Brazing apparatus, brazing method, method for manufacturing welded object, machine learning device and determination device of gas flow rate, and machine learning device and determination device of sensor position

Abstract

To stabilize brazing quality.SOLUTION: A brazing apparatus 100 brazes a member to be brazed by using a brazing material. This brazing device 100 comprises: a gas supply unit 1, 2 that supplies a gas; burners 321-324 that generate flames for heating the brazing material and the member to be brazed by burning the gas; a temperature sensor 4 that acquires a monitoring temperature at the monitoring position of the member to be brazed; and the control device 5 that controls the gas supplying unit 1, 2 on the basis of time-series data of the monitoring temperature.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 3

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a brazing apparatus, a brazing method, a method for manufacturing a weldment, a machine learning apparatus and a determination apparatus for gas flow rate, and a machine learning apparatus and a determination apparatus for sensor position. [Background technology]

[0002] Japanese Patent Laid-Open Publication No. 2009-148807 (Patent Document 1) and Japanese Patent Laid-Open Publication No. 2002-45990 (Patent Document 2) disclose brazing devices using a gas burner. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2009-148807 [Patent Document 2] Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2002-45990 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] In brazing apparatuses and brazing methods, the brazing quality may be reduced due to changes in heating conditions (environmental temperature, flame size, etc.) during heating by a burner or variations in the geometric conditions (shape, posture, position, etc.) of the workpieces to be brazed. More specifically, the brazing filler metal may not melt sufficiently or may melt unevenly due to the various factors described above. There is always a demand for stabilizing brazing quality, in other words, for ensuring a certain level of brazing quality.

[0005] The present disclosure has been made to solve the above-mentioned problems, and one object of the present disclosure is to stabilize brazing quality in a brazing apparatus and a brazing method. Another object of the present disclosure is to provide a weldment with stable brazing quality. Yet another object of the present disclosure is to provide a machine learning device and determination device for gas flow rates and a machine learning device and determination device for sensor positions that are capable of stabilizing brazing quality. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] A brazing apparatus according to an aspect of the present disclosure brazes members to be brazed using a brazing filler metal, and includes a gas supply unit that supplies gas, a burner that combusts the gas to form a flame for heating the brazing filler metal and the members to be brazed, a temperature sensor that acquires a monitored temperature that is the temperature of a monitored position on the members to be brazed, and a control device that controls the gas supply unit based on time-series data of the monitored temperature.

[0007] A brazing method according to another aspect of the present disclosure brazes members to be brazed using a brazing filler metal. The brazing method includes the steps of obtaining a temperature at a monitoring position on the members to be brazed, and heating the brazing filler metal and the members to be brazed with a burner flame formed by combustion of a gas. The heating step includes the step of controlling a flow rate of the gas based on the temperature at the monitoring position. [Effects of the Invention]

[0008] According to the present disclosure, it is possible to stabilize brazing quality in a brazing apparatus and a brazing method. Also, according to the present disclosure, it is possible to provide a welded product with stable brazing quality. Furthermore, according to the present disclosure, it is possible to provide a machine learning device and a determination device for a gas flow rate and a machine learning device and a determination device for a sensor position that are capable of stabilizing brazing quality. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0009] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a front perspective view of the electrical equipment. [Figure 2]FIG. 1 is a side view of the electrical equipment. [Figure 3] 1 is a schematic diagram showing an example of the configuration of a brazing device according to a first embodiment. [Figure 4] FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating an example of a hardware configuration of a control device. [Figure 5] FIG. 10 is a diagram for explaining monitoring positions by a temperature sensor. [Figure 6] 1 is a top view showing a first example of the configuration of a brazing apparatus according to Embodiment 1. FIG. [Figure 7] 10 is a top view showing a second example of the configuration of the brazing apparatus according to the first embodiment. FIG. [Figure 8] FIG. 10 is a top view showing a third example of the configuration of the brazing apparatus according to the first embodiment. [Figure 9] 3 is a flowchart showing an example of a processing procedure of the brazing method according to the first embodiment. [Figure 10] 6 is a flowchart showing an example of a continuation of the processing procedure of the brazing method in the first embodiment. [Figure 11] 4 is a time chart showing an example of changes over time in monitored temperatures and flow rates of combustible gases. [Figure 12] FIG. 10 is a schematic diagram showing an example of the configuration of a brazing device according to a second embodiment. [Figure 13] FIG. 10 is a side view for explaining the configuration of a heating unit in the brazing apparatus according to the second embodiment. [Figure 14] FIG. 10 is a schematic diagram showing an example of the configuration of a brazing device according to a third embodiment. [Figure 15] 11 is a flowchart showing an example of a continuation of the processing procedure of the brazing method in the third embodiment. [Figure 16] FIG. 10 is a schematic diagram showing an example of the configuration of a brazing device according to a fourth embodiment. [Figure 17] 10A and 10B are diagrams for explaining detection positions detected by a member detection sensor; [Figure 18] 13 is a flowchart showing a first example of a continuation of the processing procedure of the brazing method in the fourth embodiment. [Figure 19]13 is a flowchart showing a second example of the continuation of the processing procedure of the brazing method in the fourth embodiment. [Figure 20] FIG. 10 is a schematic diagram showing a first example of the configuration of a brazing apparatus according to a fifth embodiment. [Figure 21] FIG. 13 is a schematic diagram showing a second example of the configuration of the brazing apparatus according to the fifth embodiment. [Figure 22] 13 is a flowchart showing an example of a processing procedure of a method for manufacturing a conductor according to the sixth embodiment. [Figure 23] FIG. 20 is a top view illustrating an example of the configuration of a conductor according to the sixth embodiment. [Figure 24] FIG. 20 is a side view illustrating an example of the configuration of a conductor according to the sixth embodiment. [Figure 25] FIG. 13 is a top view illustrating an example of the configuration of a conductor according to the seventh embodiment. [Figure 26] FIG. 13 is a side view illustrating an example of the configuration of a conductor according to the seventh embodiment. [Figure 27] FIG. 20 is a diagram illustrating an example of the configuration of a machine learning device for gas flow rates according to the eighth embodiment. [Figure 28] FIG. 20 is a diagram showing an example of a processing procedure of a machine learning method for determining a gas flow rate according to the eighth embodiment. [Figure 29] FIG. 20 is a diagram illustrating an example of the configuration of a flow rate determining device according to an eighth embodiment. [Figure 30] FIG. 20 is a diagram showing an example of a processing procedure of a method for determining a gas flow rate according to the eighth embodiment. [Figure 31] FIG. 20 is a schematic diagram showing an example of the configuration of a brazing apparatus according to a ninth embodiment. [Figure 32] FIG. 23 is a diagram illustrating an example of the configuration of a machine learning device related to the position of a temperature sensor in the ninth embodiment. [Figure 33] FIG. 23 is a diagram showing an example of a processing procedure of a machine learning method for determining the position of a temperature sensor in the ninth embodiment. [Figure 34] FIG. 23 is a diagram illustrating an example of the configuration of a position determining device according to a ninth embodiment. [Figure 35]FIG. 23 is a diagram showing an example of a processing procedure of a method for determining a sensor position according to the ninth embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0010] Hereinafter, the present embodiment will be described in detail with reference to the drawings. In the drawings, the same or corresponding parts are designated by the same reference numerals, and description thereof will not be repeated.

[0011] Hereinafter, an example will be described in which the brazing target (object to be brazed) brazed by the brazing apparatus according to the present disclosure is a conductor applied to electrical equipment. That is, the conductor is an example of the "brazing target" according to the present disclosure. The use of the "brazing target" is not limited to electrical equipment.

[0012] In the diagram, the X and Y directions represent horizontal directions. The X and Y directions are perpendicular to each other. The Z direction represents the vertical direction (vertically upward). The vertically upward direction is simply called "upward," and the vertically downward direction is simply called "downward."

[0013] Embodiment 1 <Configuration of electrical equipment> Fig. 1 is a front perspective view of the electrical equipment. Fig. 2 is a side view of the electrical equipment. Referring to Figs. 1 and 2, the electrical equipment 900 is, for example, a low-voltage circuit breaker. The front perspective view shown in Fig. 1 is a view of the low-voltage circuit breaker seen from the side where an operating lever and the like (not shown) are provided. The electrical equipment 900 may be a high-voltage circuit breaker or an electromagnetic switch.

[0014] In this example, the electrical equipment 900 includes two conductors 91A and 91B, two connection terminals 92A and 92B, and a housing 93.

[0015] Conductor 91A is used for connection to a power source (not shown). Conductor 91B is used for connection to a load (not shown). Conductor 91A includes a first member 911A and a second member 912A. Conductor 912B includes a first member 911B and a second member 912B. Each member is typically made of metal (copper, steel, titanium, various alloys, etc.). Each member has, for example, a rectangular parallelepiped shape. The number of members included in conductor 91A and conductor 912B is not limited to two and may be three or more. The material of each member may be determined to be suitable for the required interruption performance. The shape of each member is determined to be suitable for the required interruption performance, and may be, for example, an arc shape.

[0016] Conductors 91A, 91B and connection terminals 92A, 92B are mainly disposed outside housing 93. Although not shown, conductor 91A is connected to wiring from a power supply via connection terminal 92A. Conductor 91B is connected to wiring to a load via connection terminal 92B. An interruption circuit is formed by electrically connecting the power supply and the load via conductors 91A, 91B, connection terminals 92A, 92B, and a circuit (not shown) inside housing 93.

[0017] When there is no need to distinguish between the conductor 91A and the conductor 91B, they will be referred to as the conductor 91. The configuration of the brazing device used to braze the conductor 91 will be described in detail below.

[0018] <Structure of the brazing equipment> 3 is a schematic diagram showing an example of the configuration of the brazing apparatus according to embodiment 1. The brazing apparatus 100 includes a flammable gas supply unit 1, a combustion-supporting gas supply unit 2, a heating unit 3, a temperature sensor 4, and a control device 5.

[0019] The flammable gas supply unit 1 controls the supply of flammable gas to the heating unit 3 in accordance with a control command from the control device 5. The flammable gas is, for example, acetylene or LP (Liquefied Petroleum) gas. The flammable gas supply unit 1 includes a flammable gas source 11, a first regulator 12, a first flow rate controller 13, and a first pipe 14.

[0020] The flammable gas source 11 is, for example, a gas cylinder containing compressed flammable gas. The flammable gas source 11 may also be a flammable gas pipe installed in a factory. The first regulator 12 is attached to the flammable gas source 11 and adjusts and maintains the pressure of the flammable gas supplied from the flammable gas source 11 at a specified pressure. The first flow rate controller 13 is attached downstream of the first regulator 12 and controls the flow rate of the flammable gas supplied from the flammable gas source 11 via the first regulator 12 to a command flow rate (a flow rate commanded by the control device 5). The flammable gas whose flow rate is controlled by the first flow rate controller 13 flows through the first pipe 14.

