Two-Channel Arc Welding Ignition With Sequential Two-Frequency Control

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing welding arc ignition systems pose safety risks due to high-voltage discharges and electromagnetic interference, and they interfere with electronic devices, necessitating a safer and more stable arc discharge method.

Innovation Solution

A two-channel device is employed, comprising a power transformer and a high-frequency generator, with a timer-controlled power supply and current meter, to apply high-frequency and low-frequency voltages sequentially for arc ignition, minimizing electromagnetic interference and ensuring stable arc discharge.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If high-voltage discharge is used for arc ignition, then arc ignition reliability is improved, but safety risk and electromagnetic interference increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvearc ignition reliabilityVSAvoidelectromagnetic interference
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The ignition system is divided into two separate channels: a first channel with a high-voltage generator for creating the initial spark gap breakdown, and a second channel with a power transformer for sustaining the arc. This segmentation allows the high-voltage impulse to be time-limited and isolated, reducing electromagnetic interference while maintaining ignition reliability

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The high-voltage generator in the first channel performs preliminary action by creating a spark gap breakdown before the main welding arc is established. This preliminary ionization of the air gap facilitates subsequent arc ignition from the power transformer without requiring continuous high-voltage discharge, thereby reducing electromagnetic interference

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

2Reliability

If high-voltage discharge is used for arc ignition, then arc ignition reliability is improved, but safety risk increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvearc ignition reliabilityVSAvoidsafety risk
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The system separates the high-voltage ignition function from the main power delivery function into distinct channels. The first channel uses a high-voltage generator only for initial spark creation, while the second channel uses a power transformer for sustained arc. This segmentation limits the duration and scope of high-voltage exposure, reducing safety risks

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The spark gap acts as an intermediary element that is broken down by the high-voltage generator to create a conductive path. Once the spark gap is ionized, the main power transformer can deliver current through this pre-ionized path without requiring continuous high-voltage discharge, thereby reducing safety hazards

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

3Manufacturing precision

If high-frequency energy is applied throughout the welding process, then welding quality is improved, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvewelding qualityVSAvoiddevice complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Manufacturing precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The controller periodically switches between the first channel (high-voltage generator) and the second channel (power transformer) based on welding process requirements. During ignition phase, the high-voltage channel is activated; during sustained welding, the power transformer channel is used. This periodic switching achieves high-quality welding with high-frequency energy only when necessary, avoiding continuous complexity

Inventive Principle:
Principle #19Periodic action

Solution Approach 2:

The controller serves multiple functions: it manages the high-voltage generator for ignition, controls the power transformer for sustained welding, and coordinates the switching between channels. This multi-functionality consolidates control logic into a single component, reducing overall device complexity while enabling high-frequency energy application during critical welding phases

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

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 two-frequency arc discharge provides reliable, stable, and high-quality welding with reduced spatter and electrode sticking, achieving weld seams comparable to DC welding without the need for reactive elements, while minimizing electromagnetic interference.

Implementation Method 1

In the course of ignition an arc discharge, atmospheric air or other gas is ionized in proximity of a contact point of an electrode and articles to be welded by providing a predetermined amount of energy

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectIonization: Ionisation

Implementation Method 2

a power supply further comprising a power transformer; and a controller of said power transformer

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElectromagnetic induction: Electromagnetic Induction

Implementation Method 3

a resonant circuit connected in series to said high-frequency generator

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectResonance: Resonance

Implementation Method 4

The current conducting duct is heated, its electric resistance decreases and an arc is ignited

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectJoule heating: Joule Heating

Data Source

PatentUS12502723B2Two-channel device for two-frequency arc welding
Publication Date: 2025.12.23 VAINER SHIMON
  • US12502723B2 patent drawing
  • US12502723B2 patent drawing

AI summary

Methods and devices for two-channel welding arc ignition and, more particularly, to ionizing an area of a contact between an electrode and articles to be welded. Methods and devices for igniting an arc discharge and welding.