Michael William Wind

US Patent:

6515251, Feb 4, 2003

Filed:

Oct 31, 2000

Appl. No.:

09/702339

Inventors:

Michael W. Wind - Jenison MI

Assignee:

Steelcase Development Corporation - Caledonia MI

International Classification:

B23K 1111

US Classification:

219 861, 219 911, 219 912, 219110, 219119, 428594

Abstract:

A method of resistance spot welding is disclosed. The method includes providing a first metallic workpiece having a primary surface and a second metallic workpiece having a secondary surface. The method also includes positioning the primary surface into physical contact with a first electrode and a second electrode into physical contact with the secondary surface. The second electrode includes a secondary actuator. The method also includes measuring contact force between the first electrode and the second electrode, and initiating a current through the first electrode when the contact force reaches a preselected force value. The method also includes forming a weld nugget in at least the second workpiece and a depression in the primary surface of the first workpiece, and controlling the location of the weld nugget by using two different classes of electrodes. The depression in the primary surface is substantially undetectable by a visual examination. A resistance spot welding system is also disclosed.