US 12,120,809 B1 · Handheld plasma device process

Abstract

A method for using a handheld plasma tool for controlled application of low temperature atmospheric pressure plasma to material surfaces, e.g. to enhance bonding and or cleaning is disclosed. The handheld plasma tool can include a hand grip, on/off trigger, display, indicator lights, indexing pin, marking device, cable connections for gas supply and electrical power, and a plasma head for generating at least one reactive gas species at a low temperature. The handheld plasma tool can employ a rotatable clamp for treating backside surfaces. The handheld plasma tool can include motorized wheels to scan over a large area at a controlled speed. Other optional nozzles can also be employed for specialized applications.

Claims19

Dependent claims

A method for treating a material surface with an atmospheric pressure plasma, comprising:

holding a handheld device coupled to an applicator having a gas passage from the handheld device to an outlet such that a reactive gas of the plasma can flow out the outlet and contact the material surface;
manipulating and controlling the handheld device to apply the reactive gas of the plasma from the outlet to the material surface;
and
maintaining a defined separation between the outlet of the applicator and the material surface with a ventilated spacer affixed to the applicator while manipulating and controlling the handheld device;
wherein the applicator comprises an indexing tip for inserting into a hole in the material surface such that the plasma is applied to the material surface proximate to the hole.

2 more elements

Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.

Handheld plasma device process

Life of this patent

Handheld plasma device process

Life of this patent

Abstract

Claims19