Wire Wrapped Screen Welding Pressure Control

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing wire wrapping machines struggle to maintain consistent weld pressure during the manufacturing of wire wrapped screens, leading to inconsistent welds and potential issues with sand control in hydrocarbon production.

Innovation Solution

A welding pressure control apparatus and method that includes a movable welding support assembly with mechanical actuator cylinders and a force measurement device, utilizing a control and feedback system to adjust welding pressure and maintain consistent force application.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Manufacturing precision

If traditional wire wrapping machines are used, then the manufacturing process is simple, but weld pressure consistency deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveweld pressure consistencyVSAvoidapparatus structure
Core Design Contradiction:
Manufacturing precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements a feedback control system where a force measurement device (load cell) continuously monitors the welding force applied to the wire-rib assembly. The control system processes this feedback signal and adjusts the positioning of the welding device to maintain consistent weld pressure throughout the wrapping process, directly resolving the weld pressure consistency issue.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

Solution Approach 2:

The patent replaces traditional mechanical positioning systems with an automated control system that uses electrical signals from the load cell to actuate positioning mechanisms. This substitution of mechanical feedback with electronic control enables precise weld pressure maintenance while managing system complexity through modular design.

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

2Strength

If weld pressure is increased to improve weld quality, then weld strength improves, but energy consumption increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveweld strengthVSAvoidwelding energy
Core Design Contradiction:
StrengthVSUse of energy by moving object

Solution Approach 1:

The patent employs dynamic adjustment of weld pressure through the feedback control system. Rather than applying constant high pressure, the system continuously monitors weld force and dynamically adjusts positioning to maintain optimal pressure levels. This dynamic control achieves consistent weld strength while minimizing energy consumption by avoiding excessive force application.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The control system monitors and adjusts welding parameters (positioning force, timing) in real-time based on feedback from the load cell. By changing these parameters dynamically rather than maintaining fixed high values, the system achieves reliable weld strength with optimized energy consumption.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

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

Ensures consistent and uniform welds throughout the wire wrapping process, enhancing the quality and reliability of wire wrapped screens used in sand control applications.

Implementation Method 1

A force measurement device indicates support assembly force transmitted to the welding device

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectMechanical Force: Mechanical Force

Implementation Method 2

Mechanical actuator cylinders mounted on the support assembly and the mounting structure provide load balance

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectMechanical Compression: Compression

Data Source

PatentUS9757813B2Welding pressure control apparatus and method
Publication Date: 2017.09.12 DELTA SCREEN & FILTRATION LLC
  • US9757813B2 patent drawing
  • US9757813B2 patent drawing
  • US9757813B2 patent drawing

AI summary

An apparatus for manufacturing wire wrapped screens utilizing a wire and support ribs is provided. The apparatus employs welding pressure control, utilizing a welding device mounted on a support assembly, wherein the support assembly is moveable in relation to a mounting structure and the wire and support rib weld pieces. Welding pressure is determined by a force measurement device, and a control and feedback system adjusts pressure. Mechanical actuator cylinders mounted on the support assembly and the mounting structure provide load balance. A method for making wire wrapped screens is also provided.