System and method of monitoring a welding environment.
Abstract
Un sistema de soldadura incluye un sistema de detección de primera posición, un sistema de detección de segunda posición independiente del sistema de detección de primera posición, y un controlador que se acoplado a los sistemas de detección de primera posición y segunda posición. El sistema de detección de primera posición está configurado para generar una primera salida correspondiente a una primera posición y a una primera orientación de un soplete de soldadura durante una sesión de soldadura para una soldadura. El sistema de detección de segunda posición está configurado para generar una segunda salida correspondiente a una segunda posición y una segunda orientación de soplete de soldadura durante la sesión de soldadura. El controlador está configurado para determinar parámetros de soldadura durante la sesión de soldadura con base al menos en parte en la primera salida, la segunda salida o cualquier combinación de las mismas. Los parámetros de soldadura pueden incluir un ángulo de trabajo, un ángulo de desplazamiento, una distancia de punta de contacto a pieza de trabajo, una velocidad de desplazamiento, un objetivo o cualquier combinación de los mismos.

Term
8.9 yearsleft in the term
Expires 3 August 2035.
- Priority
- Filed
- Granted
- Today
- Expires
20 claims: 3 independent, 17 dependent
- 1REIVINDICACIONES 1. Un sistema de soldadura que comprende:un sistema de detección de primera posición configurado para generar una primera salida correspondiente a una primera posición y una primera orientación de un soplete de soldadura durante una sesión de soldadura para una soldadura;caracterizado porque el primer sistema de detección de posición comprende un sistema de detección de posición basado en la línea de visión configurado para detectar una porción del soplete de soldadura, en donde la primera salida está en tunción al menos en parte en la porción detectada del soplete de soldadura;un sistema de detección de segunda posición configurado para generar una segunda salida correspondiente a una segunda posición y una segunda orientación del soplete de soldadura durante la sesión de soldadura para la soldadura, en donde el sistema de detección de segunda posición es independiente del sistema de detección de primera posición;y un controlador acoplado al sistema de detección de primera posición y al sistema de detección de segunda posición, en donde el controlador está configurado para determinar parámetros de soldadura durante la sesión de soldadura con base al menos en parte en la primera salida, en la segunda salida o en cualquier combinación de las mismas, y el controlador está configurado para determinar los parámetros de soldadura basado solamente en la segunda salida cuando la porción del soplete de soldadura sea obscurecida del sistema de detección de posición basado en la línea de visión, en donde los parámetros de soldadura comprenden un ángulo de trabajo del soplete de soldadura, un ángulo de desplazamiento del soplete de soldadura, una distancia de punta de contacto a pieza de trabajo, una velocidad de desplazamiento del soplete de soldadura a 177 lo largo de una trayectoria de la soldadura, un objetivo del ;cualquier combinación de los mismos.
- 2El sistema de soldadura de conformidad con la reivindicación 1, caracterizado porque el sistema de detección de primera posición comprende un sistema 5 de detección óptico que comprende una cámara, y la porción del soplete comprende una pluralidad de marcadores visuales.
- 3El sistema de soldadura de conformidad con la reivindicación 1, caracterizado porque la porción del soplete de soldadura no comprende un marcador visual. 10
- 4El sistema de soldadura de conformidad con la reivindicación 2, caracterizado porque el controlador está configurado para determinar los parámetros de soldadura durante la sesión de soldadura con base solamente en la segunda salida cuando un marcador visual de la pluralidad de marcadores visuales sea oscurecida del sistema de detección óptico. 15
- 5El sistema de soldadura de conformidad con la reivindicación 1, caracterizado porque el controlador está configurado para determinar los parámetros de soldadura durante la sesión de soldadura con base en la primera salida y la segunda salida.
- 6El sistema de soldadura de conformidad con la reivindicación 5, 20 caracterizado porque el controlador está configurado para determinar los parámetros de soldadura con base al menos en parte en un promedio ponderado de la primera salida y la segunda salida.
- 7El sistema de soldadura de conformidad con la reivindicación 1, caracterizado porque el sistema de detección de primera posición comprende un tipo 25 diferente de sistema de detección de posición que el sistema de detección de segunda 178 posición, en donde el sistema de detección de segunda poslcic i sensores inerciales acoplados al soplete de soldadura.
- 8El sistema de soldadura de conformidad con la reivindicación 1, caracterizado porque el sistema de detección de primera posición está parcialmente Integrado con un casco de soldadura, en donde la integración parcial comprende la Integración de un receptor con el casco de soldadura, y el receptor está configurado para detectar el soplete de soldadura.
- 9Un sistema de soldadura que comprende:un sistema de detección de primera posición que comprende un sistema de detección de posición basado en la línea de visión configurado para detectar una porción de un soplete de soldadura durante una sesión de soldadura para una soldadura, y el sistema de detección de primera posición está configurado para generar una primera salida correspondiente a la detección de la porción del soplete de soldadura;un sistema de detección de segunda posición configurado para generar una segunda salida correspondiente a una posición del soplete de soldadura durante la sesión de soldadura cuando la porción del soplete de soldadura sea oscurecida del sistema de detección de posición basado en la línea de visión, caracterizado porque el sistema de detección de segunda posición comprende uno o más sensores inerciales dispuestos en el soplete de soldadura;y un controlador acoplado al sistema de detección de primera posición y al sistema de detección de segunda posición, en donde el controlador está configurado para determinar parámetros de soldadura del soplete de soldadura durante la sesión de soldadura con base al menos en parte en la primera salida y la segunda salida, en donde los parámetros de soldadura comprenden un ángulo de trabajo del soplete de soldadura, un ángulo de desplazamiento del soplete de soldadura, una distancia de punta de 179 contacto a pieza de trabajo, una velocidad de desplazamiento d · · ,«# lo largo de una trayectoria de soldadura, un objetivo del soplete ae soiaaoura o cualquier combinación en los mismos, el controlador está configurado para detectar si el soplete de soldadura está cerca de una unión de soldadura en función de la primera salida, el controlador está configurado para activar el sistema de detección de segunda posición cuando el soplete de soldadura está cerca de la unión de soldadura, y el controlador está configurado para desactivar el sistema de detección de segunda posición cuando el soplete de soldadura no está cerca de la unión de soldadura.
- 10El sistema de soldadura de conformidad con la reivindicación 9, caracterizado porque el sistema de detección de posición basado en la línea de visión está configurado para detectar uno o más marcadores acoplados a la porción del soplete de soldadura, el sistema de detección de primera posición está configurado para generar la primera salida correspondiente a la detección del uno o más marcadores, y el sistema de detección de segunda posición está configurado para generar ia segunda salida cuando el uno o más marcadores sean oscurecidos del sistema de detección de posición basado en la línea de visión.
- 11El sistema de soldadura de conformidad con la reivindicación 9, caracterizado porque el sistema de detección de segunda posición está configurado para generar la segunda salida cuando la porción del soplete de soldadura sea observable por el sistema de detección de posición basado en la línea de visión, en donde el controlador está configurado para determinar los parámetros de soldadura con base en la primera salida y la segunda salida.
- 12El sistema de soldadura de conformidad con la reivindicación 9, caracterizado porque el sistema de detección de segunda posición comprende un sistema de posicionamiento local, en donde el sistema de posicionamiento local comprende:180 una pluralidad de balizas dispuestas alrededor de que comprende el sistema de soldadura, en donde cada baliza está configurada para emitir señales dentro de un rango de radiofrecuencia o un rango de frecuencias ultrasónicas;y un micrófono dispuesto en el soplete de soldadura y configurado para recibir las señales de la pluralidad de balizas, en donde la segunda salida comprende las señales recibidas por el micrófono, en donde el controlador está configurado para determinar los parámetros de soldadura utilizando la segunda salida mediante triangulación, trilateración o multilateración.
- 13El sistema de soldadura de conformidad con la reivindicación 9, caracterizado porque uno o más sensores ¡nerclales comprenden un acelerómetro, un giroscopio o cualquier combinación de los mismos.
- 14El sistema de soldadura de conformidad con la reivindicación 9, caracterizado porque el sistema de detección de primera posición está parcialmente Integrado con un casco de soldadura, en donde la integración parcial comprende la integración de un receptor con el casco de soldadura y el receptor está configurado para detectar el soplete de soldadura.
- 15El sistema de soldadura de conformidad con la reivindicación 1, caracterizado porque el controlador está configurado para activar el sistema de detección de segunda posición cuando la primera posición del soplete de soldadura está cerca de una unión de soldadura, y el controlador está configurado para desactivar el sistema de detección de segunda posición cuando la primera posición del soplete de soldadura no está cerca de la unión de soldadura.
- 16El sistema de soldadura de conformidad con la reivindicación 15, caracterizado porque el controlador está configurado para desplegar una guía visual en 181 una pantalla del soplete de soldadura cuando el soplete de se > unión de soldadura.
- 17El sistema de soldadura de conformidad con la reivindicación 9, caracterizado porque el soplete de soldadura está cerca de la unión de soldadura cuando tanto la distancia de punta de contacto a pieza de trabajo como el objetivo del soplete de soldadura está dentro de menos 7.5 cm de la unión de soldadura.
- 18Un sistema de soldadura que comprende:un sistema de detección de primera posición configurado para generar una primea salida correspondiente a la detección de una primera posición y una primera orientación de un soplete de soldadura durante una sesión de soldadura de una soldadura;un sistema de detección de segunda posición configurado para generar una segunda salida correspondiente a una segunda posición y una segunda orientación del soplete de soldadura durante la sesión de soldadura para la soldadura, caracterizado porque el sistema de detección de segunda posición es Independiente del sistema de detección de primera posición, el sistema de detección de segunda posición comprende al menos un sistema de posicionamiento local que comprende: una pluralidad de balizas dispuestas alrededor de un entorno de soldadura que comprende el sistema de soldadura, en donde cada baliza está configurada para emitir señales dentro de un rango de radiofrecuencia o un rango de frecuencias ultrasónicas;y un micrófono dispuesto en el soplete de soldadura y configurado para recibir las señales de la pluralidad de balizas, en donde la segunda salida está basada al menos en parte en las señales recibidas provenientes de la pluralidad de balizas durante la sesión de soldadura;y 182 un controlador acoplado al sistema de detección ·· / sistema de detección de segunda posición, en donde el controlaaor esxa connguraao para determinar parámetros de soldadura durante la sesión de soldadura con base al menos en parte en la primera salida, la segunda salida o cualquier combinación de las mismas, en donde los parámetros de soldadura comprenden un ángulo de trabajo del soplete de soldadura, un ángulo de desplazamiento del soplete de soldadura, una distancia de punta de contacto a pieza de trabajo, una velocidad de desplazamiento del soplete de soldadura a lo largo de una trayectoria de soldadura, un objetivo del soplete de soldadura o cualquier combinación en los mismos.
- 19El sistema de soldadura de conformidad con la reivindicación 18, caracterizado porque el sistema de detección de primera posición comprende un sistema de detección de posición basado en la linea de visión configurado para detectar una porción del soplete de soldadura, la primera salida está basada el menos en parte en la porción detectada del soplete de soldadura, y el controlador está configurado para determinar los parámetros de soldadura durante la sesión de soldadura basado solamente en la segunda salida cuando la porción del soplete de soldadura se obscurece del sistema de detección de posición basado en la línea de visión.
- 20El sistema de soldadura de conformidad con la reivindicación 18, caracterizado porque el controlador está configurado para activar el sistema de detección de segunda posición cuando la primera posición del soplete de soldadura está cerca de la unión de soldadura, y el controlador está configurado para desactivar el sistema de detección de segunda posición cuando la primera posición del soplete de soldadura no está cerca de la unión de soldadura. 183 τ » r τ* τ ja................ 03 I lln Ρ I TOTO‘JS|® s
Independent claims20
699 paragraphs in 16 sections, as filed
(54) Title: SYSTEM AND MONITORING METHOD OF A WELDING ENVIRONMENT. (54) Title: SYSTEM AND METHOD OF MONITORING A WELDING ENVIRONMENT.
(57) Summary
A welding system includes a first position detection system, a second position detection system independent of the first position detection system, and a controller that is coupled to the first position and second position detection systems. The first position detection system is configured to generate a first output corresponding to a first position and a first orientation of a welding torch during a welding session for a weld. The second position detection system is configured to generate a second output corresponding to a second position and a second welding torch orientation during the welding session. The controller is configured to determine welding parameters during the welding session based at least in part on the first output, the second output, or any combination thereof. Welding parameters can include a working angle, an offset angle, a contact tip-to-workpiece distance, an offset speed, a target, or any combination thereof.
(57) Abstract
A welding system ineludes a first position detection system, a second position detection system independent of the first position detection system, and a controller coupled to the first and second position detection systems. The first position detection system is configured to generate a first output corresponding to a first position and a first orientation of a welding torch during a welding session for a weld. The second position detection system is configured to generate a second output corresponding to a second position and a second orientation of the welding torch during the welding session. The controller is configured to determine welding parameters during the welding session based at least in part on the first output, the second output, or any combination thereof. The welding parameters may inelude a work angle, a travel angle, a contact tip to work distance, a travel speed, an aim, or any combination thereof.
PATENT TITLE No. 360446
Owner (s): ILLINOIS TOOL WORKS INC.
Address: 155 Harlem Avenue, Glenview, Illinois, 60025, USA
Name: MONITORING SYSTEM AND METHOD OF A WELDING ENVIRONMENT.
Classification: CIP: Β23Κ13 / Ό8: B23K9 / 095; B23K37 / 00; B23Q5 / 00; G09B19 / 24
CPC: Β23Κ9 / Ό956; B23K9 / 095: B23K37 / 04; B23K37 / 047: G09B19 / 24
Inventors): WILLIAM JCSHUA BECKER: RICHARD W. BEESON: ion
Number:
MX / a / 2017/000551
REQUEST
International Presentation Date:
August 2015
<td></td><td colspan="2">priority</td>
<td>Country:</td><td>Date:</td><td>Number:</td>
<td>US</td><td>'- August 7, 2014 ........</td><td> 62/034,648</td>
<td>US</td><td>July 24, 2015</td><td> 14/808,858</td>
Validity: Twenty years
Expiration Date: August 3, 2035 Issue Date; November 1, 2018
The reference patent is granted based on articles 1 ° 2<sup>5</sup> fraction V. 6 'fraction lll. and 59 of the Industrial Property Law.
Who subscribes to the present ti (Official Gazette of the Federaclo
01/25/2006, 05/06/2009, 06/01/201 and 12 · sections I and III dell R 07/28/2004 and 09/07/2007): articles 1 », 3»!
Industrial Property.
In accordance with article 23 of the Industrial Property Law, from the date of filing of the international application and will be subject
<img file="MX360446B_D0001.tif" />
This patent has a validity of non-extendable years, counted at the payment of the fee to keep the rights in force
Industrial Property Law 1999, 01/26/2004, 06/16/2005,> 5 1 *, 3 'section V Subsection a), 4' on 07/01/2004, 07/15/2004, raen del Irstitutn Mercara) of the A 3 'and 5' Clause a) of the Agreement that delegates Regionals. Divisional Deputy Directors, (DOF 12/15/1999, amended on 02/04/2000,
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THE DIVISIONAL DIRECTOR OF PATENTS
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NAHANNY CANAL REYES
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MX / 2019/5363
MONITORING SYSTEM AND METHOD OF AN ENVIRONMENT '
Cross reference to related requests
This application claims the priority and benefit of United States Provisional Application Serial No. 62 / 034,642, entitled SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR DETERMINING A WELDING JOINT FORM, filed on AUGUST 7, 2014, which are incorporated by reference in its entirety for all purposes.
Background of the Invention
The invention relates generally to welding and, more particularly, to a welding system that can be used to monitor a welding environment and handle welding data associated with the welding environment, such as welding data collected from the welding environment during and / or before welding.
Welding is a process that is increasingly used in various industries and applications. These processes can be automated in certain contexts, although there continue to be a large number of applications for manual welding operations. In both cases, such welding operations rely on a variety of equipment types to ensure that the supply of welding consumables (for example, wire feed, shielding gas, etc.) is provided to the weld in adequate amounts in the desired moment.
In preparation for performing manual welding operations, welding operators can be trained using a welding system (for example, a welding training system). The welding system can be designed to train welding operators with the proper techniques to carry out various welding operations. Certain welding systems can use various training methods. As can be appreciated, these training systems can be expensive to acquire and operate. More welding training institutions can only purchase a limited number of such training systems. Furthermore, certain welding systems may not adequately train welding operators to perform high-quality welds.
Brief description of the drawings
These and other features, aspects, and advantages of the present invention will be better understood when the following detailed description is read with reference to the accompanying drawings in which the same characters represent similar parts throughout the drawings, wherein:
FIG. 1 is a block diagram of one embodiment of a welding system in accordance with aspects of the present invention.
Brief description of the drawings
These and other features, aspects, and advantages of the present invention will be better understood when the following detailed description is read with reference to the accompanying drawings in which like characters represent similar parts throughout the drawings, wherein:
FIG. 1 is a block diagram of one embodiment of a welding system in accordance with aspects of the present invention.
Figure 2 is a block diagram of an embodiment of portions of the welding system of Figure 1 in accordance with aspects of the present invention.
FIG. 2A is a schematic diagram of a circuit embodiment of the welding torch of FIG. 1 in accordance with aspects of the present invention.
Τ λ jf 1) T ®
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Figure 3 is a perspective view of a n
DI LA MQHEDAD 1 weld of figure 1 according to aspects of the present invention.
Figure 4 is a perspective view of one embodiment of the weld base of Figure 1 in accordance with aspects of the present invention.
Figure 5 is a perspective view of one embodiment of a calibration device in accordance with aspects of the present invention.
Figure 6 is a perspective view of one embodiment of a fastening assembly in accordance with aspects of the present invention.
FIG. 7 is a perspective view of a welding wire extension calibration tool 10 in accordance with aspects of the present invention.
FIG. 8 is a top view of the weld wire extension calibration tool of FIG. 7 according to aspects of the present
Invention.
Figure 9 is an embodiment of a method for calibrating 15-wire extension of a welding torch in accordance with aspects of the present invention.
Figure 10 is a perspective view of one embodiment of a welding consumable having physical markings in accordance with aspects of the present invention.
FIG. 11 is a perspective view of a weld wire embodiment having physical markings in accordance with aspects of the present invention.
Figure 12 is a perspective view of one embodiment of a vertical arm assembly of the weld bracket of Figure 1 in accordance with aspects of the present invention.
Figure 13 is a perspective view of one embodiment of an overhead welding arm assembly in accordance with aspects of the present invention.
Fig. 14 is a block diagram of a - Jh weld having various training modes in accordance with aspects of the present invention.
Fig. 15 is a block diagram of one embodiment of a welding software virtual reality mode in accordance with aspects of the present invention.
Figure 16 is an embodiment of a method for integrating training results data in accordance with aspects of the present invention.
Figure 17 is an embodiment of a graph illustrating various sets of welding data for a welding operator in accordance with aspects of the present invention.
FIG. 18 is an embodiment of a graph illustrating weld data for a welder compared to weld data for a class in accordance with aspects of the present invention.
FIG. 19 is a block diagram of one embodiment of a data storage system (eg, cloud storage system) for storing certification status data in accordance with aspects of the present invention.
Fig. 20 is an embodiment of a screen illustrating data corresponding to a weld in accordance with aspects of the present invention.
FIG. 21 is an embodiment of a screen illustrating a discontinuity analysis of a weld in accordance with aspects of the present invention.
FIG. 22 is a block diagram of one embodiment of a welding software welding instructor display in accordance with aspects of the present invention.
Figure 23 is an embodiment of a welding method using augmented reality in accordance with aspects of the present invention.
Figure 24 is an embodiment of another method for welding training using augmented reality in accordance with aspects of the present invention.
Fig. 25 is a block diagram of one embodiment of a welding torch in accordance with aspects of the present invention.
FIG. 26 is an embodiment of a method for providing vibration feedback to a welding operator using a welding torch in accordance with aspects of the present invention.
Figure 27 is a graph of a modality of two patterns that each includes a different frequency to provide vibration feedback to a welding operator in accordance with aspects of the present invention.
FIG. 28 is a graph of an embodiment of two patterns each including a different modulation to provide vibration feedback to a welding operator in accordance with aspects of the present invention.
FIG. 29 is a graph of an embodiment of two patterns that each include a different amplitude to provide vibration feedback to a welding operator in accordance with aspects of the present invention.
FIG. 30 is a perspective view of one embodiment of a welding torch having spherical markers that can be used to trace the welding torch in accordance with aspects of the present invention.
FIG. 31 is a perspective view of one embodiment of the welding torch, taken along line 31-31 of FIG. 30 in accordance with aspects of the present invention.
Fig. 32 is a top view of one embodiment of the welding torch and visual markers according to aspects of the
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Fig. 33 is an embodiment of a method for visually presenting to a visual presenter of a welding torch a welding parameter relative to a threshold according to aspects of the present invention.
FIG. 34 is an embodiment of a set of screenshots of a visual display of a welding torch to show a welding parameter relative to a threshold in accordance with aspects of the present invention.
Figure 35 is an embodiment of a method of tracing a welding torch in a welding system using at least four markers in accordance with aspects of the present invention.
FIG. 36 is an embodiment of a method for detecting the ability of a processor to communicate with a welding torch in accordance with aspects of the present invention.
Figure 37 is an embodiment of a method for calibrating a curved weld joint that can be used with a weld system in accordance with aspects of the present invention.
FIG. 38 is a diagram of one embodiment of a curved weld joint in accordance with aspects of the present invention.
FIG. 39 is a diagram of one embodiment of a curved weld joint and a marking tool in accordance with aspects of the present invention.
Fig. 40 is an embodiment of a method of tracking a multi-pass welding operation in accordance with aspects of the present invention.
FIG. 41 is a perspective view of one embodiment of a welding support in accordance with aspects of the present invention.
FIG. 42 is a cross-sectional view of one embodiment of a weld surface of the weld mount of FIG. 41 of the present invention.
FIG. 43 is a cross-sectional view of one embodiment of a detection device having a removable cover in accordance with aspects of the present invention.
Figure 44 is a perspective view of one embodiment of a calibration tool in accordance with aspects of the present invention.
Fig. 45 is a perspective view of the calibration tool of Fig. 44 having an outer cover removed in accordance with aspects of the present invention.
FIG. 46 is a side view of one embodiment of a sharp tip of a calibration tool in accordance with aspects of the present invention.
Figure 47 is a side view of one embodiment of a rounded tip of a calibration tool in accordance with aspects of the present invention.
FIG. 48 is a side view of one embodiment of a rounded tip of a calibration tool having a small pointed tip in accordance with aspects of the present invention.
Figure 49 is an embodiment of a method for detecting a calibration point in accordance with aspects of the present invention.
FIG. 50 is an embodiment of a method for determining a weld rating based on a weld path in accordance with aspects of the present invention.
Figure 51 is an embodiment of a method for switching between welding modes using a Welding Torch User Interface in accordance with aspects of the present invention.
Figure 52 is an embodiment of a remote welding training system in accordance with aspects of the present invention.
Figure 53 is an embodiment of a dashboard page with weld data from different operators, in accordance with aspects of the present invention.
Figure 54 is an embodiment of a depth sensor welding system and a local placement system, in accordance with aspects of the present invention.
Fig. 55 is an embodiment of a method of controlling visual markers of the welding torch to track the movement and position of the welding torch, in accordance with aspects of the present invention.
Figure 56 is a cross-sectional view of a base component with visual markers, in accordance with aspects of the present invention.
FIG. 57 is a perspective view of one embodiment of the arm assembly and clamping of the welding bracket, in accordance with aspects of the present invention.
FIG. 58 is a top view of one embodiment of a clamp assembly of FIG. 57, taken along line 58-58, in accordance with aspects of the present invention.
FIG. 59 is a perspective view of one embodiment of a calibration block coupled to the clamp assembly of FIG. 57, in accordance with aspects of the present invention.
FIG. 60 is an embodiment of a method for installing the training stand arms from an out-of-position weld mapping, in accordance with aspects of the present invention.
Figure 61 is an embodiment of a pai π method of multi-pass weld mapping with the weld system, in accordance with aspects of the present invention.
Fig. 62 is an embodiment of a screen illustrating data, including arc parameters, corresponding to a weld in accordance with aspects of the present invention.
Figure 63 is an embodiment of a screen illustrating data corresponding to a weld test for which an arc has not been detected in accordance with aspects of the present invention.
FIG. 64 is an embodiment of a screen illustrating assignment development routines in accordance with aspects of the present invention.
Fig. 65 is an embodiment of a screen illustrating properties that relate to a welding procedure in accordance with aspects of the present invention.
Fig. 66 is an embodiment of a screen illustrating data corresponding to a simulated weld in accordance with aspects of the present
Invention.
Fig. 67 is an embodiment of a screen illustrating data corresponding to a weld prior to the start of the weld in accordance with aspects of the present invention.
FIG. 68 is an embodiment of a screen illustrating a summary of weld test parameters in accordance with aspects of the present invention.
Figure 69 is an embodiment of a screen illustrating data, including arc parameters, that correspond to a weld during a weld test in accordance with aspects of the present invention.
Figure 70 is an embodiment of a screen qi * heat input, corresponding to a weld according to aspects of the present invention.
Fig. 71 is a diagram of an embodiment of the objective of a welding torch relative to a workpiece in accordance with aspects of this present.
Invention.
Figure 72 is an embodiment of a marker that can be applied to the workpiece by a marking tool in accordance with aspects of this invention.
Figure 73 is an embodiment of a marker that can be applied to the workpiece by a marking tool in accordance with aspects of this invention.
Figure 74 is an embodiment of a marker that can be applied to the workpiece by a marking tool in accordance with aspects of this invention.
Figure 75 is an embodiment of a marker that can be applied to the workpiece by a marking tool in accordance with aspects of this invention.
Figure 76 is a perspective view of one embodiment of a welding system 20 with a marking tool and markers applied to the surfaces of a workpiece with the marking tool in accordance with aspects of this present invention.
Detailed description of the invention
FIG. 1 is a block diagram of one or more welding systems 10. As used herein, a welding system may include any suitable welding related system, including, but not limited to, a welding training system, a live welding system, a remote welding training system (eg helmet training system), a simulated welding system, a virtual reality welding system and so on. For example, the welding system 10 may include, but is not limited to, a LIveArc ™ welding performance management system, available from Mlller Electric of Appleton, Wl. The welding system 10 may include a welding base 12 to provide support for various training devices. For example, weld base 12 can be configured to support a weld surface, a workpiece 82, an installation, one or more training arms, and so on. Welding system 10 includes a welding torch 14 that can be used by a welding operator (eg, welding student) to carry out welding operations (eg, training operations). As described in greater detail below, in certain embodiments, the welding torch 14 can be configured with a user interface configured to receive inputs from the welding operator, control circuits configured to process the inputs, and a communication interface configured to provide inputs to another device. Furthermore, in certain embodiments, the welding torch 14 may include one or more visual displays and / or indicators to provide data to the welding operator.
Furthermore, the welding system 10 includes one or more detection devices 16 (eg, sensor, detection assembly, and so on) used to detect a position of one or more welding devices and / or to detect an orientation of one or more welding devices. For <..... 3 detection 16 can be used to detect a position and / or an orientation of the welding base 12, the welding torch 14, a welding surface, the workpiece 82, a Facility, one or more training arms, the operator, an ID card, and so on. Detection device 16 can include any suitable detection device, such as a motion detection device or a motion tracking device. Furthermore, detection device 16 can include one or more cameras, such as one or more Infrared cameras, one or more visible spectrum cameras, one or more High Dynamic Range (HDR) cameras, and so on. Alternatively or in addition, detection device 16 may include one or more depth sensors for determining relative distances between depth sensors 16 and an object (eg, welding torch 14, workpiece 82, operator, and so on). ). Detection devices 16 can be placed at various locations around the welding environment of the welding system 10, thereby making it possible for certain detection devices 16 to monitor the welding environment (eg, track the movement of an object) when others detection devices 16 are obscured. For example, a detection device 16 (eg, camera, depth sensor) integrated with a welding helmet 41 can facilitate tracking the position, orientation and / or movement of the welding torch 14 with respect to the workpiece 82 when the welding torch 14 is at least partially obscured from other detection devices 16 by the workpiece 82 or the operator. For example, markers disposed on the welding torch 14 that facilitate tracing of the welding torch 14 may be partially obscured from a first detection device 16, but still be observable by another detection device 16 of the helmet 41.
