Linear solid-state welding system and method

Abstract

A system for joining a first metal workpiece and a second metal workpiece together includes a frame and a platform, wherein one workpiece is capable of being secured to the platform. The platform is attached to the frame by a fastener assembly that allows the platform to move relative to the frame along a predetermined oscillation path. The system further includes a positioning assembly for positioning the second workpiece at a predetermined position relative to the first workpiece when the first workpiece is secured to the platform, thereby defining a gap between them. Furthermore, the system includes one or more gears positioned to engage the platform for causing oscillating motion of the platform along the oscillation path upon rotation of the gears. One or more heating elements are positioned within the gap for heating corresponding heated portions of the first and second workpieces to a heat treatment temperature at which the heated portions are capable of plastic deformation.

Description

[0001] Cross-referencing

[0002] This disclosure claims priority to U.S. Provisional Application No. 63 / 777,264, filed March 25, 2025, which is incorporated herein by reference. Technical Field

[0003] This disclosure generally relates to the field of metallurgy, and more specifically, to a system and method for linear solid-state welding. Background Technology

[0004] In the prior art, linear friction welding can be used to weld two workpieces together. As is known in the art, when the surfaces of one or two workpieces (referred to as mating surfaces) are joined together, the one or two workpieces are moved to generate heat. This heat is generated entirely by friction. Once sufficient heat has been generated, a compressive force is applied to the workpieces to bond the two workpieces together.

[0005] However, because the joint surfaces are required to be at high temperatures in order to achieve welding, conventional friction welding requires large equipment that can subject the workpiece to enormous forces (e.g., about 10 tons per square inch).

[0006] Linear friction welding has several drawbacks. First, even with relatively large conventional equipment, the maximum area of ​​the welded joint surface is only about 15 square inches. In practice, welding workpieces together over a larger area is not feasible.

[0007] Secondly, with conventional linear friction welding, the joint point where two workpieces are joined together cannot be precisely controlled, which can lead to misalignment when the workpieces are joined together. This misalignment necessitates additional work and may require the removal and discarding of some material.

[0008] Third, due to the relatively large size of linear friction welding equipment, conventional linear friction welding may only be used in environments that can accommodate such equipment.

[0009] Due to the relatively high cost involved and other limitations outlined above, conventional linear solid-state welding is typically used only in highly specialized applications, such as titanium components for the aerospace industry.

[0010] Therefore, a novel system and method for linear solid-state welding are provided, which overcomes the shortcomings of the prior art. Summary of the Invention

[0011] For the reasons mentioned above, there is a need for a system and method for joining workpieces together, which overcomes or mitigates one or more defects or disadvantages of the prior art.

[0012] In its broader sense, this disclosure provides a system for joining a first metal workpiece and a second metal workpiece together. The system includes a frame and a platform, wherein one of a plurality of workpieces can be secured to the platform. The platform is attached to the frame by a fastener assembly that allows the platform to move relative to the frame along a predetermined oscillation path.

[0013] The system further includes a positioning component for positioning the second workpiece relative to the first workpiece at a predetermined position when the first workpiece is fixed to the platform, thereby defining a gap between them. Furthermore, the system includes one or more gears positioned to engage with the platform for causing oscillating motion of the platform along the oscillation path upon rotation of the gears. One or more heating elements, positioned within the gap, are used to heat corresponding heated portions of the first and second workpieces to a heat treatment temperature at which the heated portions are capable of plastic deformation.

[0014] When the heating portion is at the heat treatment temperature, and while one or two of the workpieces oscillate relative to the other workpiece, the workpieces are pressed together to deform the heating portion and combine the first workpiece and the second workpiece together.

[0015] In another aspect of this disclosure, a system for joining a first metal workpiece and a second metal workpiece is provided, the system comprising: a frame; a platform to which the first workpiece is capable of being secured; at least one fastener assembly connecting the platform to the frame, the at least one fastener assembly allowing the platform to move relative to the frame along a predetermined oscillation path; a positioning assembly for positioning the second workpiece relative to the first workpiece at a predetermined position when the first workpiece is secured to the platform, to define a gap between the two; at least one gear including a plurality of teeth and mounted to rotate about its axis, the at least one gear being positioned to engage the platform for oscillating the platform along the predetermined oscillation path; at least one heating element capable of being positioned in the gap for heating corresponding heated portions of the first and second workpieces to their heat-working temperature, the heated portions being at least partially plastically deformable at the heat-working temperature, the at least one heating element being removable from the gap when the heated portions are at their heat-working temperature; and means for pressing the first and second workpieces together against each other while the heated portions are at their heat-working temperature and while the first workpiece is oscillating along the predetermined oscillation path.

[0016] On the other hand, the at least one gear includes a first gear positioned to engage with a first side of the platform; and a second gear positioned to engage with a second side of the platform opposite to the first side; the first gear and the second gear are coordinated to cause the platform to oscillate along the predetermined oscillation path. In a further aspect, the at least one gear includes a first gear positioned to engage with the first side of the platform for intermittent movement of the platform along a first direction; and the system further includes an elastic element positioned to engage with the second side of the platform opposite to the first side for elastically responding to movement of the platform along the first direction by pushing the platform along a second direction opposite to the first direction.

[0017] In another aspect of this disclosure, a system for joining a first metal workpiece to a second metal workpiece is provided, comprising: a platform for receiving the first metal workpiece, the platform including at least one protrusion located on one side of the platform; a positioning assembly for receiving the second metal workpiece and positioning the second metal workpiece in a predetermined position to define a gap between the first metal workpiece and the second metal workpiece; at least one gear located on one side of the platform, the at least one gear including a set of teeth and a tooth groove located between the set of teeth for receiving the protrusion; a means for rotating the at least one gear to cause the protrusion to travel between the set of teeth and the tooth groove; at least one heating element located in the gap between the first metal workpiece and the second metal workpiece to heat heated portions of the first metal workpiece and the second metal workpiece to their heat-working temperature; wherein, when the heated portions are at their heat-working temperature, rotation of the at least one gear causes the platform to move along a predetermined oscillation path, thereby causing the edges of the first metal workpiece and the second metal workpiece to be joined or fused together.

