US 6,861,617 B2 · Method of reducing distortion by transient thermal tensioning

Abstract

A method to minimize the distortion, such as buckling, caused in the welding of thin plate by utilizing transient thermal tensioning to induce areas of residual tensile stress. Distortion of such welded plates after stiffeners are welded to the plates is due to large areas of unsupported residual compressive stress following the tensile stress that is induced along the weld lines by the welding of the stiffeners. Application of transient thermal tensioning by moving heat sources at the time of welding of the stiffeners induces areas of residual tensile stress that minimize the tendency of the plates to buckle. Multiple heat sources of variable intensity may be utilized, and multiple stiffeners may be welded to a single panel by the method. Minimization of distortion improves the function and appearance of the finished plates and minimizes post-welding repairs.

Claims22

Dependent claims

A method of transient thermal tensioning at least one plate during joining of at least one stiffener to the at least one plate resulting in a stiffened plate, by welding to minimize distortion, comprising the steps of:

determining at least one location on the at least one plate to apply at least one heat source, at a predetermined lateral distance from the at least one stiffener and at a predetermined separation distance from a surface of the at least one plate, to minimize the propensity of the at least one plate to distort by minimizing the propensity of the at least one plate to buckle by altering the residual stress pattern in the at least one plate;
placing the at least one stiffener on the at least one plate;
locating at least one welding device in close proximity to the at least one stiffener and the at least one plate;
applying the at least one heat source to the at least one location on the at least one plate;
energizing and moving the at least one welding device to weld the at least one stiffener to the at least one plate;
and
moving the at least one heat source in conjunction with the travel of the at least one welding device.

4 more elements

determining at least one location on the at least one plate to apply at least one heat source, at a predetermined lateral distance from the at least one stiffener and at a predetermined separation distance from a surface of the at least one plate, to minimize the propensity of the at least one plate to buckle by altering the residual stress pattern in the at least one plate by disrupting at least one compressive stress pattern in the at least one plate by inducing at least one area of tensile stress;
placing the at least one stiffener on the at least one plate;
locating at least one welding device in close proximity to the at least one stiffener and the at least one plate;
applying the at least one heat source to the at least one location on the at least one plate;
energizing and moving the at least one welding device to weld the at least one stiffener to the at least one plate;
and
moving the at least one heat source in conjunction with the travel of the at least one welding device.

4 more elements

Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.

Method of reducing distortion by transient thermal tensioning

Life of this patent

Method of reducing distortion by transient thermal tensioning

Life of this patent

Abstract

Claims22