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The other detection device 16 of the helmet 41 may be detection device 16. Furthermore, a detection device 16 (eg, accelerometer) Integrated with the welding torch 14 can facilitate tracking the position, orientation and / or movement of the welding torch 14 relative to the workpiece 82 when the welding torch 14 is at least partially obscured from other detection devices 16 (eg cameras, depth sensors) by the workpiece 82 or the operator.
Detection device 16 is communicatively coupled to a computer 18. Detection device 16 is configured to provide data (eg, image data, acoustic data, detected data, six degrees of freedom (6DOF) data, etc.). .) to computer 18. Furthermore, detection device 16 can be configured to receive data (eg, configuration data, programming data, commands, registry settings, etc.) from computer 18. Computer 18 includes one or more processors 20, memory devices 22, and storage devices 24. Computer 18 may include, but is not limited to, a desktop computer, a laptop, a tablet, a mobile device, a computer that can be carried, or any combination thereof. The processors or processor 20 can be used to run software, such as welding software, Image processing software, detection device software, and so on. In addition, processors 20 may include one or more microprocessors, such as one or more "general purpose" microprocessors, one or more special purpose microprocessors and / or application specific integrated circuits (ASICS), or some combination thereof. For example, processors 20 may include one or more reduced instruction set (RISC) processors.
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The device or devices to store
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nonvolatile storage) may include ROM, flash memory, a hard disk drive, or any other suitable optical, magnetic, or solid state storage media, or a combination thereof. The storage devices 24 can store data (for example, data corresponding to a welding operation, video data and / or parameters corresponding to a welding operation, data corresponding to an identity and / or a registration number of the operator, data corresponding to past operator run, etc.), instructions (eg, software or firmware for the welding system, detection device 16, etc.), and any other suitable data. As will be appreciated, data corresponding to a welding operation may include a video recording of the welding operation, a simulated video, an orientation of the welding torch 14, a position of the welding torch 14, a working angle, a displacement angle, a distance between a contact tip of the welding torch 14 and a workpiece, a displacement speed, a target, a voltage, a current, a path traversed, a discontinuity analysis, welding device configurations, and so on.
Memory devices 22 can include volatile memory, such as random access memory (RAM), and / or nonvolatile memory, such as read-only memory (ROM). Memory devices 22 can store a variety of information and can be used for various purposes. For example, memory devices 22 may store executable instructions per processor (eg, firmware or software) for processors 20 to execute, such as Instructions for a welding training simulation, for detection device 16, and / or or for an operator identification system 43. In addition, an ir> r τ * τ ja ................ 03 ll IJ I
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Associated settings and parameters can be stored in storage devices 24 and / or memory devices 22, along with code configured to provide a specific output (eg Start wire feed, enable gas flow, capture weld current data , detect short circuit parameters, determine amount of spatter, etc.) during operation. Welding power source 28 can be used to provide welding power to a live arc welding operation, and wire feeder 30 can be used to provide welding wire to the live arc welding operation.
The welding system 10 includes a visual presenter 32 to visually present data and / or screens associated with welding (eg, to visually present data corresponding to welding software). For example, visual presenter 32 may provide a graphical user interface to a welding operator (eg, welding instructor, welding student). The graphical user interface can provide various screens to enable the welding instructor to organize a class, provide assignments to the class, analyze the assignments carried out by the class, provide assignments to an Individual, analyze the assignments carried out by the Individual, add, change and / or delete parameters for a weld assignment, and so on. Furthermore, the Graphical User Interface can provide various screens to enable a weld operator (eg weld student) to perform a weld assignment, view results of previous weld assignments, and so on. In certain embodiments, the visual presenter 32 may be a touch screen visual presenter configured to receive touch inputs, and to provide data corresponding to the touch inputs to computer 18.
An external visual presenter 34 may be aco | ih to enable an individual who is located away from the welding system 10 to view data corresponding to the welding system 10. Furthermore, a network device 36 can be coupled to computer 18 to enable computer 18 to communicate with other devices connected to the Internet or another network 38 (for example, to provide test results to another device and / or to receive test results from another device). For example, network device 36 may enable computer 18 to communicate with an external welding system 40, a production welding system 42, a remote computer 44, and / or a data storage system (eg, cloud storage system) 318. As can be appreciated, the welding system 10 described herein can be used to train welding students in an economical manner. In some embodiments, the one or more welding systems 10 may include a helmet 41 having a visual presenter 32 and one or more detection devices 16, such as optical or acoustic detection devices. As described in detail below, helmet 41 communicatively couples to computer 18, and helmet 41 can facilitate weld training and / or weld monitoring without weld base 12. In some embodiments, the one or more detection devices 16 integrated with the helmet 41 can facilitate welding training and / or welding monitoring without separate detection devices 16 external to the helmet 41. In addition, the welding system 10 is configured to integrate real welding with simulated welding in a way that prepares welding students for high-quality production welding.
An operator identification system 43 can be coupled to computer 18 to enable an operator using welding system 10 to be identified. The operator identification system 43 uses one or more types of operator information (eg identifiers) for r
Operator information may include, but is not limited to, a resettable identifier 45 (eg, password, motion sequence, action performed by operator), a biometric identifier 47 (eg, retinal scan, fingerprint, printout of palm, facial profile, voice profile, inherent operator traits), information based at least in part on a Biometric Identifier 47, a tab 49 (eg key, key ring, radio frequency identification tag (RFID), access card, barcode, physical identifier), or any combination thereof. In addition, or alternatively, an instructor or manager may provide an input to operator identification system 43 to identify the identity of the operator, thereby authorizing the operator for the welding session (eg, welding assignment) and welding data. associates. That is, the identification of an operator may involve one or more steps, such as identification of the operator through information received from the operator, and verification of the operator through information received from the instructor and / or manager of the operator. In some embodiments, the operator identification system 43 can use the one or more detection devices 16 to facilitate operator identification. For example, a camera or microphone of the welding system 10 may receive the biometric identifier 47. In addition, the operator identification system 43 may have an input device 51 (eg, keyboard, touch screen, retinal scanner, fingerprint sensor). digital, camera, microphone, barcode scanner, radio transmitter, and so on) configured to receive the one or more types of operator identification information.
The operator identification system 43 can identify the operator before carrying out a welding process (for example, live process, training process, simulated process, virtual reality process) or after carrying out the welding process . In some embodiments, the operator system 43 can enable or disable an operator to use the welding system 10 based on the one or more sensors received through the input device.
51. For example, operator ID system 43 may block a first operator (eg student) from using welding system 10 until operator ID system 43 receives a first input from first operator that can identify the first operator. In some embodiments, the welding system 10 may enable the first operator to carry out a welding session with the welding system 10 without verification of the identity of the first operator; however, the welding system 10 can store and / or transmit the welding data associated with such a welding session only after verification of the Identity of the first operator based at least in part on a second input by a second operator ( for example, instructor, administrator). That is, the operator identification system 43 can disable the storage or transmission of the welding data associated with a welding session until the identity of the first operator who carried out the welding session is verified by the second operator. Furthermore, some modalities of the welding system 10 may block the first operator from using the welding system until a second input is received from the second operator verifying the Identity of the first operator, which was preliminarily determined based on the first input of the first operator. In some embodiments, the operator identification system 43 can identify the operator during a welding process, such as through an operator identification feature during the welding process. For example, a first operator may hold the welding torch 14 differently from a second operator, and a detection device 16 (eg camera) coupled to the ir> r τ * τ ....... system. ........... 93
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JL 1VJL Jl JL Birii * '' s ° operator identification 43 can facilitate distinguishing the main 10 operator. In addition, or alternatively, operator identification system 43 may include a sensor (eg, fingerprint scale, camera, microphone) in welding torch 14 and / or helmet 41. In some embodiments, an instructor and / or a manager can confirm after the conclusion of a welding process that the identified operator carried out the welding process.
The operator identification system 43 can communicate with the computer 18 to determine the identity of the operator using the received identification information. In some embodiments, computer 18 may communicate with network 38 and / or a remote computer 44 to determine the identity of the operator. Computer 18 can control visual presenter 32 to visually display at least a portion of the information associated with the operator after operator identification. For example, the visual presenter 32 may present the name, a photograph, registration number, experience level, or any combination thereof. In some embodiments, the operator identification system 43 can be used with one or more welding systems 10.
Computer 18 can receive weld data (eg, weld parameters, arc parameters) that correspond to a weld session (eg, weld assignment) during and / or after the respective weld session is brought to performed by the operator. Computer 18 can receive welding data from network 38, one or more detection devices 16, welding torch 14, welding power source 28, wire feeder 30 or helmet 41, or any combination thereof. In addition, or alternatively, computer 18 may associate the received weld data with the identity of the operator, such as through a unique registration number for the operator, the name of the operator, and / or a photograph of the operator. Furthermore, l <¡and transmit the associated weld data and operator identity (eg, registration number to a data storage system within weld system 10 or located far through network 38. The association of the welding data with the identity of the operator (for example, through the registration number) makes it possible significantly more than the connection of non-associated welding data of the operators. That is, associating weld data with a unique operator registration number makes it possible for someone (eg operator, instructor, manager) who is either local or remote from the operator to track performance, progress and capabilities. operator over time through the registration number.
FIG. 2 is a block diagram of one embodiment of portions of the welding system 10 of FIG. 1. As illustrated, a power distribution assembly 46 provides power to the welding torch 14 and computer 18. In addition, the welding torch 14 Includes a control circuit 52 configured to control the operation of the welding torch 14. In the illustrated embodiment, control circuit 52 includes one or more processors 54, memory devices 56, and storage devices 58. In other embodiments, control circuit 52 may not include processors 54, memory devices 56, and / or or storage devices 58. Processors 54 can be used to run software, such as welding torch software. Furthermore, processors 54 may be similar to processors 54 may be similar to processors 20 previously described. Furthermore, memory devices 56 may be similar to memory devices 22, and storage devices 58 may be similar to storage devices 24.
Welding torch 14 includes a user interface 60 to enable a welding operator (eg, student <i?
welding, etc.) Interact with welding torch 14 and / or provide inputs to welding torch 14. For example, User Interface 60 may include buttons, switches, touch screens, touch keyboards, and so on. The inputs provided to the welding torch 14 by the welding operator can be provided to the computer 18. For example, the inputs provided to the welding torch 18 can be used to control welding software being executed by the computer 18. Thus, the welding operator can use the user interface 60 on the welding torch 14 to navigate the welding software screens, setting up procedures, data analysis, welding courses, making selections within the welding software, setting up the welding software, and so on. In this way, the welding operator can use the welding torch 14 to control the welding software (for example, the welding operator does not have to release the welding torch to use a different input device). Welding torch 14 also includes visual indicators 61, such as visual presenter 62 and LEDs 64. Visual Indicators 61 can be configured to visually indicate or present data and / or images that correspond to a weld, weld training and / or weld software. For example, visual indicators 61 can be configured to indicate a welding torch orientation, a welding torch travel speed, a welding torch position, a contact tip to workpiece distance, a proximity to the torch weld 14 relative to the workpiece, a target of the welding torch 14 (eg, to which point the welding torch 14 is directed), training information for the welding operator, and so on. Furthermore, Visual Indicators 61 can be configured to provide visual indications before a weld, during a weld and / or odn
In certain embodiments, LEDs 64 can be illuminated to facilitate detection by detection device 16. In such embodiments, LEDs 64 can be positioned to enable detection device 16 to determine a position and / or orientation of the torch. solder 14 based on a spatial position of the LEDs
64.
As can be seen, Figure 71 illustrates an embodiment of the objective of the welding torch 14. When a wire electrode 174 extends along an axis 53 of the torch 14, a projected line 55 along axis 53 extending from the wire electrode intersects the workpiece 82 at an intersection point 57. As used herein, the term target can be defined as the shortest distance 59 along the workpiece 82 between the point of intersection 57 and a center 63 of a joint 67 of the workpiece 82.
Returning to Figure 2, in certain embodiments, the welding torch 14 includes a power conversion circuit 66 configured to receive power from the power distribution assembly 46, computer 18, or other device, and to convert the received power to power the welding torch 14. In certain embodiments, the welding torch 14 may receive energy that has already been converted and / or not use energy conversion. Furthermore, in some embodiments, the welding torch 14 can be powered by a battery or any other suitable powering mechanism. Welding torch 14 Also includes a communication interface 68 (eg RS-232 controller) to facilitate communication between welding torch 14 and computer 18. Accordingly, the inputs provided to welding torch 14 can be provided to computer 18.
Welding torch 14 includes a trigger 70 configured to actuate
<img file="MX360446B_D0007.tif" />
Mechanically a trigger switch 72 between one position and one closed position. Trigger 70 provides a conductor 71 to carry a signal to control circuit 52 to indicate whether Trigger Switch 72 is in the open or closed position. Wire feeder 30, welding power source 28, 5 and / or computer 18 can determine if there is continuity along welding torch 14 through a first trigger lead 74 and a second trigger lead 76 Trigger Switch 72 is electrically coupled between first trigger lead 74 and second trigger lead 76. Continuity across first trigger lead 74 and second trigger lead 76 can be determined by applying a voltage across leads 74 and 76, applying a current across leads 74 and 76, measuring a resistance to across conductors 74 and 76, and so on. In certain embodiments, portions of the first trigger lead 74 and / or portions of the second trigger lead 76 may be arranged within a connector of the welding torch 14. In addition, in certain embodiments, the arrangement of 15 switches and / or leads within The welding torch 14 may be different from that illustrated in Figure 2.
Welding power source 28 can determine whether welding power is activated to flow through welding torch 14 based on whether there is continuity across leads 74 and 76. For example, welding power source 28 may allow welding power to flow through welding torch 14 while there is continuity across leads 74 and 76, and welding power source 28 may block welding power. Solder to flow through welding torch 14 as long as there is an open circuit through conductors 74 and 76. In addition, wire feeder 30 can provide solder wire to soldering torch 14 as long as there is continuity between conductors 74 and 76, and can block solder wire from being provided to torch = if there is an open circuit through conductors 74 and 76. In addition, computer 18 can use continuity across leads 74 and 76 and / or trigger position 70 or trigger switch 72 to start and / or stop a welding operation, a simulation of welding, recording data, and so on.
With trigger switch 72 in the open position, there is an open circuit through leads 74 and 76, thus, the open position of trigger switch 72 blocks the flow of electrons between leads 74 and 76. Consequently, the welding power source 28 can block the welding energy to flow through the welding torch 14 and the wire feeder 30 can block the welding wire to be provided to the welding torch 14. Depress trigger 70 directs trigger switch 72 to the closed position where trigger switch 72 remains as long as trigger 70 is depressed. With the trigger switch 72 in the closed position, there is continuity between the first trigger lead 74 and a lead 77 electrically connected to the trigger switch 72 and a training switch 78.
Training Switch 78 is electrically coupled between first trigger lead 74 and second trigger lead 76. Furthermore, Training Switch 78 is electrically connected by control circuit 52 to an open or closed position. In certain embodiments, training switch 78 can be any suitable electrically controlled switch, such as a transistor, relay, etc. Control circuit 52 can selectively control Training Switch 78 to the open or closed position. For example, while the welding software of the welding system 10 is operating in a live arc mode, the control circuit 52 may be configured to control the training switch 78 to the 4: 1 live weld arc position while the trigger 70 is pressed. In contrast, while the welding software of the welding system 10 is operating in any mode other than live arc mode (eg simulation, virtual reality, augmented reality, etc.), control circuit 52 can be configured to control Training Switch 78 to the open position to block a live welding arc (by blocking the flow of electrons between conductors 74 and 76).
In certain modes, training switch 78 can return to the preset open position, thereby establishing an open circuit through conductors 74 and 76. As can be seen, while the training switch 78 is in the open position, there will be an open circuit through leads 74 and 76 regardless of the position of trigger switch 72 (for example, the flow of electrons between leads 74 and 76 is blocked by the open position of training switch 78). However, while training switch 78 is controlled to the closed position, and trigger switch 72 is in the closed position, conductivity is established between conductors 74 and 76 (for example, the flow of electrons between conductors 74 and 76 is enabled). Accordingly, the welding power source 28 can allow welding power to flow through the welding torch 14 only while the Training Switch 78 is in the closed position and while the Trigger Switch 72 is in the closed position. For example, welding energy can flow from the welding energy source 28, through a welding cable 80, the welding torch 14, a workpiece 82, and return to the welding energy source 28 through from a work cable 84 (for example, negative electrode or direct polarity). Conversely, welding energy can flow from the welding power source 28, through the work wire 84, the workpiece 82, the s <, and back to the welding power source 28 through the solder 80 (eg, positive electrode, or reverse polarity).
As can be appreciated, Training Switch 78 can be physically located in any suitable portion of welding system 10, such as computer 18, and so on. Furthermore, in certain modalities, the functionality of the Training Switch 78 can be replaced by any suitable hardware and / or software in the welding system 10.
FIG. 2A is a schematic diagram of one embodiment of a welding torch circuit 14 of FIG. 1. In the illustrated mode, Trigger Switch 72 selectively connects a power supply conductor (eg, voltage source, etc.) to the driver 71. Accordingly, while trigger conductor 72 is open, no voltage is applied to conductor 71, and while trigger switch 72 is closed, a voltage from the power supply conductor is supplied to conductor 71. A trigger signal trigger (eg
TRIGGER_EN) can be provided by control circuit 52 to selectively control Training Switch 78, and thereby control a feeder trigger switch 85. For example, when the trigger trigger signal controls Training Switch 78 to an open position, no voltage is applied to the Feeder Activation Switch 85 (for example, through the connection
FEEDER_EN), thereby maintaining the Feeder Activation Switch 85 in the open position. Conversely, when the trigger trigger signal controls Trigger Switch 78 to a closed position, voltage is applied to feeder trigger switch 85, thereby controlling feeder trigger switch 85 to the closed position. With the Feeder Activation Switch in the closed position, the conductivity is set between 6
Although an example of a welding torch circuit 14 is provided, any suitable circuit can be used within the welding torch 14. A microprocessor in control circuit 52 can pulse the trigger enable signal at predetermined intervals to provide an indication to the circuit. detection of control circuit 52 that the trigger signal is working properly. If the detection circuit does not detect the trigger signal, the trigger may not be activated.
Figure 3 is a perspective view of one embodiment of the welding torch 14 of Figures 1 and 2. As illustrated, User Interface 60 includes various buttons 86 that can be used to provide inputs to welding torch 14. By For example, buttons 86 can make it possible for a welding operator to navigate through the welding software. Furthermore, the welding torch 14 includes the visual presenter 62 which can display to the welding operator data corresponding to the welding software, data corresponding to a welding operation, and so on. As illustrated, LEDs 64 can be placed at various locations on the welding torch 14. Accordingly, LEDs 64 can be illuminated to facilitate detection by detection device 16. As described in detail below, one or more sets of LEDs 64 may be arranged on the welding torch 14 to facilitate detection by the detection device 16 regardless of the position of the welding torch in the welding environment. For example, one or more sets of LEDs 64 may be arranged around the welding torch 14 and oriented in directions that allow the detection device 16 to detect the position and orientation of the welding torch 14 in a flat welding position, a position of horizontal weld, a vertical weld position and an overhead position. Furthermore, the one or π l ·<sup>4</sup> they may allow detection device 16 to substantially continuously detect movement of the welding torch 14 between various welding positions in the welding environment before starting a welding process, movement of the welding torch during a welding process, and the movement of the welding torch after completing a welding process, or any combination thereof. In some embodiments, a scanning device 65, such as a fingerprint scanner, may be provided in the welding torch 14. The scanning device 65 may be a part of the operator identification system 43. The operator may use the scanning device 65 for providing identification information to the operator identification system 43 of the welding system 10. For example, the operator may scan a finger before and / or after performing a welding process to facilitate verification that the identified operator performed the welding process. In some embodiments, the operator may use the scanning device 65 within a relatively short window (eg, approximately 3, 5, 10, or 15 seconds) of starting or completing a welding process to verify the identity of the operator. That is, the welding system 10 and / or the welding torch 14 can block the operator from starting or completing a welding process if the welding process does not start within the short window after verification of the identity of the operator. . Accordingly, the operator identification system 43 can be used to reduce or eliminate cases where the performance of a given welding process by a second operator and the associated welding data of the given welding process are erroneously attributed to a first operator who did not perform the given welding process.
FIG. 4 is a perspective view of one embodiment of base 12 of FIG. 1. Base 12 includes a weld surface 88 <for live welds (eg, actual welds, true welds) and / or welds simulated. Feet 90 provide support to weld surface 88. In certain embodiments, weld surface 88 may include grooves 91 to assist a weld operator in positioning and orienting workpiece 82. In certain embodiments, the position and orientation of the workpiece 82 can be provided to the welding software of the welding system 10 to calibrate the welding system 10. For example, a welding operator can provide an indication to the welding software that Identify which slot 91 in weld surface 88 is aligned with workpiece 82. Furthermore, a predefined welding task can direct the welding operator to align workpiece 82 with a particular slot 91. In certain embodiments, workpiece 82 may include an extension 92 configured to extend within one or more of grooves 91 for alignment of workpiece 82 with one or more grooves 91. As can be seen, each of the grooves 91 can be placed in a place that corresponds to a respective location defined by the welding software.
Weld surface 88 includes a first opening 93 and a second opening 94. The first and second openings 93 and 94 can be used together to determine a position and / or orientation of weld surface 88. As can be appreciated, in certain Modalities of at least three openings can be used to determine the position and / or orientation of the weld surface 88. In some embodiments, more than three openings can be used to determine the position and / or orientation of the weld surface 88. The first and second openings 93 and 94 can be placed at any suitable location on the weld surface.
88, and can be of any suitable size. In certain modalities, the position and / or
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Orientation of the weld surface 88 relative to the di can be calibrated using the first and second openings 93 and 94. For example, as described in greater detail below, a calibration device configured to be detected by the detection device 16 can be inserted into first opening 5 93, or touched to first opening 93. When the calibration device is inserted into, or touches, the first opening 93, a user input provided with the welding software (or other calibration software) may indicate the calibration device is inserted into the first opening 93. As a result, the welding software can establish a correlation between a first set of data (eg, calibration data) received 10 from detection device 16 (eg, position and / or bearing data), at first. , and the location of the first opening 93. The calibration device can then be inserted into the second opening 94, or touched to the second opening 94. While the calibration device is Inserted into, or touches, the second opening 94, a user input provided with the welding software may indicate that the calibration device 15 is Inserted into the second opening 94. As a result, the welding software may establish a correlation between a second set of data (eg, calibration data) received from detection device 16 at a second time and the location of second opening 94. Thus, the welding software may be able to calibrate the position and / or orientation of the surface of the weld 88 relative to the detection device 16 using the first data set received at the first time and the second data set received at the second moment.
Weld surface 88 also includes a first marker 95 and a second marker 96. The first and second markers 95 and 96 can be used together to determine a position and / or orientation of the weld surface 88.
As you can see, in certain modalities at least
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used to determine the position and / or orientation of the weld surface 88. In some embodiments, more than three markers can be used to determine the position and / or orientation of the weld surface 88. The first and second markers 95 and 96 can be formed from any suitable material. Furthermore, in certain embodiments, the first and second markers 95 and 96 can be integrated into the weld surface 88, while in other embodiments, the first and second markers 95 and 96 can be attached to the weld surface 88. For example , the first and second markers 95 and 96 can be affixed to the weld surface 88 using an adhesive and / or the first and second markers 95 and 96 can be decals. The first and second markers 95 and 96 can have any suitable shape, size and / or color. Furthermore, in certain embodiments, the first and second markers 95 and 96 may be a reflector formed from a reflective material. The first and second markers 95 and 96 can be used by the welding system 10 to calibrate the position and / or orientation of the welding surface 88 relative to device 16 without a separate calibration device. Accordingly, the first and second markers 95 and 96 are configured to be detected by the detection device 16. In certain embodiments, the first and second markers 95 and 96 can be placed at predetermined locations on the weld surface 88. Furthermore, , the welding software can be programmed to use the predetermined locations to determine the position and / or orientation of the welding surface 88. In other embodiments, the location of the first and second markers 95 and 96 can be provided to the welding software during calibration. With the first and second markers 95 and 96 on the weld surface 88, the detection device 16 can detect the position and / or orientation of the first and second markers 95 and 96 relative to the detection device 16. Using these dat
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With the location of the first and second markers 95 and 96 on the weld surface 88, the weld software may be able to calibrate the position and / or orientation of the weld surface 88 relative to the detection device 16. In some embodiments , the welding surface 88 can be removable and / or reversible. In such embodiments, the weld surface 88 can be flipped, just as if the weld surface 88 were worn.
In the illustrated embodiment, workpiece 82 includes a first marker 98 and a second marker 99. The first and second markers 98 and 99 can be used together to determine a position and / or orientation of workpiece 82. As is You can see, at least two markers are used to determine the position and / or orientation of workpiece 82. In certain embodiments, more than two markers can be used to determine the position and / or orientation of workpiece 82. The first and second markers 98 and 99 can be formed from any suitable material. Furthermore, in certain modes, the first and second markers 98 and 99 can be integrated into workpiece 82, while in other modes, the first and second markers 98 and 99 can be attached to workpiece 82. For example, the first and second markers 98 and 99 can be affixed to the workpiece 82 using an adhesive and / or the first and second markers 98 and 99 can be decals. As a further example, the first and second markers 98 and 99 can be clamped or secured on the workpiece 82. The first and second markers 98 and 99 can be of any suitable shape, size and / or color. Furthermore, in certain embodiments, the first and second markers 98 and 99 may be a reflector formed from a reflective material. The first and second markers 98 and 99 can be used by the welding system 10 to calibrate the position and / or orientation of the workpiece 82 relative to the separate calibration detection device. Consequently, the first and second markers 98 and 99 are configured to be detected by detection device 16. In certain embodiments, the first and second markers 98 and 99 can be placed at predetermined locations on workpiece 82. In addition, the welding software can be programmed to use the predetermined locations to determine the position and / or orientation of the workpiece 82. In other embodiments, the location of the first and second markers 98 and 99 can be provided to the welding software during calibration. With the first and second markers 98 and 99 on the workpiece 82, the detection device 16 can detect the position and / or orientation of the first and second markers 98 and 99 relative to the detection device 16. Using this detected data in conjunction with the location of the first and second markers 98 and 99 on workpiece 82, the welding software may be able to calibrate the position and / or orientation of workpiece 82 relative to the detection 16. Although markers 95, 96, 98, and 99 have been described herein as being detected by detection device 16, in certain embodiments, markers 95, 96, 98, and 99 may indicate locations where a calibration device is to be touched. for calibration using the calibration device, as previously described.
Base 12 includes a first arm 100 that extends vertically from weld surface 88 and configured to provide support for detection device 16 and visual presenter 32. A knob 101 is attached to first arm 100 and can be used to adjust an orientation of the detection device 16 in relation to the first arm 100. For example, when the knob 101 is adjusted, mechanical components extending through the first arm 100 can adjust an angle of the detection device 16. The vlsu presenter to protect the visual presenter 32 from welding emissions that may occur during a live welding operation. Cap 102 can be made of any suitable material, such as a transparent material, a polymer, and so on. By using a transparent material, a welding operator can view visual presenter 32 while cap 102 is placed in front of visual presenter 32, such as before, during and / or after a welding operation. Detection device 16 may include camera 104 coupled to first arm 100 to record welding operations. In certain embodiments, camera 104 may be a High Dynamic Range (HDR) camera. Furthermore, detection device 16 may include an emitter 105 coupled to first arm 100. Emitter 105 can be used to calibrate the position and / or orientation of weld surface 88 relative to detection device 16. For example, the emitter 105 may be configured to emit a visible pattern on the weld surface 88, the workpiece 82, the welding torch 14 or the operator, or any combination thereof. That is, the pattern emitted by emitter 105 is visible to camera 104. Emitter 105 can emit the visible pattern at a desired wavelength, such as a wavelength in the Infrared, visible, or ultraviolet spectrum (eg, approximately 1 mm at 120 nm). The visible pattern can be shown on weld surface 88 and / or workpiece 82. Furthermore, the visible pattern can be detected by detection device 16 to calibrate the position and / or orientation of weld surface 88 relative to detection device 16. For example, based on particular characteristics of the visible pattern, alignments and / or orientations can be determined by detection device 16 and / or welding software. Furthermore, the visible pattern emitted by emitter 105 can be used to facilitate placement of workpiece 82 on weld surface 88. As described in greater detail below ..... At detection 16 (eg , camera 104) can detect the visible pattern to determine a shape (eg, tube, S shape, I shape, U shape) of workpiece 82, the operator, or the position of the welding torch 14 before the welder. In some embodiments, the visible pattern can be detected by the detection device during welding to detect workpiece 82, the operator, welding torch 14, or any combination thereof.
