Segmented Arc Welding Torch for Full-Circumference Seam Joining
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Gas tungsten arc welding requires significant time and skill due to the need for precise rotation and positioning of the welding apparatus and objects, making the process inefficient.
Innovation Solution
An apparatus with movable metal segments that can adjust radially to surround the seam between objects, combined with a method of passing shielding gas and applying electric current to create a simultaneous arc around the seam, allowing for rapid welding.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If a singular localized electrode is used for arc welding, then the welding process can be controlled precisely, but significant rotation and positioning time is required, reducing productivity
Solution Approach 1:
The welding system is segmented into multiple independent electrodes (at least two electrodes) that can be positioned at different locations around the workpiece. Each electrode operates independently to create its own arc, allowing simultaneous welding at multiple points along the seam without requiring rotation of the entire apparatus.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention transitions from a single-point welding approach to a multi-point distributed welding approach by arranging electrodes in space around the workpiece. This spatial distribution allows the welding process to occur simultaneously at multiple locations, effectively adding a dimensional aspect to the welding operation that eliminates the need for rotational movement.
2Ease of operation
If significant rotation of the welding apparatus is performed to complete a welding task, then the entire seam can be welded, but the time and skill required increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The welding task is divided into multiple simultaneous welding operations, each performed by a separate electrode at a different location. This segmentation allows the entire seam to be welded in parallel rather than sequentially, eliminating the need for time-consuming rotation while ensuring complete coverage of the joint.
Solution Approach 2:
Multiple electrodes operate simultaneously and continuously along the seam, maintaining uninterrupted welding action at all points. This continuous parallel operation completes the welding task in a single stationary position, eliminating idle time associated with rotation and repositioning.
3Device complexity
If a singular electrode welds a seam sequentially, then the welding process is simple to set up, but the welding time becomes excessively long
Solution Approach 1:
The welding apparatus is segmented into multiple electrodes that can be independently positioned and controlled. While this increases device complexity compared to a single electrode, the segmentation enables parallel welding operations that dramatically improve productivity by welding multiple points simultaneously rather than sequentially.
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
This approach significantly reduces the time and skill required for arc welding, enabling seams to be welded in less than 10 seconds by fully surrounding the arc around the seam, thus enhancing efficiency.
Implementation Method 1
an electric arc forms between a non-consumable metal electrode and the workpiece metal(s), which heats the workpiece metal(s)
Implementation Method 2
a shielding gas feeds through the welding torch, which shields the process from contaminants in the atmosphere
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2
Figure 3
AI summary
Disclosed is an apparatus for arc welding, comprising: a torch body (12) comprising a power supply line (14) and a gas supply line (16); two or more metal segments (18) movable relative to one another being sized and shaped to surround a seam (29) between two elongated objects (28) to be welded together, the two or more metal segments being in electrical communication with the power supply line; and a gas jacket attached to each of the metal segments.