[0021] The combustion-supporting gas supply unit 2 controls the supply of the combustion-supporting gas to the heating unit 3 in accordance with a control command from the control device 5. The combustion-supporting gas is, for example, oxygen. The combustion-supporting gas supply unit 2 includes a combustion-supporting gas source 21, a second regulator 22, a second flow rate controller 23, and a second pipe 24.

[0022] The combustion supporting gas source 21 is, for example, a gas cylinder containing compressed combustion supporting gas. The combustion supporting gas source 21 may also be a combustion supporting gas pipe installed in a factory. The second regulator 22 is attached to the combustion supporting gas source 21 and adjusts and maintains the pressure of the combustion supporting gas supplied from the combustion supporting gas source 21 at a specified pressure. The second flow rate controller 23 is attached downstream of the second regulator 22 and controls the flow rate of the combustion supporting gas supplied from the combustion supporting gas source 21 via the second regulator 22 to a command flow rate. The combustion supporting gas, the flow rate of which is controlled by the second flow rate controller 23, flows through the second pipe 24.

[0023] At least one of the flammable gas supply unit 1 and the combustion-supporting gas supply unit 2 corresponds to the "gas supply unit" according to the present disclosure. That is, the "gas supply unit" may be only the flammable gas supply unit 1, only the combustion-supporting gas supply unit 2, or both the flammable gas supply unit 1 and the combustion-supporting gas supply unit 2.

[0024] The heating unit 3 heats a brazing material (not shown) and a conductor 91, which is a member to be brazed, by flame. The heating unit 3 includes a third pipe 31, for example, four burners 321 to 324, and a fixing jig 33. Fig. 3 shows the arrangement of each element of the heating unit 3 when viewed from directly above and below.

[0025] The first pipe 14 through which the flammable gas flows and the second pipe 24 through which the combustion-supporting gas flows are connected to the third pipe 31. A mixed gas of the flammable gas and the combustion-supporting gas flows through the third pipe 31.

[0026] The mixed gas is supplied to the burners 321 to 324 via the third pipe 31. A conductor 91 is fixed to the fixing jig 33. The burners 321 to 324 burn the mixed gas to form a flame for heating the brazing material and the conductor 91. The arrangement of the burners 321 to 324 (the positional relationship between the flames of the burners 321 to 324 and the conductor 91) will be described later with reference to FIG. 5. In this embodiment, for ease of understanding, the burners 321 to 324 and the fixing jig 33 will be described as being fixed.

[0027] The number of burners can be any number as long as it is one or more. However, it is preferable to use two or more burners. The reason for this is as follows: Generally, when only one burner is used, uneven temperature distribution is likely to occur in the components to be brazed. This can lead to uneven filling of the interior of the components to be brazed with the brazing filler metal (and flux). This is because molten brazing filler metal has the property of flowing easily from the low-temperature side to the high-temperature side. In order to fill the brazing filler metal evenly, it is necessary to make the temperature distribution of the components to be brazed uniform. Therefore, it is desirable to use two or more burners to heat the brazing filler metal and the components to be brazed uniformly. In particular, it is preferable to adopt a configuration in which, for each pair containing two burners, the two burners are arranged so that they face each other (so that the two flames face each other).

[0028] The temperature sensor 4 measures the temperature at a predetermined position on the conductor 91. The temperature sensor 4 is preferably one that can measure temperature without contact, such as a radiation thermometer. The temperature sensor 4 outputs the temperature measurement results to the control device 5 (the heating control unit 53 described later). In other words, temperature monitoring is performed using the temperature sensor 4. Hereinafter, the time-series data of the temperature measured by the temperature sensor 4 (data showing the change in temperature over time) will be referred to as the "monitoring temperature," and the position where the monitoring temperature is acquired will be referred to as the "monitoring position." How to determine the monitoring position will be described later. The monitoring position may include the orientation in addition to the position of the temperature sensor 4.

[0029] The control device 5 performs feedback control of the combustible gas supply unit 1 and the combustion supporting gas supply unit 2 based on the monitored temperatures. The control device 5 includes a user interface (UI) unit 51, a condition setting unit 52, and a heating control unit 53.

[0030] The user interface unit 51 is an HMI (Human Machine Interface) between the brazing apparatus 100 and an operator who is a user of the brazing apparatus 100. The user interface unit 51 displays control buttons (start button, stop button, etc.) for the brazing operation by the brazing apparatus 100, and displays a menu for the operator to select conditions for the brazing operation by the brazing apparatus 100 (hereinafter also referred to as "brazing conditions"). The user interface unit 51 accepts user operations such as pressing control buttons and setting brazing conditions. The user interface unit 51 outputs the accepted user operations to the condition setting unit 52.

[0031] The condition setting unit 52 sets brazing conditions according to user operations. The brazing conditions may include a monitoring position (if the temperature sensor 4 is a radiation thermometer, the angle may be included in addition to the position), a target temperature at the monitoring position, a heating time, a maximum and minimum flow rate of the combustible gas, a maximum and minimum flow rate of the combustion-supporting gas, a mixing ratio of the combustible gas and the combustion-supporting gas, etc. The condition setting unit 52 outputs the brazing conditions to the heating control unit 53.

[0032] The heating control unit 53 receives the brazing conditions set by the condition setting unit 52. The heating control unit 53 also monitors the temperature of the conductor 91 based on the measurement results (monitored temperature) by the temperature sensor 4. The heating control unit 53 then controls the heating mode in the heating unit 3 using the combustible gas and the combustion-sustaining gas based on the brazing conditions and the monitored temperature. More specifically, when the monitored temperature deviates from the target temperature, the heating control unit 53 controls the flow rates of the combustible gas and the combustion-sustaining gas so that the monitored temperature approaches the target temperature (preferably so that the difference between the monitored temperature and the target temperature becomes zero). When the monitored temperature reaches the target temperature, the heating control unit 53 controls the flow rates of the combustible gas and the combustion-sustaining gas so that the monitored temperature is maintained at the target temperature (preferably so that the monitored temperature is constant around the target temperature).

[0033] 4 is a diagram showing an example of a hardware configuration of the control device 5. The control device 5 includes, for example, a processor 501, a memory 502, a receiver 503, and a display 504.

[0034] Each of the processors 501 is an arithmetic processing device such as a CPU (Central Processing Unit) or an MPU (Micro Processing Unit). The memory 502 includes a volatile storage device such as a DRAM (Dynamic Random Access Memory) or an SRAM (Static Random Access Memory), and a non-volatile storage device such as an HDD (Hard Disk Drive), an SSD (Solid State Drive), or a flash memory. The memory 502 stores a system program including an OS (Operating System), a control program including computer-readable code, and various parameters for controlling the brazing operation. The processor 501 performs various arithmetic processing by reading the system program, the control program, and the parameters, expanding them into the memory 502, and executing them.

[0035] The control device 5 may be divided into a plurality of components (individual control units) for each function. Part or all of the control device 5 may be implemented by a PLC (Programmable Logic Controller).

[0036] While FIG. 4 shows an example in which the control device 5 includes only one processor 501, the control device 5 may include multiple processors 501. That is, the control device 5 includes one or more processors 501. The same applies to the memory 502. In this specification, the term "processor" is not limited to a processor in the narrow sense that executes processing using a stored program, but may also include hardwired circuits such as an ASIC (Application Specific Integrated Circuit) and an FPGA (Field-Programmable Gate Array). Therefore, the term "processor" can also be interpreted as a processing circuitry in which processing is predefined by computer-readable code and / or hardwired circuitry.

[0037] The receiving device 503 is a touch panel, operation buttons, etc. The receiving device 503 accepts user operations such as pressing control buttons and setting brazing conditions.

[0038] The display 504 is a monitor, an indicator, etc. The display 504 displays to the operator the on / off state of the brazing apparatus 100, the brazing conditions set by the operator, the heating status in the heating section 3 (for example, the monitored temperature shown in FIG. 6 later), etc. Note that the control device 5 may include a communication module (not shown) for transmitting this information to the outside instead of or in addition to the receiving device 503 and the display 504.

[0039] <Monitoring position> 5 is a diagram for explaining the monitoring position by the temperature sensor 4. In FIG. 5, a side view of the heating unit 3 is shown.

[0040] 5, burner 321 and burner 322 are arranged so that their flames face each other along a horizontally extending straight line L. Burner 321 is arranged so that its flame faces the direction from right to left in the drawing to heat conductor 91 (first member 911). Burner 322 is arranged so that its flame faces the direction from left to right in the drawing to heat conductor 91 (second member 912).

[0041] In this example, the temperature sensor 4 is a radiation thermometer, and is placed behind the burner 321. The path of the infrared rays detected by the temperature sensor 4 is shown by a dotted line. The temperature measurement position (monitoring position) by the temperature sensor 4 is indicated by MP in the figure. How to determine the monitoring position will now be described.

[0042] Brazing is performed multiple times under conditions where the flow rate of the flammable gas and the flow rate of the combustion-supporting gas are both at their maximum. Among these, a position that satisfies the following five conditions is identified, and the identified position is set as the monitoring position MP. (1) Do not come into contact with the burner flame. (2) Close to the joint (the area to be brazed) in the conductor 91. (3) The discoloration of the brazing material and the conductor 91 is small. (4) The change in emissivity during heating is small. (5) The change in temperature difference between the junction and the monitoring position is small.

[0043] Regarding (1) above, the area where the flames of the burners 321 and 322 may come into contact (hit) is indicated by diagonal lines. The monitoring position MP is set outside the diagonal lines, that is, at a position where the flames of the burners 321 and 322 do not come into contact. Whether the flames of the burners 321 and 322 are in contact or not can be determined visually.

[0044] Regarding (2) above, the monitoring position is set at a reference distance D from the joint of the brazed members (in this example, the joint between the first member 911 and the second member 912). The reference distance D can be defined as the shortest distance from the straight line L on which the burners 321 and 322 are arranged to the monitoring position.

[0045] The reference distance D is determined based on a test (so-called conditioning) that is performed in advance. The reference distance D is preferably determined so that the change in emissivity of the conductor 9 due to heating is smaller than a specified amount. The emissivity of the conductor 9 during heating can be measured using an emissivity meter (not shown). The reference distance D may also be determined so that the change in color of the conductor 9 during heating is smaller than a specified amount. The color of the conductor 9 during heating can be measured using a camera, a spectrophotometer, a spectrophotometer (not shown), or the like. Both the change in emissivity and the change in color may be measured, or only one of them may be measured.