In some embodiments, the one or more welding base detection devices 16 may include a second chamber 109 coupled to a third arm
107 to record welding operations in a similar way to camera 104.
Furthermore, a second emitter 113 coupled to the third arm 107 can emit a visible pattern on the welding surface 88, the workpiece 82, the welding torch 14, or the operator, or any combination thereof. The second emitter 113 can emit the visible pattern at a desired wavelength, such as a wavelength in the infrared, visible, or ultraviolet spectrum. The visible pattern emitted from the second emitter 113 can be approximately the same wavelength or a different wavelength as the visible pattern emitted by the emitter 105. As can be appreciated, the second chamber 109 and the second emitter 113 can be positioned to have a different orientation (for example, perpendicular, greater than about 5, 10, 20,
30, 45, 50, 60, 75 or 80 degrees or more) with respect to the workpiece 82 that the camera
104 and emitter 105, then making it possible to determine the shape of workpiece 82, the position of the operator, or the position of the welding torch 14 in case the detection device 16 of any arm 100, 107 is obscured of vision of a portion of the welding environment. In some embodiments, detection devices 16 may include multiple sets of cameras and emitters
IMPI
<img file="MX360446B_D0010.tif" />
arranged at various points around the solida environment.
welding base 12 to facilitate monitoring the position and movement of targets in the welding environment if one or more detection devices 16 are obscured from view of the welding environment. As described in greater detail below, the receiver (eg, camera 104) and emitter 105 can be integrated with the welding helmet 41, then making it possible for the welding system 10 to monitor the position and / or orientation of the welding torch. weld 14 and workpiece relative to weld helmet 41.
Base 12 also includes a second arm 106 that extends vertically from weld surface 88 and configured to provide support for weld plate 108 (eg, vertical weld plate, horizontal weld plate, aerial weld plate, etc. .). The second arm 106 can be adjustable to facilitate aerial welding at different heights. Furthermore, the second arm 106 can be manufactured in a number of different ways to facilitate aerial welding at different heights. Weld plate 108 is coupled to second arm 106 using mounting assembly 110. Mounting assembly 110 facilitates rotation of welding plate 108 as illustrated by arrow 111. For example, weld plate 108 can be rotated from generally extending in the horizontal plane (eg, for overhead welding), as illustrated, to generally extending in the vertical plane (eg, for vertical welding). Weld plate 108 Includes a weld surface 112. Weld surface 112 Includes grooves 114 that can assist a weld operator to position workpiece 82 on weld surface 112, similar to grooves 91 on weld surface 88. In certain embodiments, the position of the workpiece 82 may be provided with welding software of the welding system 10 to calibrate the welding system 10. For example, a welding operator w '·. ·>
Prompt to weld software to identify which groove 114 of weld surface 112 is aligned with workpiece 82. In addition, a predefined weld task can direct the weld operator to align weld piece 84 with a particular groove 114 . In certain embodiments, workpiece 82 may include an extension configured to extend into one or more of grooves 114 for alignment of workpiece 82 with one or more grooves 114. As can be seen, each of the grooves 114 can be placed in a location that corresponds to a respective location defined in the welding software.
The weld surface 112 also includes a first marker 116 and a second marker 118. The first and second markers 116 and 118 can be used together to determine a position and / or orientation of the weld surface 112. As can be appreciated, by minus two markers are used to determine the position and / or orientation of the weld surface 112. In certain embodiments, more than two markers can be used to determine the position and / or orientation of the weld surface 112. The first and second markers 116 and 118 can be formed from any suitable material. Furthermore, in certain modes, the first and second markers 116 and 118 can be integrated into the weld surface 112 (or another part of the weld plate 108), while in other modes, the first and second markers 116 and 118 can be attached to the weld surface 112 (or other part of the weld plate 108). For example, the first and second markers 116 and 118 can be affixed to the weld surface 112 using an adhesive and / or the first and second markers 116 and 118 can be decals. As a further example, the first and second markers 116 and 118 can be clamped or secured on the weld surface 112. In some embodiments, the first and second markers 116 and 118 can be integrated into one; m
INDUSTRIAL ...... fclliSf ...... * that is clamped on a welding probe. The first and second markers 116 and 118 can be of any suitable shape, size and / or color. Furthermore, in certain embodiments, the first and second markers 116 and 118 may be a reflector formed from a reflective material.
The first and second markers 116 and 118 can be used by the welding system 10 to calibrate the position and / or orientation of the welding surface 112 relative to the detection device 16 without a separate calibration device. Accordingly, the first and second markers 116 and 118 are configured to be detected by detection device 16. In certain embodiments, the first and second markers 116 and 118 can be placed at predetermined locations on the weld surface 112. Furthermore, the welding software can be programmed to use the predetermined locations to determine the position and / or orientation of the welding surface 112. In other embodiments, the location of the first and second markers 116 and 118 can be provided to the welding software during calibration. With the first and second markers 116 and 118 on the weld surface 112, the detection device 16 can detect the position and / or orientation of the first and second markers 116 and 118 relative to the detection device 16. Using this detected data in conjunction with the location of the first and second markers 116 and 118 on the weld surface 112, the welding software may be able to calibrate the position and / or orientation of the weld surface 112 relative to the detection 16. Furthermore, detection device 16 can detect and / or track the first and second markers 116 and 118 during a weld to compensate for any movement of the weld plate 108 that may occur during the weld. Although markers 116 and 118 have been described
<img file="MX360446B_D0011.tif" />
here as being detected by detection device 1
INDUSTRIAL markers 116 and 118 can indicate locations where a calibration device is to be touched or inserted for calibration using the calibration device, as previously described.
FIG. 5 is a perspective view of one embodiment of a calibration device 120. In some embodiments, the calibration device 120 is configured as a torch and can be used to calibrate the position and / or orientation of the weld surfaces 88 and 112 with respect to detection device 16. In other embodiments, calibration device 120 can be used to calibrate the position and / or orientation of a weld joint. Calibration device 120 Includes a handle 122 and a nozzle 124. Nozzle 124 Includes a pointed end 126 that can be used to touch a location for calibration and / or to be Inserted into an opening for calibration. Calibration device 120 also includes a user interface 128 that enables the welding operator to provide input corresponding to a time when calibration device 120 is touching a location for calibration and / or is being inserted into an opening for calibration . In addition, in certain embodiments, the calibration device 120 includes markers 130 configured to be detected by detection device 16. As illustrated, the markers 130 extend from the calibration device 120. However, in other embodiments, the markers 130 may not extend from the calibration device 120. The markers 130 may be any suitable marker configured to be detected by the detection device 16. In addition, the markers 130 can be of any suitable size, shape and / or color.
During calibration, the detection device 16 can detect a position of the calibration device 120 and / or an orientation of the device ir> r τ * τ ..................
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JL 1VJL Jl JL Birii * '' s ° calibration 120. The position and / or orientation of the device ie used by the welding software to determine a position and / or orientation of one or more of the welding surfaces 88 and 112 relative to to the detection device 16, a position and / or orientation of the workpiece 82 relative to the detection device 16, a position and / or orientation of an Installation relative to the detection device 16, and so on. In this way, the calibration device 120 can facilitate the calibration of the welding system 10. In some embodiments, a tray can be placed below the welding surface 88 to store the calibration device 120. Furthermore, in certain embodiments live welding can be disabled if the calibration device 120 is capable of being tracked by the detection device 16 (eg, to block the spatter from contacting the calibration device 120).
FIG. 6 is a perspective view of one embodiment of a clamp assembly 132. Clamp assembly 132 may be placed on weld surface 88 and / or weld surface 112, and may secure workpiece 82 on the same. In certain embodiments, clamp assembly 132 can be configured to align with one or more of grooves 92 and 114. In other embodiments, clamp assembly 132 can be placed anywhere on weld surface 88 and / or weld surface 122. Clamp assembly 132 also includes a first marker 134 and a second marker 136. The first and Second markers 134 and 136 can be used together to determine a position and / or orientation of clamp assembly 132. As can be appreciated, at least two markers are used to determine the position and / or orientation of clamp assembly 132. The first and second markers 134 and 136 can be formed from any suitable material. In addition, in certain embodiments, the first and second markers 134 and 136 may be integrated into the clamp assembly, and other modalities, the first and second markers 134 and 136 may be attached to the clamp assembly 132. For example, the first and second markers 134 and 136 may be affixed to the fastening assembly 132 using an adhesive and / or the first and second markers 134 and 136 may be stickers (eg, tape). The first and second markers 134 and 136 can be of any suitable shape, size and / or color. Furthermore, in certain embodiments, the first and second markers 134 and 136 may be a reflector formed from a reflective material. The first and second markers 134 and 136 can be used by the welding system 10 to calibrate the position and / or orientation of the clamping assembly 132 relative to the detection device 16 without a separate calibration device. Accordingly, the first and second markers 134 and 136 are configured to be detected by detection device 16. In certain embodiments, the first and second markers 134 and 136 can be placed at predetermined locations on the clamp assembly 132.
Additionally, the welding software can be programmed to use the predetermined locations to determine the position and / or orientation of the clamp assembly 132. In other embodiments, the location of the first and second markers 134 and 136 can be provided to the welding software. during calibration. With the first and second markers 134 and 136 in clamp assembly 132, the detection device
16 can detect the position and / or orientation of the first and second markers 134 and
136 relative to detection device 16. Using this detected data in conjunction with the location of the first and second markers 134 and 136 in fixture assembly 132, the welding software may be able to calibrate the position and / or orientation of the fixture assembly. fixing 132 in relation to the detection device 16.
Although the first and second markers 134 and 136 have been described herein as being detected by detection device 16, on certain n and second markers 134 and 136 can locate indications where a calibration device is to be touched or inserted for calibration using the calibration device 120, as previously described.
In the illustrated embodiment, clamp assembly 132 is configured to secure a lower portion 138 of workpiece 82 to an upper portion 140 of workpiece 82 to perform a lap weld. In other embodiments, clamp assembly 132 may be secured to secure portions of workpiece 82 to perform a butt weld, a fillet weld, and so on, to assist a weld operator to perform a weld.
Fixing assembly 132 includes vertical arms 142 extending from a base 143. A traverse 144 extends between vertical arms 142, and is secured to vertical arms 142. Adjustment mechanisms 146 (eg, knobs) can be adjusted for directing locking devices 148 towards workpiece 82 to secure workpiece 82 between locking devices 148 and base 143 of clamping assembly 132. Conversely, the adjusting mechanisms 146 can be adjusted to direct the securing devices 148 away from the work piece 82 to remove the work piece 82 from being between the securing devices 148 and the base 143. Accordingly, the Workpiece 82 can be selectively secured to clamp assembly 132.
FIG. 7 is a perspective view of a weld wire extension calibration tool 150. Tool 150 is configured to calibrate a length of the weld wire extending from a torch tip to a selectable length. Consequently, tool 150 includes a first handle 152 and a second handle 154. Tool 150 also includes a τ »ir ir% τ .............- OR
ΛΛ IJ 1 Λομ ·, ® JL 1VJL Jl JL '1st torch nozzle holder 156 attached to a central portion n) <sub>M LA</sub> PliQf¡EDAD lOjlgif © and extending outward from the central portion 157 at a selected distance. In the illustrated embodiment, the torch nozzle holder 156 has a generally cylindrical body 158 (eg, cup-shaped); however, in other embodiments, the body 158 of the torch nozzle holder 156 may have any suitable shape. Furthermore, the torch nozzle holder 156 is configured to receive the torch nozzle through a nozzle inlet 150 such that the torch nozzle extends into body 158. Furthermore, the torch nozzle holder 156 It includes an opening 162 configured to allow the welding wire to extend out of the end of the torch nozzle holder 156 and block the torch nozzle from extending through the aperture 162. When the torch nozzle extends into the torch nozzle holder 156, the weld wire extends out of opening 162 of the torch nozzle holder 156 into a blade assembly 164 of tool 150. Blade Assembly 164 It includes one or more sides 165 and 166 configured to make contact with the welding wire. In certain embodiments, both sides 165 and 166 include blades for cutting opposite sides of the weld sides, while in other embodiments only one side 165 and 166 includes a blade for cutting one side of the weld wire and the other side Includes a surface towards which the blade is directed. To gauge the length of the weld wire, the weld wire can extend through the opening
162 and within the blade assembly 164. The weld wire can be cut to a selectable length by pressing the first handle 152 and the second handle 154 toward each other, thus calibrating the length of wire extending from the torch nozzle. The calibration length can be selected using an adjusting mechanism 167 to adjust a distance 168 between the blade assembly
164 and the opening 162 of the torch nozzle holder 156. in
150, the length of wire extending from the torch nozzle can be calibrated.
FIG. 8 is a top view of the welding wire extension calibration tool 150 of FIG. 7. As illustrated, the welding torch 14 can be used with the tool 150. Specifically, a nozzle 170 of the welding torch 14 it can be inserted into the torch nozzle holder 156 in one direction 172. Welding wire 174 extending from welding torch 14 is routed through nozzle inlet 160, opening 162, and knife assembly 164. Accordingly, the first and second handles 152 and 154 can be pressed together to cut the weld wire 154 to the distance 168 (for example, the calibration length) established by the adjusting mechanism 167.
FIG. 9 is an embodiment of a method 176 for calibrating wire extension from the welding torch 14. Tool 150 can be used to calibrate the length of welding wire 174 extending from the nozzle 170 using a variety of methods. In method 176, the adjustment mechanism 167 of the weld wire extension calibration tool 150 can be adjusted for a selected weld wire length 174 (block 178). For example, the distance 168 of the torch nozzle holder 156 from the tool 150 can be set in a range of between about 0.5 to 2.0 cm, 1.0 to 3.0 cm, and so on. The welding torch 14 can be inserted into the torch nozzle holder 156 of the tool 150, such that the nozzle 170 of the welding nozzle 14 splices the torch nozzle holder 156, and that the welding wire 174 extends through opening 162 of the torch nozzle holder
156 (block 180). In certain embodiments, the weld wire 174 can be lo
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JL jLVJL Jl JL Birii * '' s ° long enough to extend through the assembly However, if the welding wire 174 does not extend through the blade assembly 164, a welding operator may actuate the torch trigger 70 weld 14 to feed weld wire 174 such that weld wire 174 extends through knife assembly 164 (block 182). Accordingly, the welding operator can compress handles 152 and 154 of tool 150 to cut weld wire 174 extending through knife assembly 164 and thereby calibrate the length of weld wire 174 (block 184). .
FIG. 10 is a perspective view of one embodiment of a welding consumable 186 having physical markings. Welding consumable 186 can be any suitable welding consumable, such as a welding rod, welding rod, or welding electrode. Welding consumable 186 Includes physical marks 188, 190, 192, 194, 196, 198, 200, 202 and 204. Physical marks 188, 190, 192, 194, 196, 198, 200, 202 and 204 can be any brand adequate physics. For example, physical marks 188, 190, 192, 194, 196, 198, 200, 202, and 204 can include a barcode, an Image, a shape, a color, text, a data set, and so on. In certain embodiments, physical marks 188, 190, 192, 194, 196, 198, 200, 202, and 204 can be laser engraved. Furthermore, in certain modalities, the physical marks 188, 190, 192, 194, 196, 198, 200, 202 and 204 can be visible to the naked eye (for example, within the visible spectrum), while in other modalities the marks Physicals 188, 190, 192, 194, 196, 198, 200, 202, and 204 may not be visible to the naked eye (eg, not within the visible spectrum).
Each of the physical markings 188, 190, 192, 194, 196, 198, 200, 202, and 204 indicates a location on the welding consumable 186 relative to either a first end 206, or a second end 208 of the welding consumable. weld 186. For example, physical mark 188 may indicate a distance from i ... is distance from second end 208 or some other location relative to weld consumable 186. In certain embodiments, physical marks 1988, 190,192, 194, 196, 198, 200, 202, and 204 may indicate a number that corresponds to the first end 206 and / or the second end 208. For example, physical mark 188 may indicate a number "1" indicating that it is the first physical mark from the first end 206 and / or physical mark 188 may indicate a number "9" indicating that it is the ninth physical mark from the second end 208. A processing device may use a lookup table to determine a distance from the first end 206 or the second end 208 based on the number indicated by the physical mark.
A camera-based detection system, which may include detection device 16, or other type of system, is configured to detect physical marks 1988, 190, 192, 194, 196, 198, 200, 202, and 204 during live arc welding or welding simulation. In addition, the camera-based detection system is configured to determine a remaining length of the welding consumable 186, a consumed length of the welding consumable 186, a usage rate of the welding consumable 186, a dip rate of the welding consumable 186, and so on, based on the physical marks detected. Accordingly, data corresponding to the use of the welding consumable 186 can be tracked by the welding system 10 for training and / or analysis.
FIG. 11 is a perspective view of one embodiment of weld wire 210 having physical marks 212, 214, 216, and 218. Physical marks 212, 214, 216, and 218 may be any suitable physical mark. For example, physical marks 212, 214, 216, and 218 can include a barcode, an image, a shape, text, a data set, and so on. In certain modalities, physical marks 212,
214, 216 and 218 can be laser engraved. Furthermore, the physical marks 212, 214, 216 and 218 may be visible to the naked eye (for example, within the visible end), while in other embodiments the physical marks 212, 214, 216 and 218 may not be visible. with the naked eye (for example, not within the visible spectrum).
Each of the physical markings 212, 214, 216 and 218 indicates a location on the welding wire 210 relative to either a first end 220, or a second end 222 of the welding wire 210. For example, physical marking 212 it can indicate a distance from the first end 220, a distance from the second end 222, or some other location relative to the weld wire 210. In certain modalities, the physical marks 212, 214, 216 and 218 can indicate a number that corresponds to the first end 220 and / or the second end 222. For example, the physical mark 212 can indicate a number “1” that indicates that it is the first physical mark from the first end 222 and / or the physical mark 212 may indicate a number 4 "indicating that it is the fourth physical mark from the second end 222. A processing device may use a lookup table to determine a distance from the first end 220 or the second end 222 based on the number indicated by the physical mark.
A camera-based detection system, which may include detection device 16, or other type of system, is configured to detect physical marks 212, 214, 216 and 218 during live arc welding or welding simulation . Furthermore, the camera-based detection system is configured to determine a remaining length of the weld wire 210, a consumed length of the weld wire 210, a usage rate of the weld wire 210, a dip rate of the weld wire 210, and so on, based on the physical marks detected. Accordingly, data corresponding to the use of the weld wire 210 can be tracked by slste λ training and / or analysis.
FIG. 12 is a perspective view of one embodiment of a vertical arm assembly 223 of bracket 12 of FIG. 4. As illustrated, detection device 16 is attached to first arm 100. Furthermore, the detection device 16
It includes cameras 224, and an infrared emitter 226. However, in other embodiments, detection device 16 can include any suitable number of cameras, emitters, and / or other detection devices. A pivot assembly 228 is coupled to the first arm 100 and to the detection device 16, and makes it possible for an angle of the detection device 16 to be adjusted while the detection device 16 rotates as illustrated by arrow 229. As can be appreciated, adjusting the angle of the detection device 16 relative to the first arm 100 changes the field of view of the detection device 16 (for example, to change the portion of the weld surface 88 and / or the weld surface 112 detected by detection device 16). In some embodiments, detection device 16 may be arranged to observe at least a portion (eg, hands, face) of the operator before and / or after the completion of a welding process. Observation of the operator by the detection device 16, such as by a camera, can facilitate operator identification and verification that the identified operator carried out the observed welding process.
A wire 230 runs between knob 101 and the sensing device
16. Cable 230 is routed through a pulley 232 to facilitate rotation of detection device 16. Thus, a welding operator can rotate knob 101 to manually adjust the angle of detection device 16. As can be appreciated, the combination of the cable 230 and the pulley 232 is an example of a system for rotating the detection device 16. It should be noted that any system has been used to facilitate the rotation of the detection device 16. Although an embodiment of a knob 101 is illustrated, it can be appreciated that any suitable knob can be used to adjust the angle of the detection device 16. In addition, the angle of the detection device 16 can be adjusted using a motor 234 coupled to the cable.
230. Accordingly, a welding operator can operate motor 234 to adjust the angle of detection device 16. Furthermore, in certain embodiments, a control circuit can be coupled to motor 234 and can control the angle of detection device 16 with based on a desired field of view of detection device 16 and / or based on tracking an object within the field of view of detection device 16.
Fig. 13 is a perspective view of one embodiment of an overhead weld arm assembly 235. The overhead weld arm assembly 235 illustrates an embodiment of a manufacturing design that enables the second arm 106 to be height adjustable. . Consequently, as can be seen, the second arm
106 It can be manufactured to be height adjustable in a number of ways. As illustrated, the air weld assembly 235 includes handles 236 used to vertically raise and / or lower the second arm 106 as illustrated by arrows 238. The air weld arm assembly 235 includes a belay device 280 to secure the second arm 106 at a desired height. For example, the securing device 240 may include a button that is depressed to disengage a hook configured to extend into openings 242, thereby unlocking the second arm 106 from being secured to side rails 243. With the second arm 106 unlocking the rails Side handles 243, handles 236 can be vertically adjusted to a desired height, thereby adjusting plate 112 to a desired height. As can be seen, releasing the button so the hook extends into openings 242 and secures the second arm 106 to the side rails 243. As can be seen, the locking device 240 can be operated manually as described and / or the securing device 240 can be controlled by a control system (eg, automatically controlled). Furthermore, the second arm 106 can be vertically raised and / or lowered using the control system. For example, in certain embodiments, the welding software can control the second arm 106 to move to a desired position automatically. Thus, the plate 112 can be adjusted to a desired height for aerial welding.
FIG. 14 is a block diagram of a welding software mode 244 (eg, welding training software) of the welding system 10 having various modes. As illustrated, the welding software 244 can include one or more than one live arc mode 246 configured to make training possible using a live arc welding (eg real), a simulation mode 248 configured to do possible training using a welding simulation, a virtual reality (VR) mode 250 configured to make training possible using a VR simulation, and / or an augmented reality mode 252 configured to make training possible using augmented reality simulation.
The welding software 244 can receive signals from an audlo 254 input. The audlo 254 input can be configured to allow a welding operator to operate the welding software 244 using audible commands (eg, voice activation). Furthermore, the welding software 244 can be configured to provide either an audlo 256 output or a 258 video output. For example, welding software 244 may provide audible information to a welding operator using the audlo 256 output. This audible information may
<img file="MX360446B_D0012.tif" />
include Instructions for configuring (for example, scheduling) the real-time feedback provided to a welding operator during a welding operation, instructions to a welding operator before carrying out a welding operation, instructions to a welding operator after of carrying out a welding operation, alerts, and so on.
Fig. 15 is a block diagram of a mode of VR 250 mode of welding software 244. VR mode 250 is configured to provide a welding operator with a VR 260 simulation. VR 260 simulation can be visually presented to an operator Solder through a VR headset, 10 VR glasses, a VR visual presenter or any suitable VR device. In some embodiments, the visual presenter 32 of the helmet 41 of the welding system 10 can facilitate the VR 260 simulation. The VR 260 simulation can be configured to include a variety of virtual objects, such as the objects illustrated in Figure 15, which make Interaction between a welding operator and a virtual object selected from 15 the variety of virtual objects within the VR 260 simulation is possible. For example, virtual objects can include a virtual workpiece 262, a virtual soldering base 264, a virtual soldering torch 266, virtual wire cutters 265, virtual software setup 270, virtual training data results 272 and / or or a virtual glove 274.
In certain modalities, the weld operator can interact with virtual objects without touching a physical object. For example, detection device 16 can detect movement of the weld operator and can result in similar movements that occur in VR simulation 260 based on movements of the weld operator in the real world. In other embodiments, the welding operator may use a glove or welding torch 14 to interact with the virtual objects. For example, the glove or the blowtorch of f '<sup>r</sup> detected by the detection device 16, and / or the welding torch or glove 14 may correspond to a virtual object in the VR 260 simulation. Furthermore, the welding operator may be able to operate the welding software 244 within VR 260 simulation using virtual software setup 270 and / or virtual training data results 272. For example, the welding operator may use his hand, glove, or welding torch 14 to select items within the welding software 244 that are virtually displayed visually within the VR 260 simulation. In addition, the welding operator may carry out other actions such as picking wire cutters and cutting virtual weld wire extending from virtual torch 266, all within the VR 260 simulation.
Figure 16 is an embodiment of a method 276 for integrating training result data, non-training result data, simulation result data, and so on. Method 276 includes welding software 244 from computer 18 that receives a first set of welding data from a storage device (eg, storage device 24) (block 278). The first set of weld data may include weld data corresponding to a first weld session (eg weld assignment). Method 276 also includes welding software 244 that receives a second set of welding data from the storage device (block
280). In certain embodiments, the first set and / or second set of weld data can be received from a network storage device. The networked storage device can be configured to receive welding data from and / or to provide welding data to the welding system 10 and / or the external welding system 40. The welding software 244 can Integrate the former and
<img file="MX360446B_D0013.tif" />
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IM DI | ΕβίΒΐΜ «! Μ® second weld data sets in a graphical visual comparison of the first weld data set with the second weld data set (block 282). As you can see, the graph can be a bar graph, a pie graph, a line graph, a histogram, and so on. In certain embodiments, integrating the first weld data set with the second weld data set includes filtering the first weld data set and the second weld data set to visually present a subset of the first weld data set, and a subset of the second weld data set. The welding software 244 can provide the graph to a display device (eg, display presenter 32) (block 284). In certain embodiments, providing the graph to the display device includes providing selectable elements on the graph that when selected visually display data that corresponds to a respective selected element of the selectable elements (eg, Selecting wire speed from the graph can change the screen to visually present the wire speed history for a particular weld session (eg weld assignment).
The first weld data set and / or the second weld data set may include a welding torch orientation, a welding torch travel speed, a welding torch position, a contact tip to part distance working, a welding torch target, a welding score, a degree of welding, and so on. Furthermore, the first weld data set and the second weld data set may correspond to training carried out by a weld operator and / or by a class of weld operators. Also, the first welding session (for
<img file="MX360446B_D0014.tif" />
example, weld assignment) and the second weld assignment session) may correspond to training conducted by a weld operator and / or by a class of weld operators. In certain embodiments, the first weld assignment may correspond to training performed by a first weld operator, and the second weld assignment may correspond to weld performed by a second weld operator. Furthermore, the first assignment and the second assignment may correspond to the same welding scenario, in addition, or alternatively, the first welding data set and the second welding data set may correspond to welding sessions (for example, assignments ) performed by a welding operator and / or a class of welding operators outside of a training environment (eg, production floor).
Figure 17 is an embodiment of a graph 285 illustrating various sets of welding data for a welding operator. Graph 285 may be produced by welding software 244 and may be provided to visual presenter 32 for use by a Welding Instructor to review welding operations performed by a welding student, and / or may be provided to the visual presenter 32 to be used by a welding student to review welding operations carried out by that welding student. Graph 285 illustrates a bar graph comparison between different sessions (eg, assignments) of a first set of welding assignments carried out by a welding operator. The first set of welding sessions (for example, welding assignments) Includes sessions (for example, assignments) 286, 288, 290, 292, and 294. Graph 285 also illustrates a bar graph comparison between different assignments of a second set of welding sessions (for example, welding assignments) performed by the operator c R>
set of welding sessions (for example, welding assignments) includes sessions (for example, assignments) 296, 298, 300, 302 and 304. Consequently, the welding sessions (for example, welding assignments) can be compared to each other for analysis, instruction, certification and / or training purposes. As illustrated, weld sessions (eg weld assignments) can be compared to each other using any of a number of criteria, such as a total score, a working angle, an angle of displacement, a speed of displacement, a contact distance to work, a target, a mode (for example, live arc mode, simulation mode, etc.), a completion state (for example, complete, incomplete, partially complete, etc.), a type of joint (eg fillet, butt, tee, flap, etc.), a weld position (eg flat, vertical, aerial, etc.), a type of metal used, a type of filler metal , and so on.
