold at a stage in \vhich the punch is being
retracted from the die from the state illustrated in Fig. 10A.
Fig. 10C is a cross-section illustrating the mold at a stage in \vhicl~th e punch has
been fi~llyre tracted from the die fro~nth e state illustrated in Fig. 10B.
Fig. 11A is a cross-section illustrating a mold, in a state in which a punch has been
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fully pushed into a die.
Fig. 11B is a cross-section illustratitig the ~liolda t a stage in wvliicli tlie punch is being
retracted fro111 the die from the state illustrated in Fig. 11 A.
Fig. 1 1C is a cross-section illustrating the n~olda t a stage in whicli the punch has been fully
retracted rrotii the die from the state illustrated in Fig. 11B.
Fig. 12A is an explanatory diagram illustrating a mold including a pressure linliting device for
removing a curving component from the niold without causing deformation, in a
state when fonning has been comnpleted.
Fig. 12B is an explanatory diagratn illustrating the mold in a state in which the
pressure li~ilitingd cvicc is functioning.
Fig. 12C is an explanato~yd iagram illustrating the mold in a state in whicli the
pressure limiting device is functioning.
Fig. 12D is an exp1anato1-y diagratn illustrating the tiiold including the pressure
limiting device, in a state when demolding has been conipleted.
Fig. 13A is an cxplanato~yd iagram illushating a mold including a pressure limiting
device for removing a cuving component from the tiiold without causing deformation, in a
state when forming has been completed.
Fig. 13B is an explanatory diagratii illustrating the mold in a state in which the
pressure litniting device is fi~nctioning.
Fig. 13C is an explanatory diagram illustrating the mold in a state in which the
pressure limiting device is functioning.
Fig. 13D is an explanatory diagram illustrating the mold including the pressure
limiting device, in a state when de~iloldingh as been completed.
Fig. 13E is an explanatory diagram, corresponding to Fig. 12C and Fig. 13C,
illustrating the mold in a state in which the pressure limiting device is functioning.
Fig. 14A is an explanatoly diagram illustrating a mold including a pressure limiting
device for removing a curving component from the mold without causing deformation, in a
state wvlien for~ningha s been completed.
Fig. 14B is an explanatory diagratii illustrating the mold in a state in \vliich tlie
pressure limiting device is functioning.
Fig. 14C is an explanato~yd iagram illustrating the mold in the process of raising a
die it1 a state in \vl~ichth e pressure limiting device is fi~ilctioning.
Fig. 14D is an explatlatory diagratn illustrating the mold including the pressure
litnititig device, in a state whet1 demolditig has been completed.
Fig. 15A is a perspective view of a curving component, schematically illustrating
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stress occurring in vertical walls.
Fig. 15D is a perspective view of the curving co~nponenti,l lustrating shear creasing
occurring in the vertical walls.
Fig. 15C is a side view of the curving compo~~eniltl,u strating shear crcasi~lg
occurring in the ve~ticalw alls.
Fig. 16A is a cross-section a hat-shaped cross-section component manufacturing
apparatus to explain the ditnensions and the like of respective portions in order to prevent the
occurrence of shear creasing.
Fig. 16B is a cross-section of a curving conlponent to explain the di~nensionsa nd the
like of respective portions in order to prevent the occurrence of shear creasing.
Fig. 16C is a cross-section of a hat-shaped cross-section colnponent matmfacturing
apparatus to explain the din~ensionsa nd the like of respective portions in order to prevent the
occurrence of shear creasing.
Fig. 16D is cross-section of a curving component to explain the dinlensions and the
like of respective portions in order to prevent the occurrence of shear creasing.
Fig. 17A is a perspective view of a curving component manufactared by the
hat-shaped cross-section cotnponent manufacturing apparatus illustrated in Fig. 5-
Fig. 17B is a plan view of the curving compotlet~itl lustrated in Fig. 17A, as viewed
from above.
Fig. 17C is a side view of the curving component illustrated in Fig. 17A.
Fig. 17D is a fiont view of the cut-ving cotnponent illustrated in Fig. 17A as viewed
fron~th e one end portion.
Fig. 18 is a cross-section of a mold, illustrating the clearance b in Table 1.
Fig. 19A is a perspective view illustrating another curving component manufactured
by a hat-shaped cross-section cotnponet~mt anufacturing apparatus according to an exen~plary
embodiment of the present invention.
Fig. 19B is a plan view of the curving component in Fig. 19A, as viewed from above.
Fig. 19C is a side view of the curving component in Fig. 19A.
Fig. 19D is a front view of the curving conlponetlt in Fig. 19A, as viewed frotn one
end poition.
Fig. 20A is a perspective view illustrating another curving component matlufacturcd
by a hat-shaped cross-section component tnanufacturing apparatus according to an exetnplary
embodiment of the present invention.
Fig. 20B is a plan view of the curving component in Fig. 20A, as viewed from above.
Fig. 20C is a side view of the cuwing cotnponent in Fig. 20A.
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Fig. 20D is a perspective view of the curving component in Fig. 20A, as viewed from
a bottom hce sidc.
Fig. 2 1A is a pcrspecti~lev iew illustrating another curving coti~ponentm anufactured
by a hat-shaped cross-section compotiellt manufacturing apparatus according to an exemplary
embodiment of the present invention.
Fig. 21 B is a plan view of tlie curving component illustrated in Fig. 21A, as viewed
from above.
Fig. 21C is a side view of tlie curving component illustrated in Fig. 21.4.
Fig. 21D is a front view of tlie cu~vingco mponent illustrated in Fig. 21A, as viewed
from tlie left side.
Fig. 22A is a perspective view of another curving component mar~ufactured by a
hat-shaped cross-section colnpotierit manufact~~rinapgp aratus according to an exemplaty
embodiment of the present invention.
Fig. 22B is a plan view of the curving component in Fig. 22A, as viewed fiom above.
Fig. 22C is a side view of the curving component in Fig. 22A.
Fig. 22D is a front view of the curving component in Fig. 22A as viewed from the
left side. -
Fig. 23A is a perspective view of another curving component manufactured by a
hat-shaped cross-section component manufacturing apparatus according to an exemplary
embodiment of the present invention.
Fig. 23B is a plan view of the curving component in Fig. 23A, as viewed from above.
Fig. 23C is a side view of the curving component in Fig. 23A.
