| Abstract Scope |
The first weld performed in Space was over 55 years ago. Since then progress has been slow to none. Issues are safety, application, environment and the physics of welding.
NASA, ESA has experimented w/ EB, laser, FSW and more recently additive. Parts created are small and problem is: How to Scale?
Dynamic solid state was invented over 2 decades ago. It uses all of today's technology but in a different order. Result is a weld that has no heat affected zone, no fusion line. More importantly automated, autogenous and document integrity of weld electronically in real time at the job site and at HQ. Technique can be activated remotely from Earth to Orbit and beyond.
Technique involves induction, forge and shear. It is one shot in an inert environment on Earth, thus vacuum is ideal. The metal stays in semi solid state. No flame, no spark. Momentary glow and that's it.
It is ideal for Space construction because further IPs suggests technique can be applied tubular, linear, thick to ultra thin; similar and dissimilar materials.
Materials joined to date: steel, titanium, zirconium and dissimilar materials. Also technique applies to aerospace industries. |