Patent ID: 7992761
Filing Date: 2011-08-09
Classification: B23K

Abstract:
1. A method of controlling a friction stir welding machine, comprising the steps of: generating definitions for each of a plurality of processes that may be performed by the machine; generating a master set of parameters used in the processes; and, using the definitions and the parameters to control the processes, said controlling comprising programming a computer with instructions based on the generated definitions and the master set of parameters and, generating control signals using a computer executing said programming instructions to control the operation of the machine; providing a weld head mounted on a motion platform, said weld head comprising a pin tool coaxially disposed within a shoulder tool wherein said pin tool is extensible and retractable relative to said shoulder tool, said motion platform as part of said friction stir welding machine, said weld head mounted on said motion platform, both of said motion platform and said weld head moveable to provide movement of said weld head along an X, Y, and Z axes; using said motion platform to provide linear movement of the weld head along the X, Y, and Z axes; and accomplishing said weld head movement and retraction and extension of said pin tool using said computer programming instructions.