Fig. 23D is a perspective view of the ccorving component in Fig. 23A, as viewed from
a bottom face side.
Fig. 24A is a perspective view illustrating another curving component manufactured
by a hat-shaped cross-section coniponent ~ilanufacturinga pparatus according to an exemplary
embodiment of the pres'ent invention.
Fig. 24B is a plan view of the curving component in Fig. 24A as viewed from above.
Fig. 24C is a side view of the curving component in Fig. 24A.
Fig. 24D is a perspective view of the curving component in Fig. 24A, as viewed from
a bottom face side.
Fig. 25A is a perspective view illustrating a metal stock sheet before pre-processing.
Fig. 25B is a perspective view illustrating a pre-processed metal stock sheet.
Fig. 25C is a perspectiveview illustrating a currring component formed from the
pre-processed metal stock sheet.
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Fig. 25D is a pcrspectivc view illustrating a state in \vhich thc curving co~nponent
illnst~~atcind Fig. 25C has been trimmed.
DESCRIPTION OF EMBODIMENTS
[0009] Explanation follo\vs regarding a hat-shaped cross-section component manufacturing
apparatus according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention. First,
explanation follows regarding co~lfigurationo f a hat-shaped cross-section component,
followed by explanation regarding the hat-shaped cross-section conlponerlt ~lianufacturing
apparatus.
[OOI 01 15of-Sl1r1~1eCd ross-Sectioli Co~i~po~iCeroir/~ figtrrcr/io~i
Fig. 1A to Fig. ID and Fig. 2 illustrate a curving component 10, serving as a
hat-shaped cross-section component n~anufactoredb y drawing using a hat-shaped
cross-section component manufacturing apparatus 500 (see Fig. 5) of the present exemplary
embodiment. As illustrated it1 these drawings, the curving cornponetit 10 includes a top
plate 11 extending along the length direction, and vertical walls 12a, 12b, that respectively
bend and extend from both short end direction sides of the top plate 11 toward one side in the
thicknessdirection of the top plate 11. The curving co1nponentl0 further includes an
outward extending flange 13a that bends from an end of the vertical wall 12a on the opposite
side to the top plate 11 , and extends toward the side away from the \re~-ticawl all 12b, and an
outward extending flange 13b that bends at an end of the vertical wall 12b on the opposite
side to the top plate I I, and extends toward the side away from the vertical wall 12a.
[OOI 11 Ridge lines 14a, 14b are formed extending along the length direction of the curving
component 10 between the top plate 11 and the respective vertical walls 12a, 12b. Concave
lines 15a, 15b are formed extending along the length direction of the curving component 10
between the 1,espective vertical walls 12a, 12b and ouhvard extending flanges 13a, 13b.
[0012] The ridge lines 14a, 14b and the concave lines 15a, 15b are provided extending
substa~~tialplyar allel to each other. Namely, the height of the vertical walls 12a, 12b from
the respective outward extending flanges 13a, 13b is substantially uniform along the length
direction of the curving colnpo~~en10t .
[0013] As illustrated in Fig. 2, a portion of the top plate 11 is formed with a convex shaped
curved portion 1 la that curves in an arc shape toward the outside of the lateral cross-section
profile of the hat shape, namely toward the outer surface side of the top plate 11. Another
portion of the top plate 11 is fomled with a concave shaped curved portion 1 lb that curves in
an arc shape toward the inside of the lateral cross-section profile of the hat shape, namely
toward the inner surface side of the top plate 11. The ridge lines 14a, 14b formed by the top
7
plate 11 and thc vertical \valls 12a, 12b at the coavex shapetl corved portion lla and the
concave shaped curved portion 11 b are also cunrcd in arc shapes at locations 16a, 16b, and
17a, 17b, correspondillg to the co~lvexs haped corved portion 1l a and the concave shaped
curvcd portion 1 lb. Note that an "arc shape" is not limited to part of a perfect circle, and
may be part of another curved line, such as of an ellipse, a hyperbola, or a sine wave.
[0014] The curving co~llpo~le1t0~ dt escribed above is formed by for~llitiga drawn panel 301,
illustrated in Fig. 3B, by drawing a recta~igulars haped nietal stock sheet 201, serving as a
metal sheet, illustrated in Fig. 3A, and then trimming ~uiwantedp ortions of the drawn pallcl
301.
[0015] Howevel; wvl~ent he curving co~llpo~ie1n0t with a hat-shaped cross-section is
manufactured by drawing, as illustrated in Fig. 4, excess nlaterial is present at a concave
shaped ci1171ed portion top plate 301a and a comTex shaped curved portion flange 301b of the
drawn panel 301 at the stage of forming the drawn panel 301, and creases are liable to occut
Increasing restraint at the periphery of the metal stock sheet 201 during the forming process
by, for example, raising the pressing force of a blank holder, or by adding locations for
forming draw beads to the blank holder, thereby suppressing inflow of the metal stock sheet
201 into the blank holder, is h1ov7n to be effective it1 suppressing the occurrence of creases.
[0016] However, when there is increased suppression of illflow of the ineta1 stock sheet 201
into the blank holdel; there is a large reduction in the sheet thickness of the drawn panel 301
at respective portions including a comrex shaped curved portion top plate 301c, a cotlcave
shaped curved portio~fl~an ge 301d, and both length direction end portions 301e, 301e. In
exa~l~pliens w hich the metal stock sheet 201 is a material with particularlj~lo w extensibility
(for example high tensile steel), it is conceivable that cracking could occur at these respective
portions.
[0017] Accordingly, in order to avoid creasing and cracking in the manufacture of cunled
components with a hat-shaped cross-section, such as front side members configuring part of a
vehicle body framework, by pressing using dra\ving, it has been difficult to enlploy high
strength materials with low extensibility as the metal stock sl~ee2t 01, meaning that low
strength materials 114th lug11 extensibility have had to be employed.
[0018] However, the occurrence of such creasing and cracking car1 be suppressed through a
curving co~~lpo~~~lleanutf acturingp rocess, described later, employing the hat-shaped
cross-section component manufacturing apparatus 500 of the present exemplary embodi~llent.
