Welding Torch Remote Control for Precise Parameter Adjustment

Resolve Bottlenecks,
Find Innovative Solutions
Generate Solutions

Solution Overview

Problem

Existing welding systems face challenges in providing ergonomic and customizable remote control solutions for adjusting welding parameters from remote locations, leading to inefficient and unstable control of weld operations.

Innovation Solution

A remote control system integrated with or coupled to the welding torch, featuring a multi-axis control device such as a joystick or touch pad, allowing for non-linear adjustment of welding parameters, with customizable settings and reduced risk of unintended parameter changes, using a greatest unit vector input to prevent simultaneous adjustments.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Loss of time

If a remote control system is integrated into the welding torch, then the operator can adjust welding parameters from remote locations without returning to the power supply, but the control precision and stability may be compromised

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvetime lost in moving between welding location and power supplyVSAvoidcontrol precision of welding parameters
Core Design Contradiction:
Loss of timeVSMeasurement precision

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces traditional mechanical control systems with electronic control. A microcontroller processes input from the control device and communicates with the welding power supply through digital signals, enabling precise remote parameter adjustment without physical proximity to the power supply.

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

Solution Approach 2:

The patent introduces an intermediary control device with processing circuitry that acts as a mediator between the operator's input and the welding power supply. This intermediary processes control signals and transmits them to adjust welding parameters, maintaining precision while enabling remote operation.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Device complexity

If a simple remote control device is used, then the device complexity is reduced, but the customization and control stability are limited

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecomplexity of remote control deviceVSAvoidcustomization capability of control settings
Core Design Contradiction:
Device complexityVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements a multi-functional control device that can adjust multiple welding parameters (amperage, voltage, wire feed speed) through a single interface. The microcontroller handles various control functions and communicates with different systems, providing universal control capability without requiring multiple separate devices.

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

Solution Approach 2:

The patent employs dynamic control where the control device can be configured for different welding processes and parameters. The system adapts to different welding conditions by adjusting control algorithms and parameter ranges, providing versatility while maintaining a relatively simple device structure.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

3Ease of operation

If coarse control adjustment is provided, then the ease of operation is improved, but the manufacturing precision of weld parameters deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveease of adjusting welding parametersVSAvoidprecision of weld parameter adjustment
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSManufacturing precision

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements feedback mechanisms where the control device provides real-time information about current welding parameters to the operator. The processing circuitry monitors and adjusts parameters based on input signals, enabling precise control while maintaining ease of operation through intuitive interface design.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

Solution Approach 2:

The patent allows for both coarse and fine adjustment capabilities. The control device can make larger parameter changes when needed for quick adjustments, and smaller incremental changes when precision is required, giving the operator flexibility in control granularity based on the situation.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #16Partial or excessive action

Data Source

PatentEP3218132B1System for controlling welding parameter of a welding system
Publication Date: 2021.08.18 ILLINOIS TOOL WORKS INC
  • EP3218132B1 patent drawingFigure 1
  • EP3218132B1 patent drawingFigure 2~4
  • EP3218132B1 patent drawingFigure 5~6

AI summary

Embodiments of a the present disclosure include a remote control system for a welding system having a control device and control circuitry configured to select a first operating parameter adjustment for a first operating parameter of the welding system based on a first actuation of the control device, wherein the first operating parameter adjustment comprises an adjustment to a rate of change of the first operating parameter.