Apparatus and method for feeding filler wire in a welding operation
US6610958B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventor
Key dates
| Filing date | Oct 30, 2001 |
| Grant date | Aug 26, 2003 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Oct 30, 2021 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC B)Performing Operations; Transporting
- CPC primaryB23K9/1336
- WIPO fieldMachine tools
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
An apparatus (105) and method are provided for feeding wire (135) to a tip (120) of a torch (115) in a welding system (100). The apparatus (105) includes a drive mechanism (150) attached to the torch (115), and a guide assembly (155) attached to the drive mechanism. The guide assembly (155) includes a bracket (180) by which it is attached to the drive mechanism (150), a wire guide (185) through which the wire (135) is passed, and first and second adjustors (270A, 270B) to position the wire guide relative to the tip (120). The guide assembly (155) is configured to pass the wire (135) in a straight line from the drive mechanism (150) to the tip (120). In one embodiment, the adjustors (270A, 270B) include gimbals (275) supporting the wire guide (185). Each gimbal (275) is attached to a screw (280) passing through an opening in an arm (285) projecting from the bracket (180) of the guide assembly (155). Adjusting knobs (290) engaging a portion of the screw (280) extending through the opening adjust the length of the screw between the gimbal (275) and the arm (285).
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.