[0019] Hot-Slm~,erCl ross-Sectio17C olt~l1oner7Al .lrrr7r!frrclur.i1gA~~~1tr,C.notr17r$sg ririrtion
Fig. 5 is an exploded perspective vie\\. of the hat-shaped cross-section conlpolle~lt
matmfacturing apparatus 500 e~nployedto manufacture a curving colnpollcllt 501, serving as
8
a hat-shaped cross-section co~nponent. Note that configuration of thc curving coliiponent
501 is substantially tlie same as the configtiration of the curving component 10 (scc Fig. 1A).
Fig. 6A is a cross-section illustrating the manufacturing apparatus illustrated in Fig. 5 at the
start of processing. Fig. 6B is a cross-section illustrating the manufacturing apparatus
illustrated in Fig. 5 at a stage at \vliicli a metal stock sheet 601 is gripped and restrained
between a die 502 and pad 503, and a holder 505 and punch 504. Fig. 6C is a cross-section
illustrating a stage at ~vliichth e punch 504 has been pushed in from tlie stage illustrated in Fig.
6B. Fig. 6D is a cross-section illustrating a state in n~liicltih e punch 504 has been puslied in
further from the stage illustrated in Fig. 6C, such that tlic punch 504 has been fully pushed in
with respect to the die 502.
[0020] As illustrated in Fig. 5, the hat-shaped cross-section coniponent manufacturing
apparatus 500 includes the die 502 that has a shape including respective outer surface side
profiles of vertical wvalls 501a, 501b, and oot~varde xtending flanges 501d, 501e of the
cuning cotliporlent 501, the pad 503 that has a shape including the outer surface side profile
of a top plate 501c, the p~~nc5l0i4 that is disposed facing the die 502 and the pad 503 and that
has a shape including respective inner surface side profiles of the top plate 501c and the
vertical walls 501a, 501b of tlie curving component 501, and a blank holder 505, serving as a
holder, with a shape including inner surface side profiles of tlie out\vard extending flanges
501d, 501e.
[0021] As illustrated in Fig. 6A to Fig. 6D, the die 502 is disposed at an upper side of the
punch 504, and a central portion in the short direction (the left-right direction on the page) of
the die 502 is formed with an opening 502a opening toward the punch 504 side. Inner walls
of the opening 502a of the die 502 configure forming faces including the profile of the outer
surfaces of the vertical \valls 501a, 501b (see Fig. 5) of the curving component 501.
Moreover, end faces on the blank holder 505 side of both die 502 short direction side portions
configure forming faces including the profile of the faces on the vertical wall 501a, 501b sides
of the outward extending flanges 501d, 501e of the curving component 501 (see Fig. 5). A
pad press device 506, described later, is fixed to the closed end (upper end) of the opening
502a formed in the die 502. Moreovel; the die 502 is coupled to a mover device 509 such as
a gas cushion, a hydraulic device, a spring, or an electric drive device. Actuating the mover
device 509 enables up-dowvn direction niovelilent of the die 502.
[0022] The pad 503 is disposed inside the opening 502a fornied in the die 502. The pad
503 is coupled to the pad press device 506, this being a gas cushion, a hydraulic device, a
spring, an electric drive device, or the like. A face on tlie die 502 side of tlie pad 503
configures a forming face iticludirig the profile of tlie outer surface of the top plate 501c (see
9
Fig. 5) ofthe curving compotle~lt 501. When the pad press device 506 is actuated, the pad
503 is pressed toward the punch 504 side, and a central portion 6Ola in the short direction (the
left-right direction on the page) of the metal stock shcct 601 is pressed and gripped betweell
the pad 503 and the punch 504.
100231 The punch 504 is formed by a protruding shape toward the pad 503 side at a locatio~l
in the lower mold that faces the pad 503 in the up-down direction. Blank holder press
devices 507, described later, are fixcd at the sides of the putlch 504. Outer faces of the
punch 504 configure formi~~fagc es iilcluding the profile of the inner sttrfaces of the vertical
walls 501a, 501 b and the top plate 501c (see Fig. 5) of the curving compotle~l5t 01.
[0024] The blank holder 505 is coupled to the blank holder press devices 507, sewing as
I~olde~predsesv ices, these being gas cushio~lsh, ydraulic devices, springs, electric drive
devices, or the like. Die 502 side end faces the blank holder 505 configure forming faces
including the profile of faces of the outwvard extending flanges Sold, 501e of the curving
compotle~lt5 01 on the opposite side to the vertical walls 501a, 501b (see Fig. 5). When the
blank holder press devices 507 are actuated, the blank holder 505 is pressed toward the die
502 side, and both shoa direction side portions 601 b, 601c of the metal stock sheet 601 are
pressed and gripped.
[0025] Next, explatlatiotl follows regarding a pressing process of the metal stock sheet 601
by the hat-shaped cross-section component ~~~ai~ufactuarpipnagra tus 500 described above.
[0026] First, as illustrated in Fig. 6A, the metal stock sheet 601 is disposed between the die
502 and pad 503, and the punch 504 and blank holder 505.
[0027] Next, as illustrated in Fig. 6B, the central poaion 6Ola of the metal stock sheet 601,
namely a portio~ol f the metal stock sheet 601 that will fonn the top plate 501c (see Fig. 5), is
pressed against the punch 504 by the pad 503, and pressed and gripped between the two.
Both side portiotls 601b, 601c of the metal stock sheet 601, namely respective portiotls of the
metal stock sheet 601 that will form the vertical walls 501a, 501b and the outwvard extending
flanges Sold, 501e (see Fig. 5), are pressed against the die 502 by the blank holder 505, and
are pressed and gripped between the two.
[0028] The pad press device 506 and the blank holder press devices 507 are actuated, such
that the central portion 6Ola and both side portions 601 b, 601c of the metal stock sheet 601
are pressed with a specific pressing force and gripped. The central portion 601a and both
side portions 601 b, 601c of the metal stock sheet 601 are fanned iuto curved profiles to
follow the curved profiles of the pressing curved faces as a result.
[0029] In this state, the mover device 509 is actuated, and the blank holder 505 and the die
502 are moved relatively in a direction away from the die 502 toward the blank holder 505
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(toward the lower side), thereby fortlling the curving component 501. Thc pad press device
506 and the blank holder press devices 507 retract in the 1111-down direction accompanying
lowering of the die 502. When the pad press device 506 and the blank holder press tlevices
507 retract in the up-down direction, the central portion 601a and both side portions 601b,
601c of the metal stock sheet 601 are pressed with a specific pressing force.
