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

VSEngineering 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

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvewelding qualityVSAvoidoperator workload
Core Design Contradiction:
Manufacturing precisionVSEase of operation

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.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

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.

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

2Adaptability or versatility

If manual adjustment of welding schedules is required, then adaptability to varying welding conditions is improved, but productivity and efficiency deteriorate

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveadaptability to welding conditionsVSAvoidwelding efficiency
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSProductivity

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.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

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.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

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

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveoperational simplicityVSAvoidwelding output
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSProductivity

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.

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

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.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

Data Source

PatentUS10994358B2System and method for creating or modifying a welding sequence based on non-real world weld data
Publication Date: 2021.05.04 LINCOLN GLOBAL INC
  • US10994358B2 patent drawing
  • US10994358B2 patent drawing
  • US10994358B2 patent drawing

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).