[0046] During heating, the brazing filler metal melts and spreads. In addition, flux may flow into the joint. It is preferable to set the reference distance D at a distance that prevents the brazing filler metal and flux from reaching the monitoring position from the joint.

[0047] Regarding (3) above, for example, if the material of the conductor 91 is copper, the conductor 91 will turn black as the temperature rises, and will become red-hot as the temperature rises further. Meanwhile, brazing material and flux may flow during heating. When the conductor 91 is reduced by the flux, it will return from black (or red) to its metallic color (copper color) before heating. In this embodiment, it is preferable to select a position that remains black during heating and does not become red-hot.

[0048] Regarding (4) above, first select a position that satisfies the conditions (1) to (3) above. Measure the temperature at the selected position using a contact thermometer. Set the emissivity so that the temperature measured by the contact thermometer is equal to the temperature measured by the radiation thermometer. Confirm that the change in the emissivity set in this way is small.

[0049] Generally, when the surface of a conductor is black, the emissivity is often within the range of 0.9 to 1.0. Therefore, a position where the emissivity is stable within this range may be selected. Note that if a flame is present near the measurement position, the emissivity of the flame may be measured, so care must be taken to avoid being affected by the emissivity of the flame.

[0050] Regarding (5) above, by measuring the temperature at the monitoring position using, for example, a contact thermometer and checking the change over time, it can be confirmed whether the temperature difference is stable.

[0051] In one test conducted by the inventors, a brazing filler metal with a recommended temperature range of 655°C or higher was used. When the brazing filler metal was melted, the temperature difference between the joint and the monitoring position was stable at an average of approximately 100°C. The monitoring position was set at a position that met the above five conditions and where it was confirmed that the brazing filler metal was sufficiently melted in the joint.

[0052] <Modification> As in three modified examples described below, the brazing apparatus may be configured to notify the operator of the progress of the brazing operation (particularly, that the monitored temperature has reached the target temperature).

[0053] 6 is a top view showing a first example of the configuration of the brazing apparatus according to the first embodiment. The brazing apparatus 100A differs from the brazing apparatus 100 (see FIG. 3) in that it includes a control device 5A instead of the control device 5. The control device 5A differs from the control device 5 in that it further includes a buzzer 54. The heating control unit 53 controls the buzzer 54 to emit a sound effect when the temperature monitored by the temperature sensor 4 reaches the target temperature. Instead of the buzzer 54, a speaker (not shown) may be provided that emits a sound indicating that the monitored temperature has reached the target temperature.

[0054] 7 is a top view showing a second example of the configuration of the brazing apparatus according to the first embodiment. The brazing apparatus 100B differs from the brazing apparatus 100 (see FIG. 3) in that it includes a control device 5B instead of the control device 5. The control device 5B differs from the control device 5 in that it further includes a light 55. The heating control unit 53 controls the light 55 to emit light when the temperature monitored by the temperature sensor 4 reaches a target temperature. The light 55 may change from off to on, or may be turned off and on repeatedly.

[0055] 8 is a top view showing a third example of the configuration of the brazing apparatus according to embodiment 1. The brazing apparatus 100C differs from the brazing apparatus 100 (see FIG. 3) in that it includes a control device 5C instead of the control device 5. The control device 5C differs from the control device 5 in that it further includes both a buzzer 54 and a light 55. When the temperature monitored by the temperature sensor 4 reaches the target temperature, the heating control unit 53 controls the buzzer 54 to emit a sound effect and controls the light 55 to emit light.

[0056] According to these three modified examples, even if the operator is not constantly monitoring the brazing apparatus 100A (for example, even if the operator is performing a task other than brazing), the operator can know when the monitored temperature reaches the target temperature, thereby preventing excessive heating of the conductor 91. The buzzer 54 and the light 55 correspond to the "notification unit" according to the present disclosure.

[0057] <Brazing flow> Fig. 9 is a flowchart showing an example of the processing procedure of the brazing method according to the first embodiment. Fig. 10 is a flowchart showing an example of the continuation of the processing procedure of the brazing method according to the first embodiment. Many steps are realized by software processing by the control device 5 (which may be the control devices 5A to 5C), but may also be realized by hardware (electrical circuits) arranged in the control device 5. The remaining steps are executed by an operator. Hereinafter, steps are abbreviated as S.

[0058] 9, in S101, an operator sets a monitoring position on conductor 91 to be monitored by temperature sensor 4. How to set the monitoring position has already been described in detail, and therefore, description thereof will not be repeated here.

[0059] In S102, the worker places the conductor 91 in the brazing apparatus 100. More specifically, the worker fixes the conductor 91 before brazing to the fixing jig 33. Then, the worker moves the conductor 91 fixed to the fixing jig 33 to a heating position using the burners 321 to 324.

[0060] In S103, the operator sets the pressure of each of the combustible gas and the combustion-supporting gas to an appropriate pressure. More specifically, the operator operates the first regulator 12 so that the pressure of the combustible gas is adjusted to and maintained at a specified pressure. The operator also operates the second regulator 22 so that the pressure of the combustion-supporting gas is adjusted to and maintained at a specified pressure.

[0061] In S104, the worker inputs to the control device 5 (user interface unit 51) brazing conditions suitable for the conductor 91. The control device 5 (condition setting unit 52) ​​stores the brazing conditions input by the worker in the memory 502 (see FIG. 4).

[0062] The order of the processes (user operations) of S101 to S104 can be changed as appropriate. These processes can be performed in any order. Also, some of the processes may be omitted. For example, the process of S101 may be performed in advance. The pressure and conditions set in the previous brazing may be used as they are for the processes of S103 and S104.

[0063] In S105, the operator presses an ignition button (not shown) provided on the control device 5 (user interface unit 51). The control device 5 determines whether the ignition button has been pressed. When the ignition button has been pressed (YES in S105), the control device 5 (heating control unit 53) controls the first flow controller 13 and the second flow controller 23 so as to start the flow of a small amount of flammable gas and a small amount of combustion supporting gas for ignition (S106). Thereafter, the operator ignites the burners 321-324 by bringing a spark closer to the burners 321-324 or by throwing an arc onto the burners 321-324 (S107). The ignition operation of the burners 321-324 may be performed automatically by the control device 5.

[0064] In S108, the operator presses a heating button (not shown) provided on the control device 5 (user interface unit 51). The control device 5 determines whether the heating button has been pressed. When the heating button has been pressed (YES in S108), the control device 5 (condition setting unit 52) ​​reads the brazing conditions stored in the memory 502 in S104 (S109). Then, the control device 5 (heating control unit 53) controls the first flow controller 13 to start flowing of the combustible gas that satisfies the brazing conditions (flow rate, ratio of combustible gas to combustion-supporting gas, etc.), and controls the second flow controller 23 to start flowing of the combustion-supporting gas that satisfies the brazing conditions (S110).

[0065] Continuing with reference to FIG. 10, in S201, the control device 5 (heating control section 53) controls the flow rate of the combustible gas and the flow rate of the combustion supporting gas while monitoring the temperature acquired from the temperature sensor 4.

[0066] FIG. 11 is a time chart showing an example of the change over time in the monitored temperature and the flow rate of flammable gas. The horizontal axis represents elapsed time. The initial time t0 is the time when heating starts (the time when the heating button is pressed). The left vertical axis represents the temperature. In this example, the target temperature is constant. The right vertical axis represents the gas flow rate.

[0067] The control device 5 controls the flow rates of the combustible gas and the combustion-supporting gas so that the monitored temperature approaches the target temperature. In this example, when the temperature difference ΔT between the monitored temperature and the target temperature is greater than a threshold value, the control device 5 sets the flow rate of the combustible gas to the maximum flow rate and the flow rate of the combustion-supporting gas to the maximum flow rate at the initial time t0 in order to quickly raise the temperature of the brazing position. During the period from the initial time t0 to time t1 (for example, the time when the temperature difference ΔT becomes equal to or less than the threshold value), the flow rates of the combustible gas and the combustion-supporting gas are maintained constant. After time t1, the flow rates of the combustible gas and the combustion-supporting gas are reduced compared to before time t1.

[0068] At time t2, the monitored temperature reaches the target temperature. After time t2, the control device 5 controls the flow rates of the flammable gas and the non-flammable gas so that the monitored temperature is maintained near the target temperature.

[0069] For example, PID (Proportional-Integral-Differential) control can be used for the feedback control of the flow rate of the combustible gas and the flow rate of the combustion supporting gas. By appropriately determining three gains (three parameters: proportional band (P), integral time (I), and differential time (D)) in PID control, it is possible to obtain an ideal curve as shown in Fig. 11. The three gains are set by numerous experiments or simulations performed before the actual brazing of the conductor 91 (before mass production of the conductor 91).

[0070] Returning to FIG. 10, in S202, the control device 5 (heating control unit 53) determines whether the monitored temperature has reached the target temperature. If the monitored temperature has not reached the target temperature (NO in S202), the control device 5 proceeds to S203 and determines whether a specified time has elapsed since the start of heating. The specified time is set to a length of time sufficient for the monitored temperature to reach the target temperature if heating is performed normally. If the specified time has not elapsed since the start of heating (NO in S203), the control device 5 returns the process to S201. This allows heating to continue while monitoring the temperature.

[0071] If a specified time has passed since the start of heating (YES in S203), some abnormality may have occurred. Therefore, the control device 5 extinguishes the burners 321-324 (S208). That is, the control device 5 controls the first flow controller 13 and the second flow controller 23 to terminate the flow of the flammable gas and the non-flammable gas. It is preferable that the flow rates of the flammable gas and the non-flammable gas suitable for extinguishing the fire are determined so that backfire does not occur during extinguishing.

[0072] If the monitored temperature reaches the target temperature in S202 (YES in S202), the control device 5 notifies the worker that the monitored temperature has reached the target temperature so that the worker can check the brazing state (melted state of the brazing filler metal, flow of the brazing filler metal, etc.). As described with reference to FIGS. 6 to 8, the control device 5 may use sound, light, or the like to notify the worker. The worker determines whether brazing has been performed properly (whether brazing has been completed) and inputs the determination result to the control device 5 (user interface unit 51). If brazing has not been completed (NO in S205), the control device 5 returns the process to S201 and continues heating while monitoring the temperature. If brazing is completed (YES in S205), the control device 5 proceeds to S206.

[0073] The determination of whether brazing is complete does not necessarily have to be made by an operator, but may be automated. For example, the control device 5 may automatically determine whether brazing is complete by taking an image of the brazed joint with a camera and processing the captured image (e.g., calculating the similarity of the image of the captured joint to an image of a properly brazed joint using a trained model).

