Remote laser welding of overlapping metal workpieces using helical path(s)
US10675713B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Jul 25, 2017 |
| Grant date | Jun 9, 2020 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Sep 20, 2038 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC B)Performing Operations; Transporting
- CPC primaryB23K2103/166
- WIPO fieldMachine tools
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
A method of laser welding a workpiece stack-up that includes two or more overlapping metal workpieces is disclosed. The disclosed method includes directing a laser beam at a top surface of the workpiece stack-up to create a molten metal weld pool and, optionally, a keyhole, and further gyrating the laser beam to move a focal point of the laser beam along a helical path having a central helix axis oriented transverse to the top and bottom surfaces of the workpiece stack-up. The gyration of the laser beam may even be practiced to move the focal point of the laser beam along a plurality of helical paths so as to alternately convey the focal point back-and-forth in a first overall axial direction and a second overall axial direction while advancing the laser beam relative to the top surface of the workpiece stack-up along a beam travel pattern.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.