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Methods and apparatus for detecting electrode separation

  • US 5,504,298 A
  • Filed: 06/04/1993
  • Issued: 04/02/1996
  • Est. Priority Date: 06/04/1993
  • Status: Expired due to Fees
First Claim
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1. Apparatus for forming a fixed electrical connection in an electrically conductive workpiece by fusing together a plurality of electrically conductive materials, said apparatus comprising:

  • a fusing electrode;

    first means for moving said electrode relative to said workpiece in order to cause said electrode to contact and apply force to said workpiece thereby deforming said workpiece;

    second means for passing an electric current through said electrode and said workpiece while said electrode is in contact with said workpiece so that said electrical current heats said electrode and said electrode heats said workpiece;

    third means for moving said electrode relative to said workpiece in order to separate said electrode from said workpiece after said first and second means have performed their functions; and

    fourth means operative during operation of said third means for detecting electrode separation by continuously monitoring and detecting the force required to separate said electrode from said workpiece.

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