Hinged Welding Gun Stabilizer for Fatigue-Resistant Precision
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Solution Overview
Problem
Welding processes, particularly gas metal arc welding, can be fatiguing for welders, leading to instability and inconsistency in maintaining precise welds due to the physical demands of handling welding guns, especially in overhead welding positions.
Innovation Solution
A hand-attachable welding gun stabilizer apparatus with hinged sections and a wrist attachment system that allows for secure positioning of the welding gun, enabling precise control and minimizing muscle fatigue by distributing the weight and movement of the gun across the user's hand and wrist.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a welder manually handles the welding gun, then the welder can control the welding process, but the welder experiences muscle fatigue and instability in maintaining consistent welds
Solution Approach 1:
A stabilizer device acts as an intermediary between the welder's hand and the welding gun. The stabilizer includes a first section that fits over the welder's finger, a second section with a holder for the welding gun, and a third section with wrist attachment means. This intermediary structure supports the welding gun and reduces the burden on the welder's muscles while maintaining control.
2Adaptability or versatility
If overhead welding is performed, then welding can be done in difficult positions, but localized muscle fatigue increases
Solution Approach 1:
The stabilizer device functions as a counterweight system by extending support structures that balance the welding gun's weight. The first section fitting over the finger, combined with the second and third sections extending toward the wrist, creates a lever system that counteracts the downward force of the welding gun, particularly beneficial in overhead welding positions.
3Manufacturing precision
If the welding gun is secured firmly to prevent movement, then welding precision improves, but the welder loses flexibility in adjusting position
Solution Approach 1:
The stabilizer device incorporates dynamic elements including a hinge connection between the second and third sections, and a positioning stabilizer with adjustable slots. These features allow the device to adapt to different welding positions and gun orientations while maintaining stability, providing both precision and flexibility.
Data Source
AI summary
The present disclosure provides a stabilizer for a welding gun, wherein said stabilizer may comprise a plurality of sections hinged together to allow rotation with respect to each other and in connection with a user's hand. The stabilizer may comprise a holder designed to accept the end of a welding gun and a positioning device at one end to minimize movement of the welding gun. The stabilizer attaches to the user's hand and allows precise and repeatable welding movements. The stabilizer also allows a user to push fingers slightly, instead of constantly gripping the trigger.