[0074] In S206, the control device 5 determines whether to braze the next conductor 91 during mass production (whether to continue producing the brazed conductor 91). For example, the planned number of conductors 91 to be produced is determined in advance. The control device 5 determines whether the number of conductors 91 for which brazing has been completed has reached the planned number of conductors 91 to be produced. If the next conductor 91 is to be brazed (YES in S206), the worker moves the fixture 33 to a position out of the reach of the flames while continuing the combustion of the burners 321 to 324. This movement can also be automated by a table 71 (see FIG. 20) or a conveyor 72 (see FIG. 21), which will be described later. The worker places the next conductor 91 on the brazing apparatus 100 (S207), similar to the process in S102 (see FIG. 9). If there are no more conductors 91 to be brazed (NO in S206), the control device 5 extinguishes the burners 321 to 324 (S208). The burners 321 to 324 may be manually extinguished by the worker.

[0075] Here, it has been described that the burners 321-324 and the fixing jig 33 are fixed. However, the brazing apparatus 100 may be configured to be able to move the burners 321-324 in the horizontal, vertical, or circumferential direction. The brazing apparatus 100 may be configured to be able to move the fixing jig 33 (i.e., the conductor 91 to be brazed) in the horizontal, vertical, or circumferential direction.

[0076] In the past, a worker manually controlled the flow rates of the flammable gas and the combustion-supporting gas based on their experience while assessing the brazing condition. In this case, depending on the worker (especially an inexperienced or low-skilled worker), the brazing quality (such as the brazing flow condition and joint strength) of the conductor 91 may be unstable. Furthermore, variations in the shape of the conductor 91 (the first member 911 and the second member 912) within the tolerances may also cause variations in the heat capacity of the conductor 91. Additionally, clogging of the burners 321-324 may cause variations in the amount of heat input from the burners 321-324 to the conductor 91. These variations may also hinder the stabilization of the brazing quality of the conductor 91.

[0077] In the first embodiment, the control device 5 automatically performs feedback control of the flow rates of the combustible gas and the combustion-supporting gas so that the monitored temperature approaches the target temperature while collecting the temperature of the brazed member measured by the temperature sensor 4 (the monitored temperature at the monitoring position). This makes it possible to stabilize the brazing quality of the conductor 91 without relying on an operator.

[0078] Furthermore, for example, if the heat capacity of the conductor 91 is smaller than the median of the tolerance, the temperature of the conductor 91 is likely to rise. However, according to the first embodiment, the flow rates of the flammable gas and the combustion-supporting gas are reduced. This reduces the impact of variations in the heat capacity of the conductor 91 on the brazing quality of the conductor 91. Furthermore, if the amount of heat input from the burners 321 to 324 is reduced compared to normal, the temperature of the conductor 91 is less likely to rise. However, according to the first embodiment, the flow rates of the flammable gas and the combustion-supporting gas are increased. This reduces the impact of variations in the amount of heat input from the burners 321 to 324 on the brazing quality of the conductor 91. Therefore, the brazing quality of the conductor 91 can be stabilized.

[0079] In the first embodiment, the worker does not need to constantly monitor the brazing position to determine the brazing state. Therefore, the worker can perform other work (such as preparing the next conductor 91 to be brazed) while the conductor 91 is being heated. This reduces the worker's working time and improves the productivity of the electrical equipment including the conductor 91 (in this example, a low-voltage circuit breaker).

[0080] Embodiment 2 A configuration for achieving further stabilization of brazing quality will be described.

[0081] Fig. 12 is a schematic diagram showing an example of the configuration of a brazing apparatus according to embodiment 2. The brazing apparatus 200 differs from the brazing apparatus 200 according to embodiment 1 (see Fig. 3) in that it further includes flame shields 341 and 342. Fig. 13 is a side view for explaining a heating section 3A in the brazing apparatus 200 according to embodiment 2.

[0082] In the second embodiment, for the reasons explained in the first embodiment, the burners 321 to 324 are arranged so that the burners 321 and 322 face each other, and the burners 323 and 324 face each other. In this case, for example, there is a possibility that the flame of the burner 321 may reach the burner 322, causing a malfunction. More specifically, the third pipe 31 that supplies the mixed gas of the combustible gas and the combustion-supporting gas to the burner 322 may melt, or the nozzle of the burner 322 may become easily clogged, which may cause the flame of the burner 322 to become non-uniform. The same applies to the other burners.

[0083] Therefore, the flame shields 341 and 342 are provided to protect the burners 321 to 324 and the third pipe 31. More specifically, the flame shield 341 is arranged so that the flames of the burners 321 and 323 reach the conductor 91, while the flames of the burners 322 and 324 do not reach the burners 321 and 323 and the third pipe 31. Similarly, the flame shield 342 is arranged so that the flames of the burners 322 and 324 reach the conductor 91, while the flames of the burners 321 and 323 do not reach the burners 322 and 324 and the third pipe 31.

[0084] It is preferable that the material of the firebreaks 341 and 342 be a material having high fire resistance. Specifically, the material of the firebreaks 341 and 342 may be a metal material (such as an iron-based material) or a ceramic material.

[0085] 12 and 13 have a U-shape when viewed from above (see FIG. 12) and an L-shape when viewed from the side (see FIG. 13). However, this is merely an example of the shape, and the flame shields 341 and 342 may have any shape as long as they can prevent the flame from the opposing burner from reaching the flame shields.

[0086] The procedure of the brazing method in the second embodiment is similar to the procedure of the brazing method in the first embodiment (FIGS. 9 and 10), and therefore detailed description thereof will not be repeated.

[0087] According to the second embodiment, the flame of burner 321 does not reach either burner 322 or third pipe 31, thereby preventing the above-mentioned problems and making the flame of burner 322 uniform. The same applies to the other burners. This reduces the difference in flame between burners 321 to 324. As a result, when burners 321 to 324 are used for a long period of time, the amount of heat input from burners 321 to 324 to conductor 91 can be stabilized.

[0088] It is preferable to fix the relative positions of the burners 321, 323 and the flame shield 341. For example, the burners 321, 323 may be fixed directly to the flame shield 341. This allows the flames of the burners 321, 323 to always be in the same position when brazing is performed multiple times, stabilizing the amount of heat input and the heated position from the burners 321, 323. As a result, it is possible to suppress variations in the brazing quality among the multiple conductors 91 produced. The same applies to the burners 322, 324 and the flame shield 342.

[0089] The above-described actions and effects of employing the flame shields 341, 342 are achieved even when temperature monitoring using the temperature sensor 4 is not performed. However, by combining the flame shields 341, 342 with temperature monitoring using the temperature sensor 4, the temperature at the monitoring position becomes more stable, thereby further suppressing variations in brazing quality among multiple conductors 91. In addition, it becomes possible to make the heating time (and therefore the production pace of the conductors 91) uniform among multiple conductors 91.

[0090] The second embodiment may be combined with the three modifications of the first embodiment. That is, in addition to adding the flame shields 341 and 342, a buzzer 54 (see FIG. 6) may be added, or a light 55 (see FIG. 7) may be added, or both the buzzer 54 and the light 55 (see FIG. 8) may be added. This allows the worker to know that the temperature at the monitoring position (monitoring temperature) has reached the target temperature without having to constantly monitor the brazing position. In addition, excessive heat input to the conductor 91 can be prevented.

[0091] Embodiment 3 A configuration for automatically detecting whether the brazing filler metal has been depleted and whether the brazing filler metal has melted during heating will be described.

[0092] 14 is a schematic diagram showing an example of the configuration of a brazing apparatus according to embodiment 3. The brazing apparatus 300 differs from the brazing apparatus 200 according to embodiment 1 (see FIG. 3) in that it further includes a brazing material detection sensor 61.

[0093] The brazing filler metal detection sensor 61 is a sensor configured to detect the state of the brazing filler metal in a non-contact manner. The brazing filler metal detection sensor 61 detects depletion of the brazing filler metal (when the brazing filler metal has been used up) and measures the melted state of the brazing filler metal at the joint of the conductor 91. The brazing filler metal detection sensor 61 may be a displacement sensor (such as a laser displacement meter) that can measure the displacement of the brazing filler metal through a flame. The brazing filler metal detection sensor 61 may also be a camera that takes an image of the brazing filler metal. The brazing filler metal detection sensor 61 detects the state of the brazing filler metal and outputs the detection results (displacement, image, etc. indicating whether the brazing filler metal has been depleted or melted) to the control device 5. The control device 5 detects depletion and melting of the brazing filler metal based on the measurement results from the brazing filler metal detection sensor 61.

[0094] A typical brazing filler metal has a foil or rod-like shape. When a rod-shaped brazing filler metal melts and flattens, the displacement of the brazing filler metal is large. Therefore, by employing a displacement sensor as the brazing filler metal detection sensor 61, the displacement of a rod-shaped brazing filler metal can be easily measured. On the other hand, by employing a camera as the brazing filler metal detection sensor 61, the melting of the brazing filler metal (the way the brazing filler metal melts and flows) can be measured regardless of whether the brazing filler metal is rod-shaped or foil-shaped. Whether the brazing filler metal detection sensor 61 is a displacement sensor or a camera, it is possible to detect the depletion of the brazing filler metal regardless of the shape of the brazing filler metal.

[0095] The detection position of the brazing filler metal detection sensor 61 is determined as follows. When brazing filler metal is placed on a joint to which flux has been applied, the flux and brazing filler metal melt in that order. In other words, the brazing filler metal melts more slowly than the flux. The time required from the start of heating the brazing filler metal until it melts can vary depending on the brazing filler metal. Therefore, a preliminary experiment is conducted using a test sample of the brazing filler metal, and the position in the joint where the brazing filler metal melts last is identified by visual inspection or the like. The brazing filler metal detection sensor 61 is installed so that this position is the detection target.

[0096] Fig. 15 is a flowchart showing an example of a procedure for the brazing method according to embodiment 3. The process after the start of the brazing method is similar to the process described in embodiment 1 (see Fig. 9), and therefore description thereof will not be repeated. Here, an example in which melting of the brazing material is detected will be described.

[0097] In S301, the control device 5 (heating control unit 53) monitors the temperature acquired from the temperature sensor 4, and controls the flow rate of the combustible gas and the flow rate of the combustion supporting gas.

[0098] In S302, the control device 5 determines whether the monitored temperature has reached the target temperature. If the monitored temperature has reached the target temperature (YES in S302), the control device 5 proceeds to S303 and determines whether melting of the brazing filler metal has been detected by the brazing filler metal detection sensor 61. If melting of the brazing filler metal is detected (YES in S303), the control device 5 notifies the worker to check the brazing filler metal flow (S305). In other words, the control device 5 notifies the worker only when melting of the brazing filler metal is detected in addition to the monitored temperature reaching the target temperature. The order of the processing in S302 and the processing in S303 may be reversed.