The welding software 244 can associate an operator with welding data (for example, arc parameters, welding parameters) acquired during a welding session (for example, live arc welding assignment, simulated welding assignment, and so on). For example, welding software 244 can identify the welding operator by an operator name 291, an operator registration number 293, an operator photograph 295, and so on. For example, the Operator Identification System 43 described above with FIG. 1 can be used to determine operator registration number 293. That is, each operator registration number 29 3 may correspond to the operator name 291 and a set of Identification Information (eg, Keyable Information 45, Blood Information 47, tab 49). In some embodiments, registration number 293 may be reset or reassigned to another operator after a period (eg 1, 3, 5, 10 or more years) of Inactivity at registration 293. Registration number 293 may be unique for each operator. In some embodiments, registration number 293 may be retained by the operator for an extended period of time (eg, career, life) regardless of the level of activity associated with registration number 293. That is, registration number 293 it can be a permanent identifier associated with each operator through a welding system 10 or a network of welding systems 10 connected by means of the network 38. Welding data associated with registration number 293 can be maintained locally or within one or more data storage systems, such as a cloud storage system or network database 38 coupled to the welding system 10. The data storage system 318 (eg, cloud storage system) of network 38 can be maintained by the manufacturer or other party, then making it possible for the weld data associated with a given registration number 293 to be independently retained of a state of employment of the operator with the registration number 293 determined. For example, operator registration number 293 and the data storage system (eg cloud storage system) can facilitate the retention of welding data associated with the operator from welding processes carried out during training , during a simulation, during a first job, during a second job, during personal time, or any combination thereof. In some embodiments, weld data stored within memory devices 22 or storage devices 24 of weld system computer 18 for a particular weld operator (eg, operator registration number 293) may be synchronized selectively or automatically with the data storage system (eg cloud storage system).
ΙΜΡΙ '33
Welding history data, such as d π
OF EMOXITY associated with each registration number 293. In some embodiments, welding history data is automatically acquired and stored in the data storage system (eg, cloud storage system) by welding software 244. of the welding system 10. In addition, or alternatively, welding history data may be uploaded directly to the data storage system (eg, cloud storage system) of network 38 through a remote computer 44. The welding software 244 can facilitate Access to weld history data through a 297 weld history control. Furthermore, welding software 244 can make it possible for the operator to associate personal information with registration number 293 through a personal user control 299. The operator associated with registration number 293 can enter one or more organizations (eg training center, school, employer, business organization) with which the operator is affiliated, experienced, certified for various welding processes and / or positions welding, a resume, or any combination thereof. Furthermore, registration number 293 may remain associated with the operator despite changes in affiliated organizations, experience, certifications, or any combination thereof.
FIG. 18 is an embodiment of a graph 305 illustrating weld data for a welder compared to weld data for a class. For example, graph 305 illustrates a 306 score from a welding operator compared to a 308 score (eg, average, median, or some other score) from a class for a first assignment. Furthermore, a welder operator score of 310 is compared to a class score of 312 (for example, average, median, or some other score) for a second assignment. Further, ,
A weld operator score of 314 is compared to a class, average, median, or some other score) for a third assignment. As can be appreciated, scores from one or more welding operators can be compared to scores from the entire class. This comparison makes it possible for a welding instructor to assess the progress of individual welding students compared to the welding student class. Furthermore, the scores of one or more welding operators can be compared with scores of one or more of other welding operators. In certain modalities, the scores of one class can be compared to the scores of another class. Furthermore, the scores of the first assignment, the second assignment and / or the third assignment can be selected for comparison.
FIG. 19 is a block diagram of one embodiment of a data storage system 318 (eg, cloud storage system) for storing weld data 327, such as certification status data 326. Data storage system 318 may include, but is not limited to, the computer 18 of the welding system 10, a remote computer 44 (eg, server) coupled to the welding system 10 via the Internet or a network 38, or any combination thereof. Certification status data can occur when a welding operator completes multiple assignments on the welding system 10. For example, a predetermined set of assignments can certify a welding operator for a particular welding device and / or welding process. Data storage system 318 (eg, cloud storage system includes control circuit 320, one or more memory devices 322, and one or more storage devices 324. Control circuit 320 may include one or more processors, which may be similar to processors 20.
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Also, 322 memory devices can be slmllí ie
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memory 22, and storage devices 324 may be similar to storage devices 24. Memory devices 322 and / or storage devices 324 can be configured to store certification status data 326 corresponding to a weld certification ( for example, welding training certification) from a welding operator.
Weld data 327 may include any data acquired by welding system 10 associated with weld operator registration number 293 (eg, any data that is related to assignments to certify the weld operator, weld data from training, simulated welding data, virtual reality welding data, live welding data), any data related to a real certification (for example, certified, uncertified, qualified, unqualified, etc.), an amount of one or more welds carried out by the welding operator, a time stamp for one or more welds carried out by the welding operator, a location and / or installation in which the welding operator performs the one or more welds, the components of the welding system used by the welding operator for the one or more welds, the organization with which the welding operator is affiliated, the organization for which the welding operator is performing the one or more welds, welding data and parameters for one or more welds carried out by the welding operator, a welding operator quality rating, a welding operator quality level, a history of welds carried out by the welding operator, a history of production welds carried out by the welding operator, a certification status of first welding process (for example, an inert metal gas welding (MIG) process, a welding process *
i »..... 'itS with inert tungsten gas (TIG), a welding process of <r, * h, if the welding operator is certified for the first welding process, if the welding operator is not certified for the first welding process), a state of certification for the second welding process (for example, if the welding operator is certified for the second welding process, if the welding operator is not certified for the second welding process ), a certification status of the first welding device (for example, a wire feeder, a power source, a model number, etc.) (for example, if the welding operator is certified for the first welding device, if the welding operator is not certified for the first welding device), and / or a second welding device certification status (for example, if the welding operator is certified for the second welding device, if the welding operator is not certified for the second welding device).
Control circuit 320 can be configured to receive a request for the first weld process certification status, the second weld process certification status, the first weld device certification status, and / or the second welding certification status Welding device of the welding operator. Furthermore, control circuit 320 can be configured to provide a response to the request. The response to the request may include the certification status of the first welding process, the certification status of the second welding process, the certification status of the first welding device and / or the certification status of the operator's second welding device welding. In certain embodiments, the welding operator may be authorized to use a first welding process, a second welding process, a first welding device, and / or a second welding device based on at least
IMPI partially in response. Also, in some modalldai. : r »„ * <in welding, the second welding process, the first welding device and / or the second welding device of a welding system can be enabled or disabled based at least partially on the response. Furthermore, in certain embodiments, the first welding process, the second welding process, the first welding device and / or the second welding device of a welding system can be automatically activated or deactivated. Thus, the identification data of a welding operator can be used to enable and / or disable the ability of that welding operator to use a particular welding system, welding device and / or welding process. For example, a welding operator may have a certification for a first welding process, but not for a second welding process. Consequently, in certain modalities, a welding operator can verify his Identity in a welding system (for example, at Login, when using the operator identification system 43, providing the registration number 293, or some other form of authentication. ). Once the identity of the welding operator is verified, the welding system can review the welding operator's certification status. The welding system can make it possible for the welding operator to carry out operations using the first welding process based on the welding operator's certification status, but can block the welding operator from carrying out the second process welding based on the welding operator's certification status.
The storage device 324 of the data storage system 318 (eg, cloud storage system) may have weld data 327 from various operators. The data storage system 318 may be a database containing weld data 327 associated with record numbers 293 to enable analysis and tracing of the 'r history for extended durations (eg, race, lifetime), even through one or more organizations. As can be appreciated, data storage system 318 (eg cloud storage system) can facilitate aggregation of certification status data 326 and / or weld data 327 to identify usage trends, anticipate supply problems or maintenance, and so on. Furthermore, coupling data storage system 318 to the Internet or other network 38 enables instructors or managers to monitor and analyze welding data away from the operator and welding system 10.
FIG. 20 is an embodiment of a screen illustrating data corresponding to a weld by an operator identified on the screen by registration number 293. In some embodiments, at each weld session (eg, test, weld assignment) Carried out by an operator and monitored by the welding system 10 it is assigned a unique serial number 329. Serial number 329 may be associated with registration number 293 within one or more local and / or remote data storage systems, such as a cloud storage system or network database 38 hosted on the Weld 10. Serial number 329 can be used to associate the physical weld sample with the captured weld test results. The serial number 329 format can include, but is not limited to a decimal number, hexadecimal number, or character string. Furthermore, the serial numbers 329 for the same assignment may be different for each operator. In some embodiments, serial number 329 is affixed to workpiece 82. For example, serial number 329 may be affixed to, stamped, engraved, embossed, or printed on work surface 82. In some embodiments, serial number 329 is encoded as a barcode attached to workpiece 82. In addition, or as an alternative, operator ρι series 329 on workpiece 82.
As described below, a search feature makes it possible for an instructor to enter the serial number 329 to retrieve the test results for the associated welding session (eg, welding test, assignment) without the instructor having to know the user (for example, registration number 293), the assignment or any other details about the weld. Consequently, the instructor can review the data that corresponds to each 329 serial number, then provide feedback to the respective operator. Furthermore, an inspector or technician may review the serial number 329 of a workpiece 82 to assist in a weld quality review carried out against welding procedure specifications (WPS) and / or to determine a maintenance program related to workpiece 82. That is, serial number 329 can be used to track work piece 82, weld data, arc data, and operator (eg, record number 293) through a life of work piece 82 respective. In some embodiments, serial number 329 may be stored within one or more local and / or remote data storage systems, such as a cloud storage system or network database 38 coupled to the welding system 10 . The screen can be produced by welding software 244 and can be displayed visually on visual display 32. The screen illustrates parameters that can be visually presented in graphical form to a welding operator before, during and / or after carrying out a welding operation. For example, parameters may include a working angle 328, a displacement angle 330, a contact tip to work piece distance 332, a welding torch travel speed 334, a torch target
<img file="MX360446B_D0015.tif" />
weld relative to workpiece junction 32 337, a welding current 338, a welding torch orientation, a welding torch position, and so on.
As illustrated, the graphically illustrated parameters may include an indication 339 of a current value of a parameter (eg, while conducting a welding session). In addition, a graph 340 can show a history of the parameter value, and a score 341 can show a total percentage corresponding to how long during the welding session the weld operator was within a range of acceptable values. In certain embodiments, a video repeat 342 of a welding session can be provided on the screen. Video Replay 342 can display live video of a welding operator performing a real weld, live video of the welding operator performing a simulated weld, live video of the welding operator performing a weld virtual reality, live video of the welding operator performing an augmented reality weld, live video of a welding arc, live video of a welding pit and / or simulated video of a welding operation.
In certain embodiments, the welding system 10 can capture video data during a welding session (eg, weld assignment), and store the video data in storage device 24 and / or data storage system 318 (for example, cloud storage system) over the network 38. Furthermore, the welding software 244 can be configured to configure the video data from the storage device 24 or data storage system 318, to retrieve welding parameter data from storage device 24 or data storage system 318 , to synchronize the video data with the welding parameter data, and to provide the synchronized video and visual parameter data 32.
In some embodiments, the welding system 10 can receive previously performed weld test data. Test results 343 based at least in part on test data can be visually displayed on the screen. The test data may include properties of the welding session carried out (for example, welding assignment), such as strength, porosity, penetration, hardness, heat affected zone size, appearance and contamination, or any combination of the themselves. Test data can be obtained through destructive or non-destructive tests carried out after the conclusion of the welding session. For example, the strength of a weld can be determined through a destructive test, while the porosity and penetration can be obtained through non-destructive tests, such as X-ray or ultrasonic inspection.
In some embodiments, the weld system 10 can determine test data (eg, weld mapping properties) based at least in part on weld parameter data. In addition, or alternatively, the welding system 10 may use arc parameter data to determine the test data. Test data (for example, weld mapping properties) can be associated with weld parameter data and any arc parameter data, such as test data, weld parameter data, and welding parameter data. Arc that correspond to the same welding session (for example, welding assignment) are stored together. When the welding session (for example, welding assignment) is a live welding assignment, the arc parameters (for example, welding voltage, current
<img file="MX360446B_D0016.tif" />
welding speed, wire feed speed) can i measured and / or fixed arc parameters. When the welding session is a simulated welding session, in virtual reality or in augmented reality, the arc parameters can Include simulated arc parameters. In some embodiments, the arc parameters associated with non-live welding sessions (eg simulated, virtual reality, augmented reality) may include a null set stored in the data store.
In some embodiments, the determined properties of the weld session (eg, weld assignment) are based at least in part on a comparison with weld data (eg, weld parameters, arc parameters) that correspond to welding sessions. previously carried out welding. Welding data corresponding to previously conducted welding sessions can be stored in data storage system 318. Welding system 10 can determine (eg, estimate, extrapolate) properties of a simulated weld allowance, a virtual reality weld allowance, or an augmented reality weld allowance through a comparison with weld data (eg. , welding parameters, arc parameters) and associated test data corresponding to a previously performed live welding session (for example, live welding assignments). For example, the welding system 10 can determine the penetration of a welding assignment in virtual reality through a comparison of the welding parameters (for example, contact tip to work distance, travel speed) of the assignment of VR welding with the welding parameters associated with previously performed live welding assignments. Consequently, the welding system 10 can facilitate the training of an operator through
<img file="MX360446B_D0017.tif" />
<img file="MX360446B_D0018.tif" />
Gl «re ® provide one or more particular properties of the assigns or» that the weld assignment (eg simulated, virtual reality, augmented reality) is being carried out without a tangible workpiece produced to test.
The computer 18 of the welding system 10 can determine one or more properties of the welding session (for example, welding assignment) by executing executable instructions per processor to compare the received weld data with corresponding weld data to previously performed welding sessions. In some embodiments, the one or more properties of the welding session are determined remotely from the welding system 10, such as in a remote computer 44 or data storage system 318 coupled to the welding system 10 via network 38. In addition, or alternatively, the one or more determined properties may be transmitted to the data storage system 318, such as through network 38. In some embodiments, computer 18 can determine properties of the weld session (eg, weld mapping, while receiving the weld data associated with the weld session. That is, computer 18 can determine properties (eg, penetration , porosity, strength, aspect) substantially in real time while the operator is conducting the welding session. The determined properties can be visually presented through visual presenter 32 as test results. As can be seen, the determined properties can be adjusted after obtaining test results (for example, destructive tests, non-destructive tests) of the welding session (for example, welding assignment).
Welding software 244 can analyze welding parameter data to determine a traveled path 344 that can be displayed on visual display 32. In some modes, a dut m time will be selected by a welding operator, as shown by a Gauge 346. . By adjusting the selected time indicator 346, the welding operator can view the video stream 342 and / or the path traveled 344 in conjunction with the welding parameters as they were at the selected time in order to establish a correlation between the parameters welding, video replay 342 and / or path traveled 344. In addition, or alternatively, the welding operator may select (for example, via a cursor on visual display 32) a visually displayed location of traveled path 344 to review welding data 327 corresponding to one or more times the welding torch 14 passed through the selected location. Furthermore, video loop 342 may display video frames (eg, Captured Images, Illustrations) corresponding to selected time 346 and / or selected location. As you can see, a selected location can correspond to several frames or images captured when the welding operator used an Interleaving or beating technique and / or when the welding session includes several passes. Accordingly, the visual presenter 32 may display the various frames (eg, Captured Images, Illustrations), and the welding operator may select one or more for further review. In some embodiments, test results 343 (for example, one or more determined weld mapping properties) displayed visually may correspond to the selected moment shown by Indicator 346 and / or one or more locations along the path traveled 344 . That is, test results 343 may visually display proven characteristics (eg, porosity, weld penetration corresponding to the selected Time Gauge 346 and / or the selected location along the path traveled 344. The
IΡΙ ΡΙ weld 244 can be configured to recreate weld data and give the data partially on weld parameter data, to synchronize 342 video replay with recreated weld data, and to provide synchronized 342 video replay and weld data recreated to visual presenter 32. In certain embodiments, the recreated weld data may be weld hole data and / or a simulated weld. In some embodiments, the welding software 244 can correlate various aspects (eg, determined properties, video, non-destructive test results, destructive test results) of the acquired welding data for positions along the path traveled 344 from welding and / or for selected times during the welding process. Welding software 244 can facilitate the correlation of welding parameters (for example, working angle 328, offset angle 330, CTWD 332, travel speed 334, and target 336 of the welding torch relative to the workpiece, an orientation of the welding torch, a position of the welding torch) with arc parameters (for example, voltage 337, current 338, wire feed speed), 342 video replay and 343 test results, or any combination thereof. The welding data associated with registration number 293 for an operator can enable the operator, instructor, or manager to review the welding parameters, arc parameters, 342 video replay, and 343 test results ( for example, certain properties) corresponding to the selected time indicator 346 and / or position along the path 344 of the welding process. For example, the operator may review weld data to identify relationships between changes in weld parameters (eg, working angle 328, CTWD 332) and changes to arc parameters (eg, current, voltage) in the selected moment
<img file="MX360446B_D0019.tif" />
shown by Indicator 346 or a selected position. M <
INDUSTRIAL review weld data to identify relationships between changes in weld parameters and changes in weld 343 test results.
In some embodiments, the welding torch 14 (for example, MIG welding torch, rod welding electrode holder, welding torch
TIG) can be used as a pointer, when pointing the welding torch 14 to a specific location of the weld visually displays weld data 327 on the visual display that corresponds to the specific location. In some embodiments, the welding torch 14 can contact the workpiece 82 at the specific location. Furthermore, welding software 244 can determine the specific location from the operator based on the point along the weld that is closest to where the operator is pointing the welding torch 14 (eg, electrode). Welding software 244 can produce a location bar 346 (eg, indicator) that will be displayed visually along with weld data 327 when welding torch 14 is pointed to locations along the weld after the conclusion of the session. That is, the location bar can be extended through the graphs of the welding parameters (for example, working angle 328, displacement angle 330, CTWD 332, displacement speed 334 and target 336 of the welding torch in relation with the workpiece attached) in a manner similar to the selected timeline 346 described above and illustrated in FIG. 20. Welding software 244 can be configured to visually display video loop 342 (eg, one or more video frames, captured images) that was captured when welding torch 14 was at the specific location. For example, welding software 244 can visually display between 0 to 30 frames before and / or after when welding torch 14
<img file="MX360446B_D0020.tif" />
It was in the specific location. Also, or as an alternative?
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244 You can visually present a cross view! weld at the specific location. The cross-sectional view may be based on one or more data sets that include, but are not limited to, an X-ray scan, an ultrasonic scan, a model generated based at least in part on weld data 327, or any combination of the same. Furthermore, the cross-sectional view may make it possible for the weld operator or instructor to review various weld quality characteristics at the specific location, including, but not limited to, porosity, undercut, spatter, incomplete fill, and overfill. Although the welding torch 14 can easily be used to target and select specific locations for the weld before the workpiece 82 is moved after the conclusion of the session, the welding torch 14 can be used as a pointer for pre-sessions completed with workpieces 82 moved after recalibration of respective workpieces 82.
In certain embodiments, the storage device 24 can be configured to store a first set of data corresponding to several welds performed by a welding operator, and to store a second set of data corresponding to various non-training welds carried to performed by the welding operator, furthermore, control circuit 320 can be configured to retrieve at least part of the first data set from storage device 24, to retrieve at least part of the second data set from storage device 24, to synchronize at least part of the first data set with at least part of the second data set, and to provide the at least part of the first data set and at least part of the second synchronized data set to the visual presenter 32.
<img file="MX360446B_D0021.tif" />
FIG. 21 is an embodiment of a discontinuity screen 348 of a weld. Discontinuity analysis 348 includes a listing 350 that can detail potential aspects with a welding operation. Discontinuity analysis 348 provides feedback to the weld operator regarding time periods within the weld operation where the weld did not meet a predetermined quality threshold. For example, between times 352 and 354, there is a high discontinuity (for example, the weld quality is poor, the weld has a high probability of size, the weld is defective). In addition, between times 356 and 358, there is a medium discontinuity (for example, the weld quality is average, the weld has a medium probability of failure, the weld is partially defective). Furthermore, between times 360 and 362, there is a high discontinuity, and between times 364 and 366, there is a low discontinuity (for example, the weld quality is good, the weld has a low probability of failure, the weld does not It's defective). With this information, a welding operator may be able to quickly analyze the quality of a welding operation.
Fig. 22 is a block diagram of one embodiment of a welding instructor display 368 of welding software 244. Welding software 244 is configured to provide training simulations for many different welding configurations. For example, welding configurations can include a MIG 370 welding process, a TIG 372 welding process, a rod welding process 374, live arc welding mode 346, simulation welding mode 248, the 250 virtual reality welding mode and / or 252 augmented reality welding mode.
Welding instructor display 368 can be configured to allow a welding instructor to restrict the training of a welding operator
IMPI 376 weld (for example, to one or more
INDUSTRIAL
<img file="MX360446B_D0022.tif" />
restrict the training of a class of welding operators 378 (for example, to one or more selected welding configurations), and / or restrict the training of a portion of a class of welding operators 380 (for example, to one or more selected weld settings). In addition, weld instructor screen 368 can be configured to enable the weld instructor to assign selected training assignments to weld operator 382, assign selected training assignments to a class of weld operators 384, and / or assign training assignments selected to a portion of a 386 weld operator class. Furthermore, the welding instructor display 368 can be configured to allow the welding instructor to automatically advance the welding operator (or a class of welding operators) from a first assignment to a second assignment 388. For example, the operator Welding may advance from a first assignment to a second assignment based at least partially on a performance quality of the first assignment. Furthermore, the welding instructor display 368 can be configured to verify the Identity of an operator (eg, to ensure that welding data is associated with the proper registration number 293). In some embodiments, the operator identification system 43 identifies the operator, and the instructor verifies the operator Identity through the Welding Instructor screen 368. For example, the Instructor may provide a verification input (eg, keyable identifier, biometric identifier, physical identifier) to the operator identification system 43 to authorize the Operator Identity to be properly recognized by the operator identification system. 43. In some modalities, the Instructor (eg second operator provides a second
<img file="MX360446B_D0023.tif" />
identifier entry (for example, restartable identifier
INC files) the welding system 10, such as through the operator identification system 43, thereby verifying the Identity of the operator that provided a first identifier entry to the operator identification system 43. The second identifier input may be stored with the welding data (for example, the identity of the operator who performs the welding session), such as memory device 56 of computer 18 or data storage system 318) . In addition, or as an alternative, the welding instructor may verify the identity of an operator through a two-step Identification process in which the Operator Identification system 43 separately identifies both the operator and the instructor before ensuring that the welding data is associated with the registration number
293 suitable.
Figure 23 is an embodiment of a method 389 for welding training using augmented reality. A welding operator can select a mode from the welding software 244 (block 390). Welding software 244 determines if augmented reality mode 252 has been selected (block 392). If the augmented reality mode 252 has been selected, the welding software 244 runs an augmented reality simulation. It should be mentioned that the welding operator may be using a welding case and / or some other head gear configured to place a display device in front of the view of the welding operator. Furthermore, the display device may be generally transparent to enable the welding operator to view real objects; however, a virtual welding environment can be displayed in portions of the display device. As part of this augmented reality simulation, the welding software 244 receives a position and / or an orientation of the welding torch 14, such as from detection device 16 (block 394). Item 4 integrates the virtual welding environment with the position and / or orientation of the welding torch 14 (block 396). Furthermore, welding software 244 provides the integrated virtual welding environment to the display device (block 398).
For example, welding software 244 can determine if a weld bead should be placed within the field of view of the welding operator, and welding software 244 can visually present the weld bead on the display device in such a manner. the weld bead appears to be on a workpiece. After the conclusion of the weld, augmented reality simulation can make it possible for the weld operator to delete a portion of the virtual weld environment (for example, weld bead) (block 400), and weld software 244 returns to block 390.
IF the augmented reality mode 252 has not been selected, the welding software 244 determines whether the live arc mode 246 has been selected (block
402). IF live arc mode 246 has been selected, welding software 244 enters live arc mode 246 and the weld operator can perform live arc welding (block 404). If live arc mode 246 has not been selected and / or after executing block 404, welding software 244 returns to block 390. Accordingly, welding software 244 is configured to enable a welding operator to practice welding in augmented reality mode 252, erase at least a portion of the virtual welding environment from the practice weld, and / or lead to performs a live weld in live arc mode 246. In certain embodiments, the weld operator may practice welding in augmented reality mode 252 consecutively a varied number of times.
Figure 24 is an embodiment of another method 406 for welding training using augmented reality. A welding operator in welding software mode 244 (block 408). Welding software 244 determines if augmented reality mode 252 has been selected (block 410). IF the augmented reality mode 252 has been selected, the welding software 244 runs an augmented reality simulation. It is worth mentioning that the welding operator may be wearing a welding helmet and / or some other head gear configured to place a display device in front of the welding operator's view. In addition, the display device can completely block the field of view of the welding operator in such a way that
Images observed by the welding operator have been captured by a camera and visually displayed on the visual display device. As part of this augmented reality simulation, welding software 244 receives an image of welding torch 14, such as from detection device 16 (block 412). The 244 welding software integrates the virtual welding environment with the image of the welding torch 14 (block 414). In addition, the welding software 244 provides the virtual welding environment Integrated with the Image of the welding torch 14 to the display device (block 416). For example, the welding software 244 can determine where a weld bead should be placed within the field of view of the welding operator and the welding software 244 visually displays the weld bead on the display device with the Image of the welding torch 14 and other objects in the welding environment. After welding is complete, augmented reality simulation can make it possible for the welding operator to delete a portion of the virtual welding environment (for example, weld bead) (block 418), and welding software 244 returns to block 408 .
<img file="MX360446B_D0024.tif" />
If the augmented reality mode 252 has no welding sidc 244 determines if the live arc mode 246 has been selected (block 420). If live arc mode 246 has been selected, welding software 244 enters live arc mode 246 and the weld operator can perform live arc welding (block 422). If live arc mode 246 has not been selected and / or after executing block 422, welding software 244 returns to block 408. Accordingly, welding software 244 is configured to enable a welding operator to perform a weld in augmented reality mode 252, erase at least a portion of the virtual welding environment from the practice weld, and perform a live welding in live arc mode 246. In certain embodiments, the welding operator may practice welding in augmented reality mode 252 consecutively a varied number of times.
FIG. 25 is a block diagram of one embodiment of the welding torch 14. The welding torch 14 includes the control circuit 52, the user interface 60, and the display 62 previously described. In addition, the welding torch 14 includes a variety of sensors and other devices. Welding torch 14 can include a temperature sensor 424 (eg, thermocouple, thermistor, etc.), an inertclal sensor 426 (eg, accelerometer, gyroscope, magnetometer, etc.), a vibration device 428 (eg eg, vibration motor), a microphone 429, one or more Visual Indicators 61 (eg LEDs 64), or any combination thereof. In addition, in certain embodiments, the welding torch 14 may Include a voltage sensor 425 and / or a current sensor 427 to detect voltage and / or current, respectively, of the arc produced by the welding torch 14. As described in detail below, one or more sets of LEDs 64 can be arranged around the welding torch 14 to enable the detection device to detect the position and orientation of the welding torch V n welding 12 and the workpiece 82 . For example, sets of LEDs 64 can be arranged on an upper side, a left side and a right side of the welding torch 14 to enable detection device 16 to detect the position and orientation of the welding torch 14 regardless of which side of the welding torch 14 is facing one or more detection devices 16. In certain embodiments, the welding torch 14 may include more than one temperature sensor 424, inertial sensor 426, vibration device 428, voltage sensor 425, current sensor 427, and / or microphone 429.
