Patent ID: 6301766
Filing Date: 2001-10-16
Classification: B21C,B21J,F16B,Y10T

Abstract:
A method for using a discrete volume of high-velocity liquid to join a plurality of components, comprising the steps of:(a) providing an ultra high-pressure fluid pulse generator capable of generating a discrete volume of high-velocity liquid, said ultra high-pressure fluid pulse generator comprising a valve that is capable of being rapidly opened, and an outlet adapted to direct said discrete volume of high-velocity liquid at one of the plurality of components to be joined;(b) positioning said plurality of components in a desired configuration;(c) positioning said ultra high-pressure fluid pulse generator so that the outlet is directed at a surface of said one of the plurality of components;(d) actuating said ultra high-pressure fluid pulse generator, thereby generating a discrete volume of high-velocity liquid, said discrete volume of high-velocity liquid being directed at one of the plurality of components to be joined by said outlet, wherein the step of generating the discrete volume of high-velocity liquid includes the step of rapidly opening said valve to release the discrete volume of high-velocity liquid through said outlet; and(e) generating a shock pressure by arresting a motion of said discrete volume of high-velocity liquid with the surface of said one of the plurality of components, said shock pressure having a magnitude sufficient to cause a localized deformation of at least said one of the plurality of components that joins and fastens said plurality of components together.