Methods for joining polymeric composites using a hybrid friction/ultrasound technique for achieving desired weld characteristics
AssigneeGM Global Technology Operations LLC
InventorPei-Chung Wang
Life of this patent
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Abstract
A method for use in efficiently joining together multiple workpieces to inhibit establishment of weld material in unwanted areas. The method uses a hybrid shaping-and-energizing system having a shaping tool and an ultrasonic horn. The method positions the hybrid shaping-and-energizing system proximate a workpiece, uses the shaping tool to form at least one recess in the proximate workpiece, and applies weld energy to the proximate workpiece using the ultrasonic horn. The recess is formed and the weld energy applied such that molten workpiece material becomes disposed within the recess, thereby inhibiting formation of weld material in the unwanted areas.
Claims20
A method, for efficiently joining together multiple workpieces, of a workpiece arrangement, while inhibiting incursion of weld material into one or more unwanted areas of the arrangement, comprising:
- positioning a hybrid shaping-and-energizing system comprising a shaping tool and ultrasonic horn proximate a workpiece, the shaping tool being movably connected to the ultrasonic horn;
- forming, using the shaping tool, at least one recess in the proximate workpiece of the workpiece arrangement;
- and
- applying, using the ultrasonic horn, weld energy to the proximate workpiece of the workpiece arrangement;
- wherein the recess is formed, and weld energy applied, so that molten workpiece material becomes disposed within the recess, thereby inhibiting formation of weld material in the unwanted areas.
A method, for efficiently joining together multiple workpieces, of a workpiece arrangement, while inhibiting incursion of weld material into one or more unwanted areas of the arrangement, comprising:
- positioning a hybrid shaping-and-energizing system comprising a shaping tool and ultrasonic horn proximate a workpiece, the shaping tool being movably connected to the ultrasonic horn;
- forming, using the shaping tool, at least one recess in a proximate workpiece of the workpieces to be joined;
- and
- applying, using the ultrasonic horn, weld energy to the proximate workpiece, wherein the weld energy causes at least a portion of the proximate workpiece to form molten material that is disposed within the at least one recess, thereby inhibiting formation of weld material in the unwanted areas.
A method, for efficiently joining together multiple workpieces, of a workpiece arrangement, while inhibiting incursion of weld material into one or more unwanted areas of the arrangement, comprising:
- positioning a hybrid shaping-and-energizing system comprising a shaping tool and ultrasonic horn proximate a workpiece, the shaping tool being movably connected to the ultrasonic horn;
- forming, using the shaping tool, at least one recess in a proximate workpiece of the workpieces to be joined, wherein the shaping tool causes a portion of the proximate workpiece within the recess to form molten material that becomes disposed within the;
- and
- applying, using the ultrasonic horn, weld energy to the proximate workpiece adjacent the recess, wherein the weld energy causes the proximate workpiece to form molten material that that joins the molten material disposed within the recess, thereby inhibiting formation of weld material in the unwanted areas.
Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.