100301 As illustrated in Fig. 6C, the tlletal stock sheet 601 gripped between the die 502 and
the blank holders 505 flows into the opening 502a between the punch 504 and the blank
holder 505 acco~npanyingth e movement of the blank holder 505 and the die 502, thcrcby
forming the vet-tical walls 501a, 501b (see Fig. 5).
SO03 11 Then, as illustrated in Fig. 6D, the blank holder 505 and the die 502 move by a
specific distance, and forming is completed at the point when the height of the vertical \valls
501a, 501b reaches a specific height.
[0032] Note that in the exanlple illustrated in Fig. 6A to Fig. 6D, the curving component 501
is forrned by moving the blank holder 505 and the die 502 in a stationary state of the punch
504 and tlie pad 503. However, the present invetitiot~is not limited thereto, and the curving
conlponent 501 may be formed in tlie follo\vi~itlgm anner.
[0033] Fig. 7 illustrates a hat-shaped cross-section conlponent nlanufach~ringa pparatus 600
according to another exemplary embodiment for manufacturing the cul~ingco tnponent 501.
Fig. 8A is a cross-section illustrating the manufacturing apparatus illustrated in Fig. 7 at a
stage at the start of processing. Fig. 8B is a cross-section illustrating a stage at which tlie
metal stock sheet 601 is gripped and restrained beheen a die 602 and pad 603, and a holder
605 and punch 604 of the manufacturing apparatus illustrated it1 Fig. 7. Fig. 8C is a
cross-section illustrating a stage at which the punch 604 has been pushed in from the stage
illustrated in Fig. 8B. Fig. 8D is a cross-section illustrating a state in which the punch 704
has been pushed in fi~rthefrr om the stage illustrated in Fig. 8C, such that the punch 604 has
been fi~llyp ushed in with respect to the die 602.
[0034] In contrast to the hat-shaped cross-section component manufaeh~ring apparatus 500
illustrated in Fig. 5 and Fig. 6A to Fig. 6D, in the hat-shaped cross-section component
manufacturing apparatus 600 the blank holder 605 and the punch 604 are provided at an upper
side of the die 602 and the pad 603. In the hat-shaped cross-section component
manufacturing apparatus 600, the curving component 501 is formed by moving (lowering) the
pad 603 and the punch 604 in a state in \vhich the die 602 is fixed, and the blank holder 605
presses the ~netals tock sheet 601 against the die 602 without moving. Note that in both the
hat-shaped cross-section component manufacturing apparatus 600 and the hat-shaped
cross-section co~nponentm anufacturing apparatus 500, the relative movement within the
11
mold is the same, ant1 the nletal stock sheet 601 can bc fornled into the curving component
501 by using \vliichever of tlie hat-shaped cross-section co~nponennt ianufact~uing
apparatuses 500,600.
[0035] Next, explanation follows regarding a removal process of the curving component 501
fro111 the hat-shaped cross-section coniponent manufacturing apparatus 500 (nlold) aftcr
pressing tlie liietal stock sheet 601, naniely after forniing the cunring component 501.
[0036] As illustrated in Fig. 9A to Fig. 9 ~\v;he n the curving component 501 is dcnlolded
from the hat-shaped cross-section component ui~anufacturinga pparatus 500 (mold), it is
necessary to niove the die 502, upward from the state in Fig. 6D and away from tlie punch,
504 to create a gap \vithin the tnold. When this is perfornled, as illustrated in Fig. 9B and
Fig. 9C, \vliile the pad 503 atid tlie blank holder 505 are being pressed by the respective pad
press device 506 and the blank holder press devices 507, the curving colnpoliellt 501 bears
pressing force directed in rnutually opposing directions from the pad 503 and the blank holder
505 during demolding, deforniing and crushing the curving component 501 by the pressing
forces directed in opposite directions, as illustrated in Fig. 9C.
[0037] Accordingly, as illustrated in Fig. 1OA to Fig. 10C, after the metal stock sheet 601
has been formed into the curving component 501, configuration is made such that the die 502
and the pad press device 506 are separated from the blank holder 505 in a state in which the
blank holder 505 does not move relative to the punch 504, and the blank holder 505 does not
press the formed curving component against the die 502. Accordingly, although the pad 503
presses tlie curving component until the pad press device 506 has extended to the end of its
stroke, after the pad press device 506 has moved a specific distance or greater and the pad
press device 506 has fully extended to the end of its stroke, the pad 503 is separated froni the
punch 504. The curving coniponent 501 therefore does not bear pressing from the pad 503
and the blank holder 505 at the same titne, and the die 502 and the pad 503 can be separated
froni the blank holder 505 and the punch 504, thereby enabling the curving component 501 to
be removed from the nlold without being deformed.
[0038] As another exelliplarp embodiment, as illustrated in Fig. 11A to Fig. 1 lC, after
forming the metal stock sheet into the curving corilponent 501, the pad 503 is not moved
relative to the die 502, atid the pad 503 does not press the formed curving component 501
against the pnncli 504. In this state, when the pad 503 and the die 502 are separated from the
blank holder 505 and tlie punch 504, the blank holder 505 presses the curving component
until the blank holder press devices 507 extend to the end of their stroke. The blank holder
505 is then separated from the die 502 aAer the die 502 has moved a specific distance or
greater and the blank holder press devices 507 have fi~llye xtended to the end of their stroke.
12
This thereby enables tlie die 502 and pad 503, and the blank liolder 505 and punch 504, to be
separated without the c~~rvincogl nponcnt 501 bearing pressure fro~nth e pad 503 and tl~c
blank liolder 505 at the sanle time, thereby enabling the curving co~nponen5t 01 to be
removed fro111 tlie inold.
[0039] Yet another exemplary embodinlent is onc in \vl~icha, ltliotigh not illustrated in the
drawings, after for~ningth e nletal stock sheet into the curving component 501, the pad 503
does not tilove relative to tlie blank holder 505, and the pad 503 does not press the for~ned
curving component against the punch 504. In this state, when the pad 503, die 502, and
blank holder 505 are separated froni the punch 504, the blank holder 505 presses tlie curving
component 501 until the blank holder press devices 507 have extended to the end of their
strokes. Aftcr the die 502 moves a specific distance or greater and tlie blank holder press
devices 507 have fully extended to tlie end of their stroke, the blank holder 505 is then
separated from the die 502. This thereby enables the die 502 and pad 503 to be separated,
from tlie blank holder 505 and punch 504, without the curving cornponelit 501 bearing
pressure from tlie pad 503 and the blank holder 505 at the same time, thereby enabling the
curving cotilponent 501 to be removed from the tnold.
