Sheet Metal Form Feature

[AS_10047186]

We use a method of joining to sheet metal using a process called tog-l-loc also known as clinching which cold-forms the part metal using a special punch and die to form a strong interlocking clinch joint. The result of the process is a round, button shaped extrusion on the die side of the assembly, and a small cylindrical cavity on the punch side. The clinch joint requires only the sheet metals that were joined. No external fasteners, or welding is utilized in the process.

I'm trying to re-create the joint using punch or die, does Creo have the ability to punch(form) two sheet metal plates simultaneously in assembly? The thickness of both sheet metal thins out after the operation. See attached image. Let know your thoughts or ideas.

[Dale_Rosema · Accepted solution]

Several years ago I wanted to add a pierced boss to an assembly and the answer was that you cannot "add" material to an assembly. I know that you are only forming the material (so was I) but it would have to be modeled in the original part (maybe as an instance) and then use that instance in the assembly.

https://community.ptc.com/t5/3D-Part-Assembly-Design/Piercing-a-tube-to-create-a-boss/m-p/404657

[kdirth]

It has to be done in the parts,  I would suggest creating the feature in the part models and suppressing them.  You can then use flexibility to unsuppress in the assembly.

Using Flexible Parts/Assemblies 

To Predefine a Flexible Component

[AS_10047186]

We widely use instances as creating features to differentiate parts. I tried the flexibility as option and liked it; it saves in creating additional part. Thanks for the suggestion.