Marker-Based TIG Torch Attachment for Welding Technique Tracking
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Solution Overview
Problem
It can be difficult for less experienced welding operators to accurately judge whether their welding technique is good or bad, which can negatively impact the quality of the weld.
Innovation Solution
A TIG torch tracking attachment with trackable markers that can be detected and tracked by a monitoring system, allowing for the monitoring and tracking of the position and orientation of the TIG welding torch during operations, thereby facilitating the assessment of welding technique.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If a tracking attachment with markers is added to the TIG torch, then welding technique monitoring capability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The tracking attachment is designed as a separate modular component that can be attached to the TIG torch independently. The attachment includes discrete elements such as trackable markers positioned at specific locations, allowing the monitoring system to track torch position and orientation without modifying the torch itself. This segmentation enables easy addition of monitoring capability while maintaining the simplicity of the base torch design.
Solution Approach 2:
The tracking attachment serves as an intermediary between the TIG torch and the monitoring system. Rather than embedding sensors directly in the torch or complexifying the torch design, the attachment provides trackable markers that the monitoring system can detect and use to calculate torch position and orientation. This intermediary approach adds monitoring capability while keeping both the torch and monitoring system relatively simple.
2Measurement precision
If trackable markers are attached to the TIG torch, then position and orientation tracking accuracy is improved, but manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The tracking attachment is designed as a separate manufacturable component with markers positioned at predetermined locations. This segmentation allows the attachment to be manufactured independently using standard processes, then attached to the torch. The markers can be applied using conventional techniques such as printing, adhesive placement, or attachment of discrete marker elements, avoiding complex integrated manufacturing.
Solution Approach 2:
The tracking attachment design can serve multiple torch types and configurations, with markers positioned to provide accurate tracking regardless of specific torch variations. This universality allows a single attachment design to be manufactured and applied across different TIG torch models, simplifying manufacturing by avoiding custom marker placement for each torch variant.
Data Source
AI summary
Some examples of the present disclosure relate to tracking attachments that allow trackable markers to be easily attached to TIG welding torches, thereby removing the need for costly customized/modified TIG welding torches. In some examples, each tracking attachment includes one or more trackable markers that can be detected and/or tracked by a monitoring system. In some examples, the trackable marker(s) of the tracking attachment facilitate tracking and/or monitoring of welding technique by aiding in the tracking/monitoring of the position(s) and/or orientation(s) of the TIG welding torch during welding-type operations.