Patents by Inventor Thomas L. Kirkham, Jr.

Thomas L. Kirkham, Jr. has filed for patents to protect the following inventions. This listing includes patent applications that are pending as well as patents that have already been granted by the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO).

  • Patent number: 7210610
    Abstract: A method and device enabling friction stir welding along non-linear joint lines or seams on either planar or non-planar surfaces are provided. The device features four roller clamps located on upper and lower pieces. It also contains a non-consumable tool with a profiled probed end that engages work pieces and follows along a non-linear or linear joint lines in order to achieve high-integrity friction stir welds. No special anvil is required and the device can be manually or automatically operated and controlled. Operating similarly to a conventional sewing machine, this device and process enable an operator or user to manually guide work pieces to be welded through a friction stir welding tool and allows for flexibility in the path of the weld and the types of material being welded.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 3, 2002
    Date of Patent: May 1, 2007
    Assignee: Brigham Young University
    Inventors: Tracy W. Nelson, Carl D. Sorensen, Perry W. Carter, Thomas L. Kirkham, Jr., David V. Kirkham