[0018] In another aspect, the device further includes means for pressing the first metal workpiece and the second metal workpiece together while their edges are joined or fused together. In yet another aspect, the device further includes a second protrusion located on the side of the platform opposite to the at least one protrusion; a second gear located on the side of the platform opposite to the at least one gear, the second gear including a set of teeth and slots between the set of teeth for receiving the second protrusion; and a second means for rotating the second gear to travel the second protrusion between the set of teeth and the slots of the second gear. Alternatively, when the at least one protrusion is located in one of the slots of the at least one gear, the second protrusion abuts against one of the teeth of the second gear. In a further aspect, when the at least one protrusion is located in one of the slots of the at least one gear, the second protrusion is located in one of the slots of the second gear. Attached Figure Description

[0019] This disclosure will be better understood by referring to the accompanying drawings, in which: Figure 1 This is a top view of an embodiment of the system disclosed herein, the system including a platform, a workpiece ( Figure 1 (Not shown) can be fixed to the platform, which is shown as follows: Figure 1 As shown, it was pushed to the right; Figure 2 yes Figure 1 Another top view of the system, in which the platform of this disclosure is shown as follows Figure 2 As shown, it was pushed to the left; Figure 3A yes Figure 1 and Figure 2 An end view of the platform, wherein a first workpiece is positioned on the platform and a second workpiece is positioned to define a gap between the two. Figure 3B yes Figure 3A The system and side views of the two workpieces; Figure 4 yes Figure 1 -3 Side view of the platform, in which two workpieces are pressed together; Figure 5 yes Figure 3A-4 A side view of the two workpieces after they have been joined together; Figure 6A This is a top view of another embodiment of the system disclosed herein, wherein the platform of the system is shown as... Figure 6A As shown, it was pushed to the right; Figure 6B yes Figure 6A A top view of the system, wherein the platform is shown as... Figure 6B As shown, it was pushed to the left; Figure 7 This is a top view of another embodiment of the system disclosed herein; Figure 8A This is a top view of an alternative embodiment of the system disclosed herein, wherein its platform is pushed to rotate in a clockwise direction; Figure 8B yes Figure 8A A top view of the system, in which its platform is pushed to rotate counterclockwise; Figure 9A This is a side view of another embodiment of the system disclosed herein; Figure 9B yes Figure 9A A top view of a part of the system; Figure 10A This is a top view of another embodiment of the system disclosed herein, which is mounted to two track segments; Figure 10B yes Figure 10A A side view of a portion of the system, drawn at an enlarged scale; and Figure 11 This is a side view of another alternative embodiment of the system disclosed herein. Detailed Implementation

[0020] In the accompanying drawings, the same reference numerals always denote corresponding elements. First refer to... Figures 1 to 5 An embodiment of the system according to this disclosure, generally indicated by reference numeral 20, is described.

[0021] What will be described is that system 20 is used to join the first metal workpiece 22 and the second metal workpiece 24 together. Figure 3A ).

[0022] In one embodiment, system 20 includes a frame 26 and a platform 28, wherein one of the first workpiece and the second workpiece 22, 24 is selected to be fixed to the platform 28. Figure 3A , Figure 3B ).like Figure 3A and Figure 3B As shown, the first workpiece 22 is selected to be secured to the platform 28. Those skilled in the art will understand that a suitable support device 33 secures the first workpiece 22 to the platform 28 such that the first workpiece 22 moves with the platform 28. The system 20 also includes one or more fastener assemblies 30 connecting the platform 28 to the frame 26. As will be described, the fastener assembly 30 allows the platform 28 to move relative to the frame 26 along a predetermined oscillation path 31. Figure 1 , Figure 2 ).

[0023] In some embodiments, the system 20 includes a positioning component 32 for positioning the second workpiece 24 relative to the first workpiece 22 at a predetermined position to define a gap 34 between the first workpiece 22 and the second workpiece 24. Figure 3A It should be understood that suitable rollers or other devices for reducing friction (not shown) may be located between platform 28 and frame 26 to enable lower or less friction during movement between platform 28 and frame 26.

[0024] In use, platform 28 oscillates along oscillation path 31 via any suitable device. The oscillation direction (i.e., along oscillation path 31) is... Figure 3A The arrow "E" further indicates this.

[0025] like Figure 1-3B As shown, in one embodiment, system 20 further includes two or more smoothly shaped gears 36. Each gear 36 includes a plurality of teeth 38 and is mounted to rotate about its axis 40. Figure 3A , Figure 3B ).

[0026] Gear 36 is positioned to engage with platform 28 to cause platform 28 to oscillate. It will be described that as gear 36 rotates about its corresponding axis 40, it causes platform 28 to oscillate along oscillation path 31. Although not shown, those skilled in the art will understand that suitable means are provided for rotating gear 36 about its corresponding axis 40. Figure 3A ).

[0027] like Figure 3A and Figure 3B As shown, system 20 may further include one or more heating elements 44 for heating areas, which may be referred to as the heating portions 46 and 48 of the first workpiece 22 and the second workpiece 24, respectively. Preferably, induction heating is used to heat the heating portions 46 and 48 to the hot working temperature.

[0028] As shown in the current embodiment, the heating element 44 is positioned in the gap 34 to heat the heated portions 46 and 48 to their heat treatment temperature, at which the heated portions 46 and 48 can at least partially plastically deform. When the heated portions 46 and 48 reach their heat treatment temperature, the heating element 44 is removed from the gap 34. If the first workpiece and the second workpiece are made of the same material, their heat treatment temperatures can be the same; however, if the first workpiece and the second workpiece are made of different materials, their heat treatment temperatures may be different.

