Patent ID: 6313440
Filing Date: 2001-11-06
Classification: B29C,B29L

Abstract:
A process for using a device to form a plastic weld connection between a contact surface of a workpiece that can be deformed by application of a predetermined mechanical force and a component to be connected thereto, the device including a heating device for softening the contact surface of the workpiece, and a heater holding device movably supporting the heating device at a desired preloaded position relative to the contact surface wherein the heating device applies a preloading force on the workpiece which is generally less than the predetermined mechanical force, the heating device including a sensor (4,104) activatable to stop movement of the heater holding device when the heating device has achieved the preloaded position without measuring of the position of the contact surface, and a repositioning mechanism for repositioning the heating device relative to the workpiece upon initial softening of the contact surface by the heating device, the process comprising the following steps:positioning the heating device in initial engagement with the contact surface,moving the heater holding device relative the workpiece while maintaining engagement between the heating device and the contact surface to preload the heating device and activate the sensor,while the heating device softens the contact surface, repositioning the heating device in relation to the workpiece by means of the repositioning mechanism, and wherein the repositioning comprises a defined displacement of the heating device in relation to the contact surface of the workpiece without measuring of the position of the contact surface.