Patent ID: 6420680
Filing Date: 2002-07-16
Classification: B23K

Abstract:
A control pedal for a welder that controls the output current level of the welder comprising a pedal, a start switch, and a current level controller, said pedal movable between an off position, an intermediate position, and an on position, said start switch adapted to generate a start signal that initiates a welder startup sequence when said start switch is shifted from a deactivation position to an activation position, said current level controller adapted to generate a control signal resulting in said output current level varying between a minimum and a maximum current level, said start switch being in said deactivation position when said pedal is in said off position, said start switch being in said activation position and said output current level producing said control signal resulting in said output current level being maintained at said minimum level when said pedal is in said intermediate position, said start switch being in said activation position and said output current level producing said control signal resulting in said output current level being maintained above said minimum current level when said pedal is in said on position, said pedal being a foot pedal that is adapted to receive a foot and to be moved by said foot between said off position, said intermediate position, and said on position, said pedal including a first section and a second section that move independent of one another, said first section being adapted to cause said start switch to shift between said activation and said deactivation positions and said second section being adapted to cause said current level controller to generate a signal resulting in said output current level to vary between said minimum and said maximum current level.