Stud Welding Control Using Thermal Output and Emission Feedback

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing methods for fastening studs to base materials are user-dependent and lack objective quality assessment, relying on visual inspection and manual parameter setting, which can lead to inconsistent results due to variability in user experience and environmental conditions.

Innovation Solution

A device and method that includes a stud holder, welding-current contact element, stud lifting device, and control system to manage thermal energy and detect emissions, allowing for automated adjustment of welding parameters and objective quality assessment through detection of thermal outputs and emissions during the welding process.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Manufacturing precision

If automated control systems with thermal energy detection and emission monitoring are implemented, then manufacturing precision and reliability improve, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvewelding quality consistencyVSAvoidcontrol system complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Manufacturing precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The control device continuously monitors thermal output and emissions during welding, compares actual values with target values, and automatically adjusts welding parameters in real-time to maintain consistent welding quality

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

Solution Approach 2:

The patent replaces manual visual inspection and experience-based parameter setting with automated optical detection devices and electronic control systems that objectively measure thermal energy and emissions

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

2Device complexity

If manual parameter setting and visual inspection are used, then device complexity remains low, but manufacturing precision and reliability deteriorate due to user dependency

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecontrol system simplicityVSAvoidwelding quality consistency
Core Design Contradiction:
Device complexityVSManufacturing precision

Solution Approach 1:

The welding device automatically monitors its own process parameters, detects deviations from target values, and self-corrects by adjusting welding parameters without requiring manual intervention or subjective assessment

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The system provides continuous feedback through emission detection and thermal monitoring, enabling automatic closed-loop control that eliminates dependency on operator skill and experience

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

3Productivity

If high intensity electric current is used to liquefy material quickly, then productivity improves, but temperature control becomes more difficult leading to reduced manufacturing precision

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvewelding speedVSAvoidthermal energy control
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSManufacturing precision

Solution Approach 1:

The control device monitors thermal output in real-time and automatically adjusts current intensity to maintain precise thermal energy control even during high-speed welding operations

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

Solution Approach 2:

The system uses pulsed or periodically modulated current delivery with detection cycles that sample thermal output at specific intervals, enabling precise control of thermal energy input while maintaining high welding speed

Inventive Principle:
Principle #19Periodic action

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 more consistent and reliable fastening of studs by automating parameter adjustments and providing objective quality assessment, improving the quality of the welded connection and reducing user dependency on experience.

Implementation Method 1

an electric current is applied to it. As soon as the electric current flows between the stud and the base material, the stud is lifted off the base material to form an arc. The energy that is released causes the material of the stud and the base material to be partially liquefied

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectJoule heating: Joule Heating

Implementation Method 2

the stud is lifted off the base material to form an arc. The energy that is released causes the material of the stud and the base material to be partially liquefied

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElectric arc: Electric Arc

Data Source

PatentUS11660694B2Stud welding device and stud welding method
Publication Date: 2023.05.30 HILTI AG
  • US11660694B2 patent drawing
  • US11660694B2 patent drawing
  • US11660694B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A device and method for welding a welding stud to a base material are provided. A welding current is applied to a welding stud between the welding stud and the base material, wherein a material of the welding stud and the base material is partially liquefied. The welding stud is then immersed into the solidifying material of the welding stud or the base material in order to create a bond between the welding stud and the base material.