Tod Michael Landis

US Patent:

6878897, Apr 12, 2005

Filed:

Jan 2, 2003

Appl. No.:

10/335712

Inventors:

Tod Michael Landis - Allendale MI, US

Assignee:

Practical Innovations LLC - Allendale MI

International Classification:

B23K009/24

US Classification:

219119, 219 93

Abstract:

A device is shown for determining if a weld nut is oriented or even present on a work piece before welding is initiated. This device determines the status of the weld nut by gauging the pressure of the air. If the weld nut is correctly oriented, then a predetermined pressure has been obtained and the welding of the nut to the work piece occurs. If an elevated air pressure is read, the device does not send a signal to weld as the weld nut is oriented upside down. If the air pressure is high, or at or nearing the supply pressure, then there is no weld nut present and no weld signal is delivered.

US Patent:

6792813, Sep 21, 2004

Filed:

Jan 2, 2003

Appl. No.:

10/335713

Inventors:

Tod Michael Landis - Allendale MI

Assignee:

Practical Innovations LLC - Allendale MI

International Classification:

G01N 320

US Classification:

73850

Abstract:

Resistance welding is a process used to join metallic parts with electric current. A weld nugget is formed as the pieces are melted together. This weld nugget is normally circular in shape. Most welds are expected to be of a specific size based on a specific material thickness. The thinner the material, the smaller the weld nugget required. This reference tool allows the inspector to validate that the welds exceed the minimum requirement without the need to take measurements or the need to check specification sheets or use math skills. This tool also provides a visual and physical check of the weld nugget to verify compliance with the specification for the weld based on the material thickness.