Abstract: A transparent component portion includes a first weld surface and a first taper locking surface formed opposite from the first weld surface. An absorbing component portion includes a second weld surface and a second taper locking surface formed opposite from the second weld surface. The first and second taper locking surfaces cooperate to force and lock the first and second weld surfaces into abutting engagement for laser welding.

Abstract: Laser welding is used to attach a laser-transparent component portion to an absorbing component portion at a laser weld joint area. The transparent component portion includes a first weld surface and a first taper locking surface formed opposite from the first weld surface. The absorbing component portion includes a second weld surface and a second taper locking surface formed opposite from the second weld surface. Prior to laser welding, the first and second taper locking surfaces cooperate to force and lock the first and second weld surfaces into abutting engagement at a predetermined pressure. A laser beam is then directed toward the first and second weld surfaces to permanently attach the component portions together. The first and second taper locking surfaces maintain the predetermined pressure during the laser welding process.