Patent ID: 7669750
Filing Date: 2010-03-02
Classification: B23K,Y10T

Abstract:
1. A method of forming a preform for a structural assembly having a predetermined configuration, the method comprising: frictionally welding at least two structural members to a base member such that the structural members extend from the base member and the structural members define at least one space therebetween; and frictionally welding a connection material in the at least one space to join the at least two structural members such that the structural members and the base member form the preform having a configuration corresponding to the predetermined configuration of the structural assembly, wherein said second welding step comprises positioning a structural connection member comprising the connection material in each space and urging a rotating friction stir welding pin at least partially through each structural connection member to thereby friction stir weld each connection member to at least one of the base member and the structural members adjacent the connection member.