[0099] On the other hand, if the monitored temperature has not yet reached the target temperature (NO in S302), the control device 5 proceeds to S304. Also, if melting of the brazing filler metal has not been detected (NO in S303), the control device 5 also proceeds to S304. In other words, not only if the monitored temperature has not yet reached the target temperature (NO in S302), but also if melting of the brazing filler metal has not been detected even though the monitored temperature has reached the target temperature (NO in S303), the control device 5 continues heating until a specified time has elapsed from the start of heating.

[0100] The processes from S305 onwards are similar to the corresponding processes in the first embodiment (the processes of S204 to S208 in FIG. 10), and therefore description thereof will not be repeated.

[0101] In the third embodiment, melting (or depletion) of the brazing material is detected based on the detection result of the brazing material detection sensor 61. Therefore, the worker does not need to determine the completion of brazing (or depletion of the brazing material). This makes it possible to stabilize the brazing quality of the conductor 91 regardless of the worker's experience or skill. Furthermore, the worker can perform other work while brazing the conductor 91. This reduces the worker's working time and improves the productivity of the electrical equipment including the conductor 91. In addition, safety is improved because the worker does not need to approach the flames of the burners 321 to 324.

[0102] The third embodiment may be combined with the three modifications of the first embodiment. That is, to the basic system configuration (see FIG. 3) described in the first embodiment, the brazing material detection sensor 61 may be added, and the buzzer 54 (see FIG. 6) may be added, or the light 55 (see FIG. 7) may be added, or both the buzzer 54 and the light 55 (see FIG. 8) may be added.

[0103] It is also possible to combine the third embodiment with the second embodiment. That is, the flame shields 341 and 342 (see FIG. 12) may be added to the basic system configuration (see FIG. 3) described in the first embodiment, and the brazing material detection sensor 61 may also be added.

[0104] Embodiment 4 A configuration for detecting whether the conductor 91 is placed in a position where brazing is possible will be described.

[0105] 16 is a schematic diagram showing an example of the configuration of a brazing apparatus according to embodiment 4. The brazing apparatus 400 differs from the brazing apparatus 200 according to embodiment 1 (see FIG. 3) in that it further includes a component detection sensor 62.

[0106] The component detection sensor 62 is a sensor capable of non-contact detection of a conductor 91 (component to be brazed) placed in a position where brazing is possible. The component detection sensor 62 may be a displacement sensor (such as a laser displacement meter) that can detect the presence or absence of the conductor 91 through a flame. The brazing material detection sensor 61 may be a camera that takes an image of the conductor 91. The component detection sensor 62 detects whether the conductor 91 is placed in a position where brazing is possible, and outputs the detection result (displacement, image, etc. indicating whether the conductor 91 is present) to the control device 5. The control device 5 controls the flow rates of the flammable gas and the combustion-supporting gas based on the detection result by the component detection sensor 62 (described later in FIG. 18).

[0107] 17 is a diagram illustrating the detection position of the component detection sensor 62. The detection position of the component detection sensor 62 is set so that the conductor 91 correctly positioned in a position where brazing is possible is detected. If the component detection sensor 62 is a displacement sensor, the detection position is set so that the conductor 91 positioned in a position where brazing is possible is irradiated with a laser. If the component detection sensor 62 is a camera, the detection position is set so that the conductor 91 positioned in a position where brazing is possible is photographed by the camera. The object to be detected by the component detection sensor 62 may be the fixing jig 33 instead of or in addition to the conductor 91.

[0108] Fig. 18 is a flowchart showing a first example of the processing procedure of the brazing method according to embodiment 4. The processing after the start of the brazing method is similar to the processing described in embodiment 1 (see Fig. 9), and therefore description thereof will not be repeated.

[0109] In S401, the control device 5 determines whether the component detection sensor 62 detects the conductor 91. When the conductor 91 is not detected, the control device 5 weakens the flames of the burners 321-324 compared to when the conductor 91 is detected. In this example, when the conductor 91 is detected (YES in S401), the control device 5 controls the flammable gas supply unit 1 to set the flow rate of the flammable gas to the maximum flow rate, and controls the combustion supporting gas supply unit 2 to set the flow rate of the non-flammable gas to the maximum flow rate (S402). On the other hand, when the conductor 91 is not detected (NO in S401), the control device 5 controls the flammable gas supply unit 1 to set the flow rate of the flammable gas to the minimum flow rate, and controls the combustion supporting gas supply unit 2 to set the flow rate of the combustion supporting gas to the minimum flow rate (S403). The minimum flow rate is preferably the minimum flow rate within a range in which flashback does not occur.

[0110] When the conductor 91 is not detected for a long period of time, the control device 5 may weaken the flames of the burners 321 to 324. For example, when the length of time during which the conductor 91 is not detected is longer than a reference time, the control device 5 may weaken the flames of the burners 321 to 324 compared to when the length of time during which the conductor 91 is not detected is shorter than the reference time (including when the conductor 91 is detected).

[0111] Thereafter, the control device 5 advances the process to S404. The processes from S404 onwards are similar to the corresponding processes in the first embodiment (the processes of S202 to S208 in FIG. 10), and therefore description thereof will not be repeated.

[0112] As will be described in the following second example, the member detection sensor 62 may be used not only to detect the conductor 91 during heating, but also to detect the conductor before heating. In this case, a stage (not shown) on which the conductor to be heated next is mounted is set as the detection target of the member detection sensor 62.

[0113] Fig. 19 is a flowchart showing a second example of the processing procedure of the brazing method according to embodiment 4. This flowchart is to be contrasted with the flowchart of the first example shown in Fig. 18. The processing of S501 to S505 is the same as the processing of S401 to S405 in the first example.

[0114] In S506, the control device 5 determines whether the component detection sensor 62 has detected the next conductor (the conductor to be heated next) on the stage. If the next conductor has been detected (YES in S506), the control device 5 determines that the brazing of the conductor should continue, and moves the fixture 33 to a position out of the reach of the flames while continuing the combustion of the burners 321 to 324 (S507). This movement is automatically performed by the table 71 (see FIG. 20) or the conveyor 72 (see FIG. 21), which will be described later. Then, the next conductor is placed on the brazing device 100, and the next conductor is returned to a position out of the reach of the flames (S508). This process is also automatically performed. Thereafter, the control device 5 returns the process to S501. This allows the production of the brazed conductor 91 to continue. On the other hand, if the next conductor has not been detected in S506 (NO in S506), the control device 5 extinguishes the burners 321 to 324 (S509).

[0115] According to the fourth embodiment, if the supply of the conductor 91 to be brazed is stopped for some reason, the flames of the burners 321-324 are weakened. This reduces the consumption of flammable gas and combustion-supporting gas that are not used for brazing and are wasted, even without extinguishing the burners 321-324. As a result, the running costs of the brazing apparatus 400 can be reduced. Furthermore, the flow rates of the flammable gas and combustion-supporting gas are simply reduced, and the burners 321-324 are not extinguished. Therefore, when the supply of the conductor 91 is resumed, the flames are strengthened without going through the ignition process of the burners 321-324. This allows the production of the conductor 91 to be resumed immediately. In addition, the use of the component detection sensor 62 enables automatic loading of the conductor 91.

[0116] Although not shown, the member detection sensor 62 may be used to detect the conductor 91 after heating, thereby enabling automatic collection (dispense) of the conductor 91 after the brazing is completed.

[0117] If the automatic collection of the conductor 91 is not performed normally (for example, if the brazing is completed but the conductor 91 remains without being collected), the control device 5 may extinguish the burners 321 to 324. This makes it possible to prevent excessive heat input to the conductor 91 that remains without being collected.

[0118] The fourth embodiment may be combined with the three modifications of the first embodiment. That is, to the basic system configuration (see FIG. 3) described in the first embodiment, the member detection sensor 62 may be added, and the buzzer 54 (see FIG. 6) may be added, or the light 55 (see FIG. 7) may be added, or both the buzzer 54 and the light 55 (see FIG. 8) may be added.

[0119] It is also possible to combine the fourth embodiment with the second embodiment. That is, the flame shields 341 and 342 and the member detection sensor 62 may be added to the basic system configuration (see FIG. 3) described in the first embodiment.

[0120] The fourth embodiment may be combined with the third embodiment. That is, the brazing material detection sensor 61 and the member detection sensor 62 may be added to the basic system configuration described in the first embodiment.

[0121] Embodiment 5 A configuration that allows the positioning of the fixing jig 33 will be described.

[0122] 20 is a schematic diagram showing a first example of the configuration of a brazing apparatus according to embodiment 5. The brazing apparatus 500A differs from the brazing apparatus 200 according to embodiment 1 (see FIG. 3) in that it further includes a rotary table 71.

[0123] The table 71 is configured to transport the fixture 33 and hold the transported fixture 33 in a predetermined position and orientation (it stays at that position and orientation and does not move during brazing). In this example, the table 71 is a rotary table and includes a mechanism that pauses at predetermined angles (for example, 90° or 180°). The space required for installing and retrieving conductors can be reduced by installing the next conductor at a position 90° or 180° away from the position where heating is performed by the burners 321 to 324, or retrieving the conductor that has been brazed from that position. Note that two or more conductors 91 may be mounted on the table 71.

[0124] 21 is a schematic diagram showing a second example of the configuration of the brazing apparatus according to embodiment 5. The brazing apparatus 500B differs from the brazing apparatus 200 according to embodiment 1 (see FIG. 3) in that it further includes a linear conveyor 72.

[0125] The conveyor 72, like the table 71, is configured to transport the fixing jig 33 and hold the transported fixing jig 33 at a predetermined position (and orientation). In this example, the conveyor 72 includes positioning jigs 721 and 722. The fixing jig 33 is pressed against the jigs 721 and 722 to restrict its movement, thereby positioning the fixing jig 33. The number of positioning jigs may be one, three, or more. Although not shown, the brazing apparatus 500B may include a positioning rail instead of the conveyor 72. By employing the conveyor 72 (or positioning rail), positioning can be achieved with a simple structure, thereby reducing capital investment. Note that two or more conductors 91 may be mounted on the conveyor 72 (or positioning rail).

[0126] In the fifth embodiment, a table 71 or a conveyor 72 is provided for positioning the fixing jig 33. This allows the fixing jig 33 to be fixed at the same position all the time without depending on the worker, and therefore the heat input conditions from the burners 321 to 324 can be made uniform.

[0127] The table 71 or the conveyor 72 also functions as an automatic transport device, and the fixing jig 33 is automatically transported to the brazing position. This eliminates the need for a worker to transport the fixture 33, thereby improving the productivity of the conductor 91. This advantage is particularly noticeable when a large number of conductors 91 are to be produced. Furthermore, the worker does not need to get close to the burners 321 to 324, which reduces the amount of heat radiated from the burners 321 to 324 to the worker. This improves safety and the working environment. Alternatively, the worker may manually place the fixing jig 33 on the table 71 or the conveyor 72.

