Patent ID: 8420976
Filing Date: 2013-04-16
Classification: B23K

Abstract:
1. An apparatus for fitting two first workpieces with respective second workpieces of different dimensions, the apparatus comprising: a track extending longitudinally through an assembly station and a welding station; a stationary laser-welding head in the welding station; an assembling appliance in the assembly station having a pair of jigs each dimensioned to fit with a respective one of the second workpieces; a holddown appliance in the welding station having a pair of holddowns each dimensioned to fit with a respective one of the second workpieces, the holddown appliance being shiftable between a pair of positions in each of which a respective one of the holddowns is aligned under the welding head; a workpiece holder in which either of the first workpieces can be held; and actuator means for shifting the holder between positions in the assembly station under the assembling appliance and a position in the welding station underneath the welding head, the holder being shiftable for pressing the first workpiece it is holding against and assembling it with one of the second workpieces in the respective jig and for thereafter moving the fitted together first and second workpieces into position under the welding head and moving them against one of the holddowns while welding them together along a seam.