Welding Job Sequencer for Automatic Multi-Schedule Weld Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Semi-automatic welding work cells face inefficiencies due to the need for frequent manual adjustments of welding schedules, leading to reduced productivity and increased risk of human error in adhering to quality control specifications.
Innovation Solution
A welding system that includes a welding job sequencer component capable of collecting data from welding processes, identifying parameters for different schedules, and automatically configuring welding equipment to perform multiple welds with varying schedules without operator intervention, thereby streamlining the welding process and reducing errors.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If multiple different welding schedules are used for different types of welds, then welding quality and compliance with specifications are improved, but operator workload and risk of human error increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system enables self-service automation where the welding equipment automatically selects and switches between multiple welding schedules based on weld type and position, eliminating the need for operators to manually adjust settings. The controller monitors welding parameters and autonomously transitions between schedules (e.g., from flat position schedule to horizontal position schedule) without operator intervention, thereby maintaining high welding quality while reducing operator workload and human error risk.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the manual mechanical adjustment system with an automated electronic control system. The controller uses sensors and programmable logic to automatically select welding schedules based on weld characteristics, substituting operator actions with electronic automation. This substitution allows multiple complex welding schedules to be managed without increasing operator burden, as the electronic system handles schedule selection and parameter adjustment autonomously.
2Adaptability or versatility
If manual adjustment of welding schedules is required, then adaptability to varying welding conditions is improved, but productivity and efficiency deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The system implements dynamic automation where the welding schedule is automatically adjusted in real-time based on varying welding conditions. The controller monitors parameters such as weld position, joint type, and material thickness, and dynamically switches between pre-programmed schedules without requiring operator intervention. This dynamic adaptation maintains versatility across different welding conditions while eliminating the productivity loss associated with manual schedule changes.
Solution Approach 2:
The system incorporates feedback mechanisms where sensors continuously monitor welding parameters and conditions, and this information is fed back to the controller which automatically adjusts the welding schedule accordingly. This closed-loop feedback system enables the equipment to adapt to varying welding conditions autonomously, maintaining high adaptability while improving productivity by eliminating manual adjustment delays.
3Ease of operation
If the number of welding schedules is reduced to eliminate constant adjustment, then ease of operation is improved, but productivity and quality deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a universal welding system where a single automated controller manages multiple welding schedules across different weld types and positions. The multi-functional controller can store and execute numerous pre-programmed schedules (e.g., for flat, horizontal, vertical, and overhead positions) without requiring separate equipment for each schedule. This universality allows the system to maintain operational simplicity from the operator's perspective while actually supporting a wide variety of welding conditions, thereby improving both ease of operation and productivity.
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs preliminary action by pre-programming multiple welding schedules before production begins. Each schedule is configured in advance with optimal parameters for specific weld types and positions. During operation, the controller automatically selects the appropriate pre-configured schedule without requiring real-time manual adjustment. This preliminary preparation enables the system to handle diverse welding conditions with operational simplicity, maintaining both ease of use and high productivity.
Data Source
AI summary
The invention described herein generally pertains to a system and method for welder system that relates to creating a welding sequence for a welding environment in which the welding sequence is based upon non-real time data collected from a welding procedure. Welding procedure information is collected and utilized to create a welding sequence to perform two or more welds in which at least one parameter is based on the collected welding procedure information (e.g., non-real world welding procedure).