[0029] System 20 may also include means or systems (not shown) for pressing the first workpiece 22 and the second workpiece 24 against each other, as will be described below.

[0030] In one usage embodiment, after the first workpiece 22 is fixed to the platform 28, the second workpiece 24 is positioned relative to the first workpiece 22 by the positioning assembly 32 to define a gap 34 between them. The one or more heating elements 44 are positioned in the gap 34, and then the heating elements 44 are energized. As described above, the heating elements 44 heat the heated portions 46, 48 to their heat working temperature, for example by induction heating, but not limited to this, at which the heated portions 46, 48 can be plastically deformed.

[0031] In one embodiment, gear 36 engages with platform 28 to cause the first workpiece 22 to oscillate relative to the second workpiece 24 before workpieces 22, 24 engage with each other. Gear 36 may engage with platform 28 to initiate its oscillation after the heating portions 46, 48 have been heated to their heat treatment temperature.

[0032] In an alternative embodiment, the second workpiece 24 can oscillate simultaneously with the first workpiece 22. It should be understood that, for clarity, Figure 3A and Figure 3B The device or system used to make the second workpiece oscillate is omitted.

[0033] Figure 1 and Figure 2 The exemplary predetermined oscillation path 31 shown is linear, i.e., straight. However, it should be understood that in alternative embodiments, the predetermined oscillation path 31 may have any suitable nonlinear configuration.

[0034] like Figure 3A and Figure 3B As shown, in one embodiment, workpieces 22, 24 may have corresponding generally flat surfaces 54, 56. When the first workpiece 22 is fixed to the platform 28 and the second workpiece 24 is positioned to define a gap 34 between workpieces 22, 24, the flat surfaces 54, 56 are arranged opposite or facing each other.

[0035] like Figure 3A and Figure 3B As shown, in one embodiment, heating portions 46 and 48 extend from respective surfaces 54 and 56 into the interior of their respective workpieces. Specifically, heating portion 46 extends a first distance 58 from surface 54 into the first workpiece 22, and heating portion 48 extends a second distance 60 from surface 56 into the second workpiece 24. Figure 3B It should be understood that the heating portions 46 and 48 extend laterally, that is, they extend parallel to surfaces 54 and 56 respectively, along the entire width and length of each workpiece 22 and 24 adjacent to surfaces 54 and 56.

[0036] Once workpieces 22 and 24 are positioned to define a gap 34 between the two surfaces 54 and 56, one or more heating elements 44 are positioned within the gap 34. The at least one heating element 44 is spaced apart from surfaces 54 and 56 by a predetermined distance. Those skilled in the art will understand that selecting and positioning the heating elements at predetermined distances from surfaces 54 and 56 is to uniformly heat the corresponding heating portions 46 and 48 to their heat-processing temperatures. This predetermined distance is determined to allow the heating element 44 to be positioned in an optimal or predetermined position within the gap 34 to uniformly or substantially uniformly heat the heating portions 46 and 48 to their heat-processing temperatures.

[0037] As described above, once the at least one heating element 44 is located at a predetermined distance from the corresponding surfaces 54, 56, the heating element 44 is energized to heat the heating portions 46, 48 to their heat processing temperature. Preferably, when the heating portions 46, 48 are heated to their heat processing temperature, the heating portions 46, 48 (including surfaces 54, 56) are in an inert (non-oxidizing) atmosphere. Those skilled in the art will understand that the non-oxidizing atmosphere can be temporarily contained within a suitable encapsulation or container 65. Figure 3B It should be understood that, for clarity, except... Figure 3B Encapsulation 65 is omitted in the other accompanying drawings.

[0038] Those skilled in the art will also understand that the hot working temperature can vary depending on the material being heated. For example, the hot working temperature of steel can vary in the range of about 1,100°C (2,012°F) to about 1,300°C (2,372°F). For other metals, the hot working temperature can vary over a wide range, for example, from about 600°C for aluminum to about 1,800°C for zirconium.

[0039] Once the heated portions 46 and 48 reach their heat treatment temperature, the heating element 44 is removed from the gap 34. The heating element 44 can be removed by any suitable means or equipment (not shown).

[0040] In one embodiment, when the heating elements 46 and 48 are at their heat treatment temperature, one or both of the workpieces 22 and 24 are oscillated, and the oscillation continues after the surfaces 54 and 56 are engaged, and the workpieces 22 and 24 are pressed against each other. The workpieces 22 and 24 are pressed against each other by forces acting on them, these forces being... Figure 4 The arrows "B" and "C" in the diagram indicate...

[0041] In one embodiment, platform 28 preferably oscillates within a plane, that is, platform 28 moves rapidly and alternately to the left and right, such as... Figure 3A As shown, that is, along Figure 3A The direction indicated by the middle arrow "E". When workpieces 22 and 24 are joined together and the heated parts 46 and 48 are at the hot working temperature, the oscillation direction is parallel to the plane defined by the joining surfaces 54 and 56.

[0042] Workpieces 22 and 24 can be pressed together by any suitable means or equipment. For example, a suitable device could be a hydraulic cylinder or a set of at least one servo motor that can press the second workpiece 24 in the direction indicated by arrow "C," thereby allowing frame 26 to support platform 28 and thus apply equal opposing forces in the direction indicated by arrow "B." Therefore, when the heated portions 46 and 48 are at their heat-working temperatures, they are pressed against each other, and one or both of the workpieces 22 and 24 move relative to the other (i.e., oscillate). This engagement and oscillation cause at least a portion of the heated portions 46 and 48 to undergo plastic deformation. It is believed that this results in recrystallization of all or substantially all of the material in the heated portions 46 and 48, so that as the heated portions 46 and 48 cool from their respective heat-working temperatures, the workpieces 22 and 24 are joined together at their respective surfaces 54 and 56.