During operation, the welding torch 14 can be configured to use the temperature sensor 424 to determine a temperature associated with the welding torch 14 (for example, a temperature of the electronic components of the welding torch 14, a temperature of the presenter visual 62, a temperature of a light emitting device, a temperature of the release device, a temperature of a portion of the body of the welding torch 14, etc.). Control circuit 52 (or control circuit of another device) can use the detected temperature to carry out various events. For example, control circuit 52 may be configured to disable the use of live arc mode 246 (eg, live welding) by welding torch 14 if the sensed temperature reaches and / or exceeds a predetermined threshold (for example, such as 85 ° C). Furthermore, control circuit 52 can also be configured to disable various heat producing devices of welding torch 14, such as vibrating device 428, light emitting devices, and so on. Control circuit 52 can also be configured to display a message on display 62, such as "Waiting for torch to cool. Sorry for the inconvenience". In certain embodiments, control circuit 52 can be configured to disable ->. · Features if the detected temperature reaches a first threshold and to disable additional components or features if the detected temperature reaches a second threshold.
In addition, during operation, welding torch 14 can be configured to use inertial sensor 426 to detect movement (eg, acceleration, etc.) associated with welding torch 14. Control circuit 52 (or control of another device) can use the detected acceleration to carry out various events. For example, control circuit 52 may be configured to activate visual presenter 62 (or other visual presenter) after inertial sensor 426 detects that welding torch 14 is moved. Accordingly, control circuit 52 can direct visual presenter 62 to "wake up", such as from a sleep mode and / or exit to a screen saver mode to facilitate a welding operator of welding torch 14 using a graphical user interface (GUI) on visual presenter 62. Furthermore, the control circuit 52 can use feedback from the one or more inertial sensors 426 to determine the position of the welding torch 14 in the welding environment and / or the movement of the welding torch 14 within the welding environment. As described in detail below, detection devices 16 (eg, cameras) can use markers on welding torch 14 to determine the position, orientation and / or movement of welding torch 14 in the welding environment. In some embodiments, the control circuit 52 (a control circuit from another device) may use feedback from the one or more inertial sensors 426 to increase the determination with the detection devices 16 of the position, orientation and / or movement of the torch welding 14. That is, the control circuit 52 can determine the position and orientation of the welding torch 14 based on feedback from the one or more when the workpiece 82 or the operator obscures (eg, blocks) one or more markers. of the welding torch 14 from the detection device 16 vision.
Returning to FIG. 21 as an example, the one or more inertial sensors 426 may allow control circuit 52 to determine working angle 328, travel angle 330, and travel speed 334 during an Interval between times 360 and 362 when other detection devices 16 may not be able to control the position and orientation of the welding torch 14 for any reason (eg, one or more markers in a set used to optically trace the welding torch 14 from a camera darkens). The one or more inertial sensors 426 may provide an output with respect to the position and / or orientation of the welding torch 14 that is Independent of another position detection system (eg, optical detection system, magnetic detection system , acoustic detection system). Control circuit 52 can determine working angle 328, travel angle 330, and travel speed 334 based at least in part on feedback from one or more inertial sensors 426 of welding torch 14 with the assumption that the CTWD 332 and the welding torch objective 14 relative to the joint of the workpiece 82 are approximately constant for the Interval.
Returning to FIG. 25, in certain modes, control circuit 52 can be configured to determine that a high Impact event (eg, fall, use as a hammer, etc.) for torch 14 has occurred based on at least partially in detected motion. After determining that a high Impact event has occurred, control circuit 52 may store (eg, record) an Indication that welding torch 14 has been impacted. Along with the Indication, the control circuit 52 can store other corresponding data, t
<img file="MX360446B_D0025.tif" />
time, an acceleration, a username, welding torch ID data, and so on. Control circuit 52 can also be configured to display a notification on visual presenter 62 to a welding operator requesting the operator to refrain from impacting welding torch 14. In some embodiments, the control circuit 52 can be configured to use the motion detected by the inerclal sensor 426 to enable the weld operator to navigate and / or make selections within a software user interface (eg, software for welding, welding training software, etc.). For example, control circuit 52 can be configured to receive acceleration and to do a software acceleration if the acceleration matches a predetermined pattern (for example, acceleration indicates uneven movement in a certain direction, acceleration indicates that the welding torch 14 is being shaken, etc.).
Vibration device 428 is configured to provide feedback to a welding operator by directing welding torch 14 to vibrate and / or shake (eg, providing haptic vibration or feedback). Vibration device 428 can provide vibration feedback during live welding and / or during simulated welding. As can be seen, the vibration feedback during live welding can be tuned to a specific frequency to enable a welding operator to differentiate between the vibration that occurs due to live welding and the vibration feedback. For example, vibration feedback can be provided at approximately 3.5 Hz during live welding. Using such a frequency can make it possible for a welding operator to detect when vibration feedback is occurring at the same time that natural vibration occurs due to live welding. By way of
<img file="MX360446B_D0026.tif" />
Reverse vibration feedback can be provided during live welding. However, the 9 Hz frequency can be mistaken for natural vibration that occurs due to live welding.
The one or more microphones 429 are configured to facilitate determination of the position of the welding torch 14 with a local positioning system. The one or more microphones 429 of the welding torch 14 receive emitted signals (eg, ultrasonic, RF) from beacons arranged at known locations around the welding environment. As can be seen, a local positioning system makes it possible to determine the location of an object when the object receives the signals emitted (that is, through an unobstructed line of sight) from three or more beacons in known positions. The control circuit 52 (or control circuit of another device) can determine the position of the welding torch 14 from the signals received by triangulation, tri-alteration, or multi-alteration. In some embodiments, microphones 429 can facilitate determination of the position of the welding torch 14 during welding when one or more of the detection devices 16 (eg cameras) are obstructed by the workpiece 82 and / or the operator.
FIG. 26 is an embodiment of a method 430 for performing vibration feedback to a welding operator using welding torch 14. Control circuit 52 (or control circuit of another device) detects a parameter (eg, working angle, travel angle, travel speed, point-to-work distance, target, etc.) corresponding to a welding operation (block 432). As can be appreciated, the welding operation can be a live welding operation, a simulated welding operation, a virtual reality welding operation and / or an augmented reality welding operation. Control circuit 52 determines if the parameter is within a first <?
(block 434). As can be appreciated, the first predetermined interval may be an Interval that is only outside an acceptable Interval. For example, the parameter may be working angle, the Acceptable Range may be 45 to 50 degrees, and the first
Default range can be 50 to 55 degrees. Accordingly, in such an example, control circuit 52 determines whether the working angle is within the first predetermined Range of 50 to 55 degrees.
If the parameter is within the first predetermined range, control circuit 52 vibrates the welding torch to a first pattern (block 436). The first pattern may be a first frequency, a first frequency modulation, a first amplitude, and so on. Furthermore, if the parameter is not within the first predetermined Interval, control circuit 52 determines whether the parameter is within a second predetermined Interval (block 438). The second default Interval can be an Interval that is just outside the first default Interval. For example, continuing with the example described above, the second
Default range can be 55 to 60 degrees. Accordingly, in such an example, control circuit 52 determines whether the working angle is within the second predetermined Range of 55 to 60 degrees. If the parameter is within the second predetermined range, control circuit 52 vibrates the welding torch to a second pattern (block 440). The second pattern may be a second frequency, a second frequency modulation, a second frequency modulation, a second amplitude, and so on. It should be mentioned that the second pattern is typically different from the first pattern. In certain modalities, the first and second patterns may be the same. In addition, audible prompts can be provided to the welding operator to indicate whether the parameter is within or within the first predetermined Interval.
second default interval. Also, prompts are used to indicate a parameter that is not within an acceptable range. In such modalities, vibration can be used to indicate that a welding operator is doing something wrong, and audible indications can be used to identify what the welding operator is doing wrong and / or how to fix it. The parameter can be any suitable parameter, such as a working angle, travel angle, travel speed, tip-to-workpiece distance and / or target. Figures 27-29 illustrate modalities of various patterns.
FIG. 27 is a graph 442 of an embodiment of two patterns each including a different frequency to provide vibration feedback to a welding operator. A first pattern 444 is separated from a second pattern 446 by time 448. In the illustrated embodiment, the first pattern 444 is a first frequency and the second pattern 446 is a second frequency that is different from the first frequency. The first and second frequencies can be any suitable frequency. As can be appreciated, the first and second frequencies can be configured to be different than a natural frequency produced during live welding to facilitate a welding operator to differentiate between the natural frequency and the first and second frequencies. Although the illustrated mode shows the first frequency as being lower than the second frequency, in other modes, the second frequency may be lower than the first frequency.
FIG. 28 is a graph 450 of an embodiment of two patterns each including a different modulation to provide vibration feedback to a welding operator. A first pattern 452 is separated from a second pattern 454 by time 456. In the illustrated embodiment, the first pattern 452 is
<img file="MX360446B_D0027.tif" />
a first modulation and the second pattern 454 is a different sec from the first modulation. The first and second modulations can be any suitable modulation. For example, the first modulation may include a first number of vibration pulses (for example, two pulses) and the second modulation may include a second number of vibration pulses (for example, three pulses). Furthermore, modulation can vary a number of pulses, a time between pulses, etc. In certain modalities, a number of vibrating pulses and / or a time between pulses can be configured to Increase or decrease gradually when a parameter is moved towards or away from acceptable parameter values. Although the illustrated mode shows the first modulation as having fewer pulses than the second modulation, in other modes, the second modulation may have fewer pulses than the first modulation.
FIG. 29 is a graph 458 of an embodiment of two patterns each including a different amplitude to provide vibration feedback to a welding operator. A first pattern 460 is separated from a second pattern 462 by time 464. In the illustrated embodiment, the first pattern 460 is a first amplitude and the second pattern 462 is a second amplitude that is different from the first amplitude. The first and second amplitudes can be any suitable amplitude. Although the illustrated embodiment shows the first amplitude being lower than the second amplitude, in other embodiments, the second amplitude may be lower than the first amplitude.
Welding torch 14 can provide varying levels of vibration and visual feedback to the operator during simulated welding or live welding. For example, a first feedback mode of the welding torch 14 can provide visual feedback (eg, through the visual presenter
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or live welding, and the welding torch 14 may not provide visual feedback or vibration during the live or simulated welding process. A second feedback mode of the welding torch 14 can provide visual feedback and vibration to the operator both before and during the simulated or live welding process. A third mode of welding torch feedback can provide visual feedback and vibration to the operator both before and during simulated welding processes only. As can be appreciated, some modes may provide only visual feedback prior to or during a simulated welding process, and other modes may provide only vibration feedback prior to or during a simulated welding process. In some modalities, an Instructor can specify the level of feedback that can be provided to the operator during simulated or live welding sessions that will be evaluated. Furthermore, the operator can selectively disable the vibration and / or visual feedback provided by the welding torch before and during simulated or live welding.
FIG. 30 is a perspective view of one embodiment of the welding torch 14 having markers that can be used to track the welding torch 14. In some embodiments, the position of the welding torch 14 can be tracked prior to welding in I live to determine (i.e. calibrate) the shape of the weld joint. For example, welding torch 14 can be used to trace the shape of a workpiece 82 in various positions including, but not limited to, welding positions 1G, 2G, 3G, 4G, 5G, 6G, 1F, 2F, 3F , 4F, 5F or 6F. The determined shape of the weld joint can be stored in data storage system 318 for comparison with a live welding process
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JL iVi Jl 1 • (¡l * '”' -ííes subsequent along the weld joint. In some m .. <sup>:</sup> The welding torch 14 can be traced during live welding and compared to the shape of the weld joint stored in the data storage system 318. Control circuit 52 of welding torch 14 and / or any other component of welding system 10 can provide approximately real-time feedback to the operator regarding the position (eg, location) and / or orientation of welding torch 14 in relation to the weld joint. The welding torch 14 includes a housing 466 that encloses the control circuit 52 of the welding torch 14 and / or any other component of the welding torch
14. Visual presenter 62 and user interface 60 are incorporated into an upper portion of housing 466.
As illustrated, a neck 470 extends from the weld torch housing 466 14. Markers for tracing the welding torch 14 can be provided on the neck 470. Specifically, a mounting bar 472 is used to attach markers 474 to the neck. 470. Markers 474 are spherical markers in the illustrated embodiment; however, in other embodiments, the markers 474 can have any suitable shape (eg, such as a shape of an LED). Markers 474 are used by detection device 16 to track the position and / or orientation of welding torch 14. As can be seen, three of the markers
474 they are used to define a foreground. Furthermore, markers 474 are arranged such that a fourth marker 474 is in a different background from the foreground. Accordingly, detection device 16 can be used to track the position and / or orientation of welding torch 14 using the four markers 474. It should be noted that although the illustrated embodiment shows four 474 markers, the mounting bar 472 can have any suitable number of 474 markers.
In certain modalities, 474 markers ...... ...>
reflective, while in other embodiments markers 474 may be light emitting markers (eg, light emitting diodes LEDs). In embodiments where markers 474 are light-emitting markers, markers 474 can be powered by electrical components within housing 466 of welding torch 14. For example, markers 474 can be powered by a connection 476 between the mount 472 and housing 466. Furthermore, control circuit 52 (or control circuit of another device) can be used to control the on and / or off (eg, lighting) of markers 474. In certain embodiments, markers 474 can be turned on and / or individually switched off based on the position and / or orientation of the welding torch 14. In other modes, markers 474 can be turned on and / or off in groups based on the position and / or orientation of the welding torch 14. It should be noted that in modes that do not include mounting bar 472, connection 476 It can be replaced with another 468 marker on a separate plane than the illustrated 468 markers. The modalities of the welding torch 14 are described herein in relation to a consistent set of coordinate axes 780. An X axis 782 is a horizontal direction along a longitudinal axis of the welding torch 14, a Y axis 784 is the vertical direction relative to the longitudinal axis, and a Z axis 186 is a horizontal direction extending laterally from the welding torch 14.
Figure 31 is an embodiment of a neck 800 of welding torch 14, taken along line 31-31 of Figure 30. Visual markers 802 are arranged at predefined locations in neck 800 to facilitate position detection. and orientation of the welding torch 14 by the detection device 16. In some embodiments, the visual markers 802 are LEDs 64. In addition, or alternatively, visual markers 802 are detection device 16 to detect visual markers 802 that are oriented towards detection device 16 more easily than visual markers 802 that are less oriented to detection device 16. For example, LEDs 64 arranged on a surface can be directed to emit light primarily along an axis substantially perpendicular to the surface. In some embodiments, multiple sets of visual markers 802 are arranged in neck 800.
The visual markers 802 in each set can be oriented in substantially the same direction as the other visual markers 802 in the respective set. In some embodiments, a first set 804 of visual markers 802 is directed substantially vertically along the Y axis 784, a second set 806 of visual markers 802 is directed in a second direction 808, and a third set 810 of visual markers 802 is directed in a third direction 812. That is, the visual markers 802 in each set are oriented to emit light in directions substantially parallel to other visual markers 802 in the respective set. The second direction 808 is substantially perpendicular to the X axis 782 along the welding torch 14, and is offset to a second angle 814 from the Y axis 784. The third direction 812 is substantially perpendicular to the X axis 782 along the welding torch 14, and is offset from a third angle 816 to the Y axis 784. In some embodiments, the second angle 814 and the third angle 816 have approximately the same magnitude. For example, the second set 806 of visual indicators 802 may be off-axis from the Y axis 784 by 45 °, and the third set 810 of visual indicators 802 may be off-axis from the Y axis 784 by 45 °, such that the second angle 814 it is substantially perpendicular to the third angle 816. The second angle 814 and the third angle 816 may each be between approximately 5 ° to 180 °, 15 ° to 135 °, 25 ° to 90 ° or 30 ° to 75 °. - - r neck 800 may have 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, or more sets of 802 visual markers, with each set facing in a particular direction to facilitate detection by the detection device 16.
The visual markers 802 of each set can be arranged on the same or substantially parallel planes. For example, the first set 804 of visual markers 802 may be arranged in a foreground 818 or a plane substantially parallel to foreground 818 that is perpendicular to the Y axis 784. The second set 806 of visual markers 802 can be arranged in a second plane 820 or a plane substantially parallel to the second plane 820 that is perpendicular to the second direction 808. The third set 810 of visual markers 802 can be arranged in a third plane 822 or a plane substantially parallel to the third plane 822 that is perpendicular to the third direction 812. As used herein, the term "substantially parallel" includes orientations within 10 ° (or 5 degrees, or 1 degree, or less) of parallel, and the term "substantially perpendicular includes orientations within 10 degrees (or 5 degrees, or 1 degree or less) perpendicular. Furthermore, as used herein, the term “substantially different, when referring to orientations, includes angles that differ by more than 10 degrees, more than 15 degrees, more than 20 degrees, more than 30 degrees, more than 45 degrees, or plus. The visual marker arrangements 802 of each set can facilitate tracing of the welding torch 14 during simulated and / or live out-of-position welding processes including, but not limited to, vertical or aerial welding positions.
Neck structures 824 800 may facilitate orientation of sets of visual markers 802. For example, a mounting surface of each structure 824 may be substantially parallel to a respective plane for the corresponding set of visual markers 802. They can further reduce or eliminate the detection of the respective visual marker 802 by the detection device 16 when the respective visual marker 802 is oriented relative to the one or more detection devices 16 at an angle greater than a threshold angle. For example, the second set 806 of visual markers 802 may be configured to be detected by detection device 16 when the operator holds welding torch 14 with detection device 16 to the left of the operator (i.e., a left-handed operator ), and the third set 810 of visual markers 802 can be configured to be detected by detection device 16 when the operator holds welding torch 14 with detection device 16 to the operator's right (ie, a right-handed operator). Neck 800 and / or structures 824 for second set 806 of visual markers 802 can reduce or eliminate detection of second set 806 of visual markers 802 when a right-handed operator uses welding torch 14, and vice versa for third set 810 of visual markers when a left-handed operator uses the welding torch 14.
FIG. 32 is a top view of an arrangement of visual markers 802 in the neck 800 of the welding torch 14, similar to the embodiment of the neck 800 illustrated in FIG. 31. The visual markers 802 of the first set 804 (eg "A"), the second set 806 (eg "B") and the third set 810 (eg "C") are arranged at different predefined positions in the neck 800 which makes it possible for the detection device 16 to determine which side of the welding torch 14 is most directed towards the detection device 16 through the detection of a different pattern or arrangement corresponding to each side (for example, above, left 826, right 828, bottom, front) of the welding torch 14. In addition, or alternatively, the 802 visual markers (eg LEDs 64) of each set
<img file="MX360446B_D0028.tif" />
they can be colored respectively, making it possible for detection device 16 to determine which side of the welding torch 14 is most directed towards detection device 16 through color detection.
Detection device 16 can track the position and orientation of welding torch 14 relative to welding base 12 and workpiece 82 when detection device 16 detects a threshold amount of visual markers 802 of a set. The threshold number of visual markers 802 in a set may be less than or equal to the number of visual markers 802 in the respective set. For example, detection device 16 can detect right side 10 of welding torch 14 when all four visual markers are detected.
802 of the third set 810, the detection device 16 can detect the upper side of the welding torch 14 when the five visual markers 802 of the first set 804 are detected, and the detection device 16 can detect the left side of the welding torch when all four visual markers 802 of the 15 second set are detected. In some embodiments, each set of visual markers 802 may have redundant visual markers, such that detection device 16 can track the position and orientation of welding torch 14 when one or more of the redundant visual markers are obscured from the view.
Detection device 16 can track position and orientation substantially 20 with the same precision, regardless of which array has been detected by detection device 16.
Visual markers 802 may be disposed on the neck 800 of the welding torch 14 at positions relative to the X-axis 782 along the welding torch 14, and relative to a baseline 830. For example, the first assembly 804 may have five 802 visual markers: two 802 visual markers along the
<img file="MX360446B_D0029.tif" />
baseline 830 near a first end 832 of the neck 80 · r „
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X-axis offset 831 782, a visual marker 802 separated at a first distance 834 from baseline 830 in a mid-section 836 of the neck 800 and separated by a second X-axis offset 838 782 from the Left side 826, a visual marker 802 spaced a third distance 840 from baseline 830 in midsection 836 and spaced from second offset 838 to right side 828, and a visual marker 802 near a second end 842 of neck 800 along X-axis 782 and spaced a fourth distance 844 from baseline 830. The second set 806 can have four 802 visual markers: a visual marker 802 along baseline 830 and spaced a third offset 846 from the X axis 782 on the left side 826, a visual marker 802 spaced a fifth distance 848 from baseline 830 along the axis X 782 and in the middle section 836, a visual marker 802 separated at a sixth distance 850 from the baseline 830 in the middle section 836 and separated to the second displacement 838 of the X axis 782 to the right side 828, and a visual marker 802 near the second end 842 of the neck 800 separated the fourth distance 844 from the baseline 830 and separated the second offset 832 on the Left side 826. The third set 810 can have four 802 visual markers: a visual marker 802 along baseline 830 and spaced third offset 846 from X-axis 782 on right side 828, visual marker 802 spaced a seventh distance 852 from baseline 830 along axis X 782 in the middle section 836, a visual marker 802 separated an eighth distance 854 from the baseline 830 in the middle section 836 and separated the second offset 838 from the X axis 782 on the left side 826, and a visual marker 802 near the second end 842 of the neck 800 separated the fourth distance 844 from the baseline 830 and separated the second offset 838 on the right side 828.
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The provisions (for example, distances and des n <sub>OF THE</sub> PROPERTY to baseline 830 and X axis 782) of visual markers 802 for each set 804, 806, 810 can be stored in a memory of the welding system 10. For example, the arrangements can be stored in a memory as calibrations that correspond to a particular welding torch 14 coupled to the welding system 10. As described in detail below, the welding system 10 can detect the arrangement of the visual markers 802 directed to the one or more detection devices 16, and determine the position and orientation of the welding torch 14 with respect to the welding base 12 and workpiece 82 based at least in part on a comparison of the detected arrangement and the arrangements stored in memory. Each set of 802 visual markers can be calibrated, such as before Initial use, after reconnecting welding torch 14, or at a predetermined Maintenance Interval. To calibrate a set of visual markers 802, the welding torch 14 can be mounted to the welding base 12 at a predetermined position and orientation of ta! such that the respective set of visual markers 802 is directed substantially toward detection device 16. For example, the first assembly 804 can be calibrated when the welding torch 14 is mounted such that the Y axis 784 of the welding torch 14 is generally directed towards the detection device 16, the second assembly 806 can be calibrated when the welding torch 14 is mounted such that the second direction 808 is generally directed towards the detection device 16, and the third set 810 can be calibrated when the welding torch 14 is mounted such that the third direction 812 is generally directed toward the detection device 16. In some embodiments, the sets of visual markers 802 are calibrated when a calibration (for example, the
<img file="MX360446B_D0030.tif" />
calibration 610 described below) is attached to the torch if you can verify the calibrations by moving the welding torch 14 around the welding environment relative to the welding base 12 and detection device 16.
FIG. 33 is an embodiment of a method 478 for visually presenting to a visual presenter of a welding torch a welding parameter relative to a threshold. In the illustrated mode, the control circuit 52 (or control circuit of another device) receives a selection made by a welding operator of a welding parameter associated with a position, orientation and / or movement of the welding torch 14 (block 480). For example, the welding operator may select a button on the Welding Torch 14 User Interface 60 to select a welding parameter. The weld parameter can be any suitable weld parameter, such as a working angle, travel angle, travel speed, tip-to-work distance, target, and so on. As can be seen, the welding system 10 can select the welding parameter automatically without input from a welding operator. Once the selection is made, the display 62 of the welding torch 14 visually displays or displays a representation of the welding parameter relative to a predetermined Threshold Interval and / or threshold value for the welding parameter (block 482). The visually displayed welding parameter is configured to change by changing the position of the welding torch 14, by changing the orientation of the welding torch 14 and / or by changing the movement of the welding torch 14. Thus, the welding operator may use the welding torch 14 to properly position and / or orient the welding torch 14 while performing (eg, prior to leveling, leveling, stopping, etc.) an operation of welding, then making it possible for the ope
<img file="MX360446B_D0031.tif" />
Perform the weld operation with the weld parameter within the predetermined threshold range or at the target value.
For example, the welding operator may wish to start the welding operation at a suitable working angle. Accordingly, the welding operator can select "working angle" on the welding torch 14. Once "working angle" is selected, the welding operator can set the welding torch 14 to a desired working angle. When the welding operator moves the welding torch 14, a current working angle is visually displayed relative to a desired working angle. Thus, the welding operator can move the welding torch 14 around until the current working angle coincides with the desired working angle and / or is within a desired Working angle range. As can be appreciated, the display 62 can be turned off and / or darkened such that it is blank during a welding operation. However, a welding operator can select a desired welding parameter before carrying out the welding operation. Even when visual presenter 62 is blank, control circuit 52 can be configured to monitor the weld parameter and provide feedback to the weld operator during the weld operation (eg, vibration feedback, audio feedback, etc.) .
FIG. 34 is an embodiment of a set of screen captures of visual presenter 62 of welding torch 14 to show a welding parameter relative to a threshold. The set of screenshots illustrates various ways in which welding parameters are visually presented for a welding operator to perform a welding operation. As can be seen, in certain modalities, the welding parameters. , * «Is visually to the welding operator before, during and / or after the welding operation. Screen 484 illustrates a working angle that is not within a predetermined threshold range. A portion of parameter 486 on display 62 indicates the selected parameter. Furthermore, an interval section 488 indicates whether the selected parameter is within the predetermined threshold interval. Furthermore, a parameter value section 490 indicates the value of the selected parameter. On screen 484, the working angle of 38 is out of range as indicated by the arrow extending outward from the center circle. Screen 492 illustrates a working angle of 45 that is within the predetermined Threshold Range as indicated by no arrows extending from the center circle.
As can be seen, the detection device 16 can be configured to detect if the angle of travel is a drag angle (for example, the angle of travel is ahead of the welding arc) or a thrust angle (for example, the travel angle is behind the welding arc). Accordingly, display 494 illustrates a drag travel angle 23 that is outside a predetermined threshold range as indicated by an arrow extending outward from a center circle. Conversely, display 496 illustrates a thrust travel angle of 15 that is within the predetermined threshold range as indicated by no arrows extending from the center circle. In addition, display 498 illustrates a travel speed of 12 that is within a predetermined threshold range as indicated by a vertical line aligned with the center circle. Conversely, display 500 illustrates a scrolling speed of 18 that is outside the predetermined threshold range as indicated by the vertical line to the right of the center circle. As can be appreciated, a travel speed that is less than a predetermined Threshold Interval may be indicated by a line <sup>1</sup> or <
central circle. The travel speed indicator can dynamically move relative to the center circle in real time during a welding process based at least in part on the determined travel speed, thus guiding the operator to perform the welding process at a travel speed within the default Threshold Range.
Display 502 illustrates a tip-to-work distance of 1.5 that is greater than a predetermined threshold interval as indicated by a small circle within an outer band. In addition, display 504 illustrates the tip-to-work distance of 0.4 that is less than a predetermined Threshold Interval as Indicated by the circle outside the outer band. Furthermore, display 506 illustrates the tip-to-work distance of 1.1 that is within the predetermined Threshold Interval as indicated by the circle that substantially fills the area within the outer band. In addition, display 508 illustrates a target of 0.02 that is within a predetermined Threshold Interval as indicated by a line 509 aligned with a center circle. Conversely, screen 510 illustrates a target of 0.08 that is not within the predetermined Threshold Interval as indicated by line 509 toward the top of the center circle. In some embodiments, line 509 of displays 508 and 510 represents the junction with respect to the tip of the welding torch 14. For example, screens 508 and 510 illustrate the purpose of welding torch 14 when welding torch 14 is oriented substantially perpendicular to the joint (as illustrated by line 509). Screen 511 illustrates the purpose of the welding torch 14 when the welding torch 14 is at least partially angled relative to the joint, as indicated by line 509 and the inclined orientation of the welding torch 14. That is, although the positions of the welding torch 14 in relation to the joint (for example, line 509) that corresponds to the screens 508 and 511 are substantially the same, the border on screen 508 in the visual presenter corresponds to a perpendicular orientation of the welding torch 14 relative to the joint and the orientation of line 509 of screen 511 in visual presenter 62 corresponds to a non-perpendicular orientation of the welding torch weld 14 relative to the joint. The orientation of the section
Interval 488 (eg, Target Indicator, Angle Indicator, CTWD Indicator) can be rotated in the visual presenter by a rotation angle defined as the angle difference between a front edge 513 of the visual presenter 62 and the joint. The graphical representations in visual presenter 62 may correspond to the orientation of the welding torch 14 to the joint rather than to the orientation of visual presenter 62 with respect to the operator. For example, when the welding torch 14 is placed near a vertical joint such that the welding torch 14 is substantially parallel to the joint, line 509 in visual display 62 can be vertically oriented. Junction Indicator line 509 can be substantially perpendicular to the travel speed indicator described above with displays 498 and 500.
