Helical Support Laser Weld Seam for Tube Expansion
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing helical supports for resiliently expanded tube materials face challenges in being cost-effective, reliably withstanding pressure forces, and being easily manually removable, often due to structurally complex and uneven connections between windings.
Innovation Solution
The edges of the helical support are connected using a precisely constructed laser weld seam, creating a weakened area for separable connection, allowing for reliable pressure resistance and easy manual removal by unwinding, while maintaining a smooth surface for assembly and disassembly.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If the edges of the windings are connected by welding (oven heating or ultrasonic welding), then the helical support can withstand pressure forces, but the connection becomes structurally complicated and cost-intensive
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces mechanical connection methods (oven heating, ultrasonic welding) with a chemically activated bonding mechanism. The adhesive layer is activated by moisture or heat to bond the windings, substituting complex mechanical welding systems with a simpler chemical bonding approach that reduces structural complexity and manufacturing cost while maintaining pressure resistance.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an adhesive layer as an intermediary substance between the windings. This adhesive mediator creates the bond between edges, replacing direct mechanical welding processes. The adhesive layer simplifies the connection structure by providing a dedicated bonding interface that is easier to implement and more cost-effective than complex welding mechanisms.
2Strength
If the edges are firmly connected by welding, then the helical support withstands pressure forces, but the release forces for manual unwinding fluctuate greatly and separation becomes difficult or impossible
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by creating a bonding system with controlled strength characteristics. The adhesive layer provides sufficient bond strength to withstand pressure forces during normal operation, but allows for controlled separation when release forces are applied. This local differentiation in bonding characteristics enables both pressure resistance and manual removability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent utilizes parameter changes in the adhesive layer's bonding characteristics. The adhesive transitions from a bonded state (withstanding pressure) to a separable state (allowing manual unwinding) through changes in environmental parameters such as moisture content or temperature. This parameter-dependent bonding behavior resolves the contradiction between firm connection and easy separation.
3Stability of the object's composition
If conventional welding methods are used to connect edges, then the helical support is structurally stable, but production cost increases and manufacturing precision decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces complex mechanical welding systems with a simpler adhesive bonding process. This substitution reduces manufacturing precision requirements because adhesive application is more tolerant of dimensional variations compared to welding. It also reduces production costs by eliminating expensive welding equipment and complex process control systems while maintaining structural stability.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The laser weld seam provides a strong yet controlled connection that withstands pressure forces and allows for easy unwinding, improving the quality and cost-effectiveness of the helical support, ensuring reliable operation and ease of use.
Implementation Method 1
the edges are separably connected to one another by at least a laser weld seam
Data Source
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AI summary
The invention relates to a tubular helical support (1) for the radial support of elastically expanded tube material (26) and a method for the production thereof. The helical support (1) is constructed of at least one extruded body (2) wound to form several windings (15), the edges (5, 6) of which are connected to one another in the longitudinal direction (L) of the helical support (1) at least in portions. In order to provide a helical support (1) which reliably withstands the pressure forces of the expanded tube material (26) and which can easily be removed from the tube material (26), it is provided according to the invention that the edges (5, 6) are connected to one another by at least one laser weld seam (16).