Removable Welding Arm With Rotary Electrode and Single-Cylinder Locking
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current resistance welding apparatuses have complex and time-consuming locking mechanisms that require specific tools and often two people for assembly and disassembly, and they often use multiple cylinders which increase equipment complexity and the risk of breakdowns.
Innovation Solution
A resistance welding apparatus with a scissor motion arm that converts linear movement of a clamp electrode into rotary movement of a mobile arm, featuring a sensor for measuring electrode displacement to determine welding parameters and an automatic locking mechanism using a latch and handle for secure movement, reducing the need for multiple cylinders and simplifying assembly.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If locking means are made secure and reliable, then assembly and disassembly require specific tools and two people, increasing complexity and time consumption
Solution Approach 1:
The locking mechanism is designed to be self-servicing through the operator's own body movements. The handle rotation and arm positioning actions that are already necessary for operation naturally engage and disengage the locking mechanism, eliminating the need for separate locking actions, tools, or additional personnel.
Solution Approach 2:
The locking function is merged with the existing handle rotation and arm positioning operations. The same mechanical movements that position the arm for welding also engage the locking mechanism, combining multiple functions into a single integrated system that reduces complexity.
2Ease of operation
If multiple cylinders are used to control electrode movement, then opening and closing functionality is achieved, but equipment complexity and breakdown risk increase
Solution Approach 1:
A single cylinder is designed to perform multiple functions: it controls both the opening and closing of the electrodes through its extension and retraction movements, and simultaneously drives the rotation of the mobile arm. This multi-functional design eliminates the need for separate cylinders for different functions.
Solution Approach 2:
The mobile arm acts as an intermediary mechanism that translates the linear movement of the single cylinder into both electrode closing action and arm rotation. This mechanical intermediary allows one cylinder to control multiple degrees of freedom that would otherwise require multiple actuators.
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 solution enables easier and faster assembly, reduces equipment complexity, and allows for automatic determination of welding parameters based on electrode displacement, enhancing operational efficiency and reducing the risk of breakdowns.
Implementation Method 1
The mobile arm of the clamp is pushed in its rotational movement by a jack so that the ends of the electrodes approach and clamp the elements to be welded
Implementation Method 2
the clamp further comprising a sensor for measuring displacement whose measurement is proportional to the distance between the ends of the electrodes
Implementation Method 3
These devices have a means of generating very strong electric currents which are transmitted through two electrodes clamping together the materials to be welded. Given the greater electrical resistance of the materials than that of the electrodes, the passage of the current heats the materials and the welding is carried out.
Data Source
Figure 1~2
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Figure 6~8
AI summary
The invention relates to a resistance welding apparatus comprising a clamp (1) for supporting a movable arm. The arm consists of a fixed part supporting a fixed electrode (6) and a rotating part supporting a movable electrode (7). The electrodes are designed to carry an electric current. The movable arm of the clamp is rotated by a hydraulic cylinder so that the electrode tips move closer together and clamp the parts to be welded. The clamp also includes a displacement sensor whose measurement is proportional to the distance between the electrode tips. In this way, it is easy to measure the gap between the electrodes, and the measurement taken on the piston can be used for other types of arms.