[0128] The fourth embodiment may be combined with the three modifications of the first embodiment. That is, to the basic system configuration (see FIG. 3) described in the first embodiment, a table 71 or a conveyor 72 may be added, and a buzzer 54 (see FIG. 6) may be added, or a light 55 (see FIG. 7) may be added, or both a buzzer 54 and a light 55 (see FIG. 8) may be added.

[0129] It is also possible to combine the fifth embodiment with the second embodiment. That is, the flame shields 341 and 342 and the table 71 or the conveyor 72 may be added to the basic system configuration (see FIG. 3) described in the first embodiment.

[0130] The fifth embodiment may be combined with the third embodiment. That is, the brazing material detection sensor 61 and the table 71 or the conveyor 72 may be added to the basic system configuration described in the first embodiment. When the brazing material detection sensor 61 detects that the brazing material has melted (completion of brazing), the control device 5 may control the table 71 or the conveyor 72 to place and collect the conductor.

[0131] The fifth embodiment may be combined with the fourth embodiment. That is, the member detection sensor 62 and the table 71 or the conveyor 72 may be added to the basic system configuration described in the first embodiment.

[0132] Embodiment 6 A method for manufacturing the conductor, which is the welded object, will now be described.

[0133] 22 is a flowchart showing an example of a procedure for manufacturing a conductor according to Embodiment 6. In this example, it is assumed that the conductor is manufactured from two members (first member 941 and second member 942, which will be described later, or first member 951 and second member 952 in Embodiment 7). However, the conductor may also be manufactured from three or more members.

[0134] In S601, a first member and a second member for manufacturing a conductor are prepared. Each member can be formed by machining, pressing, or the like.

[0135] In S602, if a brazing material requiring flux (such as silver brazing) is used, flux is applied to the joint between the first and second members. This process may be omitted if a brazing material not requiring flux (such as phosphorus copper brazing) is used.

[0136] In S603, a brazing material is placed at the joint between the first member and the second member. The brazing material in foil form is placed so as to be sandwiched between the joint. The brazing material in rod form is placed on the side of the joint.

[0137] In S604, the first member and the second member are fixed to the fixing jig 33. The fixing jig 33 is preferably configured so that the fixed state is maintained even if the first member and the second member vibrate (so that the first member and the second member do not shift from the fixing jig 33).

[0138] In S605, the fixing jig 33 to which the first member and the second member are fixed is placed in the brazing apparatus 100 (or any of the other brazing apparatuses 100A to 100C, 200, 300, 400, 500A, and 500B).

[0139] In S606, the brazing apparatus 100 is used to braze the first member and the second member.

[0140] Fig. 23 is a top view illustrating an example of the configuration of a conductor according to embodiment 6. Fig. 24 is a side view illustrating an example of the configuration of a conductor according to embodiment 6. With reference to Figs. 23 and 24, conductor 94 includes a first member 941 and a second member 942. First member 941 and second member 942 are made of copper. A brazing filler metal used to weld first member 941 and second member 942 together is silver brazing filler metal or phosphorus copper brazing filler metal.

[0141] The melting point of copper is 1080°C, while the brazing temperature of silver solder is 600 to 900°C, and the brazing temperature of phosphorus copper solder is 650 to 930°C. In other words, there is a temperature difference of approximately 150 to 480°C between the melting point of copper and the brazing temperature of silver solder or phosphorus copper solder.

[0142] The temperature at the position where brazing is performed is higher than the temperature (monitored temperature) at the position monitored by the temperature sensor 4. Assuming that the temperature difference between these two positions is 100°C, the target temperature can be set to, for example, 600°C, and brazing can be performed so that the monitored temperature approaches the target temperature. In this case, the temperature at the position where brazing is performed is approximately 700°C. Therefore, brazing can be performed while the brazing material (silver brazing or phosphorus copper brazing) melts, without the first member 941 and the second member 942 (copper) themselves melting.

[0143] Copper has extremely high thermal conductivity. Therefore, by using copper for the first member 941 and the second member 942, the temperature difference between the two positions can be reduced. When the temperature was actually measured, it was confirmed that the temperature difference could be suppressed to less than 100°C. This makes it possible to reliably satisfy the condition that the brazing material melts while the first member 941 and the second member 942 do not melt.

[0144] The lower limit of the brazing temperature for silver solder (600°C) is approximately 50°C lower than the lower limit of the brazing temperature for phosphorus copper solder (650°C). In other words, silver solder melts more easily than phosphorus copper solder. Therefore, when using silver solder, the silver solder melts completely and becomes liquid, which easily permeates the joint between the first member 941 and the second member 942, making it easier to achieve high brazing quality. On the other hand, when using phosphorus copper solder, the phosphorus oxidizes, making it possible to reduce oxides on the surface of the conductor 91, so no flux is required.

[0145] Embodiment 7 Another method for manufacturing a conductor, which is a weldment, will be described. The overall flow of the procedure for the method for manufacturing a conductor in the seventh embodiment is similar to that described in the sixth embodiment (see FIG. 22), and therefore description thereof will not be repeated.

[0146] Fig. 25 is a top view illustrating an example of the configuration of the conductor according to Embodiment 7. Fig. 26 is a side view illustrating an example of the configuration of the conductor according to Embodiment 7. With reference to Figs. 25 and 26, conductor 95 includes a first member 951 and a second member 952.

[0147] A groove 953 is provided in the first member 951. The groove 953 may be divided into two or more parts. The first member 951 is fitted into the second member 952. A member (not shown) other than the first member 951 may be fitted into the second member 952. By configuring multiple members to be fitted / engaged together, these members can be roughly positioned. Therefore, it is only necessary to provide the fixing jig 33 with a positioning mechanism (not shown) for fine adjustment, and the structure of the fixing jig 33 can be simplified.

[0148] The groove 953 can also be used as a place to store the brazing material before brazing, so that an operator (or an automatic brazing material supplying device) does not have to supply the brazing material from a distant position during heating.

[0149] The volume of the groove 953 before brazing is denoted as V0, the volume of the brazing filler metal before brazing is denoted as V1, and the volume of the brazed portion is denoted as V2. It is preferable that these volumes satisfy the relationship V0 > V1 - V2. In this way, the molten brazing filler metal can be made to stay at the position where brazing is required. In other words, it is possible to suppress the molten brazing filler metal from exceeding the groove 953 and reaching the first member 951. Thereby, the brazing quality can be stabilized and appearance defects (shape defects) due to the outflow of the brazing filler metal can be suppressed.

[0150] When brazing is performed using the brazing apparatuses 100, 100A to 100C, 200, 300, 400, 500A, 500B described in Embodiments 1 to 5, flames are radiated to the side surface 951a of the first member 951 and the side surface 952a of the second member 952. At this time, the flame hardly directly touches the joint part JCT to be brazed. Thereby, it is possible to avoid a situation where only the brazing filler metal melts while the temperatures of the first member 951 and the second member 952 have not risen to the brazing temperature.

[0151] The shortest distance between the side surface 951a of the first member 951 and the joint part JCT is denoted as Z1. The shortest distance between the side surface 952a of the second member 952 and the joint part JCT is denoted as Z2. In order to avoid a situation where only the brazing filler metal melts, it is desirable that the flame length (the maximum length of the flame) MAX is set such that MAX < Z1 and MAX < Z2. However, when brazing is difficult with such a setting, the position and length of the flame may be set with priority given to brazing property.

[0152] Embodiment 8. Machine learning for determining the optimum flow rate of the combustible gas and the optimum flow rate of the supporting combustion gas will be described.

[0153] <Learning phase> FIG. 27 is a diagram showing an example of the configuration of a machine learning device for gas flow rates in embodiment 8. In this example, supervised learning is used to generate a trained model. A large amount of training data is prepared in advance by the developer. The training data includes example data and correct answer data. The example data includes time series data of the temperature (monitored temperature) monitored by the temperature sensor 4. The correct answer data is a data set including time series data of the monitored temperature, time series data of the flow rate of the flammable gas at the same time, and time series data of the flow rate of the combustion-supporting gas at the same time, and was acquired under conditions confirmed to result in high brazing quality.

[0154] The machine learning device 81 includes a processor and a memory (not shown), and uses example data and correct answer data to train a prediction model before completion of learning. The machine learning device 81 includes a data acquisition unit 811, a model generation unit 812, and a storage unit 813.

[0155] The data acquisition unit 811 acquires a large amount of example data prepared by the developer, and outputs the example data to the model generation unit 812 .

[0156] The model generation unit 812 receives a large number of example data from the data acquisition unit 811 and acquires a large number of correct answer data. The model generation unit 812 trains a pre-learning prediction model 82 based on a large number of example data and the corresponding correct answer data. The prediction model 82 includes, for example, a neural network 821 and parameters 822. The parameters 822 include weighting coefficients used in calculations in the neural network 821. The model generation unit 812 adjusts the parameters 822 (e.g., weighting coefficients) so that the flow rates of the flammable gas and the supporting gas estimated based on the example data approach the flow rates of the flammable gas and the supporting gas included in the correct answer data. The model generation unit 812 continues learning until predetermined conditions (conditions related to the number of learning times, learning period, accuracy rate, etc.) are met, and determines that learning is complete when the conditions are met.

[0157] The model generation unit 812 may perform machine learning using training data collected from multiple brazing apparatuses 100 (which may be other brazing apparatuses 100A to 100C, 200, 300, 400, 500A, and 500B). The model generation unit 812 may use training data collected from multiple brazing apparatuses 100 used in the same area, or may use training data collected from multiple brazing apparatuses 100 operating independently in different areas. The brazing apparatuses from which training data is collected may be changed (added, deleted, etc.) during the process.

[0158] The storage unit 813 stores the trained prediction model (trained model) generated by the model generation unit 812.

[0159] Other known machine learning algorithms, such as deep learning, genetic programming, functional logic programming, and support vector machines, may also be used to generate the trained model. Unsupervised learning, semi-supervised learning, and reinforcement learning may also be used to generate the trained model.

[0160] The machine learning device 81 may be provided inside the brazing apparatus 100. The machine learning device 81 may be provided outside the brazing apparatus 100 and connected to the brazing apparatus 100 via a network. The machine learning device 81 may be provided on a cloud server (not shown). The same applies to the estimation device described below.

[0161] A trained model generated for a first brazing apparatus may be applied to a second brazing apparatus, and a trained model generated for a first brazing apparatus may be retrained and updated using the second brazing apparatus.

[0162] Fig. 28 is a diagram showing an example of a processing procedure of a machine learning method for determining a gas flow rate according to Embodiment 8. With reference to Figs. 27 and 28, each step is executed by a processor included in machine learning device 81.