[0043] Alternatively, after surfaces 54 and 56 are joined and pressed together, and while heated portions 46 and 48 are at their heat treatment temperatures, workpieces 22 and 24 can be oscillated. In this embodiment, recrystallization is achieved because the joining of heated portions 46 and 48 and the oscillation of one or both of workpieces 22 and 24 while heated portions 46 and 48 are at their heat treatment temperatures cause at least a portion of heated portions 46 and 48 to undergo plastic deformation.

[0044] The result is the formation of an integrated product 66 ( Figure 5 It is formed by fusing or joining the first workpiece 22 and the second workpiece 24 together. The joining surfaces 54, 56 define the plane "P" where they are joined together.

[0045] In one embodiment, the system includes two or more gears. For clarity, in Figure 3A The two gears are identified by reference numerals 36A and 36B in the attached diagram. For example... Figure 3A As shown, the first gear 36A is positioned to engage with the first side 68 of the platform 28, and the second gear 36B is positioned to engage with the second side 70 of the platform 28 opposite to the first side 68. The first gear 36A and the second gear 36B are coordinated to cause the platform 28 to oscillate along a predetermined oscillation path 31. For clarity, the axes of gears 36A and 36B are... Figure 3A The figures are labeled 40A and 40B respectively.

[0046] like Figure 1-3B As shown, in one embodiment, the first side 68 and the second side 70 include protrusions 72 and 74. Figure 1 and Figure 2 The positioning of the gear relative to platform 28 shown is exemplary. For example, in Figure 1 In the middle, the gear 36A on the left has a set of teeth 38, one of which engages with the protrusion 72. Meanwhile, the gear 36B on the right is positioned such that the space 76A between adjacent teeth 38 receives a protrusion 74 on the second side 70 of the platform 28. Figure 1 In this configuration, gear 36 rotates about its respective axis in the direction indicated by arrow 78. In one embodiment, gear 36 rotates about its respective axis in the same direction (e.g., clockwise or counterclockwise) and at the same speed. In other embodiments, when using the same gears, the gears may rotate in opposite directions at synchronized speeds.

[0047] It should be understood that, for clarity, certain elements have been omitted from some of the accompanying drawings. For example, Figure 1 and Figure 2 Workpieces 22 and 24 are omitted.

[0048] like Figure 1 As shown, when gear 36 rotates in the direction indicated by arrow 78, tooth 38A contacts protrusion 72, and simultaneously, tooth groove 76A is positioned to allow protrusion 74 to be received in tooth groove 76B. Figure 1 As shown, the result is that platform 28 is pushed in the direction indicated by arrow "D1".

[0049] Therefore, and as Figure 2 As shown, when the left gear 36A rotates to a sufficient angle so that one of its tooth slots 76A aligns with the first protrusion 72, a tooth 38B on the right gear 36B simultaneously moves to engage with the protrusion 74. Those skilled in the art will understand that at this time, the platform 28 is pushed in the direction indicated by arrow "D2". Figure 1 and Figure 2 As shown, the continuous rotation of gear 36 causes platform 28 to be pushed to move continuously in the directions indicated by arrows "D1" and "D2". This pattern is repeated so that platform 28 moves about central axis 80 ( Figure 4 It oscillates along oscillation path 31.

[0050] As shown in the current embodiment, platform 28 includes only a single protrusion 72, 74 on each of its sides 68, 70. Alternatively, in the absence of protrusions, gear 36 may engage with the flat side of the platform. Those skilled in the art will understand that platform 28 may alternatively have multiple protrusions on each side of platform 28, with a corresponding number of gears engaging therewith, as will be described below. For example, platform 28 may be large enough to accommodate a predetermined number of gears (not shown) along each side of platform 28, these gears being positioned so that their respective axes are parallel. Alternatively, platform may be thick or deep enough such that multiple gears can engage with platform, these gears having their axes aligned with each other.

[0051] As described above, the oscillation of platform 28 is assisted or caused by the synchronous alternating engagement of gear 36 and platform 28. In this mode, the teeth 38A of gear 36A engage with the protrusion 72 on the first side 68 of platform 28, while a tooth groove 76A engages with the protrusion 74 on the second side 70. Then, as gear 36 rotates, and vice versa, the platform oscillates in the direction indicated by arrow "D1", and then in the direction indicated by arrow "D2". The resulting oscillation is strictly controlled by gears 36A and 36B, which rotate at the same speed around their respective axes.

[0052] In some embodiments, the amplitude of the oscillation can be relatively small, for example, between about 0.5 mm and 1 mm, and the frequency of the oscillation can be, for example, between about 30 Hz and about 60 Hz, but can also be as low as at least between about 1 Hz and about 20 Hz.

[0053] Furthermore, the oscillation is believed to be able to continue for a relatively short or predetermined period of time. For example, the oscillation could continue while workpieces 22 and 24 are engaged with each other, for example, for approximately three seconds.

[0054] The teeth 38 of gear 36 and the protrusions 72, 74 are shaped, and a suitable lubricant is used to minimize or reduce friction when gear 36 engages with protrusions 72, 74. In an alternative embodiment (not shown), platform 28 may include rollers rotatably mounted on its sides 68, 70 for engaging gear 36.

[0055] Gears can also be configured to provide desired oscillation amplitude and frequency. It should be understood that the gears shown are merely exemplary. Those skilled in the art will understand that gears can have any suitable tooth size ratio and tooth profile, as well as any suitable rotational speed. For example, it is believed that teeth with a flatter profile will tend to reduce friction between the gear and the protrusion.

[0056] When workpieces 22 and 24 are initially joined, a relatively small pressure is applied, for example, about 1 to 2 tons per square inch. Because the pressure used to join the two workpieces together is relatively low, and because the amplitude of the oscillation is relatively small, it is possible to finely control the movement of one workpiece relative to the other during the short period between their initial joining and their joining.

