System and method for welding small diameter tubes into a high-density matrix
US8230594B1 · kind B1 · utility
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | May 9, 2009 |
| Grant date | Jul 31, 2012 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Jun 16, 2030 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC Y)Emerging Cross-Sectional Technologies
- CPC primaryY10T29/49968
- WIPO fieldMachine tools
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
A tube matrix and the corresponding method of joining a plurality of tubes to a base plate to create the tube matrix. The tube matrix has a base plate from which a plurality of parallel tubes extend. The base plate has holes formed though it to receive the tubes. The tubes are placed into the holes on the base plate. The tubes may have end flares that abut against the base plate and prevent the tubes from completely passing through the base plate. Once the tubes are in place in the holes of the base plate, the tubes and base plate are welded together with individual laser welds. The laser welds enable a very dense matrix of tubes to be welded to the base plate without damaging or obstructing the tubes.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.