Although specific graphical representations have been shown in display 62 in the illustrated mode to show a weld parameter relative to a threshold, other modes can use any suitable graphical representation to show a weld parameter relative to a threshold.
Furthermore, in certain embodiments, visual guides of individual parameters may be combined such that various parameters are visually presented together.
Furthermore, in certain embodiments, the welding system 10 can detect whether the welding torch 14 is near and / or far from a weld joint.
Being close to the weld joint is a function of the distance parameters of
100
<img file="MX360446B_D0032.tif" />
tip to contact work (CTWD) and target. When the target is within suitable predetermined ranges (for example, less than 7.6, 5.0, 3.8, 2.5 or 1.3 centimeters each), the welding system 10 may consider the welding torch 14 to be close to the junction of welding. Furthermore, the control circuit 52 of the welding torch 14 or other device can determine the working angle, the angle of displacement and the speed of displacement based at least in part on the position of the welding torch 14 relative to a Known (eg, calibrated) weld joint of workpiece 82 when the CTWD and target are substantially constant along the weld joint. As can be seen, the position and orientation of the welding torch 14 can be determined through the detection devices 16 and markers on the welding torch 14, the one or more interconnect sensors 426 and / or the one or more microphones 429 of welding torch 14. In some embodiments, a second position sensing system (for example, inertial sensors 426 from welding torch 14, microphones 429 from welding torch 14) can only be activated when the welding torch 14 is located near the junction of welding. The second position detection system can be deactivated when the welding torch 14 is not close to the welding joint, so that detection devices 16 and markers 474 can be used to determine the position and / or orientation of the welding torch. solder 14 within the soldering environment. Furthermore, when the welding torch 14 is close to the welding joint, the visual guides can be visually displayed on the welding torch 14. When the welding torch 14 is close to the welding junction and in live welding mode, a message (eg alert message) may be displayed visually on a visual presenter indicating suitable welding equipment (eg , helmet of
101 welding, etc.) should be in place as a precaution. However, an external visual presenter can continue to visually present the data in real time at a safe distance from the welding operation. Furthermore, in some embodiments, when the welding torch 14 is close to the welding junction and in live welding mode, the display of the welding torch 14 may be changed (eg, to substantially white and / or transparent. , to a non-distracting view, to a predetermined image, etc.) while a welding operator pulls the trigger of the welding torch 14. When the welding torch 14 is away from the welding joint, pulling the trigger of the welding torch 14 will not (for example, fog) perform a test activity. Also, when the welding torch 14 is away from the welding joint, actuation of the welding torch 14 will have no effect in a non-live welding mode, and it can feed welding wire in the live welding mode without start a test run.
FIG. 35 is an embodiment of a method 512 for tracing welding torch 14 in welding system 10 using at least four markers. One or more cameras (eg, such as one or more cameras of detection device 16) are used to detect markers of welding torch 14 (block 514). As described above, the markers can be reflective markers and / or light emitting markers. Furthermore, the markers may include four or more markers to facilitate determination of a precise position and / or orientation of the welding torch 14. One or more processors 20 from computer 18 (or other processors) can be used with the detection 16 to track the position of the welding torch 14 and / or the orientation of the welding torch 14 based on the detected markers (block 516). If the one or more cameras are unable to detect one or more
102 Of the markers, the one or more processors 20 (or control circuit 52) can be configured to block the live weld while the one or more cameras are unable to detect the markers (block 518). However, in some embodiments of the welding system 10, one or more cameras Integrated with the helmet 41 may make it possible to detect four or more parameters to facilitate determining an accurate position and / or orientation of the welding torch 14 with respect to the helmet welding 41. Thus, one or more cameras integrated with the helmet 41 can facilitate the detection of the position and / or orientation of the welding torch 14 for welding processes that would otherwise obscure the one or more camera markers mounted to the welding base 12 . As can be seen, the position and / or orientation of the welding helmet 41 in the welding environment can be determined through the one or more detection devices 16 of the welding system 10 in a manner similar to that described above for the welding torch. solder 14 when the markers are observable. In some embodiments, the visual display 62 of the welding torch 14 can be configured to visually display a message indicating that the markers are not detected while the one or more cameras are unable to detect the welding torch 14 markers (block 520) . Consequently, live welding using welding torch 14 can be blocked if welding torch 14 is unable to be tracked by detection device 16.
Some embodiments of the welding system 10 can trace the welding torch 14 in the welding environment during periods when one or more of the markers 474 are obscured and undetected. Some embodiments may use position detection systems that directly observe a portion of the welding torch 14 without the 474 markers. In addition, the welding system 10
103 may include one or more of various types (eg · · based, infrared, visible light or acoustic), based on electromagnetic radiation, based on radio signals, based on inertia) of position detection systems that can be used independently or in combination to facilitate tracking the position, orientation and / or movement of the welding torch 14 with respect to the workpiece 82. In some embodiments, the control circuit (eg, computer 18) of the welding system 10 can independently store the output of each position detection system, thus facilitating separate analysis and / or weighting of the respective outputs to determine the position and orientation of the welding torch within the welding environment. For example, the output of different position detection systems may be weighted based on the accuracy of the output, a reliability of the output, a calibration of the respective position detection system, or any combination thereof. As described above, the welding system 10 can track the position and / or orientation of the welding torch 14 based at least in part on feedback from one or more inertial sensors 426 (eg, accelerometers, gyroscopes) of the welding torch. welding 14. Furthermore, modalities of the welding system 10 with beacons of a local positioning system and one or more microphones 429 in the welding torch 14 can determine a position of the welding torch 14 within the welding environment when the portions (for example, Markers 474) of the welding torch 14 are obscured from the line of sight of some detection devices 16 (eg cameras). Accordingly, method 512 block 518 (to block live welding while markers are not detected) may be optional at intervals when control circuit 52 may otherwise determine the position of welding torch 14 within the welding environment. welding. In addition, or as an alternative, the system
104 weld 10 can trace welding torch 14 in <
<img file="MX360446B_D0033.tif" />
<img file="MX360446B_D0034.tif" />
DT THE INDUSTRIAL PROPERTY when the welding torch 14 does not have 474 markers as described above. Therefore, in some embodiments, control circuit 52 allows live welding while markers are not detected or are not present in welding torch 14.
FIG. 36 is an embodiment of a method 522 for detecting the ability of processor 20 (or any other processor) to communicate with welding torch 14. Welding torch 14 is configured to detect a signal from processor 20 (block 524 ). The signal is provided from processor 20 to welding torch 14 at a predetermined interval. In certain embodiments, the signal may be a pulsed signal provided from processor 20 to welding torch 14 at the predetermined interval. Furthermore, the signal is provided to the welding torch 14 such that the welding torch 14 is capable of determining that the welding torch 14 is capable of communicating with processor 20. IF the welding torch 14 does not receive the signal from the processor 20 within the predetermined interval, the control circuit 52 (or control circuit of another device) is configured to block live welding using the welding torch 14 while the signal is not detected (block 526). Furthermore, visual presenter 62 can be configured to visually display a message indicating that the signal from processor 20 is not detected while the live weld is blocked (block 528). Consequently, the welding torch 14 can detect the ability of the processor 20 to communicate with the welding torch 14.
Fig. 37 is an embodiment of a method 530 for calibrating a curved weld joint that can be used with the weld system 10. One or more cameras (eg, such as one or more cameras of detection device 16) are used.
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to detect a first position (eg, first bend weld point di (block 532). For example, a calibration tool and / or welding torch 14 can be used to identify the first position of the bend weld joint to the one or more chambers (for example, such as touching a tip of the calibration tool and / or the welding torch 14 to the first position). Furthermore, the one or more cameras can be used to track the calibration tool and / or welding torch 14 to determine a position and / or orientation of the calibration tool and / or welding torch 14 to detect the first position. of the curved weld joint.
Furthermore, the one or more cameras are used to detect a second position (eg, second calibration point) of the curved weld joint (block 534). For example, the calibration tool and / or welding torch 14 can be used to identify the second position of the curved weld joint to the one or more chambers. Furthermore, the one or more cameras can be used to track the calibration tool and / or welding torch 14 to determine a position and / or orientation of the calibration tool and / or welding torch 14 to detect the second position. of the curved weld joint. Furthermore, the one or more cameras are used to detect a curved portion of the curved weld joint between the first and second positions of the curved weld joint (block 536). For example, the calibration tool and / or welding torch 14 can be used to identify the curved weld joint between the first and second positions of the curved weld joint. Furthermore, the one or more cameras can be used to track the calibration tool and / or welding torch 14 to determine a position and / or orientation of the calibration tool and / or welding torch 14 to detect the curved portion of the curved weld joint. As you can appreciate,
106 During operation, the first position can be detected
<img file="MX360446B_D0035.tif" />
Curved weld can be detected, and then the second position can be detected. However, the detection of the first position, the second position and the curved weld joint can be presented in any suitable order. In certain embodiments, a representation of the curved portion of the curved weld joint can be stored to determine a quality of a welding operation by comparing a position and / or an orientation of the welding torch 14 during the welding operation with the representation stored of the curved portion of the curved weld joint. As can be appreciated, in certain embodiments, the welding operation may be a multi-pass welding operation.
Furthermore, calibration for some joints, such as circular weld joints (for example, tube joints) can be carried out by touching the calibration tool to three different points around the circumference of the circular weld joint. A path of the circular weld joint can then be determined by calculating a best-fit circle that crosses all three points. The path of the circular weld joint can be stored and used to evaluate weld parameters for training welds. For a more complex geometry, the calibration tool and / or the welding torch 14 can be dragged along the entire joint in order to indicate the joint to the system in such a way that all the parameters can be calculated.
In some embodiments, method 530 for calibrating a curved weld joint that can be used with welding system 10 may not use the welding torch 14 or the calibration tool to determine the path of the weld joint. That is, the control circuit 52 can use one or more images captured by cameras (for example, such as one or more cameras in the
107
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1.IVl Jl JL β! · * · *<sup>8 :,</sup>β «= detection device 16) to detect the first position and position (block 534) and the curved portion (block 536) of the solder joint. In addition, or alternatively, control circuit 52 may use one or more emitters (eg, emitters 105, 109) to output a visible pattern (eg, grid, dot field) onto workpiece 82 and the joint welding. Chambers configured to detect the visible pattern can determine the shape of workpiece 82 and / or the path of the weld joint based on particular characteristics of the shape and orientation of the visible pattern on workpiece 82 and the joint of welding. Control circuit 52 can determine the shape of the weld joint and / or workpiece 82 using object recognition algorithms (eg, edge detection) applied to the one or more captured images or visible pattern. The operator can provide input to aid object recognition, such as selecting a joint type (eg, butt, T, flap, corner, edge) and / or shape (eg, flat, tubular, curved) of workpiece 82.
FIG. 38 is a diagram of one embodiment of a curved weld joint 538. This curved weld joint 538 can be calibrated using method 530 described in FIG. 37. Curved weld joint 538 is on a workpiece 540. Specifically, the curved weld joint 538 includes a first position 542, a second position 544, and a curved portion 546. Using method 530, a shape of the bend weld joint 538 can be determined and / or stored to evaluate a weld operator to perform a weld operation on the bend weld joint 538.
FIG. 39 is a diagram of one embodiment of a complexly shaped workpiece 539 with a curved weld joint 541. Curved weld joint 541 may be calibrated through markers 543 added to workpiece 539.
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545 You can apply 543 markers to workpiece 539. 545 Marking Tool can be a manual 545 marking tool with a 557 handle. 543 Markers can include, but are not limited to paints, inks, pigments, decals (for example, tape) or reflectors applied to workpiece 539 through a marking tool 545. The operator can roll a marking wheel 547 of the marking tool 545 along the curved weld joint 541, depositing (for example, transferring) the markers 543 onto the workpiece 539 that will be used during a welding session Live. For example, one or more applicators 549 on dial wheel 547 can apply markers 543 to workpiece 539. In some embodiments, markers 543 (eg, paint, ink, pigment) may be removed from workpiece 539 upon completion of the weld along weld joint 541. That is, markers 543 may wash or wipe off workpiece 539. The one or more applicators 549 are arranged around the marking tool 545 to facilitate placing one or more markers in a repeating pattern along a path of the workpiece. For example, the one or more applicators 549 may be arranged around a circumference 551 of the marking wheel 547 such that a pattern period of the one or more markings 543 is applied to the workpiece 539 for each revolution of the wheel Dialing 547. In some embodiments, applicators 549 are configured to apply paint (eg, reflective paint, fluorescent paint) from a reservoir of marking tool 545 as each applicator 549 interacts with workpiece 539. In addition, applicators 549 can be a sorbent material that stores paint or ink.
Chambers of the detection device 16 in the welding base 12 and / or
109 integrated with the helmet 41 of the welding system 10 can
543. Control circuits of the welding system 10 can determine the shape of the complex shaped workpiece 539 and / or the welding system 10 can determine the welding path along the curved weld joint 541 based on at least starts at the detected 543 markers. The shape of the complex shaped workpiece 539 and / or the weld path of the curved weld joint 541 can be stored to evaluate a welding operator to perform a welding operation on the curved weld joint 541 Although the markers 543 shown in Figure 39 are discontinuous, some modalities of the markers 543 may be continuous along the curved weld joint 541.
As can be appreciated, the modalities of the one or more markers 543 may include various geometric shapes, curves, lines, images, text, logos, or any combination thereof. Figures 72-75 illustrate modalities of markers 543 that can be applied to workpiece 539 by marking tool 545. Each of Figures 72-75 illustrates a respective embodiment of a marker 543 that has known properties (eg, length 561, width 563, address 565, shape, radius). In some embodiments, markers 543 are asymmetric around direction 565 (eg, markers in Figures 73-75), asymmetric around a transverse direction 593 (eg, marker in Figure 72), or asymmetric around both addresses 565 and 593. For example, the logo marker mode of Figure 75 includes an image and text that corresponds to the manufacturer and / or vendor of the tool. In some embodiments, each marker 543 has an endpoint 567 that delimits the beginning and / or the end of the respective marker 543. In addition, the features (eg, arrows 569, text direction, unique portions) of marker 543 can facilitate matching of the
110 Known properties of marker 543 with Captui Images
<img file="MX360446B_D0036.tif" />
detection 16 (eg camera). In some embodiments, the period of each marker 543 includes one or more unmarked lengths 555 (eg, spaces), as shown by dashed line markers 543 near junction 541 of FIG. 39. As discussed below, comparing the observed properties of a 543 marker pattern with the known properties of 543 markers makes it easier to determine the shapes of workpiece components with marker pattern 543 and to determine the bond of Solder 541 between the components of the workpiece. In some embodiments, marker pattern 543 may be a solid line with known properties (eg, length, width).
Figure 76 illustrates an embodiment of a welding system with workpiece components 569, 571 to be joined along a weld joint 573. As described herein, the term workpiece includes modalities of workpieces. separate (eg, first component 569, second component 571) to be welded together. A first surface 575 of the first component 569 has a first pattern 577 of markers 543 (eg, triangles) observable by camera 579. As can be appreciated, camera 579 may be a camera of detection device 16, such as a camera 579 Coupled and / or Integrated with Welding Helmet 41. In some embodiments, Camera 579 is coupled to Welding Torch 14. Images captured from the first pattern 577 of markers 543 can be used to determine the plane of the first surface 575. Comparison of observed properties (eg, marker length, marker width, marker radius) of a marker 543 of the first pattern 577 with the known properties of marker 543 can be used to determine the position (eg radial distance, height, azimuth) of marker 543 relative to the camera
111
579.
In some embodiments, the known properties c
OF INDUSTRIAL PROPERTY
<img file="MX360446B_D0037.tif" />
Include the width of the marker for each point along the length of the marker. Comparison of the observed marker width at a point with the known marker width at the point can facilitate determination of the position and / or orientation of the respective marker 543 relative to camera 579. The determined position of various markers (or points inside the markers) of the first pattern 577 can facilitate the determination of the plane of the first surface 575. Similarly, Images captured from a second marker pattern 581 543 on a second surface 583 of the second component 571 can facilitate determination of the plane of the second surface 583. The location of the junction 573 can then be determined as the intersection of the plane determined of the first surface 575 with the determined plane of the second surface 583. Although the first pattern 577 and second pattern 581 modalities each have a plurality (eg, three) of adjacent full-length markers 543, it can be seen that marker patterns 543 with one-period portions of a 543 marker can be used to determine the plane and location of joint 573. Furthermore, the positions of markers 543, the planes of surfaces 575 and 583, and the location of junction 573 can be determined by one or more algorithms executed by computer 18.
In some embodiments, the respective surface area of components and bond 573 can be determined by comparing the observed properties of markers 543 with the known properties of markers 543. For example, computer 18 can determine the position of a first marker 585 by comparing the observed length and width of the first marker 585 with the known length 561 and width 563 of the first marker 585. Computer 18 can also determine address 565 of first marker 585, thus allowing computer 18 to estimate the
112 position of adjacent second marker 587. I mean Ii<sub>t</sub> Pattern (eg, first pattern 577) applied to a workpiece component can be detected by camera 579 in substantially any orientation (eg, parallel, perpendicular, skewed) with respect to junction 573. Comparison of properties observed from the second marker 587 with the estimated or observed properties of the second marker 587 can facilitate the determination of the shape of the first surface 575. For example, the observed differences of markers 543 from the first pattern 577 applied to a flat component (eg, first surface 575) may be recognizably different from the observed differences from markers 543 of a third pattern 589 applied to a curved component ( for example, circular) 591. Differences (eg distortion) between observed properties of markers 543 relative to known properties of markers 543 can be used to determine the position and / or orientation of markers 543 on the surface of the workpiece. Furthermore, differences (eg, distortion) between observed properties of markers 543 within a repeat pattern on the same surface can be used to determine the shape of the workpiece.
Fig. 40 is an embodiment of a method 548 for tracing a multi-pass welding operation. One or more cameras (for example, such as one or more cameras of the detection device 16) are used to detect a first pass of the welding torch 14 along a weld joint during the multi-pass welding operation (block 550). Furthermore, the one or more cameras are used to detect a detect a second pass of the welding torch 14 along the weld joint during the multi-pass welding operation (block 552). Also, the one or more cameras are used to detect a third pass.
113 of the welding torch 14 along the solder joint to the multi-pass weld (block 54). The control circuit 52 (or control circuit of another device) can be configured to store a representation of the first pass, the second pass and / or the third pass together as a single welding operation to determine a quality of the operation of multi-pass welding.
As can be appreciated, the multi-pass welding operation can be a live welding operation, a training welding operation, a virtual reality welding operation and / or an augmented reality welding operation.
FIG. 41 is a perspective view of one embodiment of weld base 12. Weld base 12 includes a weld surface 88 supported by legs 90. Furthermore, weld surface 88 includes one or more slots 91 for facilitating the placement of a workpiece on the weld surface 88. In addition, the weld surface 88 includes several openings 556 (eg, holes or openings) that extend through the weld surface 88. Openings
556 they can be used to enable detection device 16 to determine a position and / or orientation of weld surface 88. Specifically, markers can be arranged below openings 556, but within the vision of detection device 16 to enable detection devices 16 to determine the position and / or orientation of weld surface 88. The markers can be arranged below the weld surface 88 to facilitate longer lasting markers and / or to block and prevent debris from covering the markers, as explained in greater detail in relation to Figure 42.
Drawers 558 are attached to the weld base 12 to make possible the storage of various components with the weld base 12. In addition, wheels
114
560 are coupled to the weld base 12 to facilitate nm i
D.; ...
Welding 12. Adjacent to drawers 558, a calibration tool holder 562 and a welding torch holder 564 make it possible to store a calibration tool and welding torch 14. In certain embodiments, the welding system 10 can configured to detect that the calibration tool is in the calibration tool holder 562 at various times, such as before carrying out a welding operation. A support structure 566 that extends vertically from the weld surface 88 is used to provide structural support to detection device 16 and visual presenter 32. In addition, a tray 568 is coupled to support structure 566 to facilitate storage of different components.
Protective cover 102 is placed over visual presenter 32 to block certain environmental elements from contacting visual presenter 32 (eg, spatter, smoke, sparks, heat, etc.). A handle 570 is coupled to the protective cover 102 to facilitate rotation of the protective cover 102 from a first position (as illustrated) used to block certain environmental elements from contacting the visual presenter 32 to a second raised position away from the presenter visual 32, as illustrated by arrows 572). The second position is not configured to block the environmental elements from making contact with the visual presenter 32. In certain embodiments, the protective cover 102 may be held in the first and / or second position by a latching device, a damper, an actuator, a stop, and so on.
A switch 573 is used to detect whether the protective cover 102 is in the first position or in the second position. Additionally, switch 573 can be coupled to control circuit 52 (or control circuit of another device) and configured
115 to detect if the protective cover 102 is on the first or I
<img file="MX360446B_D0038.tif" />
lock or enable various operations (eg, live welding, auxiliary power, etc.) while switch 573 detects that the protective cover 102 is in the first and / or second position. For example, if switch 573 detects that protective cover 102 is in the second position (eg, not adequately covering visual presenter 32), control circuit 52 may block live welding and / or simulation welding (with the protective cover 102 in the second position, the detection device 16 may be unable to detect markers accurately). As another example, if the switch 573 detects that the protective cover 102 is in the second position, the soldering base control circuit 12 may block the availability of power provided to an output 574 of the soldering base 12. In certain In modalities, the visual presenter 32 may show an indication that the protective cover 102 is in the first and / or second position. For example, while the protective cover 102 is in the second position, the visual presenter 32 may provide an indication to the welding operator that live welding and / or power at output 574 is not available. Solder Dock 12 Includes 575 speakers to enable audio feedback to be provided to a welder operator using Solder Dock 12. Furthermore, in certain embodiments, if the trigger of the welding torch 14 is actuated while the protective cover 102 is in the second position, the welding system 10 can provide visual and / or audio feedback to the operator (eg, the system 10 can provide a visual message and an audible sound effect.)
As illustrated, support structure 566 includes a first arm 576 and a second arm 578. The first and second arms 576 and 578 can rotate about
116 support structure 566 to enable the former; and
578 are set at a selected height for vertical and / or aerial welding. In the illustrated mode, the first and second arms 576 and 578 can rotate independently (for example, separately) with respect to each other so that the first arm 576 can be placed in a first vertical position while the second arm 578 can be placed in a second vertical position different from the first vertical position. In other embodiments, the first and second arms 576 and 578 are configured to rotate together. Furthermore, in certain embodiments, the first and second arms 576 and 578 can be independently and / or rotated together based on a selection by a welding operator. As can be seen, in other embodiments, the arms might not be coupled to the support structure 566, but rather be placed in other places, such as being placed to extend vertically on one or more front limbs, etc. Furthermore, in some embodiments, a structure may be coupled to weld base 12 to facilitate a welding operator to lean on and / or rest on it (eg, a support bar).
Each of the first and second arms 576 and 578 includes a damper 580 (or other support device) that facilitates retention of the first and second arms 576 and 578 in selected vertical positions. In addition, each of the first and second arms 576 and 578 includes a drain system 582 configured to secure the first and second arms 576 and 578 individually in selected positions. In certain embodiments, drain system 582 is unlocked by applying force to a handle, switch, foot pedal, and / or other device.
Workpiece 82 is coupled to second arm 578 for aerial and / or vertical welding. In addition, the first arm 576 includes the weld plate 108 to
117 aerial, horizontal and / or vertical welding. As can be seen the solder plate 108 and / or a clamp used to retain the solder plate 108 can include various markers (eg, reflective and / or light emitting) to facilitate tracing by detection device 16. For example, in certain embodiments, workpiece 82, weld plate 108, and / or clamp may include three markers on one surface (eg, in a plane), and a fourth marker on another surface (eg. , in a different plane) to facilitate tracking by the detection device 16. As illustrated, a brake release 584 is attached to each of the first and second arms 576 and 578 to unlock each braking system 582. In certain embodiments, a pull chain may extend downward from each brake release 584 to facilitate unlocking and / or lowering the first and second arms 576 and 578, such as while the 584 brake release of the first and second arms 576 and 578 is vertically above the reach of a welding operator. Thus, the welding operator can pull a handle on the drive chain to unlock the braking system 582 and / or to lower the first and second arms 576 and 578.
As illustrated, the second 578 arm includes a clamping assembly
588 for coupling workpiece 82 to second arm 578. In addition, clamping assembly 588 includes various T-handles 590 for adjusting, tightening, securing, and / or loosening clamps and other portions of clamping assembly 588. In certain embodiments, the First arm 576 may also include multiple 590 T-handles to adjust, tighten, secure, and / or loosen weld plate 108. As can be appreciated, clamping assembly 588 may include various markers (eg, reflective and / or light emitting) to facilitate tracing by detection device 16. For example, in certain embodiments, clamping assembly 588 may Include three markers on one surface (for example, on a plane), and a fourth marker on another surface (for
118
I example, on a different plane) to facilitate tracing by day> * 1 u
It is worth mentioning that the welding system 10 may include the clamping assembly 588 on one or both of the first and second arms 576 and 578.
Detection device 16 may Include a removable cover 592 disposed in front of one or more cameras of detection device 16 to block environmental elements (eg, splash, smoke, heat, etc.) or other subjects from making contact with the detection device. Detection 16. Removable cover 592 is arranged in slots 594 configured to keep removable cover 592 in front of detection device 16. In certain embodiments, the removable cover 592 can be inserted, removed, and / or replaced without the use of tools. As explained in detail below, the removable cover 592 can be arranged in front of the detection device 16 at an angle to facilitate infrared light to pass through it.
As illustrated, a connection assembly 596 can be coupled between the first and / or second arms 576 and 578 and the detection device 16 to facilitate rotation of the detection devices 16 when the first and / or second arms 576 and 578 have been spun. Consequently, when the first and / or second arms 576 and 578 are rotated, the detection device 16 can also rotate such that one or more cameras of the detection device 16 are positioned to track a selected welding surface. For example, if the first and / or second arms 576 and 578 are placed in a lowered position, the detection device 16 can be configured to track welding operations occurring on the welding surface 88. On the other hand, if the first and / or second arms 576 and 578 are placed in an elevated position, detection device 16 can be configured to track vertical, horizontal, and / or aerial welding operations. In some embodiments, the first and / or second arms 576 and 578 and detection device 16 may not be
119 mechanically connected, despite the rotation of the first
578 can facilitate rotation of detection devices 16. For example, markers on the first and / or second arms 576 and 578 can be detected by detection device 16, and detection devices 16 can be moved (eg using motor ) based on the detected position of the first and / or second arms 576 and 578.
In some embodiments, movement of the first and / or second arms 576, 578 can at least partially invalidate previous calibrations of the detection device 16 with components of the weld base 12. For example, after sensing devices 16 are calibrated with main (eg horizontal) weld surface 88 of weld base 12, subsequent movement of the first and second arms 576, 578 may invalidate the calibration of the surface main weld 88 based at least in part on movement of detection devices 16. Consequently, detection device 16 can be recallbrained with main welding surface 88 once the operator conducts welding sessions using the first and / or second arms 576, 578. In some embodiments, computer 18 notifies the operator through visual presenter 32 and / or audible notifications when defection device 16 is to be recalled based on the detected movement of detection devices 16 relative to the weld surface. 88. In addition, or as an alternative, the visual presenter 62 of the calibration tool 14 can notify the operator when the detection device 16 is to be recalibrated.
