Magnetic Locating Bracket for Consistent Weld Gap Alignment
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Solution Overview
Problem
In manufacturing and repair facilities, accurately locating components for welding is challenging due to the need for precise gap and weld shelf maintenance to ensure a strong and consistent weld joint, as improper spacing can lead to weakened bonds and erratic welds.
Innovation Solution
A system comprising a bracket with a side wall and coupling member is used to locate components by defining a base wall and side wall thickness and length, allowing for adjustable positioning to establish a consistent weld gap or shelf, utilizing a magnetic coupling for secure alignment.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If traditional locating methods are used for welding components, then the components can be positioned, but the precision of gap and weld shelf maintenance deteriorates leading to weakened weld joints
Solution Approach 1:
A locating tool acts as an intermediary device between the two components to be welded. The tool includes a first locating feature that interfaces with a first component and a second locating feature that interfaces with a second component, thereby mediating the positioning relationship between them. This intermediary tool ensures precise gap and weld shelf dimensions are maintained, directly resolving the contradiction by providing the necessary precision to achieve reliable weld joints.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces traditional, less precise mechanical locating methods with a specialized locating tool that incorporates specific geometric features (such as tapered surfaces,定位 surfaces, or adjustable mechanisms). This substitution of the mechanical system with a more sophisticated locating mechanism enables precise control of gap and weld shelf dimensions, thereby improving manufacturing precision and subsequently weld joint reliability.
2Ease of operation
If a fixed locating tool is used, then positioning is simple, but adaptability to different welding applications deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The locating tool incorporates dynamic or adjustable features that allow it to adapt to different welding applications. For example, the tool may include adjustable locating features, interchangeable components, or mechanisms that can be reconfigured for different gap requirements, component thicknesses, or weld types. This dynamic capability maintains ease of operation while significantly improving adaptability across various welding scenarios.
Solution Approach 2:
The locating tool is designed with universal features that enable it to serve multiple welding applications. The tool may include standardized interfaces, scalable geometric features, or configurable parameters that allow it to work with different component sizes, materials, and welding processes. This multi-functionality approach maintains operational simplicity while expanding adaptability to diverse welding needs.
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 system effectively spaces and locates components to maintain a consistent weld gap or shelf, enhancing the quality and strength of weld joints by ensuring precise alignment and easy reorientation for various applications.
Implementation Method 1
utilizing a magnetic coupling for secure alignment
Data Source
AI summary
A system for locating a first component with respect to a second component. The system includes a bracket and a coupling member. The bracket defines a base wall and a side wall. The side wall extends from the base wall and defines an end remote to the base wall. The side wall defines a thickness and a length spanning from the base wall to the end. The coupling member is fastened to the base wall, and is configured to couple the base wall with the first component. The side wall is configured to be brought into contact with the second component to space and locate the second component with respect to the first component by at least one of the thickness defined by the side wall or at least a portion of the length defined by the side wall.