[0057] Those skilled in the art will also understand that, in practice, it may be difficult to achieve a control system that ensures the edges of workpieces 22 and 24 are substantially aligned at the moment they are joined together. However, depending on the circumstances, commercially optimal results can be obtained by stopping the oscillation just before the workpieces are joined together, but when the workpiece edges are aligned, thereby minimizing or reducing potential rework. Alternatively, in other cases, commercially optimal results can be obtained by allowing the oscillation to continue until the workpieces are joined or fused together, at which point the edges of the workpieces may be misaligned, thus requiring some subsequent rework. In this alternative, although the workpieces may be misaligned when joining occurs, the amount of rework required is minimal or limited compared to the amount typically required when using conventional linear solid-state welding.

[0058] As described above, because the heated portions of the workpieces are heated to their heat treatment temperature and thus undergo plastic deformation, the energy required to press workpieces 22 and 24 together while oscillating is significantly less than that required for conventional linear friction welding. Compared to conventional linear friction welding (where most of the energy input is consumed in moving one or two workpieces as they join together), in this disclosure, most of the energy input is consumed in energizing the heating element to heat the heated portions to their heat treatment temperature. It is estimated that the energy required to press the workpieces together in the method disclosed herein is less than that required for conventional linear friction welding.

[0059] Therefore, the equipment required to join workpieces together in the method of this disclosure is significantly smaller than or less than that required for conventional linear friction welding. Furthermore, workpieces with larger areas can be joined. Moreover, since the force applied to achieve the joining is smaller, more precise control over the movement of the workpieces after initial joining can be achieved.

[0060] As shown in the figure Figure 1-4 The platform 28 shown is substantially flat, i.e., its top and bottom surfaces are flat. However, those skilled in the art will understand that the platform may be convex or concave, or may have any other suitable profile. In some embodiments, the surface of the platform may be shaped to produce a predetermined oscillation path that is curved. For example, a curved oscillation path may be required to accommodate the curved surface of one or more workpieces.

[0061] In such Figure 6A and Figure 6B In another embodiment shown, system 120 includes one or more gears 136 located on a selected side 168 of platform 128, and one or more resilient elements 182 located on an opposite side 170 of platform 128. In this embodiment, the engagement edge of the gears 138A with the protrusions 172 is... Figure 6A The platform 128 is pushed in the direction indicated by the middle arrow "2D1". Since element 182 is elastic and compressible, it is compressed to a certain extent by this movement, and when gear 136 rotates to present a toothed groove 176 into which protrusion 172 can enter, the elastic element 182 pushes platform 128 in the direction indicated by arrow "2D2" or decompresses platform 128. Figure 6B ).

[0062] Those skilled in the art will understand that rapidly rotating the gear 136 about its axis will cause the platform 128 to oscillate along a predetermined oscillation path 131.

[0063] Unlike the embodiments described above, those skilled in the art will also understand that system 120 can be used, for example, in a relatively small space where gears are not easily accommodated at either end of the platform.

[0064] Another embodiment of the system 220 disclosed herein is shown in Figure 7 In. Figure 7 In this system 220, first gears 236A and 236B engage with a first side 268 of platform 228, and second gears 236C and 236D engage with a second side 270 of platform 228. It will be described that the rotation of the first and second gears is coordinated to cause platform 228 to oscillate along oscillation path 231.

[0065] like Figure 7 As shown, the first side 268 includes protrusions 272A and 272B, and the second side 270 includes corresponding protrusions 274A and 274B. Although shown as circular protrusions, it should be understood that the profiles of the protrusions can be other shapes (e.g., roller bearings), but capable of engaging with the teeth and tooth grooves of the corresponding gears. Gears 236A and 236B include corresponding teeth 238A and 238B that engage with protrusions 272A and 272B. Meanwhile, gears 236C and 236D are positioned such that tooth grooves 276A and 276B respectively receive protrusions 274A and 274B. Gears 236A, 236B, 236C, and 236D rotate about their respective axes in the directions indicated by arrows 278A-278D.

[0066] It should be understood that, for the sake of clarity, Figure 7 Several components have been omitted. For example, parts 22 and 24 have been omitted.

[0067] like Figure 7 As shown, when gears 236A-236D rotate in the directions indicated by arrows 278A-278D, teeth 238A and 238B contact the protrusions 272A and 272B substantially simultaneously. Simultaneously or substantially simultaneously, gears 236C and 236D are positioned to allow protrusions 274A and 274B to be received in the tooth grooves 276A and 276B, respectively. Figure 7 As shown, the result is that platform 228 is pushed in the direction indicated by arrow "3D1".

[0068] Those skilled in the art will understand that when gears 236A-236D rotate, the tooth grooves on gears 236A and 236B are positioned to receive protrusions 272A and 272B, respectively, while (or substantially simultaneously) the teeth on gears 236C and 236D engage with protrusions 274A and 274B, respectively. When this occurs, platform 228 moves in the opposite direction to direction "3D1". As this movement repeats, platform 228 moves along oscillation path 231, for example, moving to the right, then to the left, then to the right again, and so on.

[0069] Another embodiment of the system 220' disclosed herein is shown in Figure 8A and Figure 8B The system 220' includes first gears 236A' and 236B' that engage with a first side 268 of the platform 228, and second gears 236C' and 236D' that engage with a second side 270 of the platform 228. It will be described that the rotation of the first and second gears is coordinated to cause the platform 228 to oscillate along oscillation paths 231A and 231B.

[0070] like Figure 8A and Figure 8B As shown, the first side 268 includes protrusions 272A and 272B, and the second side 270 includes corresponding protrusions 274A and 274B. Gears 236A', 236B', 236C', and 236D' rotate about their respective axes in the directions indicated by arrows 278A'-278D'.

[0071] System 220' is essentially the same as system 220, except that the gears on each side 268, 270 of platform 228 are out of phase. For example, in Figure 8A In the illustrated case, when the tooth 238A' of gear 236A' engages with the protrusion 272A, a tooth groove 277B' of gear 236B' receives the protrusion 272B. Similarly, when the tooth groove 276A' of gear 236C' receives the protrusion 274A, the tooth 238D' of gear 236D' engages with the protrusion 274B.