FIG. 42 is a cross-sectional view of one embodiment of weld surface 88 of weld base 12 of FIG. 41. As illustrated, weld surface 88 includes various openings 556 extending therethrough between a
120 top plane 597 of weld surface 88 and a plane i = · **? © of weld 88. A bracket 599 is placed below each opening 556. Brackets 599 can be attached to weld surface 88 using any fastener or adequate means of insurance. In the illustrated mode, the supports
599 they are attached to the weld surface 88 using fasteners 600 (eg, bolts, screws, etc.). In other embodiments, supports 599 may be welded, attached, or otherwise secured to weld surface 88. Furthermore, in certain embodiments, supports 599 may be mounted to a lateral side of weld base 12 instead of the welding surface 88. Markers 602 are coupled to supports 599 and vertically positioned below openings 556, but markers 602 are horizontally offset from openings 556 to prevent dust and / or spatter from contacting markers 602 and enable the detection device 16 detect markers 602. In some embodiments, markers 602 can be placed within openings 556 and / or anywhere such that the motion tracking system is placed on one side of the top plane 597 and markers 602 are placed on the opposite side. of the upper plane 597. As can be seen, the markers 602 can be light reflective and / or light emitting. For example, in certain embodiments, markers 602 can be formed from a light reflective tape. In some modes, the markers
602 they can be spherical markers. Consequently, detection device 16 can detect markers 602 to determine a position and / or an orientation of weld surface 88.
FIG. 43 is a cross-sectional view of one embodiment of a detection device 16 having the removable cover 592. As illustrated, the removable cover
592 it is arranged in the slots 594. The detection device 16 Includes a camera
121
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604 (eg, Infrared camera) having a 605 face and 604 having a 606 lens. Removable cover 592 is configured to allow Infrared light to pass through it and block environmental elements (eg, splash, smoke, heat, etc.) or other objects to make contact with lens 606 of camera 604. As can be appreciated, camera 604 may include one or more Infrared emitters 607 configured to emit Infrared light. IF removable cover 592 is placed directly in front of face 605, a large amount of Infrared light from infrared emitters 607 can be reflected by removable cover 592 onto lens 606 of camera 604. Accordingly, the removable cover 592 is positioned at an angle 608 relative to face 605 of camera 604 to direct a substantial portion of the Infrared light that is reflected back to lens 606. Specifically, in certain embodiments, the removable cover 592 may be placed at an angle 608 between approximately 10 to 60 degrees relative to the face 605 of the camera 604. Furthermore, in other embodiments, the removable cover 592 may be placed with the angle 608 between about 40 to 50 degrees (eg, about 45 degrees) relative to face 605 of camera 604. Removable cover 592 can be made from any suitable light transmitting material. For example, in certain embodiments, the removable cover 592 can be made from a polymeric material, or any other suitable material.
FIG. 44 is a perspective view of one embodiment of a 610 calibration tool. As can be appreciated, the 610 calibration tool can be used to calibrate a workpiece, a work surface, a solder joint, and so on. , for a welding operation. The 610 Calibration Tool Includes a 612 handle for easy holding of the 610 Calibration Tool. Furthermore, the 610 Calibration Tool is configured to be
122 detected by detection device 16 to determine if a tip 614 of calibration tool 610 is contacting. In certain embodiments, computer 18 coupled to one or more detection devices 16 can be configured to determine a calibration point simply by contacting tip 614 with a specific surface. In other embodiments, computer 18 is configured to determine a calibration point by providing an input weld operator indicating that tip 614 is making contact with a calibration point. Furthermore, in the illustrated embodiment, computer 18 is configured to detect a calibration point by tip 614 by contacting the calibration point while a downward force is applied to calibration tool 610 through the handle. The downward force directs a distance between two adjacent markers to decrease below a predetermined threshold thus indicating a selected calibration point. Detection device 16 is configured to detect the change in distance between the two adjacent markers and computer 18 is configured to use the change in distance to identify the calibration point.
Handle 612 is attached to a light transmitting cover 616. In addition, a gasket 618 is attached to one end of light transmitting cover 616, while an end cap 620 is attached to an opposite end of light transmitting cover 616. During operation, by applying a downward force to the calibration tool 610 using handle 612, a distance 622 between tip 613 and packing 618 is reduced.
FIG. 45 is a perspective view of the calibration tool 610 of FIG. 37 having the outer cover 616 removed. Calibration tool 610 includes a first portion 624 that has a first axis 626. Furthermore, the
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JL IVJL Jl JL BlRlTO jo first shaft 626 includes tip 614 at one end, and a cushion or mount) at the opposite end. In certain embodiments, bearing 628 has a cup-like structure configured to fit around a contact tip of welding torch 14. Furthermore, first shaft 626 includes a first marker 630 and a second marker 632 coupled thereto. The 610 calibration tool also
It includes a second portion 634 having a second axis 636 with a third marker 638 coupled thereto. A spring 640 is arranged around the second axis 636 between the third marker 638 and bearing 628. As can be seen, spring 640 makes it easier for third marker 638 to be directed towards second marker 632. For example, by applying a downward force to the calibration tool 610 using the handle 612, the spring 640 is compressed to reduce a first distance 642 between the second and third markers 632 and 638. In contrast, by removing the downward force from the Calibration tool 610, spring 640 is decompressed to increase the first distance 642 between the second and third markers 632 and 638.
A second distance 644 between the first and second markers 630 and 632 is fixed, and a third distance 646 between the first marker 630 and the tip 614 is also fixed.
In certain embodiments, the welding system 10 uses the calibration tool 610 to detect calibration points using a predetermined algorithm. For example, the third distance 646 is measured between tip 614 and the marker closest to tip 614 (eg, the first marker 630). The third distance 646 is stored in memory. The second distance 644 is measured between two fixed markers (eg, the first marker 630 and the second marker 632). The second distance 644 is also stored in memory. In addition, a compressed distance between the markers (for example, the second and third markers 632 and 638) is measured with the spring
640 arranged between them. A line is calculated between the two fixed markers
124 using their x, y, z locations. The line is used to project the line with a length of the third distance 646 starting at the first marker 630 closer to the tip 614. The direction of the vector can be selected to be away from the compressed markers. Consequently, the three-dimensional location of the tip can be calculated using the markers. In some modes, only two markers can be used by the 610 calibration tool. In such embodiments, an assumption can be made that the marker closest to tip 614 is the marker closest to the work surface (eg, table or clamp). Although the 610 calibration tool in the illustrated mode uses compression to indicate a calibration point, the 610 calibration tool can indicate a calibration point in any suitable way, such as when discovering a marker, covering a marker, lighting an LED ( for example, IR LED), turning off an LED (for example, IR LED), enabling and / or disabling a wireless transmission to a computer, and so on.
The first, second, and third markers 630, 632, and 638 are spherical, as illustrated; however, in other embodiments, the first, second, and third markers 630, 632, and 638 may have any suitable shape. Furthermore, the first, second and third markers 630, 632 and 638 have a reflective outer surface and / or include a light emitting device. Accordingly, the first, second, and third markers 630, 632, and 638 can be detected by detection device 16. Therefore, detection device 16 is configured to detect first, second, and third distances 642, 644, and 646. By reducing the first distance 642 below a predetermined threshold, computer 18 is configured to identify a calibration point. As can be seen, the first, second, and third distances 642, 644, and 646 are all different to enable detection device 16 and / or
125
IMPWu® computer 18 determine a tip location 614 ι i · · 'cf first, second and third markers 630, 632 and 638.
To calibrate a workpiece 82, the workpiece 82 can first be clamped to the weld surface 88. Once the workpiece 82 is clamped to the weld surface 88, a weld operator can provide input to the system weld 10 to indicate that workpiece 82 is ready to be calibrated. In certain embodiments, the fastener used to secure the workpiece 82 to the weld surface 88 may include markers that facilitate the weld system 10 to detect that the workpiece 82 is attached to the weld surface 88. Once the welding system 10 receives an indication that the workpiece 82 is attached to the welding surface 88, the welding operator uses the calibration tool 610 to identify two calibration points on the workpiece 82. When the clamping assembly 588 securing the workpiece 82 has markers (eg, visual markers 802), the measurements of the joint calibration tool 610 may be relative to the markers of the clamping assembly 588. Accordingly, the Computer 18 can compensate for movement of workpiece 82 and / or clamp assembly 588 once the joint has been calibrated based on the identification of clamp markers. Specifically, in the illustrated embodiment, the welding operator touches tip 614 to a first calibration point and applies downward force using handle 612 until the welding system 10 detects a sufficient change in distance between adjacent markers, thereby indicating the first calibration point. Furthermore, the welding operator touches tip 614 to a second calibration point and applies downward force using handle 612 until the welding system 10 detects a sufficient change in distance between adjacent markers, indicating
126 this way the second calibration point. In certain me
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Weld 10 will only detect a calibration point if the 610 calibration tool is pressed and held at the calibration point for a predetermined period of time (eg 0.1, 0.3, 0.5, 1.0, 2.0 seconds, and so on). Welding system 10 can be configured to capture multiple calibration points (eg, 50, 100, etc.) during the predetermined time period and average them together. If the movement of the multiple calibration points greater than a predetermined threshold is detected, the calibration can be rejected and redone. Also, if a first point is successfully calibrated, a second point may have to be a minimum distance away from the first point (for example, 5, 10, 15 centimeters, etc.). If the second point is not within the minimum distance away from the first point, the calibration of the second point can be rejected and redone. Welding system 10 uses the two calibration points to calibrate the workpiece.
In certain embodiments, the welding system 10 can determine a virtual line between the first and second calibration points. The virtual line can be infinitely long and extend beyond the first and second calibration points. The virtual line represents a weld joint. Various welding parameters (eg working angle, displacement angle, tip to working distance (CTWD), target, displacement speed, etc.) can be in reference to this virtual line. Consequently, the virtual line can be important in calculating the different welding parameters.
It is worth mentioning that in certain modalities the first, second and third markers 630, 632 and 638 are all arranged vertically on the handle 612, while in other modalities, one or more of the first, second and third markers
127
<img file="MX360446B_D0040.tif" />
630, 632 and 638 are arranged vertically below the industrial handle a greater distance between adjacent markers. In certain embodiments, the first portion 624 can be removed from the calibration tool 610 and attached to a contact tip of the welding torch 14 to calibrate the welding torch 14. As can be seen, tip 614 of the calibration tool 610 can be any suitable form. Figures 46 to 48 illustrate few modalities than shapes that tip 614 can have.
Specifically, FIG. 46 is a side view of one embodiment of a sharp tip 648 of calibration tool 610. Using sharp tip 648, calibration tool 610 can be used to calibrate various joints on workpiece 82, such as the illustrated fillet joint, a lap joint, a butt joint without any root openings, and so on. Furthermore, Figure 47 is a side view of one embodiment of a rounded tip 650 of calibration tool 610. Using rounded tip 650, calibration tool 610 can be used to calibrate various joints on workpiece 82, such as such as the illustrated fillet joint, a butt joint with a root opening, a lap joint, and so on. In addition, FIG. 48 is a side view of one embodiment of the rounded tip 650 of the calibration tool 610 having a small sharp tip 652. Using the small sharp tip 652 at the end of the rounded tip 650, the calibration tool 610 can be used to calibrate various joints on workpiece 82, such as the illustrated butt joint without root opening, a filled joint, a lap joint, and so on. In certain embodiments, the tip of the calibration tool 610 may be removable and / or reversible, such that the tip includes two different types of tips (eg, one type of tip at each opposite end). Consequently, a welding operator can select the type of tip used by the
128 610 Calibration Tool. In certain modes, one or be coupled to the 610 Calibration Tool if the 610 Calibration Tool is reversible. The one or more markers can be used to indicate which side of the tip is being used such that the welding system 10 can use a suitable marker-to-tip distance for calibration calculations.
Figure 49 is an embodiment of a method 654 for detecting a calibration point. Detection device 16 (or other component of welding system 10) detects a first marker of calibration tool 610, a second marker of calibration tool 610 and / or a third marker of calibration tool 610 (block 656 ). Furthermore, the welding system 10 determines a first distance between the first marker and the second marker and / or a second distance between the second marker and the third marker (block 658). Furthermore, the welding system 10 detects whether the first distance or the second distance is within a predetermined distance range (eg, indicating a compressed distance) (block 660).
Welding system 10 determines a position of a calibration point if the first distance or the second distance is within the predetermined distance range (eg, meaning a compressed distance) (block 662). Furthermore, the welding system 10 determines a location of a calibration tip of the calibration tool 610 with respect to at least one of the first, second and third markers to determine the spatial position of the calibration tip (block 664).
FIG. 50 is an embodiment of a method 666 for determining a weld score based on a weld path. Consequently, method 666 can be used to evaluate a welding operation. The device
129 detection 16 (or any motion tracking system>.?
starting position of the welding operation (block 668). Furthermore, the detection device 16 detects a terminal position of the welding operation (block 670). Furthermore, the detection device 16 detects a spatial path of the welding operation between the initial position and the terminal position (block 672). For example, detection device 16 tracks a position and / or an orientation of the welding operation. Welding system 10 determines a score for the welding operation based at least partially on the spatial path of the welding operation (for example, if the welding operation receives a pass score based on the spatial path of the operation welding) (block 674). For example, in certain embodiments, the spatial path of the weld operation can be used alone to determine if a weld score fails. In some embodiments, detection device 16 can be used to detect a calibration point that corresponds to the starting position and / or a calibration point that corresponds to the terminal position.
For example, in certain embodiments, the welding system 10 determines whether the welding operation receives a pass score when determining whether: a distance of the path of the welding operation is greater than a predetermined lower threshold, the distance of the path of the welding operation is interior than the predetermined lower threshold, the distance of the path of the welding operation is greater than a predetermined upper threshold, the distance of the welding operation path is less than the predetermined upper threshold, the path of the welding operation deviates substantially from a predetermined path of the welding operation, the path of the welding operation indicates that several weld passes occurred at a single location along a
130
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weld joint, a weld time along the weld tray is greater than a predetermined inner threshold, the weld time along the path of the weld operation is less than the predetermined Lower threshold, the welding time along the path of the welding operation is greater than a predetermined upper threshold and / or the time of the welding along the path of the welding operation is less than the predetermined upper threshold.
Furthermore, in some embodiments, for the welding system 10 to determine a score, the welding system 10 can ignore a first portion of the path adjacent to the starting position and a second portion of the path adjacent to the terminal position. For example, the first portion of the path and the second portion of the path may include a distance of approximately 1.27 centimeters. Also, in other embodiments, the first portion of the path and the second portion of the path may Include portions of the path formed over a time of approximately 0.5 seconds.
Fig. 51 is an embodiment of a method 676 for switching between welding modes using a welding torch 14 user interface. Control circuit 52 of welding torch 14 (or control circuit of another device) detects a produced signal. by a welding torch 14 user interface indicating a request to change the welding mode (eg, welding training mode) (block 678). Furthermore, control circuit 52 determines a length of time that the signal is detected (block 680). Control circuit 52 is configured to change the welding mode from a simulation mode (for example, virtual reality mode, augmented reality mode, etc.) to a live welding mode if the length of time that the signal is detected is greater than a threshold
131 default (block 682). Conversely, the control circuit changes the welding mode from live welding mode to simulation mode simply if the signal is detected (block 684) (for example, there is no length of time that the signal is to be detected before a live weld mode transition is made). Control circuit 52 is configured to direct welding torch 14 to vibrate after switching to live welding mode (block 686). For example, control circuit 52 may be configured to direct welding torch 14 to vibrate two or more times (eg, vibrating pulses) to indicate a change to live welding mode.
Furthermore, control circuit 52 can be configured to direct welding torch 14 to vibrate any suitable number of times (eg, a determined number of times) to indicate a change to live welding mode. As can be seen, the signal indicating the request to change the welding mode can be produced by pressing a button on the User Interface 60 of the welding torch 14. In this way, the welding mode can be changed from the live welding mode by pressing and releasing the button (for example, the button does not have to be held down for a predetermined period of time). In contrast, the weld mode can be changed from simulation mode to live weld mode by pressing and holding the button for a predetermined period of time. In certain modes, an audible sound can be produced once the welding modes are changed. In addition, in some modes an audible sound and vibration can accompany any change between welding modes. Also, a visual presenter of the welding torch 14 can display the welding mode after changing the welding mode. In some modes, the visual presenter may flash welding mode on the visual presenter a
132 predetermined number of times.
FIG. 52 is a block diagram of one embodiment of a remote training system, such as a helmet training system 41 (eg, helmet). In some embodiments, the helmet training system 41 facilitates the acquisition of welding parameters (for example, a working angle, a displacement angle, a contact tip to work piece distance, a torch travel speed of weld, a welding torch orientation, a welding torch position, a target of the welding torch relative to the workpiece joint, and so on) of a welding process and / or arc parameters (eg, a welding voltage, welding current, wire feed speed) without using the welding base 12 described above. As can be seen, operators wear helmets during welding, and helmet training system 41 Integrates detection device 16 (eg emitters, receivers) into the helmet. Various modes of helmet 41 can incorporate computer 18 (eg, as a controller, dock to computer 18 via a wired connection, or dock to the computer via a wireless connection. In some embodiments, the training system Helmet 41 uses a 700 lens to protect the operator from arc during a welding process. In some embodiments, visual presenter 32 is arranged within helmet training system 41 such that the operator can view visual presenter 32 and lens 700 in preparation for or during a welding process. Visual presenter 32 may be a visual display presenter that is at least partially superimposed with the operator's view through helmet training system 41. As you can see, the welding software can use the visual presenter 32 arranged inside the helmet training system
133 to present information to the operator in a similar way;
visual presenter 32 external to helmet 41. For example, visual presenter 32 of helmet 41 may display a visual representation (eg, number, text, color, arrow, graphic) of one or more arc parameters, one or more parameters welding, or any combination thereof. That is, helmet 32 visual presenter 41 can visually display a weld parameter relative to a predetermined Threshold Interval and / or a target value for the weld parameter in accordance with a selected weld assignment. In some embodiments, the visual presenter 32 may display a graphical representation of a welding parameter or an arc parameter relative to a threshold in a manner similar to the visual displays 62 of the welding torch 14 described above with Figure 34. In addition, helmet 41 display 32 can display one or more parameters (eg, arc parameters, welding parameters) before, during, or after the operator wearing helmet 41 conducts a welding session (for example, weld allowance).
The helmet training system 41 uses one or more integrated detection devices 16 to determine the welding parameters from observations of the welding torch 14 and the workpiece 82. The one or more detection devices 16 of the training system Helmet 41 may Include one or more receivers 702 that Include, but are not limited to, microphones, cameras, Infrared receivers, or any combination thereof. Furthermore, in some embodiments, one or more emitters 704 may emit energy signals (eg, Infrared light, visible light, electromagnetic waves, acoustic waves), and reflections of the energy signals may be received by the one or more receivers. 702. In some embodiments, fiducial points 706 (eg, markers) of the welding torch
134 and / or workpiece 82 are active markers (eg <r:
energy signals, as described above with Figures 31 and 32. Accordingly, the one or more receivers 702 of the helmet training system 41 can receive energy signals emitted from active markers. In particular, receivers 702 can identify fiducial points (eg, markers) 706 arranged on workpiece 82, work environment 708, and / or welding torch 14, and receivers 702 can send feedback signals to computer 18 (eg controller) corresponding to Identified fiducial points. As discussed above, arrangements of the identified fiducial points 706 can enable detection device 16 to determine the position and orientation of the welding torch in working environment 708. Computer 18 (eg controller) can determine distances between fiducial points 706 and can determine weld parameters based at least in part on feedback from receivers 702. In addition, computer 18 (eg, controller) can be coupled to sensors within welding power source 28, wire feeder 30, and / or welding torch 14 to determine arc parameters of the welding process.
In some embodiments, the helmet training system 41 can terminate the component types of the welding system 10 from the identified fiducial points. For example, the fiducial points of a TIG welding torch are different from the fiducial points of a MIG welding torch. Furthermore, the welding software 244 executed by the computer 18 can control the welding power source 28 and / or the wire feeder 30 based at least in part on the determined types of components of the welding system 10. For example , the helmet training system 41 can control the arc parameters (for
135 example, weld voltage, weld current) with weld base 14, the weld position of the workpiece 82, and / or the material of the workpiece. Helmet training system 41 can also control arc parameters based on the experience or certification states of the operator associated with registration number 293. For example, helmet training system 41 can control welding power source 28 to reduce the welding current available for selection by an operator with less than a predetermined threshold of experience with welding processes on relatively thin workpieces. or in the aerial weld position. In some embodiments, the one or more detection devices 16 of the helmet training system 41 include motion sensors 709 (eg, gyros and accelerometers) that are coupled to computer 18. Motion sensors 709 can enable the Computer 18 determine the orientation and relative movement of the training system helmet at 41 within the environment.
In some embodiments, the helmet training system 41 includes the operator ID system 43. The operator ID system 43 may use a 710 scanner (eg, fingerprint scanner, line scanner, barcode scanner) or an input / output device 712 (eg, keyboard, touch screen) to receive the Operator Identification Information. As described above, the Identification Information can be associated with the unique registration number 293 for the operator. Weld data received by computer 18 (eg, controller) can be stored in memory devices 22 or storage devices 24, as described above. Computer 18 (eg controller) can associate the received and stored weld data with registration number 293 of the identified operator. Network device 36 is coupled to
136
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DT LA TTOÍT AGE INDUSTRIAL network 38 through a wired or wireless connection pair;
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Weld 327 from the helmet training system 41 in the data storage system 318 (eg, cloud storage system). In some embodiments, the helmet training system 41 can store weld data locally within the storage devices 24 of the computer 18 while the helmet training system 41 is remotely operated (eg, production floor, job site ). Helmet training system 41 can be configured to upload stored welding data to data storage system 318 (eg, cloud storage system) after connection to network 38, such as when the operator saves the system of helmet training 41 at the end of a shift or at the end of a work week. In some embodiments, the network device 36 of the helmet training system 41 can stream weld data to the data storage system 318 (eg, cloud storage system) through the network 38 during and / or after the operator to carry out a welding session.
As can be appreciated, using the systems, devices and techniques described herein, a welding system 10 can be provided to train welding operators. The welding system 10 can be inexpensive and can enable welding students to receive high-quality hands after training. Although the welding systems 10 described here can be used to receive and correlate 327 welding data for training and educational purposes, it can be appreciated that the welding systems 10 described here can be used to monitor operators and obtain 327 welding data from of non-training welding processes. In other words, welding data obtained from
137
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welding and / or welding productivity of previously trained operators. For example, welding data 327 can be used to verify that the welding procedures for a particular welding process have been performed. As illustrated in FIG. 52, various welding systems 10 can be coupled to data storage system 318 (eg, cloud storage systems) through network 38. Accordingly, data storage system 318 can receive weld data 327 associated with record numbers 293 from various weld systems 10 (eg, weld base systems 12, helmet training systems 41). Furthermore, welding data associated with each registration number 293 may include serial numbers 329 that correspond to other welding sessions carried out by the respective operator. In addition, as used herein, the term "assignment" should not be limited to weld tests conducted by the operator for training and educational purposes. That is, assignments can include non-training welding processes, simulated training welding processes, and live training welding processes, among others. Furthermore, the term "welding session" may include, but is not limited to, welding assignments, welds carried out on a production floor, welds carried out on a job site, or any combination thereof.
Weld data 327 from data storage system 318 (eg, cloud storage system) can be monitored and / or managed through a remote computer 44 attached to network 38. Stored weld data 327 corresponds to welding processes (eg live, simulated, virtual reality) carried out by multiple operators on one or more
138 locations. FIG. 53 illustrates an embodiment of a user display 720 that can be used by a manager or instructor to monitor and / or analyze weld data 327 stored in data storage system 318.
Weld data 327 can be organized by characteristics (eg, filter criteria) of weld data 327. The characteristics of the 327 weld data that can be used to classify the 327 weld data may include, but are not limited to, one or more 722 organizations (eg, training facility, employer, job site), one or more 724 groups (eg shift) within the organization, one or more 726 operator registration numbers within selected organizations 722 or 724 groups, time (eg 728 dates, time of day) when the welding processes were carried out, 725 systems and 730 welding identifications (for example, particular welding assignments, unique identifier associated with a welding session, workpiece part number or types of welds). For example, weld data 327 associated with one or more record numbers 293 over a period of time (eg, dates 728) and through different organizations 722 or different groups 724 can be displayed visually on dashboard screen 720. In Consequently, the manager or instructor can track an operator's progress over time through different organizations using welding data associated with the operator's registration number 293. In some embodiments, a 732 weld data type (eg, live training, non-live training, simulation, virtual reality) can be used to filter the viewed weld data. Also, a type of 735 welding process (eg GMAW, TIG, SMAW) can be used to filter the welding data seen in some modalities. As you can see, welding data for each welding session (for example, welding assignment) can be
139 classified (eg filtered) into multiple subsets. Coi> v tr <
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53, Live and non-training welds performed by an operator with registration number 58,794 on June 25, 2014 with System I can be displayed visually on the 720 dashboard screen by selecting one or more of the fields suitable for 726 registration numbers, 725 systems, 728 dates and 732 weld data types.
In addition, or alternatively, the instructor may use a 733 search control to search for 327 weld data associated with different parameters (for example, serial numbers 329, organization 722, group 724, operator name, registration number 726, time , type of welding data) corresponding to welding sessions carried out by operators. After selection of a weld data set, a session 734 of dashboard screen 720 may visually display graphical cues (eg, a score) associated with the selected weld data and / or at least a portion of the data welding. Furthermore, details of weld data 327 can be viewed after selection of weld data 327 and a user control 736. The 720 dashboard display can enable the manager or instructor to save or edit the weld data layout on the 720 dashboard display. Furthermore, the 720 dashboard display can enable the manager or instructor to export at least a portion of the 327 weld data. For example, the manager can export the 327 weld data that corresponds to sessions conducted by a set of operators over the course of a day or a week. Dashboard 720 can make it possible for the administrator or instructor to export weld 327 data in various formats, including but not limited to a comma separated value (CSV) file, a spreadsheet file, and a text file. In some modalities, the
140 administrator or instructor can remove a subset of r example (demo weld data) from data storage system (eg cloud storage system). In addition, or alternatively, the administrator or instructor can edit the 732 weld data type, such as to review training weld data as non-training weld data, review the operator associated with weld data, review the associated time with welding data, and so on.
As can be appreciated, the dashboard display 720 may enable the manager or instructor to monitor, compare, and analyze the weld data associated with one or more 726 record numbers. In some modes, performance, experience, and historical operator data Welds can be compared across organizations or groups through registration numbers 726. In some embodiments, the dashboard display 720 may enable the manager or instructor to set goals or provide assignments to desired 726 record numbers. Furthermore, the administrator or instructor can monitor and adjust previously established goals. The dashboard display 720 may enable notes or comments regarding the welding performance associated with one or more record numbers to be entered and stored with the welding data.
Figure 54 illustrates an embodiment of the welding system 10 in the welding environment 11 that can track the position and / or orientation of the welding torch 14 without using markers 474 on the welding torch 14 described above with respect to Figures 30- 32. The welding system 10 of FIG. 54 can track the position and / or orientation of the welding torch 14 before carrying out a welding process. In some embodiments, the welding system 10 of FIG. 54 can track the position and / or orientation of the welding torch 14 during the process of
141 welding. One or more depth sensors 750 at these positions in the welding environment 11, such as a first depth sensor 752 on the workpiece 82, a second depth sensor 754 integrated with the welding helmet 41 (for example, helmet training system), or a third horizontal depth sensor 756 with workpiece 82, or any combination thereof. Each depth sensor 750 may have an emitter configured to emit a visible pattern at a desired wavelength and a camera configured to monitor the visible pattern in the welding environment 11. The visible pattern emitted by each depth sensor 750 may be the same or different from the visible pattern emitted by other depth sensors 750. Furthermore, the desired wavelength of the visible pattern for each depth sensor 750 may be the same or different between the depth sensors 750. Figure 54 illustrates respective visible patterns emitted from each depth sensor 750 with solid arrows, and figure 54 illustrates the patterns reflected to each depth sensor 750 with dashed arrows. The wavelength of the visible patterns can be within the infrared, visible, or ultraviolet spectrum (eg, about 1mm at 120nm). The emitter of each depth sensor emits the respective visible pattern in the welding environment 11 on the welding surface 88, the workpiece 82, the welding torch 14, or the operator, or any combination thereof. By observing the visible pattern reflected in the welding environment 11, the computer 18 can track objects (eg, welding torch 14, operator) that move within the welding environment. In addition, computer 18 can identify the shape of workpiece 82 or a weld joint path on workpiece 82 based on observations of the visible pattern in welding environment 11.