[0040] Accordingly, in order to prevent darilage to the cuning conlponent 501 during
demolding, the hat-shaped cross-section colnponent manufacturing apparatus 500 may be
provided 4 t h a pressure limiting device capable of preventing the curving component 501
from bearing pressure from the pad 503 and the blank holder 505 at the same time.
[0041] Explanation follows regarding a specific configuration of a pressure li~nitingd evice
provided to the hat-shaped cross-section component manufacturing apparatus 500.
[0042] Pressrire Litnilil~gD evice Cot?fig~cr.atiot~
Apressure li~nitingd evice 508 illustrated in Fig. 12A to Fig. 12D is configured
including a holder side limiting section 508-1, illustrated in Fig. 12B, that mounts to the blank
holder 505 and n~ecbanicallyl imits ~novenienot f the blank holder 505 in a mold closing
direction (the up-do\vu direction), or by a controller 508-2, illustrated in Fig. 12C, that
controls at least one out of the stroke and pressing force of tlie blank holder press devices 507.
During demolding, nlovement of the blank holder 505 toward the die 502 side is controlled by
the holder side limiting section 508-1, or at least one out of the stroke or pressing force of the
blank holder press devices 507, is controlled by the co~~troll5e0r8 -2. The cuning
component 501 is accordingly prevented from bearing pressure from both the pad 503 and the
blank holder 505 at the same time. This thereby enables the curving component 501 to be
rcn~ovedfr om the mold in a state in which damage to the curving component 501 is
prevented.
13
[0043] Note that preventing the curving coniponent 501 from bearing pressurc from tlie pad
503 and the blank liolder 505 at the same titne rcfcrs to pressure exceeding per~nissible
deformation limits for an article.
[0044] The holder sidc limiting section 508-1 is, for example, configured by bolts or pins
serving as fixing tools that tix the blank liolder 505 to the punch 504 or tlie like. Such bolts
or pins may be manually operated to fix the blank liolder 505 to tlie pulich 504 or the like, or
the bolts or pins may be operated by an actuator to fix the blank holder 505 to the p~~nc50h4 .
Tlie colltroller 508-2, for example, controls a regulator valve that regulates the gas pressure or
the hydraulic pressure of the blank holder press devices 507, or controls tlie electric drive
device.
[0045] The pressure limiting device 508 illustrated in Fig. 13A to Fig. 13D is configured
including a pad side limiting section 508-3, illustrated in Fig. 13B, that mounts to tlie pad 503
and tneclianically limits movement of the pad 503 in the mold closing direction (tlie up-down
direction), or a controller 508-4, illustrated in Fig. 13C, that controls at least one out of the
stroke or the pressing force of the pad press device 506. Movement of the pad 503 toward
the punch 504 side during denlolding is limited by the pad side limiting section 508-3, or at
least one out of the stroke and pressing force of the pad press device 506 is controlled by the
controller 508-4. The culving component 50 1 is accordingly prevented from bearing
pressure fsom the pad 503 and the blank holder 505 at the same time. This thereby enables
the curving component 501 to be removed fsom the mold in a state in \vliich damage to the
curving component 501 is prevented. The pad side limiting section 508-3 is, for example,
bolts or pins serving as fixing tools that fix the pad 503 to tlie die 502 or tlie like. Such bolts
or pins may be manually operated to fix the pad 503 to the die 502 or the like, or the bolts or
pins may be operated by an actuator to fix the pad 503 to the die 502. The controller 508-4,
for example, controls a pressure regulator valve that adjusts the gas pressure or the hydraulic
pressure, or controls the electric drive device, of the pad press device 506.
[0046] As illustrated in Fig. 13E, the cu1~41igc o~nponent5 01 may be prevented fsom
bearing pressure from the pad 503 and the blank liolder 505 at the same time by both
controlling at least one out of the stroke or the pressing force of the blank liolder press devices
507, and controlling at least one out of the stroke or the pressing force of the pad press device
506. In order to perform the above control, sensors may be provided to detect tlie stroke,
hydraulic pressure, and the like of the blank liolder press devices 507 and the pad press device
506. Moreover, prior to opening tlie die 502 and the punch 504 after forming, the cunling
component 501 may be prevented fsoni bearing pressure from the pad 503 and tlie blarlk
holder 505 at the same time by moving the blank holder 505 or the pad 503 by further than
14
the nlold opening stroke of the dic 502 and the punch 504.
[0047] The pressure Iiimiting device 508 illustrated in Fig. 14A to Fig. 140 is configured
including a spacer block 508-5, serving as a coupling portion that couples the punch 504 and
blank holder 505 together during denlolding so as to fix the positional relationship bet\veen
the punch 504 and thc blank holder 505, and lock pins 508-5a, 508-5b that are insertcd into
the spacer block 508-5. The spacer block 508-5 is disposed at a position (original position)
that does not inlpede fom~ationo f the curving component 501 when forming is in progress.
After forming of the cul-ving component 501 has been completed, the lock pins 508-5a,
508-5b inserted into the spacer block 508-5 are moved, for example, ~nechanically,
pneumatically, hydraulically, or electricallj: and the lock pins 508-5a, 508-5b are inserted into
respective insertion holes provided to the pad 503 and the blank holder 505. This thereby
prevents the curving component 501 from bearing pressure fro~nth e pad 503 and the blank
holder 505 at the same time during demolding, due to pushing up the pad 503 together with
raising of the blank holder 505. This thereby enables the curving component 501 to be
removed from the mold in a state in which damage to the curving component 501 is prevented.
After demolding completion, the lock pins 508-5a, 508-5b are pulled out fro111 the insertion
holes, not illustrated in the drawings, respectively provided to the pad 503 and the blank
holder 505, and the spacer block 508-5 returns to its initial original position. In the present
exenlplary embodiment, part of the pad 503 extends out toward the side in a side direction of
the die 502. The lock pin 508-5a is inserted into this extending portion. The extending
pol-tion is, moreover, disposed at the outside of the mold. Note that the portion extending
out fiorn the pad 503 may be coupled and integrated together with the spacer block 508-5, and
only the lock pin 508-5b inserted into an insertion hole, not illustrated in the drawings,
provided to the blank holder 505. Alternatively, the blank holder 505 and the spacer block
508-5 may be coupled and integrated together, and only the lock pin 508-5a inserted into an
insei-tion hole, not illustrated in the drawings, provided to tl~epo rtion extending out from the
pad 503.