[0072] like Figure 8AAs shown, when the tooth 238D' of gear 236D' engages with the protrusion 274B, gear 236B' is positioned such that the tooth groove 277B' can receive the protrusion 272B therein. Since these two events occur simultaneously (or substantially simultaneously), in Figure 8A In the embodiment shown, the first portion 285 of the platform 228 tends to move to the left.

[0073] Similarly, at the same moment, the tooth 238A of gear 236A' engages with the protrusion 272A, causing gear 236C' to position a groove 276A to receive the protrusion 274A therein. Due to these two events, in Figure 8A In the embodiment shown, the second portion 286 of platform 228 tends to move to the right.

[0074] As described above, gears 236A'-236D' rotate at the same speed about their respective axes (not shown). As a result, while the first part 285 is pushed to the left (as shown by arrow 231A), the second part 286 is pushed to the right (as shown by arrow 231B).

[0075] Because the first part 285 was pushed to the left (as... Figure 8A As shown), the second part 286 is pushed to the right (as shown). Figure 8A As shown), platform 228 tends to pivot clockwise around the central pivot point 280. It should be understood that when the gear is in... Figure 8A When the position is shown, the result of this rotation is that the first part 285 is pushed to the right, while the second part 286 is pushed to the left.

[0076] Figure 8B Different cases are shown, in which gears 236A'-236D' have been derived from their Figure 8A The gears 236A'-236D' rotate to their respective positions, in which gears 236A'-236D' push the first part 285 to the right and the second part 286 to the left, thereby causing the platform 228 to pivot counterclockwise about the central pivot point 280. Figure 8B In the middle, the first part 285 is pushed to the right, as shown by arrow 231C, and the second part 286 is pushed to the left, as shown by arrow 231D.

[0077] The teeth 238C' on gear 236C' engage with the protrusion 274A, while gear 236A' presents a tooth groove 277A' that receives the protrusion 272A. Figure 8B Because these two events occur simultaneously (or substantially simultaneously), the second part 286 of platform 228 is pushed to the left, as... Figure 8BAs shown. The teeth 238B' on gear 236B' engage with the protrusion 272B, while gear 236D' presents a tooth groove 276B' that receives the protrusion 274B. As a result, the first portion 285 of platform 228 is pushed to the right, as... Figure 8B As shown.

[0078] The final result is that, Figure 8B In the case shown, platform 228 is caused to pivot counterclockwise around the central pivot point 280.

[0079] As described above, in system 220', platform 228 is caused to move so as to oscillate about the central pivot point 280. It should be understood that, for clarity, Figure 8A and Figure 8B The workpiece and other components, such as heating elements and containers for containing non-oxidizing atmospheres, are omitted.

[0080] Another embodiment of the system 320 disclosed herein is shown in Figure 9A and Figure 9B In the middle. System 320 includes a clamp 384 formed for holding a first workpiece 322 so that the first workpiece 322 oscillates along a predetermined oscillation path 331. The oscillation of the first workpiece 322 is relative to a second workpiece, which may be, for example, the hub 387 of a turbine (not shown).

[0081] The hub 387 can be configured to rotate about the hub axis 388. Figure 9B The hub 387 has a surface 356 to which the workpiece 322 will be bonded. The surface 356 of the hub may have a convex curvature. Figure 9A When surface 356 is curved, workpiece 322 preferably also has a curved surface 354 shaped to mate with surface 356 of hub 387. Figure 9A The clamp 384 is also curved so that the oscillation path follows the contour of the hub surface 356 when entering and exiting the paper.

[0082] like Figure 9A As shown, in one embodiment, clamp 384 is fixed to platform 328. In one embodiment, system 320 includes gears 336A, 336B positioned to engage protrusions 372A, 372B for oscillating platform 328 along oscillation path 331. Figure 9A ).

[0083] The second gear 336B has a tooth that engages with the second protrusion 372B, while the first protrusion 372A is received in a tooth groove (not shown) of the first gear 336A. The rotation of gears 336A and 336B about their respective axes 340A and 340B causes the platform 328 to oscillate along a predetermined oscillation path 331.

[0084] like Figure 9A As shown, fixture 384 is mounted on platform 328, and workpiece 322 is securely held within fixture 384. As a result, the oscillation of the platform along oscillation path 331 causes workpiece 322 to also oscillate along oscillation path 331.

[0085] It should be understood that the first workpiece 322 and the hub 387 are initially positioned relative to each other to define a gap (not shown) in which one or more heating elements (not shown) can be positioned. In a manner similar to that described above, the heated portions (not shown) of the first workpiece 322 and the hub 387 are heated to their heat-working temperature by the heating elements in a non-oxidizing atmosphere. When their heated portions are at their heat-working temperature (which may be the same or different depending on the material of the parts), and when one or both of the workpieces 322 and the hub 387 oscillate relative to the other along the oscillation path 331, the heated portions are engaged and pressed together to cause shearing of the heated portions. The force used to press the first workpiece 322 against the hub 387... Figure 9A The arrows "3B" and "3C" schematically indicate this. The heated portion is cooled, and workpiece 322 and hub 387 are fused or joined together.

[0086] As described above, the fixture 384 facilitates the oscillation of the first workpiece 322 and its movement relative to the hub 387. Figure 9B Those skilled in the art will understand that the temperature of the heated portion rapidly drops below the hot working temperature, and the oscillation ceases once the joined workpiece 322 and hub 387 are joined together.

[0087] In some embodiments, the clamp 384 may be formed from two or more prefabricated parts.

[0088] like Figure 9A As shown, in one embodiment, platform 328 may have an elongated body, and clamp 384 may extend generally orthogonally from the body of platform 328. Due to the position of clamp 384 relative to platform 328, workpiece 322 can be positioned between two turbine blades previously mounted to hub 387. For example, in Figure 9A In the middle, workpiece 322 is located between blade "G" and blade "H" on hub 387.

