Contributor(s)

Wilson, Bruce, Messac, Achille, Northeastern University, Department of Mechanical Industrial and Manufacturing Engineering, Harry, Jason, Kleshinski, Stephen, Niemi, James, Deseradju, Giri, Harpar, Deanne, Nitinol Medical Technologies

Abstract

Nitinol Medical Technologies (NMT) uses laser welding to fabricate medical devices. These medical devices are made out of a nickel-titanium alloy called nitinol. Laser welding of nitinol should take place in an environment containing little or no oxygen. Trace amounts of oxygen present during welding combine with the molten metal, creating undesireable oxides. NMT is not satisfied with their existing method of isolating the weld zone from oxygen. The current method utilizes a plastic bag to contain the noble shield gas, which wastes a great deal of inert gas and is difficult to manage. The configuration of NMTs welding system makes any improvement to this method a challenging engineering problem. The design team developed specifications and metrics from the requirements of the customer. Five conceptual designs were created and evaluated using a design matrix. This report summarizes the design process in finding a better oxygen evacuation system.

Notes

Capstone Design Course ME 1338, Technical Design Report, Project # W97/S97-9, Final report

Keywords

laser welding, medical devices

Publisher

Northeastern University

Publication Date

8-23-2007

Rights Holder

Northeastern University, Department of Mechanical Industrial and Manufacturing Engineering

Permanent URL

http://hdl.handle.net/2047/d10010427


View Full Text

Click button above to open, or right-click to save.

Share

COinS