[0048] Ol~erufiounn clAdi~c~nfcrgeoEtf~esc ts of Present Exentplurj~E ti~borlin~eriSt~, titcrble
141lrres etc. for VNl.iotrs Pur~rttteters
Next, explanation follows regarding operation and advantageous effects of the
present exemplary embodimcnt, and suitable values for various parameters, and the like.
[0049] As illustrated in Figs. 12 to Figs. 14, ill'the present exemplary embodiment, the
hat-shaped cross-section component manufacturing apparatus 500 is provided with the
pressure limiting device 508 described above. During demolding, the curving component
501 can be removed from the nmold (the blank holder 505, the die 502, the punc11 504, and the
15
pad 503) in a state in \vhicl~th e fornled curving component 501 is prcveuted by the pressure
limiting device 508 from being pressed by the pad 503 and the blank l~oldcr5 05 at thc same
[0050] 111 the present esenlplary embodiment, during fortnation of the vertical \valls 501a,
501 b of the curving co~iiponcn5t 01 by the hat-shaped cross-section component
manufacturing apparatus 500 illustrated ill Fig. 5 to Fig. 6D, the portion of the metal stock
sheet 601 that will form the top plate 501c is pressed and gripped by the pad 503 and the
punch 504. Provided that the pressing force is sufficient, the portion of the metal stock sheet
601 that tvill form the top plate 501c canuot be deformed in its thickness direction during the
for~ningpr ocess, enabling the occurrence of creases at this portion to bc suppressed.
Moreover, the portions of the metal stock sheet 601 that will form the outward exterlding
flanges 501d, 501e are also pressed and gripped by the blank holder 505 and the die 502, such
that provided that the pressing force is sufficient, the portions of the tiletal stock sheet 601 that
will form the outward extending flaugcs Sold, 501e cannot be deforlned in the thickness
dircction, enabling the occurrence of creases at these portions to be suppressed.
[0051] However, if the above pressing forces are insufficient, deformation of the metal stock
sheet 601 in the thickness direction cannot be prevented, and creases ~vilol ccur at the poltion
of the nletal stock sheet 601 that will form the top plate 501c and at the portions of the metal
stock sheet 601 that will form the outward extending flanges 501d, 501e. The sheet
thickness enlployed in structural members callfiguring automotive vehicle body framework
(such as front side members) is generally from 0.8 mm to 3.2 tnm. When a steel sheet with
tensile strength of from 200 MPa to 1600 MPa is formed using the hat-shaped cross-section
component tnanufacturing apparatus 500 illustrated in Fig. 5 to Fig. 6D, the above pressing
forces are preferably 0.1 MPa or greater.
[0052] Fig. 15A illustrates stress arising in the vertical walls 501a, 501b of the curving
con~ponen5t 01. Fig. 15B and Fig. 15C illustrate shear creasing arising in the vertical xvalls
501a, 501b of the curving component 501.
[0053] In Fig. 15A, it can be seen that defortnation of the portions of the metal stock sheet
601 that \vill for111 the vertical walls 501a, 501 b from before to after forming the vertical walls
501~15, 01b of the curving component 501 is mainly shear deformation. Forming the vertical
\valls 501a, 501b of the curving component 501 accompanied by deformation that is mainly
shear deformation suppresses a reduction in the sheet thickness of the vel-tical walls 501a,
501 b compared to the sheet thickness of the metal stock sheet 601. This thereby enables the
occurrence of creasiug aud cracking in the vertical walls 501a, 501b to be suppressed.
[0054] During formation of the vel-tical walls 50la, 501b, the portions of the metal stock
16
sheet 601 that will form the vertical walls Sola, 501b undergo compression defornlation in thc
minimum principal strain direction of the shear dcfor~nation. Accordingly, as illustrated in
Fig. 15B and Fig. 15C, shear crcasing W occurs in the vertical walls Sola, 501b of the
curving cotrtponent 501 if the clearance bctwecn the die 602 and the punch 604 beconlcs large.
In order to suppress such sliear creasing W, it is effective to reduce the clearance between the
die 602 and the punch 604 such that the clearance is brought close to the sl~cetth ickness of
the metal stock sheet 601 during formation of the vertical wvalls Sola, 501b.
[0055] As illustrated in Fig. 16.4 to Fig. 16D, it is necessary for an internal angle 0 formed
between the respective vertical walls 501a, 501b and the top plate 501c to be 90" or greater so
as not to have a negative mold angle during for~ni~lg.H o\vever, since the clearance during
initial forming increases if too far over 90°, an angle close to 90' that is 90" or greater is
advantageous. When a steel sheet with a sheet thickness of fiom 0.8 mm to 3.2 mm, and
tensile strength of fro111 200 MPa to 1600 MPa, that is generally employed in structural
members configuring automotive vehicle body framework, is used to form a component in
which the height of the vertical walls 50la, 501b is 200 tntn or less, the internal angle formed
between the top plate 501c and the vertical walls 501a, 501b is preferably fiom 90" to 92O,
and a clearance b between the die 502 and the punch 504 at the portions fornling the vertical
walls 501a, 501b at the point when forming of the vertical walls 501a, 501b is completed is
preferably fiom 100% to 120% of the sheet thickness of the metal stock sheet 601.
[0056] Next, explanation follows regarding results of investigation into the occurrence of
creasing in the cut-ving component 501, using parameters of (1) the angle formed between the
vertical \valls 501a, 501b and the top plate 501c, (2) mold clearance (varying the sheet
thickness t wit11 respect to the fixed clearance b), (3) the pressure applied to the pad 503 @ad
pressure), (4) the pressure applied to the blank holder 505 (holder pressure), and (5) the
tensile strength of the material.
[0057] Fig. 17A is a perspective view illustrating the curving component 501. Fig. 17B is a
plan view illustrating the cuving co~nponen5t 01 in Fig. 17A, as viewed from above. Fig.
17C is a side vie\v of the curving component 501 in Fig. 17A. Fig. 17D is a cross-section
illustrating a cross-section of the curving component 501 taken along the line A-A in Fig. 17C.
Fig. 18 is a cross-section of the mold.