[0089] It should be understood that, for the sake of clarity, Figure 9A and Figure 9B The heating element, the container for containing the non-oxidizing atmosphere, and other components are omitted.

[0090] Another alternative embodiment of the system 420 disclosed herein is shown in Figure 10A and Figure 10B In. Figure 10AThe image shows workpieces 422 and 424, on which fixtures 484A and 484B are respectively positioned. Figure 10A and Figure 10B In the exemplary embodiment shown, the workpieces are tracks to be connected to form part of a railway. It should be understood that the respective surfaces 454, 456 of workpieces 422, 424 will be engaged with each other, while the heated portions 446, 448 of workpieces 422, 424 are at their heat treatment temperatures, and one or both of the workpieces oscillate relative to the other workpiece.

[0091] Fixtures 484A and 484B are designed to facilitate the positioning and oscillation of workpieces 422 and 424 relative to each other. For example, in Figure 10A In the illustrated embodiment, the first workpiece 422 can be oscillated by a gear engaging with the clamp 484A, while the second workpiece 424 can remain stationary.

[0092] like Figure 10A As shown, tracks 422 and 424 are positioned such that their respective axes 490A and 490B are aligned, and surfaces 454 and 456 face each other. However, one or both of the first workpiece 422 and the second workpiece 424 can move relative to the other, as... Figure 10A As indicated by the middle arrows "K1" and "K2". The purpose of this relative motion is to ensure that when surfaces 454 and 456 are pressed together, one or both of surfaces 454 and 456 are in motion relative to the other surface, as will be described below.

[0093] In a manner substantially similar to that described above, the heating portions 446 and 448 are heated to their heat-working temperature in a non-oxidizing atmosphere. While the heating portions 446 and 448 are at their heat-working temperature, and while one or both of the surfaces 454 and 456 move relative to the other, the surfaces 454 and 456 are pressed together.

[0094] It should be understood that one or both of workpieces 422 and 424 can move axially toward the other workpiece to press surfaces 454 and 456 together. However, for clarity, in Figure 10A In the image, only the second workpiece 424 is shown moving axially via the arrow "Q".

[0095] Clamp 484A and the gear engaging with it are shown in Figure 10B In the middle. For example Figure 10B As shown, in one embodiment, the first gear 436A is positioned to engage with the first protrusion 472 on the clamp 484A, and the second gear 436B is positioned to engage with the second protrusion 474.

[0096] The workpieces are positioned in pre-selected positions relative to each other using fixtures 484A and 484B. When workpieces 422 and 424 are in their pre-selected positions relative to each other, they define a gap 434 between their respective surfaces 454 and 456, and one or more heating elements ( Figure 10A (Not shown in the image) may be accommodated in this gap. It should be understood that, for clarity, Figure 10A and Figure 10B The heating element is omitted. Similar to the process described above, the heating element is energized to heat the heating portions 446 and 448 to the hot working temperature in a non-oxidizing atmosphere. It should also be understood that... Figure 10A The container or lid used to maintain a non-oxidizing atmosphere above the heated part is omitted.

[0097] A tooth 438A of the first gear 436A engages with the protrusion 472 to push the clamp 484A away from the axis 440A of the first gear. Simultaneously, a tooth groove 476B of the second gear 436B is positioned to receive the second protrusion 474, allowing the clamp 484A to move away from the axis 440A of the first gear and toward the axis 440B of the second gear. Figure 10A , Figure 10B (Move.) Fixture 484A along... Figure 10B Move in the direction indicated by the middle arrow "4D1".

[0098] Gears 436A and 436B rotate in the directions indicated by arrows 478A and 478B, respectively. Figure 10B Gears 436A and 436B rotate simultaneously in the same direction about their respective axes. One tooth of the second gear 436B engages with the second protrusion 474, while a tooth groove of the first gear 436A is positioned to receive the first protrusion 472. Figure 10B (Not shown in the image). The alternating engagement of the teeth with the opposite sides of the clamp 484A causes the clamp 484A to oscillate along a predetermined oscillation path, such as... Figure 10A As indicated by the middle arrow "K1".

[0099] As described above, one or both of workpieces 422 and 424 can move relative to the other. For example, in Figure 10A In the middle, both workpieces 422 and 424 are oscillating, as shown by arrows "K1" and "K2" respectively.

[0100] In the same manner as described above, a heating element (not shown) heats the heated portions 446, 448 of the first and second workpieces 422, 424 to their heat-working temperatures. The heating element is then removed, and preferably, while one or both of the workpieces 422, 424 oscillate relative to the other, and while the heated portions are at their heat-working temperatures, the workpieces 422, 424 are pressed together to join the first and second workpieces 422, 424 together at their respective mating surfaces 454, 456.

[0101] In one embodiment, one or both of workpieces 422 and 424 oscillate relative to the other before the heated portions engage. Alternatively, one or both of workpieces 422 and 424 may oscillate relative to the other after the heated portions engage.

[0102] Once the heated parts are joined or pressed together (while oscillation occurs and the heated parts are at the hot working temperature), the heated parts 446 and 448 undergo at least partial plastic deformation, causing the deformed material to recrystallize upon cooling, thereby bonding the workpieces 422 and 424 together.

[0103] exist Figure 11 In another embodiment of the system 620 disclosed herein, gears 636A and 636B are positioned to engage with a first side 668 and a second side 670 of the insert 621, respectively. The insert 621 also has a first long side 696 and a second long side 697, as will be described below.

[0104] like Figure 11 As shown, the insert 621 is positioned in the gap defined between the first surface 654 of the first workpiece 622 and the second surface 656 of the second workpiece 624. Figure 11 As shown, when the insert 621 is positioned between surfaces 654 and 656 of workpieces 622 and 624, spaces 698 and 699 are defined between the first long side 696 and the first surface 654, and between the second long side 697 and the second surface 656, respectively.

