Integrated Die Trim And Method

Abstract

A sheet metal component includes a three dimensionally shaped first surface, a three dimensionally shaped second surface opposite and extending substantially parallel to the first surface and an edge interconnecting and extending about the perimeter of the first and second shaped surfaced. The edge includes a sheared portion formed during a trimming operation and an indented portion formed during a forming operation prior to the trimming operation.

What is claimed is: 
     
         1 . A sheet metal component, comprising:
 a three dimensionally shaped first surface;   a three dimensionally shaped second surface opposite to the first surface; and   an edge interconnecting and extending about the perimeter of the first and second shaped surfaces, the edge including a sheared portion formed during a trimming operation and an indented portion formed during a forming operation prior to the trimming operation.   
     
     
         2 . The component of  claim 1  wherein the sheared portion is positioned immediately adjacent to the indented portion. 
     
     
         3 . The component of  claim 2  wherein the indented portion includes a cross-section having a substantially planar wall extending at an angle of substantially forty-five degrees from the first surface. 
     
     
         4 . The component of  claim 3  wherein the indented portion includes an indentation bottom surface extending substantially parallel to the first surface and intersecting the planar wall. 
     
     
         5 . The component of  claim 4  wherein the indentation bottom surface intersects the sheared portion.