[0059] The angle 0 in Table 1 is the internal angle 0 fbrnied bet\wleen the vertical \\lalls 501a,
501 b and the top plate 501c, as illustrated in Fig. 17D. 'I'he clearance b in Table 1 is the gap
between the pad 503 and the pu~tch5 04, between the die 502 arid punch 504, and the die 502
and blank holder 505, as illustrated in Fig. 18.
[0060] Each of the Examples 1 to 19 in'l'able 1 are esamples of the prese~iet xeniplary
enlbodiment. In Table 1, "somew\~liapt resent" refers to the occurrence of creasing at an
acceptable level. (1) Nos. 1 to 5 exalliples of cases in \vhich the angle fornied betlveen the
vertical walls 501a, 501b and the top plate 501c was varied. (2) Nos. 6 to 9 are exatilples of
cases in which tlie ~noldc learance, more specifically the sheet thickness t with respect to a
fixed clearance b, was varied. (3) Nos. 10 to 13 are examples of cases in which the pressure
applietl to the pad 503 (pad pressure) was varied. (4) Nos. 14 to 16 are examples of cases in
which the pressure applied to tlie blank holder 505 (holder pressure) was varied. (5) Nos. 17
to 19 are exanlples of cases in ndlicli the tensile strength of the material was varied. The
presence or absence of creasing occurrence was investigated in curving components
manufactured for each Exatllple.
[0061] It can he seen from the above table that unacceptable creasing of the components did
not occur in the cuning component 501 within the range of parameters investigated.
[0062] Mocl~$ed EXCIIIo~f~ thJe ~H~utS-S /iaped Cross-Seeti017C ottipolietit
Next, explanation follows regarding hat-shaped cross-section components fonned
\vith varied settings (shape atid tlie like) of the blank holder 505, the die 502, tlie punch 504,
and the pad 503 of the hat-shaped cross-section component manufacturing apparatus 500.
[0063] A curving conlponent 100 illustrated in Fig. 19A to Fig. 19D, sewing as a hat-shaped
cross-section component, has the characteristics of curving in a subs tan ti all^^ S-shape in plan
view, but not cut~ingas viewed from the side. The curving component 100 is configured
including a top plate 102, vertical nralls 104, 106 provided extending parallel to each other
follo\ving ridge lines 102a, 102h of the top plate 102, arld outward extending flanges 108a,
108b formed at leading ends of the vertical walls 104, 106.
100641 As illustrated in Fig. 19B, the top plate 102 is configured by a flat plate cun~ingin a
substantially S-shape within a plane parallel to the page in Fig. 19B. The outward extending
flanges 108a, 108b are provided extending substantially parallel to the top plate 102, and are
fanned by flat plates curving in substantially S-shapes. The vertical \valls 104, 106 are
configured by curving plates that curve in substantially S-shapes in tlie thickt~essd irection of
the vertical walls 104, 106, and that are disposed parallel to each other.
[0065] As illustrated in Fig. 20A to Fig. 20D, a curving cotnponent 110, serving as a
hat-shaped cross-section component, has the characteristics of curvitlg in a substantially
19
S-shape in plan view and also curving in a substantially S-shapc as viewed from the side.
The curving co~iipotient1 10 is configured including a top plate 112, vcrtical ~valls1 14, 11 6
provided extending parallel to each other following ridge lines 112a, 112b of the top plate 112,
and outward extending flanges 118 a, 118 b for~ncda t leading ends of the vertical walls 1 14,
116. The top plate 112 is formed by a curving plate curving in a substantially S-shape in the
thickness direction of the top plate 112. The outward extending flanges 11 8a, 118b are
provided extending substantially parallel to the top plate 112, and, similarly to the top plate
112, are formed by curving plates that curve in substantially S-shapes in the thickness
direction of the flanges 11 8a, 11 8b. The vertical walls 114, 116 are also configured fiom
curving plates that curve in substantially S-shapes in the thickness direction of the vertical
walls 114, 116.
[0066] As illustrated in Fig. 21A to Fig. 21D, a cul-ving component 120, serving as a
hat-shaped cross-section component, has the characteristics of having a length direction
interniediate poition that curves in an arc shape in side view. The curving colnpotient 120 is
configured including a top plate 122, vertical walls 124, 126 provided extending parallel to
each other followit~gri dge lines 122a, 122b of the top plate 122, and outward extending
flanges 128a, 128h formed at leading ends of the vertical walls 124, 126.-
[0067] The top plate 122 is configured by a curving plate that curves it1 the thickness
direction of the top plate 122, and the outward extending flanges 128a, 128b are configured
by curving plates provided extending substantially parallel to the top plate 122. The vertical
wvalls 124, 126 are configured by flat plates parallel to the page in Fig. 21C.
[0068] As illustrated in Fig. 22A to Fig. 22D, as viewed from the side, a curving colnponetit
130, serving as a hat-shaped cross-section component, has the opposite curvature to the
curving component 120 in Fig. 21A to Fig. 21D. The curving compotient 130 is configured
including a top plate 132, vertical walls 134, 136 provided extending parallel to each other
followving ridge lines 132a, 132b of the top plate 132, and outward extetiding flanges 138a,
138b formed at leading ends of the vertical walls 134, 136. The top plate 132 is configured
by a curving plate that curves in the thickness direction of the top plate 132, and the outward
extending flanges 138a, 138b are configured by cu1~4ngpl ates provided extending
substantially parallel to the top plate 132. The vertical walls 134, 136 are configured by flat
plates parallel to the page in Fig. 22C.
[0069] As illustrated in Fig. 23A to Fig. 23D, a curving component 140, sening as a
hat-shaped cross-section cotnponent, is configured including a top plate 142, vertical walls
144, 146 provided extending parallel to each other following ridge lines 142a, 142b of the top
plate 142, arid outward extending flanges 148a, 148b formed at leading ends of the vertical
20
walls 144, 146. The top plate 142 is configured by a curving plate that curves ia a
st~bstantiallyS -shape iu the thickness direction of the top plate 142. The outward extending
flanges 148a, 148b are configured by substantially S-shaped cui~ingpl ates provided
extending substantially parallel to the top plate 142. The vertical \valls 144, 146 are also
configured by curving plates that curve in substantially S-shapes in the thickness direction of
the vertical \valls 144, 146. In the curving conlponent 140, the flanges 148a, 148b are not
provided extending along the entire length of the vertical \valls 144, 146. Namelj: the
vertical walls 144, 146 include portions where the flanges 148a, 148b are not present. I11 Fig.
