Flow International Corporation

National Center for Manufacturing Sciences

Flow Research, Inc.

Steve Craigen

Mohamed Ahmed Hashish

Bruce M Schuman

Eckhardt R Ullrich

Jeno Orova

David Monserud

Mohamad Hashish

A processing apparatus is provided to process a workpiece. The processing apparatus can have a low-profile nozzle system capable of navigating through spaces in order to process target regions with relatively small clearances. A fluid jet outputted from the nozzle system is used to cut, mill, or otherwise process the target region of the workpiece.

Apparatus and process for formation of laterally directed fluid jets

An abrasive waterjet nozzle for intelligent control is illustrated. The invention includes a nozzle cartridge dismountably attached to a holder allowing quick and automatic nozzle changes. Provisions are further included for sensing the condition of nozzle components.

Abrasive-waterjet nozzle for intelligent control

An abrasivejet drilling system is disclosed for drilling small diameter holes in fragile materials of the type which tend to crack when impacted by such jets. The system employs a drilling jet formed from a high pressure liquid whose pressurization varies with time during the drilling process. To avoid damage to fragile materials, angular holes are drilled by initially penetrating the surface of the fragile workpiece perpendicular to the workpiece's surface and thereafter pivoting the jet to the correct angle. The jet dwell in the drilled hole for a predetermined time to modify the hole geometry is monitored by detecting the change in sound level when the jet drills completely through the workpiece.

Method and apparatus for drilling small diameter holes in fragile

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Auburn, WA, United States of America

Steve Craigen