[0163] In S711, the machine learning device 81 acquires example data and also acquires supervised data corresponding to the example data. The three types of data included in the supervised data (time series data of monitored temperature, time series data of flow rate of combustible gas, and time series data of flow rate of combustion supporting gas) only need to be associated with each other, and do not necessarily need to be read into the machine learning device 81 at the same time.

[0164] In S712, the machine learning device 81 learns the flow rates of the combustible gas and the combustion-supporting gas by, for example, supervised learning, thereby generating a trained model.

[0165] In S713, the machine learning device 81 stores the generated trained model.

[0166] <Inference phase> 29 is a diagram showing an example of the configuration of a flow rate determination device according to the eighth embodiment. The flow rate determination device 83 includes a processor and a memory (not shown), and infers the optimum flow rate of the combustible gas and the optimum flow rate of the combustion supporting gas using a trained model 84. The flow rate determination device 83 includes a data acquisition unit 831 and an inference unit 832.

[0167] The data acquisition unit 831 acquires time-series data of the temperature (monitored temperature) monitored by the temperature sensor 4, and outputs the time-series data of the monitored temperature to the inference unit 832.

[0168] The inference unit 832 acquires the trained model 84 from the memory unit 813 (see FIG. 27 ) of the machine learning device 81. Then, the inference unit 832 inputs the time-series data of the monitored temperature from the data acquisition unit 831 into the trained model 84, thereby determining (inferring) the flow rates of the combustible gas and the combustion-assisting gas from the time-series data of the monitored temperature. The inference unit 832 may output the determined optimal flow rates of the combustible gas and the combustion-assisting gas to the brazing apparatus 100 (which may be the brazing apparatuses 100A to 100C, 200, 300, 400, 500A, or 500B).

[0169] Fig. 30 is a diagram showing an example of the processing procedure of the gas flow rate inference method according to the eighth embodiment. With reference to Figs. 3, 29 and 30, each step is executed by a processor included in the flow rate determination device 83 or a control device 5 included in the brazing apparatus 100 (which may be the brazing apparatuses 100A to 100C, 200, 300, 400, 500A, or 500B). Here, it is assumed that the flow rate determination device 83 is built into the brazing apparatus 100 or is communicatively connected to the brazing apparatus 100.

[0170] In S811, the brazing apparatus 100 acquires time-series data of the monitored temperature from the temperature sensor 4. The brazing apparatus 100 outputs the time-series data of the monitored temperature to the flow rate determination device 83.

[0171] In S812, the flow rate determination device 83 inputs the time series data of the monitored temperature into the trained model 84 to determine the optimal flow rate of the combustible gas and the optimal flow rate of the combustion supporting gas.

[0172] In S813, the flow rate determining device 83 outputs data indicating the optimum flow rates of the combustible gas and the combustion supporting gas to the brazing apparatus 100.

[0173] In S814, the brazing apparatus 100 (controller 5) commands the first flow rate controller 13 to set an optimum flow rate for the combustible gas, and commands the second flow rate controller 23 to set an optimum flow rate for the combustion supporting gas.

[0174] In the eighth embodiment, machine learning is performed on a prediction model 82 for determining the flow rates of the combustible gas and the combustion-supporting gas based on the temperatures monitored by the temperature sensor 4, and the optimal flow rates of the combustible gas and the combustion-supporting gas are determined using the generated trained model 84. This allows the joints in the conductors to be heated under the same conditions (temperature profile) as those under which good joint results were obtained in the past. Therefore, according to the eighth embodiment, the brazing quality can be improved.

[0175] Embodiment 9 In the eighth embodiment, machine learning regarding gas flow rates has been described. In the ninth embodiment, machine learning regarding temperature sensor positions will be described.

[0176] 31 is a schematic diagram showing an example of the configuration of a brazing apparatus according to embodiment 9. The brazing apparatus 600 differs from the brazing apparatus 200 according to embodiment 1 (see FIG. 3) in that it further includes a position adjustment device 41 and a camera 63.

[0177] The position adjustment device 41 is, for example, a precision stage that is movable in three axial directions. The position adjustment device 41 is configured to adjust the position of the temperature sensor 4 (thereby adjusting the monitoring position on the conductor 91) in accordance with a control command from the control device 5. The position adjustment device 41 outputs information (position data) indicating the position of the temperature sensor 4 to the control device 5 (for example, the condition setting unit 52). The position adjustment device 41 may be configured to adjust the orientation (angle) of the temperature sensor 4 instead of or in addition to the position of the temperature sensor 4.

[0178] The camera 63 photographs the conductor 91. The camera 63 may have a function of creating a three-dimensional model from the photographed image. The camera 63 outputs shape data (image or three-dimensional model) indicating the shape of the conductor 91 to a control device (for example, the condition setting unit 52). The three-dimensional model creation function may be realized by a processing device (not shown) separate from the camera 63. The brazing apparatus 600 may include, instead of the camera 63, a measuring device (such as a shape measurement sensor, a laser displacement sensor, or a laser scanner) that outputs three-dimensional point cloud data as shape data. If shape data such as CAD (Computer Aided Design) data and point cloud data of the conductor 91 can be acquired from an external device such as a PC (Personal Computer), the camera 63 may not be provided.

[0179] <Learning Phase> 32 is a diagram showing an example of the configuration of a machine learning device for sensor position in embodiment 9. With reference to FIGS. 31 and 32, the training data includes example data and correct answer data. The example data includes shape data of the conductor 91. The correct answer data is a data set including position data indicating the position of the temperature sensor 4 and shape data of the conductor 91, and was acquired under conditions confirmed to result in high brazing quality.

[0180] The machine learning device 85 includes a processor and a memory (not shown), and uses example data and correct answer data to train a prediction model before learning is completed. The machine learning device 85 includes a data acquisition unit 851, a model generation unit 852, and a storage unit 853.

[0181] The data acquisition unit 851 acquires a large number of example data items and outputs the example data items to the model generation unit 812 .

[0182] The model generation unit 852 trains a pre-learning prediction model 86 based on a large number of example data and the corresponding supervised data. In this example, the prediction model 86 also includes a neural network 861 and parameters 862. The model generation unit 852 adjusts the parameters 862 (e.g., weighting coefficients) so that the position of the temperature sensor 4 estimated based on the example data approaches the position indicated by the position data included in the supervised data.

[0183] The storage unit 853 stores the trained prediction model (trained model) generated by the model generation unit 852.

[0184] Other configurations of machine learning device 85 are similar to the corresponding configurations of machine learning device 81 in the eighth embodiment (see FIG. 27), and therefore description thereof will not be repeated.

[0185] 33 is a diagram showing an example of a processing procedure of a machine learning method for determining a sensor position in Embodiment 9. With reference to FIGS. 31 to 33, each step is executed by a control device 5 included in a machine learning device 85.

[0186] In S721, the machine learning device 85 acquires example question data and also acquires correct answer data corresponding to the example question data.

[0187] In S722, the machine learning device 85 learns the position of the temperature sensor 4 by, for example, supervised learning, thereby generating a trained model.

[0188] In S723, the machine learning device 85 stores the generated trained model.

[0189] <Inference phase> 34 is a diagram showing an example of the configuration of a position determination device according to the ninth embodiment. With reference to FIGS. 31 and 34, a position determination device 87 includes a processor and a memory (not shown), and determines an optimum position of a temperature sensor 4 according to the shape of a conductor 91 using a trained model 88. The position determination device 87 includes a data acquisition unit 871 and an inference unit 872.

[0190] The data acquisition unit 871 acquires shape data indicating the shape of the conductor 91 from the camera 63 and outputs the shape data to the inference unit 872 .

[0191] The inference unit 872 acquires the trained model 88 from the memory unit 853 (see FIG. 32 ) of the machine learning device 85. Then, the inference unit 872 inputs the shape data of the conductor 91 from the data acquisition unit 871 into the trained model 88, thereby determining (inferring) the optimal position of the temperature sensor 4 from the shape data of the conductor 91. The inference unit 832 may output the position of the temperature sensor 4 suited to the shape of the conductor 91 to the brazing apparatus 600.

[0192] Fig. 35 is a diagram showing an example of a processing procedure of a method for determining a sensor position in embodiment 9. With reference to Figs. 31, 34, and 35, each step is executed by position determination device 87 or control device 5 included in brazing apparatus 600.

[0193] In S821, the brazing apparatus 600 (control device 5) acquires shape data of the conductor 91 photographed by the camera 63. The brazing apparatus 600 outputs the shape data of the conductor 91 to the position determining device 87.

[0194] In S822, the position determination device 87 inputs the shape data of the conductor 91 into the trained model 88, thereby determining the position of the temperature sensor 4 that is suitable for the shape of the conductor 91.

[0195] In S823, the position determining device 87 outputs data indicating a position suitable for the shape of the conductor 91 to the brazing device 600.

[0196] In S824, the brazing apparatus 600 (controller 5) commands the position adjuster 41 to move the temperature sensor 4 to an optimum position according to the shape of the conductor 91. If the position adjuster 41 is not provided, the worker may move the temperature sensor 4.

[0197] Other than the above, the configurations and methods of the ninth embodiment are similar to the corresponding configurations and methods of the eighth embodiment, and therefore detailed description thereof will not be repeated.

[0198] In the ninth embodiment, machine learning is performed on a prediction model 86 for determining the position of the temperature sensor 4 based on shape data of the conductor 91, and the generated trained model 88 is used to determine the optimal position of the temperature sensor 4. This makes it possible to heat the conductor 91 while stably monitoring the temperature at the monitoring position. Therefore, according to the ninth embodiment, it is possible to improve the brazing quality.

[0199] Furthermore, even if the conductor 91 has a new shape that has never been brazed before, the appropriate position of the temperature sensor 4 can be determined based on inference using the trained model 88. This reduces the number of attempts required to properly position the temperature sensor 4.

[0200] Postscript. Various aspects of the present disclosure are summarized below as appendices.

[0201] (Appendix 1) A brazing apparatus for brazing a member to be brazed using a brazing material, a gas supply unit that supplies gas; a burner that burns the gas to form a flame for heating the brazing material and the member to be brazed; a temperature sensor for acquiring a monitoring temperature, which is the temperature at a monitoring position on the brazed member; a control device that controls the gas supply unit based on the time-series data of the monitored temperature.

[0202] (Appendix 2) 2. The brazing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the monitoring position is determined at a position that is not in contact with the flame of the burner, is close to the joint of the brazed members, causes little discoloration of the brazing material and the brazed members, has little change in emissivity during heating, and causes little change in temperature difference between the joint and the monitoring position.

