Patent attributes
A hydroforming apparatus for hydroforming a workpiece. The apparatus includes a die in which a die cavity is located, and an outer ring subassembly. The outer ring subassembly is movable relative to the die, and includes a ring and one or more first cam segments attached thereto. The outer ring subassembly also includes one or more second cam segments and one or more tapered wedges positioned between the first and second cam segments. The tapered wedge is movable between an extended position, in which the second cam segment is pushed to an open position in which the second cam segment is engageable with the outer surfaces when the subassembly is proximal to the die, and a retracted position, in which the second cam segment is moved to a closed position by a biasing means. The second cam segment includes a lower surface shaped to engage outer surfaces.