Online Measurements in Welding Processes

Abstract

The online measurement of principal magnitudes in welding processes is important to close the control loop and meet the project requirements. But, it is difficult because of the adverse environmental conditions that exist near the weld pool. Some conventional measurement techniques are used, but under these conditions, indirect sensing techniques are a better option. Sensor fusion algorithms and indirect sensing techniques allow estimate magnitudes that are impossible to measure directly. Sensor fusion is used to describe the static and dynamic behavior of process variables and is based on several areas of knowledge, such as statistics and artificial intelligence. By combining different sensing technologies to take advantage of each one, it is possible to obtain better sensing results. In this chapter selected sensing techniques and estimation algorithms used online for collecting values on the welding process are shown. Special attention is given to sensor fusion techniques. Some real applications and innovative research results are discussed.

Methodology for the Path Definition in Multi-Layer Gas Metal Arc Welding (GMAW)

“…The right choice of measurement technology and the use of sensor fusion algorithms combined with indirect measurement methods can help to reduce welding production costs and increase productivity by detecting or predicting many welding defects or deviations from set points [17]. These measurements make it possible to adjust the welding current source and robot parameters online in a closed-loop control.…”