[0203] (Appendix 3) The control device controlling the flow rate of the gas so that the monitored temperature approaches a target temperature; 3. The brazing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein after the monitored temperature reaches the target temperature, the flow rate of the gas is controlled so that the monitored temperature is maintained at the target temperature.

[0204] (Appendix 4) 4. The brazing apparatus according to claim 3, further comprising an alarm device that notifies an operator that the monitored temperature has reached the target temperature.

[0205] (Appendix 5) the burner is a first burner, Further comprising a second burner; The first burner and the second burner are arranged so that their flames face each other, 5. The brazing apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 4, further comprising a flame shield arranged to prevent the flame of the second burner from coming into contact with the nozzle of the first burner.

[0206] (Appendix 6) Further provided is a camera for taking an image of the brazing material; The brazing apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the control device terminates heating of the brazed member by the burner when it is detected from the image that the brazing material has been depleted or melted.

[0207] (Appendix 7) a displacement sensor for detecting a displacement of the brazing material; The brazing apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein the control device terminates heating of the brazed member by the burner when the displacement detects that the brazing material has been depleted or melted.

[0208] (Appendix 8) a member detection sensor that detects the brazing target member at a fixing position of the brazing target member for heating by the burner; The brazing apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein the control device weakens the flame of the burner when the brazed member is not detected compared to when the brazed member is detected.

[0209] (Appendix 9) a member detection sensor that detects the brazing target member at a fixing position of the brazing target member for heating by the burner; The brazing apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein the control device weakens the flame of the burner when the length of time during which the brazed member is not detected is longer than a reference time, compared to when the length of time is shorter than the reference time.

[0210] (Appendix 10) an automatic conveying device that moves the member to be brazed to a fixing position of the member to be brazed so that the member can be heated by the burner; 10. The brazing apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 9, wherein the automatic transport device includes at least one of a table, a conveyor, and a rail.

[0211] (Appendix 11) A brazing method for brazing a member to be brazed using a brazing material, comprising: acquiring time-series data of the temperature at a monitoring position on the brazed member; and heating the brazing material and the member to be brazed by a flame of a burner formed by combustion of a gas; The brazing method, wherein the heating step includes a step of controlling the flow rate of the gas based on the temperature at the monitoring position.

[0212] (Appendix 12) 12. A method of manufacturing a weldment, comprising manufacturing a weldment according to the brazing method of claim 11.

[0213] (Appendix 13) the weldment comprises copper; 13. The method for manufacturing a weldment according to claim 12, further comprising the step of preparing at least one of a silver brazing filler metal and a copper-phosphor brazing filler metal as the brazing filler metal.

[0214] (Appendix 14) the weldment is a conductor having a first member and a second member; 14. The method for manufacturing a weldment according to claim 12 or 13, further comprising the step of placing the brazing filler metal at a joint between the first member and the second member.

[0215] (Appendix 15) 15. The method of claim 14, further comprising applying a flux to the joint.

[0216] (Appendix 16) 16. The method for manufacturing a welded product according to claim 14, wherein the joint is a groove provided in the second member so as to fit the first member therein.

[0217] (Appendix 17) A machine learning device for gas flow rates for a brazing apparatus according to any one of appendices 1 to 10, a model generation unit that generates a model for inferring the flow rate of the gas from the temperature acquired by the temperature sensor through machine learning of the relationship between gas flow rate data, which is time series data of the flow rate of the gas, and time series data of the monitored temperature.

[0218] (Appendix 18) A gas flow rate determination device for a brazing apparatus according to any one of appendices 1 to 10, A gas flow rate determination device comprising an inference unit that infers the flow rate of the gas from the temperature acquired by the temperature sensor using a trained model generated by machine learning of the relationship between gas flow rate data, which is time series data of the flow rate of the gas, and time series data of the monitored temperature.

[0219] (Appendix 19) A machine learning device for sensor positions for a brazing apparatus according to any one of appendices 1 to 10, A machine learning device for sensor positions, comprising a model generation unit that generates a model for inferring the monitoring position by the temperature sensor from the shape of the brazed member by machine learning the relationship between position data indicating the monitoring position by the temperature sensor and shape data indicating the shape of the brazed member.

[0220] (Appendix 20) A sensor position determination device for a brazing apparatus according to any one of appendices 1 to 10, A sensor position determination device comprising an inference unit that infers the monitoring position by the temperature sensor from the shape of the brazed member using a trained model generated by machine learning of the relationship between position data indicating the monitoring position by the temperature sensor and shape data indicating the shape of the brazed member.

[0221] The embodiments disclosed herein should be considered to be illustrative in all respects and not restrictive. The scope of the present disclosure is defined by the claims, not by the description of the above embodiments, and is intended to include all modifications within the meaning and scope of the claims. [Explanation of symbols]

[0222] 100, 100A, 100B, 100C, 200, 300, 400, 500A, 500B, 600 Brazing apparatus, 1 Combustible gas supply unit, 11 Combustible gas source, 12 First regulator, 13 First flow rate controller, 14 First piping, 2 Combustion-supporting gas supply unit, 21 Combustion-supporting gas source, 22 Second regulator, 23 Second flow rate controller, 24 Second piping, 3, 3A Heating unit, 31 Third piping, 4 Temperature sensor, 41 Position adjustment device, 5, 5A, 5B, 5C Control device, 501 Processor, 502 Memory, 503 Receiving device, 504 Display, 33 Fixture, 34, 321, 322, 323, 324 Burner, 51 User interface unit, 52 Condition setting unit, 53 Heating control unit, 54 Buzzer, 55 Light, 61 Brazing material detection sensor, 62 Component detection sensor, 63 Camera, 71 Table, 72 Conveyor, 721, 722 Jig, 81 Machine learning device, 82 Prediction model, 83 Flow rate determination device, 84 Trained model, 85 Machine learning device, 86 Prediction model, 87 Position determination device, 88 Trained model, 811, 831, 851, 871 Data acquisition unit, 812, 852 Model generation unit, 813, 853 Memory unit, 821, 861 Neural network, 822, 862 Parameters, 832, 872 Inference unit, 9, 91A, 91B, 94, 95 Conductor, 92A, 92B Connection terminal, 93 Housing, 911, 911A, 911B, 941, 951 First member, 912, 912A, 912B, 942, 952 Second member, 953 Groove, 900 Electrical equipment.

Claims

1. A brazing apparatus for brazing a member to be brazed using a brazing material, a gas supply unit that supplies gas; a burner that burns the gas to form a flame for heating the brazing material and the member to be brazed; a temperature sensor for acquiring a monitoring temperature, which is the temperature at a monitoring position on the brazed member; a control device that controls the gas supply unit based on the time-series data of the monitored temperature.

2. 2. The brazing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the monitoring position is determined at a position that is not in contact with the flame of the burner, is close to the joint of the members to be brazed, causes little discoloration of the brazing filler metal and the members to be brazed, has little change in emissivity during heating, and has little change in temperature difference between the joint and the monitoring position.

3. The control device controlling the flow rate of the gas so that the monitored temperature approaches a target temperature; The brazing apparatus according to claim 1 , wherein after the monitored temperature reaches the target temperature, the flow rate of the gas is controlled so that the monitored temperature is maintained at the target temperature.

4. The brazing apparatus according to claim 3 , further comprising an alarm device that notifies an operator that the monitored temperature has reached the target temperature.

5. the burner is a first burner, Further comprising a second burner; the first burner and the second burner are arranged so that their flames face each other; The brazing apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 4, further comprising a flame shield arranged to prevent the flame of the second burner from coming into contact with the nozzle of the first burner.

6. Further provided is a camera for taking an image of the brazing material; The brazing apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the control device terminates heating of the brazed member by the burner when it is detected from the image that the brazing material has been depleted or melted.

7. a displacement sensor for detecting a displacement of the brazing material; The brazing apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the control device terminates heating of the brazed member by the burner when the occurrence of depletion or melting of the brazing material is detected by the displacement.

8. a member detection sensor that detects the brazing target member at a fixing position of the brazing target member for heating by the burner; The brazing apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the control device weakens the flame of the burner when the brazing target member is not detected compared to when the brazing target member is detected.

9. a member detection sensor that detects the brazing target member at a fixing position of the brazing target member for heating by the burner; The brazing apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the control device weakens the flame of the burner when the length of time during which the brazed member is not detected is longer than a reference time, compared to when the length of time is shorter than the reference time.

10. an automatic conveying device that moves the member to be brazed to a fixing position of the member to be brazed so that the member can be heated by the burner; The brazing apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the automatic transport device includes at least one of a table, a conveyor, and a rail.

11. A brazing method for brazing a member to be brazed using a brazing material, comprising: acquiring time-series data of the temperature at a monitoring position on the brazed member; and heating the brazing material and the member to be brazed by a flame of a burner formed by combustion of a gas; The brazing method, wherein the heating step includes a step of controlling the flow rate of the gas based on the temperature at the monitoring position.

12. A method of manufacturing a weldment, comprising manufacturing a weldment according to the brazing method of claim 11.

13. the weldment comprises copper; The method for manufacturing a weldment according to claim 12, further comprising the step of providing at least one of a silver brazing filler metal and a copper phosphorus brazing filler metal as the brazing filler metal.

14. the weldment is a conductor having a first member and a second member; The method for manufacturing a weldment according to claim 12, further comprising the step of placing the brazing filler metal at a joint between the first member and the second member.

15. The method of claim 14 further comprising applying a flux to the joint.

16. The method for manufacturing a welded product according to claim 14 or 15, wherein the joint portion is a groove provided in the second member so as to fit the first member therein.

17. A machine learning device for gas flow rates for a brazing apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 4, a model generation unit that generates a model for inferring the flow rate of the gas from the temperature acquired by the temperature sensor through machine learning of the relationship between gas flow rate data, which is time series data of the flow rate of the gas, and time series data of the monitored temperature.

18. A device for determining a gas flow rate for a brazing apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 4, A gas flow rate determination device comprising an inference unit that infers the flow rate of the gas from the temperature acquired by the temperature sensor using a trained model generated by machine learning of the relationship between gas flow rate data, which is time series data of the flow rate of the gas, and time series data of the monitored temperature.

19. A machine learning device for sensor positions for a brazing apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 4, comprising: A machine learning device for sensor positions, comprising a model generation unit that generates a model for inferring the monitoring position by the temperature sensor from the shape of the brazed member by machine learning the relationship between position data indicating the monitoring position by the temperature sensor and shape data indicating the shape of the brazed member.

20. A device for determining a sensor position for a brazing apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 4, comprising: A sensor position determination device comprising an inference unit that infers the monitoring position by the temperature sensor from the shape of the brazed member using a trained model generated by machine learning of the relationship between position data indicating the monitoring position by the temperature sensor and shape data indicating the shape of the brazed member.

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