Flexible remote welding with sensor integration for fillet welding

Abstract

Programming of Remote Laser Welding (RLW) becomes much easier by use of an “intelligent” scanner optics which considers the actual spatial position of the guiding robot. Adding a seam tracking sensor system extends the application range to fillet welding, which has become of increased interest in automotive industry. Our sensor system is also capable to online measure the seam geometry for quality assurance purposes. An associated test data visualization and evaluation system allows a comprehensive workpiece assessment and supports an automatic industrial production line.Our system combines flexible RLW with fillet welding without filler wire and quality assurance measurement in one tool and replaces three conventional work stations at higher throughput.Programming of Remote Laser Welding (RLW) becomes much easier by use of an “intelligent” scanner optics which considers the actual spatial position of the guiding robot. Adding a seam tracking sensor system extends the application range to fillet welding, which has become of increased interest in automotive industry. Our sensor system is also capable to online measure the seam geometry for quality assurance purposes. An associated test data visualization and evaluation system allows a comprehensive workpiece assessment and supports an automatic industrial production line.Our system combines flexible RLW with fillet welding without filler wire and quality assurance measurement in one tool and replaces three conventional work stations at higher throughput.