Laser welded fasteners
US8217300B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventor
Key dates
| Filing date | Jun 3, 2009 |
| Grant date | Jul 10, 2012 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Aug 6, 2030 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC B)Performing Operations; Transporting
- CPC primaryB23K2103/08
- WIPO fieldMachine tools
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
A method of manufacturing a vehicle structure including a laser welded fastener includes positioning a first panel in engagement with a second panel to provide access to the first panel by a laser beam. The first panel is laser welded to the second panel. A fastener including projections axially extending from a first surface of a flange are formed. The projections are engaged with a surface of the first panel to space apart the first surface of the flange from the surface of the first panel. Laser welding is initiated by directing a laser beam toward one of the flange of the fastener and the first panel. Gas is vented from an area between the first surface of the flange and the surface of the first panel. The flange is laser welded to the first panel.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.