One-Sided Electrode Welding Arc Stability

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Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional electric arc welding requires two electrodes, leading to electrical circuitry issues, high costs due to the need for two electrodes, and difficulties in arc stabilization and starting, especially with long electrode-to-workpiece distances.

Innovation Solution

A one-sided electrode method utilizing a high potential, localized point that disintegrates under very high frequency alternating current to produce heat and particles for welding, eliminating the need for a second electrode and allowing welding in various environments without grounding the workpiece.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If two electrodes are used for welding, then welding can be performed with stable arc, but electrical circuitry problems and cost increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvearc stabilityVSAvoidelectrical circuitry
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent removes one electrode from the traditional two-electrode welding system, extracting the second electrode function and replacing it with a one-sided discharge mechanism. This eliminates the need for complex electrical circuitry to manage two electrodes while maintaining welding capability through the discharge between a single electrode and the workpiece.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #2Taking out (Extraction)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent introduces a dielectric medium as an intermediary between the electrode and workpiece, replacing the need for a second electrode. This intermediary enables the discharge to occur through the dielectric, achieving welding without requiring a second electrode and simplifying the electrical circuitry.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Reliability

If two electrodes are used for welding, then welding process can be maintained, but material cost increases due to expensive electrode materials

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvewelding process continuityVSAvoidcostly electrode material
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSQuantity of substance

Solution Approach 1:

The patent extracts and eliminates the need for the second electrode, thereby removing the material cost associated with it. The welding process continues with a single electrode, reducing overall material consumption and cost while maintaining process continuity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #2Taking out (Extraction)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent employs a consumable electrode that can be replaced when worn, replacing the need for expensive non-consumable electrodes like tungsten. This disposable approach reduces material cost while maintaining welding process continuity through regular replacement of the electrode.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #27Cheap short-living objects (Disposable)

3Reliability

If two electrodes are used for welding, then welding can be performed, but shielding gas requirements increase cost and safety risks

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvewelding qualityVSAvoidshielding gas
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSQuantity of substance

Solution Approach 1:

The patent removes the requirement for extensive shielding gas by eliminating one electrode and the associated arc. The reduced discharge configuration lowers the need for shielding gas to protect the welding zone, thereby reducing both cost and safety risks associated with gas handling.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #2Taking out (Extraction)

4Ease of operation

If long electrode to workpiece distance is used, then accessibility is improved, but arc re-ignition becomes difficult with sine wave AC

Engineering Contradiction:
ImproveaccessibilityVSAvoidarc re-ignition
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The patent changes the electrical parameters from standard sine wave AC to a modified waveform with unbalanced polarity and adjusted timing. This parameter change enables reliable arc re-ignition at longer electrode-to-workpiece distances by optimizing the discharge characteristics and timing of the electrical cycles.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

5Reliability

If conventional arc welding is used, then welding can be performed, but filler material requirements increase cost

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvewelding capabilityVSAvoidfiller material
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSQuantity of substance

Solution Approach 1:

The patent extracts and eliminates the need for separate filler material by using the electrode itself as the source of welding material. The consumable electrode provides both the electrical discharge and the filler metal, removing the need for additional filler material and reducing cost.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #2Taking out (Extraction)

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

Enables stable and cost-effective welding with reduced material costs by using the electrode as both the emitter and filler, allowing for efficient heat and mass transfer in both micro and large-scale applications.

Implementation Method 1

creating an extremely high potential localized point in a material which will continuously disintegrate and discharge when it experiences very high frequency alternating (sine wave type) current, thus producing heat and heated mass either during or subsequent to the discharge

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElectrical discharge: Electric Arc

Implementation Method 2

This high, potential energy had no place to go other than out at the end point of a wire or attached fine rod which projects into the atmosphere. This energy, as it rushed out at the small end point of the rod, causes the rod to get red hot and emit an arc like discharge

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectJoule heating: Joule Heating

Implementation Method 3

The particles can act as the filler material thus reducing the need for more fillers. In this manner heat and mass can be usefully and simultaneously transferred to a workpiece

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectThermal energy transfer: Conduction (thermal)

Implementation Method 4

the characteristic of the metallic discharger could be used as a way of making particles which can cause welding or coating because they posses both heat and kinetic energy in the discharge

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectKinetic energy transfer: Impact Force

Data Source

PatentUS7880119B2One sided electrode for manufacturing processes especially for joining
Publication Date: 2011.02.01 MHI HEALTH DEVICES LLC
  • US7880119B2 patent drawing
  • US7880119B2 patent drawing
  • US7880119B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A process whereby a one sided electrode is allowed to discharge to essentially its own potential field is presented. The process may be utilized for joining by discharging particles as well as for spot welding or other heating purposes. Examples of several uses are given and the electrical diagram for such a discharger is also shown.