[0105] It should be understood that heating elements (not shown) are positioned in spaces 698 and 699 to heat the heating portions of workpieces 622 and 624 and insert 621 to their heat treatment temperatures. As described above, this heating is performed in a non-oxidizing atmosphere. The heating portions of workpieces 622 and 624 are identified by reference numerals 646 and 648, respectively. The heating portion of insert 621 is... Figure 11 The figures are labeled 601 and 602.

[0106] In the above configuration, gears 636A and 636B rotate about their respective axes 640A and 640B, causing insert 621 to oscillate, as indicated by arrow "6K". Heating elements (not shown) are energized to heat heating portions 646, 648, 601, and 602 in a non-oxidizing atmosphere. When the heating portions are at their heat treatment temperature, plastic deformation occurs.

[0107] It should be understood that, for the sake of clarity, Figure 11 The heating element and the container or lid for containing the non-oxidizing atmosphere are omitted.

[0108] Next, the heating element is removed. While the heated portion is at the hot working temperature, and while the insert 621 oscillates relative to the first and second workpieces 622 and 624, surface 654 is pressed against the first long side 696 of the insert 621, and surface 656 is pressed against the second long side 697 of the insert 621. The applied pressure is schematically represented by arrows "6B" and "6C".

[0109] After surfaces 654 and 656 are engaged with the long sides 696 and 697 respectively, the oscillation of the insert 621 continues for a short period of time. As a result, the heated portion undergoes plastic deformation, that is, the material in the heated portion is sheared and becomes fused or bonded together. Subsequently, the heated portion is cooled.

[0110] As described above, the insert 621 can be oscillated relative to the workpieces 622 and 624 by any suitable means. It should be understood that more than one gear can engage with the insert 621, for example, by engaging the gear with the insert 621 along the outside of the insert 621 (not shown), or by stacking multiple gears (i.e., aligning their axes) to engage the gear with the insert 621.

[0111] It will also be understood that one or both of workpieces 622 and 624 may also oscillate relative to insert 621. This oscillation may be caused by gears engaging with one or both of workpieces 622 and 624. Figure 11 (Not shown in the text) caused as described above.

[0112] Those skilled in the art will understand that this disclosure may take many forms, and that these forms fall within the scope of the claimed disclosure. The scope of the claims should not be limited to the preferred embodiments set forth in the examples, but should be given the broadest interpretation consistent with the entire specification.

Claims

1. A system for joining a first metal workpiece and a second metal workpiece together, the system comprising: frame; The platform, to which the first workpiece can be fixed; At least one fastener assembly connects the platform to the frame, the at least one fastener assembly allowing the platform to move relative to the frame along a predetermined oscillation path; A positioning component is used to position the second workpiece at a predetermined position relative to the first workpiece when the first workpiece is fixed to the platform, so as to define a gap between the two. At least one gear, including a plurality of teeth and mounted to rotate about its axis, is positioned to engage with the platform for causing the platform to oscillate along the predetermined oscillation path; At least one heating element, positioned in the gap, is used to heat corresponding heating portions of the first workpiece and the second workpiece to their heat working temperature, at which the heating portions are at least partially plastically deformable, and the at least one heating element is removable from the gap when the heating portions are at their heat working temperature; as well as An apparatus for pressing the first workpiece and the second workpiece together by pressing them against each other while the heating portion is at its heat treatment temperature and while the first workpiece is oscillating along the predetermined oscillation path.

2. The system according to claim 1, characterized in that, The at least one gear includes: A first gear, positioned to engage with a first side of the platform; and The second gear is positioned to engage with a second side of the platform, the second side being opposite to the first side of the platform; The first gear and the second gear are coordinated to cause the platform to oscillate along the predetermined oscillation path.

3. The system according to claim 1, characterized in that, The at least one gear includes a first gear positioned to engage with a first side of the platform for intermittently moving the platform along a first direction; and The system further includes an elastic element positioned to engage with a second side of the platform opposite to the first side, for elastically responding to movement of the platform along the first direction by pushing the platform along a second direction opposite to the first direction.

4. A system for bonding a first metal workpiece to a second metal workpiece, comprising: A platform for receiving the first metal workpiece, the platform including at least one protrusion located on one side of the platform; A positioning component is used to receive the second metal workpiece and position the second metal workpiece at a predetermined position to define a gap between the first metal workpiece and the second metal workpiece; At least one gear is positioned on one side of the platform, the at least one gear including a set of teeth and a tooth groove located between the set of teeth for receiving the protrusion; A device for rotating the at least one gear, causing the protrusion to travel between the set of gear teeth and the tooth groove; At least one heating element is located in the gap between the first metal workpiece and the second metal workpiece to heat the heated portions of the first metal workpiece and the second metal workpiece to their heat processing temperature; When the heating part is at its heat processing temperature, the rotation of the at least one gear causes the platform to move along a predetermined oscillation path, thereby causing the edges of the first metal workpiece and the second metal workpiece to be joined together or fused together.

5. The device according to claim 4, further comprising: An apparatus for pressing together the first metal workpiece and the second metal workpiece while their edges are joined together or fused together.

6. The device according to claim 4, further comprising: The second protrusion is located on the side of the platform opposite to the at least one protrusion; as well as The second gear is located on the side of the platform opposite to the at least one gear. The second gear includes a set of teeth and tooth grooves located between the set of teeth for receiving the second protrusion. as well as A second device is used to rotate the second gear so that the second protrusion travels between the set of teeth and the tooth groove of the second gear.

7. The device according to claim 6, characterized in that, When the at least one protrusion is located in one of the tooth slots of the at least one gear, the second protrusion abuts against one of the teeth of the second gear.

8. The device according to claim 6, characterized in that, When the at least one protrusion is located in one of the tooth slots of the at least one gear, the second protrusion is located in one of the tooth slots of the second gear.

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