Patent ID: 7841504
Filing Date: 2010-11-30
Classification: B23K

Abstract:
1. An assembly for positioning a structural assembly for friction stir welding, comprising: a substrate having an outer periphery and a recessed pattern defined therein, wherein outer periphery completely surrounds the recessed pattern and the recessed pattern is spaced away from the outer periphery; and at least one structural member positioned within the recessed pattern to at least partially secure the structural member therein, wherein the structural member includes an outer periphery substantially corresponding to at least a portion of the recessed pattern and first and second opposing surfaces extending therebetween, wherein the first and second opposing surfaces extend substantially parallel to one another and the outer periphery extends substantially perpendicular to the first surface, and wherein the entire first surface extending between the periphery is configured to lie in direct contact with the substrate and within the recessed pattern to define an interface therebetween such that the substrate and structural member are configured to be friction stir welded together along at least a portion of the interface.