Remote Welding Training With Real-Time Torch Position Feedback

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current welding training systems are expensive and often inadequate in training operators to perform high-quality welds, limiting their effectiveness in preparing operators for manual welding operations.

Innovation Solution

A comprehensive welding system that integrates a welding torch with sensing devices, a computer, and software to provide real-time feedback and training through augmented reality, virtual reality, and simulation modes, allowing for precise tracking of welding operations and data analysis.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Manufacturing precision

If traditional welding training systems are used, then operators can receive training, but the systems are expensive and inadequate in training operators to perform high-quality welds

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvequality of weldsVSAvoideffectiveness of training
Core Design Contradiction:
Manufacturing precisionVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The system incorporates sensors that detect welding parameters (arc voltage, current, travel speed, position) and provide real-time feedback to the operator through visual and audible signals. This feedback mechanism enables operators to learn and improve their welding technique by immediately seeing the effects of their actions, thereby improving training effectiveness and weld quality

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

Solution Approach 2:

The patent replaces traditional mechanical welding training systems with an automated sensing and feedback system using optical sensors, cameras, and computer processing. This substitution enables more precise measurement and control of welding parameters, improving both training effectiveness and weld quality without requiring expensive manual evaluation

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

2Reliability

If comprehensive welding training systems with sensors and feedback are implemented, then training quality improves, but system cost and complexity increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvetraining effectivenessVSAvoidsystem complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The system is designed to provide multiple training modes (guided welding, freehand welding, evaluation) and can train operators for various welding positions and techniques using a single integrated platform. This multi-functionality reduces the need for multiple separate training systems, managing complexity while maintaining comprehensive training capabilities

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The system provides automated evaluation and feedback without requiring constant instructor intervention. The computer automatically analyzes welding parameters, compares them to acceptable ranges, and provides real-time guidance, enabling the system to serve itself in the training process and reducing operational complexity

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

3Productivity

If real-time feedback and data analysis are provided, then operator training efficiency improves, but loss of time for data processing increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvetraining efficiencyVSAvoiddata processing time
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The system continuously monitors welding parameters throughout the entire welding process without interruption. Sensors track arc voltage, current, travel speed, and position in real-time, providing continuous feedback rather than periodic measurements. This continuous monitoring enables immediate correction of errors while maintaining training efficiency

Inventive Principle:
Principle #20Continuity of useful action

Solution Approach 2:

The patent uses automated computer-based data processing to replace manual evaluation methods. The system rapidly processes sensor data through algorithms that compare welding parameters against stored criteria, providing immediate feedback without the time-consuming manual measurement and evaluation that would otherwise be required

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Data Source

PatentEP3160677B1System and method for remote welding training
Publication Date: 2023.10.11 ILLINOIS TOOL WORKS INC
  • EP3160677B1 patent drawingFigure 1
  • EP3160677B1 patent drawingFigure 2
  • EP3160677B1 patent drawingFigure 2A~3

AI summary

A welding system including a helmet (41) having one or more sensing devices (16) configured to detect a position and an orientation of a welding torch relative to a workpiece during performance of a welding session, and a controller (18) coupled to the one or more sensing devices and configured to receive arc parameters corresponding to the performance of the welding session.