23A to Fig. 23D, the length of the flanges 148a, 148b is a shorter length than a length of the
vertical walls 144, 146 along lower edge portions of the vertical walls 144, 146 from one end
portion of the curving component 140. The flange 148a has a longer dimension than the
flange 148b.
[0070] As illustrated in Fig. 24A to Fig. 24D, a cuning component 150, serviug as a
hat-shaped cross-section component, curves in a substantially S-shape as viewed from tlie
side, and gradually widens on progression toward one length direction side in plan view.
The cuning cotnponent 150 is configured including a top plate 152, vertical walls 154, 156
provided extending parallel to each other following ridge lines 152a, 152b of the top plate 152,
and flanges 158a, 158b formed at leading ends of the vertical walls 154, 156. The top plate
152 is configured by a curving plate curving in a substantially S-shape in the thickness
direction of the top plate 152. The flanges 158a, 158b are configured by curving plates
provided extending substantially parallel to the top plate 152. Each of the vertical xvalls 154,
156 is configured by a flat plate that curves in a substantially S-shape as viewed from the side,
as illustrated in Fig. 24C. The width of the top plate 152 gradually increases on progression
toward an end portion on the one side of the curving componetlt 150. The vertical wall 154
and the vertical wall 156 gradually become further away from each other on progression
toward tlie end portion on the one side of the curving component 150.
[0071] A curving component 70 illustrated in Fig. 25D, serving as a hat-shaped cross-section
component, is formed by press working, and then trimming, a pre-processed metal sheet
formed by performing pre-processing a metal stock sheet.
[0072] A pre-processed metal sheet 72-1 is formed by forming plural protrusion shaped
portions 74, illustrated in Fig. 25B, it1 a rectangular shaped ~netaslt ock sheet 72, illustrated iu
Fig. 25A. Next, the pre-processed metal sheet 72-1 is press worked by the hat-shaped
cross-section component manufacturing apparatus 500 (see Fig. 5) described above, thereby
forming a curving component 70-1, as illustrated in Fig. 25C, that includes portions that are
not wanted in the manufactured product. The uuwanted portions of the curving component
21
70-1 are then trimmed to form tlie curving conlponent 70 illustrated it1 Fig. 25D.
[0073] Note that as illustrated in Fig. 25C, when thc pre-processed metal sheet 72-1
including the protrusion shaped portions 74 is fortiled by using thc hat-shaped cross-section
component manufacturing apl~aratus5 00 (scc Fig. 5), a top plate portion is prcssed against the
punc11 504 by the pad 503, and it is conceivable that tlie pre-processed protrusion shaped
portions 74 could be deformed. Accordingly, the pad 503 aud the puuch 504 are preferably
provided with shapes respectively corresponding to the protrusion shaped portions 74 to
enable pressing and gripping without deforming the protrusion shaped portions 74.
[0074] Explanation has been given above regarding examples in which the curving
hat-shaped cross-section components such as the c~uvingco mponent 501 are fornled using the
hat-shaped cross-section conlponent manufacturing apparatus 500 (see Fig. 5). However, the
present inveution is not limited thereto. For example, the hat-shaped cross-section
component manufacturing apparatus 500 may be used to form hat-shaped cross-section
components that have a uniform cross-section along the length direction, and do not curve in
side view or in plan view.
[0075] Explanation has been given regarding exemplary enibodiments of the present
invention; however the present invention is not limited to the above, and obviously various
modifications may be implemented other than the above, xvitl~ina range not departing from
the spirit of the present invention.
[0076] The entire content of Japanese Patent Application No. 2013-197282, filed on
September 24,2013, is incorporated by reference in the present specification.

claims
1. A hat-shaped cross-section component tiianufacturing apparatus colilprising:
a die that i~icludesa formi~lgfa ce that presses both side portions of a metal sheet, and
tliat includes an opening;
a punch tliat is disposed facing the opening of the die, wherein the punch is disposed
inside the opening when a lilold is closed, and wherein the punch iticludes a fonili~igf ace that
presses a central portion of the nletal shcct;
a pad tliat is disposed inside the ope~iingfo rmed in the die, wherein the pad i~lcludes
a forming face that presses and grips the central poltion of the metal sheet against the punch
xvhen the mold is closed so as to configure a forming face col.responding to the forming face
of the punch;
a holder that is disposed facing the die, wherein the holder includes a forn~ingfa ce
that presses and grips both side portions of the metal sheet against the die when the mold is
closed so as to configure a fornling face corresponding to the formit~gfa ce of the die; and
a pressure limiting device that limits a formed hat-shaped cross-section conlpolient
with a hat-shaped cross-section profile k o ~ nbe ing pressed between the pad and the holder
during demolding.
2. The hat-shaped cross-section component manufacturing apparatus of claim 1, wherein the
pressure limiting device i~icludesa t least one of a holder side limiting section that limits
movement of the holder to~varda die side during demolding or a pad side limiting section that
limits movement of the pad toward a punch side during demolding.
3. The hat-shaped cross-sectioti component manofach~ringa pparatus of claim 1, urlierein the
pressure limiting device i~lcludcsa coupling portion that fixes a positional relationship
between the pad and the holder by couplil~gth e pad and the holder together.
4. The hat-shaped cross-section component mam~facturinga pparatus of claim 2, wherein the
holder side limiting section is a fixing tool that fixes the holder to the punch.
5. The hat-shaped cross-section component n~a~lufacturinagp paratus of claim 1, u~hereitl:
the holder is supported by a liolder press device so as to be capable of moving in an
up-do\u~di irection; and
the pressure limiting device is a co~ltrollerth at controls at least one of a stroke or a
23
pressing force of the holder press device.
6. The hat-shaped cross-section co~~ipoi~mea~nlutf acturitlg apparatus of claim 2, \vl~ereinth e
pad side limiting section is a fixing tool that fixes the pad to the die.
7. The hat-shaped cross-section component manufacturing apparatus of'clai~l1l or claim 5,
\vllerein:
t
the pad is sq~portedb y a pad press device so as to be capable of ~llovingin an
up-down direction; and
the pressure limiting device is a colltroller that co~~troalts l east one of a stroke or a
pressing force of the pad press device.