Transparent Conduit-to-Hub Laser Welding for Leak-Free Joints
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for joining fluid conduits and connection hubs in beverage dispensing appliances often result in leaks and are not cost-effective for mass production, requiring a secure and leak-proof coupling.
Innovation Solution
A method involving a partially transparent end section of the fluid conduit and a complementary hub cavity, where a light beam is directed to create a weld by heating the contact interface, using an optical waveguide to position the light source conveniently and achieve a circumferential bond, potentially using a laser beam and absorbent materials for efficient joining.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If conventional joining methods are used to couple the fluid conduit and connection hub, then the coupling can be achieved, but leakage occurs and the method is not cost-effective for mass production
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces conventional mechanical joining methods (such as threading, clamping, or adhesive bonding) with optical field-based laser welding. A laser beam is directed through the transparent end section of the fluid conduit to heat and melt the contact interface between the conduit and connection hub, creating a fluid-tight weld without mechanical fasteners or adhesives. This substitution eliminates leakage issues and reduces manufacturing costs for mass production.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention utilizes the phase transition of the material at the contact interface from solid to liquid and back to solid. The laser beam heats the contact interface between the fluid conduit end section and connection hub, causing local melting of the thermoplastic materials. Upon cooling, the melted material solidifies to form a strong, fluid-tight weld joint. This phase transition mechanism enables reliable sealing without additional sealing components.
2Manufacturing precision
If the light source is positioned close to the target zone for precise heating, then welding precision is improved, but the light source becomes difficult to maintain and replace
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an optical waveguide as an intermediary component to transmit the laser beam from a remotely positioned light source to the target zone at the contact interface. The waveguide acts as a conduit for optical energy, allowing the laser source to be located outside the joining device where it is easily accessible for maintenance and replacement, while still delivering precise heating to the weld area through the transparent fluid conduit.
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 method ensures a fluid-tight, cost-effective, and efficient coupling of the fluid conduit and connection hub, suitable for mass production, by creating a secure bond through local melting at the contact interface, preventing leaks and simplifying the manufacturing process.
Implementation Method 1
The light of the light beam is converted into heat at the target zone to induce a temporal and local melting of material
Implementation Method 2
induce a temporal and local melting of material of the lateral wall of the end section and/or the connection hub cavity wall
Data Source
AI summary
Method for joining a fluid conduit and a connection hub. There is provided a method for joining a fluid conduit 2 and a connection hub 7, wherein a fluid 2 conduit is provided having an at least partially transparent end section 1. Also provided is a connection hub 7 comprising a hub cavity 9 having a shape complementary to a shape of the end section of the fluid conduit 1. The end section of the fluid conduit 1 is at least partly introduced into the hub cavity 9 through an opening in the hub, wherein a contact interface between at least a lateral wall part of the end section 1 and a hub cavity 9 wall is established. The method includes heating a target zone 27 in the contact interface, for joining the fluid conduit 2 and the connection hub 7 at the target zone 27, by directing a light beam 29 across the at least partially transparent end section 1 of the fluid conduit 2 from a side of the fluid conduit 2 which is opposite a side of the target zone 27.