METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR AUTOMATICALLY ALIGNING PROXIMAL EDGES OF SHEETS TO BE BUTT WELDED

摘要

There is provided a method and device for automatically aligning the proximal edges of two or more appreciably magnetic sheets to be connected along abutting edges. The device preferably includes supports to align the magnetic sheets in substantially planar relationship aligned relative one another with their proximal edges oriented in approximately abutting relationship and generally aligned along a predetermined contiguous seam line. At least one of the sheets is to remain moveable on the supports relative to the other sheets. The alignment device further preferably includes an electromagnetic mechanism for simultaneously creating an effective north pole along the proximal edge of one of the supported sheets, and an effective south pole along the confronting proximal edge of the other sheet. These opposing poles cause a magnetic attraction between the proximal edges of the sheets which automatically pulls and aligns the proximal edges into intimate contact along their length. Once aligned in intimate contact, it is preferred that all of these sheets be restrained from further movement so that optimal welding procedures can be completed.