Deformation resistance welding of sheet metal, tubes, and similar shapes
US7323653B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Aug 10, 2004 |
| Grant date | Jan 29, 2008 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Jul 6, 2025 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC B)Performing Operations; Transporting
- CPC primaryB23K11/3081
- WIPO fieldMachine tools
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
Welded structures having a first and a second member formed from sheet metal, tubes, and similar shapes, are economically fabricated through use of a method for joining a second member to a first member having a folded rim extending therefrom. The folded rim defines an air gap within the folded rim. The first and second members are joined together by forcing the folded rim against the second member under sufficient pressure to flatten the folded rim to a point that there remains substantially no air gap inside the folded rim, and resistance welding together the first and second members. The second member and the rim respectively define faying surfaces thereof. The air gap inside the folded rim extends generally parallel to the faying surfaces. The faying surfaces of the rim and second member are forced against one another by applying pressure through the folded rim in a direction generally perpendicular to the faying surfaces. While applying pressure, a first level of electrical current may be passed through the first and second members for softening the rim by electrical resistance heating and causing the softened rim to deform against the second member. Pressure is maintained, an…
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.