As you can see, a 758 arc struck by the welding torch
142 emits electromagnetic radiation with workpiece 82. <sup>:</sup> and the intensity of the emissions at each wavelength of the electromagnetic radiation emitted by the arc can be based on a variety of factors including, but not limited to, the material of the workpiece, the material of the electrode, the composition of the gas protection, welding voltage, welding current, type of welding process (eg SMAW, MIG, TIG). In some embodiments, the detection device 16 includes a light sensor configured to detect the wavelengths of electromagnetic radiation from the welding environment 11 before and during the welding processes. The computer 18 of the welding system 10 can determine the emitted wavelengths and the intensity of the emitted wavelengths from that emitted based on feedback received from the detection device 16. In addition, or alternatively, computer 18 may determine emitted wavelengths and intensity of emitted wavelengths from data stored in memory of computer 18 or data storage system 318, welding parameters, and the arc parameters. For example, computer 18 may determine that the steel MIG welding arc has different predominant wavelengths than the aluminum TIG welding arc.
In some embodiments, the wavelengths of the one or more visible patterns emitted by depth sensors 750 can be selected to reduce arc noise 758 during welding processes. Furthermore, in some embodiments, depth sensors 750 may vary the wavelength of the emitted visible pattern. Accordingly, computer 18 can adaptively control the wavelengths of emitted visible patterns to improve the precision of position and orientation determinations from depth sensor feedback. That is, computer 18 can control depth sensors 750 to output the
143
<img file="MX360446B_D0045.tif" />
pattern visible in a first interval for MIG welding of ace visible in a second different interval for TIG welding of aluminum. In addition, or alternatively, computer 18 may filter the signals received by depth sensors 750 to reduce or eliminate the effects of emissions from arc 758.
Furthermore, arc 758 may not be continuous during weld formation, for some welding processes (eg, short-circuit MIG). The electromagnetic radiation emitted when arc 758 is out (eg, (eg, during a short-circuit phase of the welding process) may be substantially less than the electromagnetic radiation emitted when arc 758 is active. Computer 18 can control depth sensors 750 to output the respective visible patterns when arc 758 instead of when arc 758 is live, then making it possible for depth sensors 750 to track the position and / or orientation of the torch. solder 14 during the soldering process. That is, computer 18 can synchronize the visible patterns emitted to substantially coincide with the short-circuit phases of the welding process. The short-circuit frequency can be greater than 30 Hz, thereby enabling computer 18 to determine the position and / or orientation of welding torch 14 in welding environment 11 at approximately 30 Hz or more.
In addition, or as an alternative to depth sensors 750, the welding system 10 may use a local positioning system 762 to determine the position of the welding torch 14 within the welding environment 11. Beacons 764 of the local positioning system 762 are arranged at known locations around the welding environment and emitting 766 signals (eg, ultrasonic, RF) received through one or more microphones 429 in the welding torch. Computer 18 coupled to one or more 429 microphones can determine the location of the
144 14 welding torch inside the 11cc welding environment
<img file="MX360446B_D0046.tif" />
on signals received from three or more beacons 764. The position of the welding torch 14 can be determined by the computer through triangulation, tri-alteration, or multi-alteration. More than three 764 local positioning system beacons 764 distributed around the welding environment 11 Increase the robustness of the local positioning system 762 and increase the probability that the welding torch 14 is within a line of sight of at least three beacons 764 at any point along a workpiece 82 that has a complex shape (eg tube). In some embodiments, beacons 764 can be placed with depth sensors 750 or components of the welding system 10, such as the welding power source 28.
Returning to Figures 31 and 32, the welding torch modes 14 may have multiple sets of visual markers 802 to facilitate detection of the position and orientation of the welding torch 14 relative to the weld base 12 and the workpiece. work 82. In some embodiments, the 802 visual markers are 64 LEDs that can be independently controlled. For example, each set (eg, first set 804, second set 806, third set 810) of LEDs 64 can be separately controlled such that only one set is turned on and emits light at a time. Reducing the amount of visual markers 802 detectable by detection device 16 can reduce the complexity of determining the position and orientation of welding torch 14. That is, the detection device 16 can easily determine which side (eg top, left, right) of the welding torch 14 is facing the one or more detection devices 16 based on the arrangement of the detected LEDs 64 when only one set of LEDs 64 lights up at once. The control circuit 52 of the torch
145 Solder 14 can control LEDs 64 in such a way that by
<img file="MX360446B_D0047.tif" />
<img file="MX360446B_D0048.tif" />
OF THE INDUSTRIAL WIND
LEDs 64 are detectable by detection device 16 during the simulated or live welding session (eg, live welding assignment).
The processor 20 coupled to the detection device 16 and / or the control circuit 52 can determine which set of LEDs 64 to light to track the movement and position of the welding torch 14 using a method 860 illustrated in Figure 55. As can be seen , method 860 may be carried out by a controller, which includes, but is not limited to processor 20, control circuit 52, or a combination thereof. Generally, the controller can turn on each set of LEDs 64 sequentially for a detection interval, then compare the response detected by detection device 16 from each set to determine which set of LEDs 64 enables better data tracking. For example, the controller may turn on (block 862) the Left set (eg, second set 806) of LEDs 64. The controller determines (node 864) whether the left set of LEDs 64 is detected within the Detection Interval (eg, approximately 50 to 500 ms). IF the left set of LEDs 64 is not detected at node 864, the controller may turn on (block 866) the upper set (eg, first set 802) of LEDs 64. The controller then determines (node 868) whether the upper set of LEDs 64 is detected. IF the upper set of LEDs 64 is not detected at node 868, the controller may turn on (block 870) the right set (eg, third set 810) of LEDs 64. The controller then determines (node 872) whether the right set of LEDs 64 is detected. If the right set of LEDs 64 is not detected at node 872, then the controller can return to the method 860 icebox, and turn on (block 862) the Left set of LEDs 64. In some modes, the controller may repeat the
146 method 860 to turn on each set of LEDs 64 in sei
<img file="MX360446B_D0049.tif" />
<img file="MX360446B_D0050.tif" />
FROM INDUSTRIAL PROPERTY minus one set of LEDs 64 is detected during the Detection Interval.
As discussed here, when the controller determines whether a set of
LEDs 64 is detected (eg nodes 864, 868, 872), the controller can determine if the threshold amount of LEDs 64 is detected for the respective set. As described above, the threshold amount can be less than or equal to the total amount of visual markers (eg LEDs 64) in a respective set. In some embodiments, the controller is configured to determine a rigid body model (RB) of the welding torch 14 upon detection of the threshold amount of LEDs 64. The controller determines (nodes 874) which rigid body model corresponding to sets Tracked LEDs 64 is the closest to an Ideal model. As can be appreciated, the Ideal pattern may correspond to when an array of LEDs 64 is directed directly toward detection device 16 within a predetermined range of angles (eg, approximately 20, 30, 45, or 60 degrees). Furthermore, each side of LED set 64 can have its own predetermined angle range, such as about 45 degrees for the upper set of LEDs 64 and about 30 degrees for the Left and right sets of LEDs 64. In some embodiments, the The first set 802 of LEDs 64 can approach the ideal model when the Y axis 784 in relation to the welding torch 14 is directed to the detection device 16. If the determined rigid body model of the welding torch 14 that corresponds to one set of LEDs 64 (for example, second set 806) does not approach the Ideal model, the controller can turn off one of the sets and turn on the next set (for For example, first set 802) of LEDs 64 to determine whether an approximately Ideal rigid body model can be detected with the following set. In addition, or alternatively, the controller may
147 _ _ - „fcj
IM DI ιΐΒββ'ΜΒσ »use the detected non-ideal angle of a set (for example,»,, iV
LEDs 64 and the predetermined relative angles of the other sets (eg, second set 806, third set 810) of LEDs 64 to determine which set (eg, third set 810) of LEDs 64 most closely corresponds to the ideal model, making it possible then the controller turns on that set (eg third set 810) of LEDs 64 directly without turning on other sets (eg second set 806). The controller can be configured to latch onto a set of 64 lit LEDs when the given rigid body model approaches the Ideal model.
In some embodiments, a set of LEDs 64 can approximate the ideal pattern when LEDs 64 are oriented within about 20 to 60 degrees or about 30 to 50 degrees of the detection device 16. Accordingly, based on the orientation of the sets Of LEDs 64, some modes of the controller may be able to determine a rigid body model that corresponds to more than one set of LEDs 64 at a time. When several rigid body models can be determined, the controller can determine which LED array 64 is most oriented toward the detection device 16. In addition, the controller can use hysteresis control when the orientation of the welding torch fluctuates near a angle threshold when various rigid body models may be respective respective sets of LEDs 64. As discussed above, the first set 802 of LEDs 64 can be oriented approximately along the Y axis 784, and the second set 806 of LEDs 64 can be oriented such that the second direction 808 is offset approximately 45 degrees from the axis AND 784. In some embodiments, rigid body models can be determined for each respective set of LEDs 64 oriented within approximately 30 ° of the
148
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detection device 16, in such a way that respective assembly models can be determined for an overlapping interval of approximately 15 °. Using the hysteresis control, the control can remain hooked to the first set 802 of LEDs 64 when the first set 802 is 5 oriented within approximately 25 ° of Y axis offset 784 and within approximately 20 ° of offset of the second direction 808 . That is, the hysteresis control can reduce the LED 64 on / off sets when multiple sets of LEDs 64 can be detectable by the detection device 16 and prevents rapid oscillation between sets of LEDs 64 when the welding torch 14 it is oriented near the threshold between sets of LEDs 64.
After latching onto a set of LEDs 64 that approximates the Ideal model, the controller (blocks 876) can update the elements displayed visually on the visual display 32 of the welding system 10, the visual display 32 of the helmet 41 and / or the Visual presenter 62 of the welding torch 14 with base 15 at least in part in the position and orientation determined from the tracked array of LEDs 64. The controller can maintain the state (eg, on, off) of each set of LEDs 64 as the given rigid body model approaches the ideal model. In some embodiments, the controller may repeat method 860 at Intervals during operation, thereby lighting each set 20 of LEDs 64 sequentially to verify that the determined rigid body pattern of the hooked set of LEDs 64 is closest to the Ideal pattern. For example, the controller may repeat method 860 every 1, 5, or 15 minutes. In addition, or alternatively, the controller may repeat method 860 after receiving an assignment, selecting an assignment, after lifting welding torch 14 from weld base 12, or any combination thereof.
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As described above, various elements of the may have markers that are for use in tracking the movement of the respective element within the welding environment in real time and / or to calibrate the position and orientation of the element relative to the welding base. 12 or to workpiece 82. For example, weld base 12 of FIG. 4 may have the first and second markers 95, 96, weld surface 112 may have markers 116, 118, calibration tool 120 of FIG. 5 may have markers 130 , the clamping assembly 132 of figure 6 can have the first and second markers 134, 136, the welding torch 14 of figure 30 can have the visual markers 474, and the welding torch 14 of FIG. 31 may have the visual markers 802. FIG. 56 illustrates a cross-sectional view of a base component 880 that may be provided with visual markers 882. The base component 880 may include, but is not limited to, weld base 12, workpiece 82, weld surface 112, calibration tool 120, clamp assembly
132, welding torch 14, clamping assembly 588, or any combination thereof.
The base component 880 can be coated with a thermally insulating layer 884 (eg, plastic, fabric, ceramic, resin, glass). Thermally insulating layer 884 can be wrapped around, molded to, mechanically attached to, or bonded to base component 880. As can be appreciated, base component 880 can receive or conduct thermal heat from the welding process. Visual markers 882 can be placed at different locations on insulating layer 884 of base component 880. Visual markers 882 can be easily detected by detection device 16. For example, visual markers 882 can be reflective of one or more electromagnetic waves. For example,
150 τ »go go% τ jai .............- € Λ
ΛΛ IJ 1 Λομ ·, ® JL 1VJL Jl JL 11ir (1 *<sup>: :,</sup>β «= visual markers 882 can reflect visible light and / or within each visual marker 882 can be configured to enable detection device 16 to determine the position and orientation of base component 880 within the welding environment. Visual markers 882 can be placed on one or more faces of base component 880. Different amounts and / or arrangements of the visual markers 882 on each side of the base component 880 can facilitate the identification of the respective sides based on detection of the arrangement of the visual markers 882.
A cover layer 886 (eg cover plate) is coupled to insulating layer 884 and visual markers 882. Cover layer 886 can cover visual markers 882, thereby protecting visual markers 882 from some environmental factors, such as splash, dust, accidental removal, and so on. In some embodiments, cover layer 886 does not cover or only partially covers visual markers 882. In some embodiments, cover layer 886 is a plastic, such as polycarbonate. Cover layer 886 may be a material that is not substantially reflective of one or more electromagnetic waves that are reflected by markers 882. In addition, or alternatively, the cover layer 886 may be conditioned to reduce or eliminate reflections from electromagnetic waves . For example, cover layer 886 can be painted, coated, or textured (eg, sandblasting), or any combination thereof. In some embodiments, cover layer 886 is substantially non-reflective except in an area that immediately covers visual markers 882.
Figure 57 is a perspective view of one embodiment of the weld base 12, arms 576, 578, and clamp assembly 588. As described above, the first and second arms 576, 578 can rotate around the structure of
151
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JL 1VJL Jl JL 11ir (1 *<sup>:</sup> wo 566 bracket to enable the first and second arms at a selected height for vertical and / or aerial welding. As illustrated, the second arm 578 includes a clamping assembly 588 to couple the workpiece 82 to the second arm 578. The second arm 578 and clamping assembly 588 can be placed at various heights with respect to the weld base 12. In addition, or alternatively, clamping assembly 588 may be coupled to each arm 576, 578, and clamping assembly 588 may be oriented in various directions relative to sensing device 16. As can be appreciated, the clamping assembly 588 may Include multiple 802 visual markers (eg, reflective and / or light emitting) to facilitate tracking by detection device 16. For example, in certain embodiments, clamp assembly 588 may include three markers on one surface (eg, in one plane) of a clamp body 889, and a fourth marker on another surface (eg, in a different plane) to facilitate tracking by detection device 16. A clamping face 890 of clamping body 889 may be substantially parallel to a sensing device 16, or oriented at an angle of displacement from a sensing device 16. An assembly 892 couples clamping assembly 588 to second arm 578. .
FIG. 58 is a top view of one embodiment of mounting 892 of clamp assembly 588 of FIG. 57, taken along line 58-58. A clamping shaft 900 couples mounting 892 to clamping body 889. In some embodiments, a clamping feature 902 of clamping shaft 900 can limit movement of clamping shaft 900 along a clamping shaft 904 by at least one direction. Furthermore, a clamp fastener 906 can be interconnected with retention feature 902 and mount 892 to retain clamp shaft 900 in a desired position along clamp shaft 904. Mount 892 can rotate about one
152 shaft 908, thereby adjusting the orientation of the clamping body 890 relative to a sensing device 16. In some embodiments, a clamp 910 (eg pin) can couple an assembly 892 to the second arm 578 in a desired orientation . Fastener 910 can be fixedly attached to assembly 892, thus preventing removal of fastener 910 from welding system 10. In some embodiments, retention feature 902 and / or fastener 910 can be driven (eg, spring loaded) with respect to clamp assembly 588, thereby enabling automatic engagement with clamp assembly 588 in one or more predetermined positions. For example, inserting fastener 910 in a first cavity 912 orients fastening face 890 in a first direction 914 substantially parallel to a detection device 16, inserting fastener 910 in a second cavity 916 orients fastening face 890 in a second direction 918, and inserting fastener 910 in a third cavity 920 orients fastening face 890 in a third direction 922. The second and third directions 918 and 922 can be oriented within approximately 10, 20, 30, 40 or 50 degrees of direction 914 (for example, towards the detection device 16). The second and third directions 918 and 922 of FIG. 51 are approximately 30 ° offset from the first direction 914. When the clamping assembly 588 is mounted on the second arm 578 and the clamping face is oriented in the second direction 918, the clamping assembly 588 can be configured for welding in positions where a portion of the workpiece 82 can obscure part of the vision junction of the detection device 16. For example, welds performed in the 3F position (eg, vertical T-joint and lap weld welds) can be easily observed by sensing device 16 when workpiece 82 is coupled to clamp assembly 588 in the second arm 578 in such a way that the
153 clamping face 890 is oriented in the second direction 918.
The position and orientation of the respective clamping arms and assemblies are calibrated to enable one or more detection devices 16 to track the movement of the welding torch 14 relative to a joint of workpiece 82 coupled to the clamping assembly. 588. As illustrated in Figure 59, a calibration block 930 can be attached to clamp assembly 588 to facilitate calibration of clamp assembly 588. In some embodiments, the calibration tool 610 in Figures 44 and 45 is coupled to the calibration block 930 such that the calibration tool 610 extends from the calibration block 930 at a predefined angle (eg, perpendicular). Calibration block 930 and calibration tool 610 can enable detection device 16 to calibrate the normal vector of clamp assembly 588, calibrate the normal vector of workpieces 82 secured to clamp assembly 588, and / or calibrate the actual vertical vector (eg zenith) relative to the floor. Detection device 16, via computer 18, can determine a rigid body model and / or a clamp marker centroid for clamp assembly 588 when mounted to each arm 576, 578, during which different sides of clamping assembly 588 are in the vision of sensing device 16 where each side of clamping assembly 588 has a unique marker configuration. Detection device 16 can be coupled to arms 576, 578 such that as each arm is raised and lowered, a value and a centroid of the clamping markers on the respective side changes. As described above, the movement of each arm 576, 578 can adjust the orientation of the detection device 16. Accordingly, detection device 16 can determine the y value of the centroid of clamp markers for clamp assembly 588 at various heights of respective arms 576, 578. The
154
446
MU '«¿“ Mu © 1 i VI si IR · ® *<sup>8</sup> "* Or computer 18 can determine the zenith vector for each respective heights, thus making it possible for computer 18 to determine (for example, Interpole) the zenith vector for any height using the y value of the centroid of the markers clamp when clamp assembly 588 is attached 5 to each arm 576, 578. A level can be used with Clamp Calibration Block 930 during calibration at each height to ensure that the orientation of Calibration Tool 610 accurately represents the Zenith vector. The y value of the centroid of the clamp markers can also be used to determine the clamp height and to provide feedback to the operator on the correct height setting for the welding session. The height of clamping assembly 588 during a welding session can be stored with the welding data 327 for each welding session. In some embodiments, the welding system 10 can determine the orientation of the clamping assembly 588 relative to the sensing device 16, thereby making it possible for the welding system 10 to notify the operator if the workpiece 82 is in a inadequate orientation for the welding session. For example, the welding system 10 can notify the operator when the clamping assembly 588 and workpiece 82 are oriented such that the visual markers 802 of the welding torch 14 could be at least partially obscured from the vision of the welding device. detection 20 16 during the welding session, thereby enabling the operator to adjust clamp assembly 588 so that all visual markers 802 can be observed.
FIG. 60 is a flow diagram 940 illustrating the Installation and execution of a weld allocation session using one of the arms for a vertical or aerial (eg, out of position) session. The operator selects (block
155
<img file="MX360446B_D0052.tif" />
942) a session out of position (eg 2G, 3G, 3F, 4G,> 'Ίι workpiece together. The operator then configures (block 946) the desired arm to the height corresponding to the session and adjusts the assembly of clamp for calibration with sensing device After setup of clamp and clamp assembly, operator couples (block 948) workpiece to clamp assembly. The operator can then adjust (block 950) the clamping orientation, such as if the workpiece at least partially obscures the detection device junction, if workpiece markers or clamping assembly are obscured from the detection device, or if the clamping assembly is not substantially perpendicular to the ground, or any combination thereof. After adjusting the clamping orientation, the operator, instructor, or administrator can calibrate (block 952) the clamping assembly. In some embodiments, calibration can be performed once for each time the arm is moved or for each time the clamp assembly is attached to the arm, such that the clamp assembly cannot be calibrated before of each session. The clamp assembly calibration can validate that the clamp assembly is detected in the configuration and / or orientation specified for the session. The operator calibrates (block 954) the joint ends, thereby establishing the two points on a line representing the joint. In some embodiments, such as for welding sessions in the 3F position, the operator calibrates (block 954) the joint assemblies using the calibration tool 610 described above with Figures 44 and 45, where an axis of the calibration tool it is kept within approximately 5 ° of the plane parallel to the detection device. As can be seen, the welding sessions in other positions can be calibrated with the calibration tool that has other orientations in relation to the detection device. In addition, or alternatively, the computer
156
IMPI
<img file="MX360446B_D0053.tif" />
can offset the orientations of the calibration tool <
INDUSTRIAL where the calibration tool markers are viewed at a skewed angle. For example, the computer can determine the angle of the calibration tool relative to the clamp assembly, then use the determined angle to adjust calibration values for the joint ends. Once the joint calibration is complete, the operator then performs (block 956) the welding session and reviews (block 958) the results. In some embodiments, the welder base 12 display and / or the welding torch display 14 can provide instructions to the operator to guide the setup of the welding session.
Detection device 16 can track the position and orientation of clamping assembly 588, workpiece 82, and welding torch 14 before performing the assignment welding session, during the welding session, and after carrying out the welding session. As described above, detection device 16 may include a camera that detects visual markers 802, such as visual markers from clamp assembly 588, workpiece 82, and welding torch 14. In some embodiments, computer 18 may use data that corresponds to fixed surface visual markers 802 (eg, clamp assembly 588, workpiece 82) for reference to other subjects tracked in the welding environment at all times. make the 802 visual markers of the fixed surfaces detectable. That is, the visual markers 802 on the fixed surfaces facilitate real-time tracking of other objects (eg, welding torch 14, calibration tool 610) within the welding environment. Visual markers 802 detected by the camera of detection device 16 may include passive markers (eg, decals, reflectors, patterns) and / or
157
<img file="MX360446B_D0054.tif" />
active markers (eg lights, LEDs). The sea <
Industrial can best be seen with a first exposure setting of the cameras of the detection device 16, and the active markers can be best seen with a second setting of the camera exposure, which may be different from the first exposure setting. In some embodiments, the visual markers 802 of the clamping assembly 588 and the workpiece 82 may be passive markers, and the visual markers 802 of the welding torch 14 may be active markers (eg LEDs 64). Furthermore, passive markers can be illuminated by lights (eg LEDs 64) from detection device 16, where light (eg infrared light) from the lights is reflected off of the passive markers and is observed by cameras. of the detection device 16. Accordingly, the exposure settings of the camera can be adjusted based at least in part on the type of visual marker that will be observed. As can be appreciated, the second exposure setting for sampling the active light-emitting markers may be less than the first exposure setting for sampling the passive light-reflecting markers.
The computer 18 may alternatively trace the visual markers 802 of the welding torch 14 and the fixed surfaces of the welding environment before carrying out and during the execution of a welding session (for example, simulated welding assignment, welding assignment Live). Accordingly, the computer 18 can track in real time the position and orientation of the welding torch 14, clamping assembly 588, and workpiece 82 with respect to each other and to the welding base 12. Before welding Live, the computer 18 can primarily track the visual markers 802 of the welding torch 14 when it detects the position and orientation of objects in the welding environment around the
158 weld base 12, and computer 18 can track visual markers 802 of fixed surfaces (eg, main weld surface 88, clamp assembly 588, clamp workpiece 82). The active markers of the welding torch 14 can be switched on substantially continuously before, during and after a simulated or live welding session (eg, welding assignment). The computer 18 can control the exposure settings of the cameras of the detection device 16 to control the respective sampling rates of the fixed surfaces and the welding torch 14. For example, the visual markers 802 of the welding torch 14 can be sampled 1.5, 2, 3, 4, 5, or more times that the 802 visual markers of the fixed surfaces are sampled. That is, computer 18 cycles the camera's exposure settings between the second exposure setting (eg, low exposure value to track the active markers of the welding torch 14) and the first exposure setting (eg. , high exposure value to track passive markers on fixed surfaces).
Before initiating a simulated welding session (eg, weld assignment), computer 18 can control the lights of detection device 16 (eg, LEDs 64) to be turned on, then making it possible for computer 18 to track markers passive fixed surface and active markers of the welding torch 14 before starting the simulated welding session, during the simulated welding session and after the simulated welding session. As described above, computer 18 can cycle the camera's exposure settings to sample the passive markers with the first exposure setting and to sample the active markers with the second exposure setting. During live welding (for example, while the trigger
159 of welding torch 14 is driven), computer 18:
detection device 16 to pulse at an increased brightness level, thereby cyclically increasing the reflected light from the passive markers. Pulsing the lights can make it possible for the cameras of the detection device 16 to easily track the passive markers with a reduced exposure setting during live welding with bright arc and spatter. The computer 18 can control the exposure settings of the camera to be synchronized with the pulsation of the lights of the detection device 16, so that the lights pulse more brightly when the exposure setting is in the first exposure setting (for example, high), and the lights dim when the exposure setting is in the second exposure setting (for example, low). Additionally, or alternatively, computer 18 may control the lights of detection device 16 to turn off during calibration of clamp assembly 588, thereby distinguishing active markers from welding torch 14 from passive markers of clamp assembly. 588. In some embodiments, a pulsed brightness level of the lights of detection device 16 may be higher than when the lights were turned on substantially continuously. Detection device 16 can more easily detect passive markers at the increased brightness level of the lights than at the lower brightness level. However, pressing the lights of the detection device 16 during a simulated weld may accidentally activate a self-darkening circuit of a weld helmet. Consequently, the lights of the detection device 16 can be pulsed during live welding when the welding helmet has darkened due to the arc, however the lights of the detection device 16 are continuously on during simultaneous welding when the welding helmet it is not obscured.
160
In some embodiments, the system welds a multi-pass session (eg, multiple runs), thereby recording weld data 327 for each pass (eg, run) of the multi-pass session. As described above with Fig. 40, the control circuit 52 of the welding system 10 can record the welding data 327 for each run of the multi-run session as a single weld operation to determine a session quality of multiple executions or to otherwise return the session from multiple executions. In some embodiments, the control circuit 52 of the welding system 10 can record welding data 327 for a multi-run session as a group of runs corresponding to a serial number or other identifier for the multi-run session. That is, the weld data 327 for a multi-run session can be reviewed and evaluated as a group, or each multi-run session run can be performed and evaluated separately. Multi-run sessions can include, but are not limited to, a live process, a simulated process, a virtual reality process, or any combination thereof.
FIG. 61 is a flowchart 970 illustrating the selection and execution of a multi-pass welding session (eg, multiple runs) (eg, weld assignment). The operator selects (block 972) a multi-run session and installs (block 974) workpiece 82 along with weld base 12. Placement of workpiece 82 may include attaching workpiece 82 to the base welding 12. The operator calibrates (block 976) the joint, such as by using the joint calibration tool 610 to calibrate the position of the first end of the joint and the second end of the joint. As can be seen, the 610 joint calibration tool can interface directly with the part
161
<img file="MX360446B_D0055.tif" />
82 for calibration (block 976) before the first of several runs. The operator selects (node 978) whether to perform the next (ie, first) run of the multi-run session in either a simulated weld mode or a live weld mode. In some embodiments, the selected weld session (eg weld assignment) may prohibit or limit the number of simulated welds that can be performed prior to live welds. In some modes, the selected session may prohibit the live weld mode until the conclusion (for example, successful completion) of a simulated weld. When the simulated weld mode is selected, the operator performs (block 980) the simulated run. The control circuit 52 can visually present (block 982) the results of the simulated execution through the visual display 32 of the welding base 12 and / or the visual display 62 of the welding torch 14. For example, control circuit 52 may visually display weld data 327 from the simulated run and target specifications for the simulated run. In addition, or alternatively, the control circuit may visually display the weld score for the simulated run. After completing the simulated run, the operator selects again (nodes 978) whether to perform the next run on e! simulated welding mode or in live welding mode.
When the live weld mode is selected, the operator performs (block 984) the live weld run on the calibrated joint. The control circuit 52 can visually present (block 986) the results of the live execution through visual presenter 32 of the welding base 12 and / or visual presenter 62 of the welding torch 14. For example, the Control 52 can visually display weld data 327 from the live run and the
162 Target specifications for live performance. Also<sub>r</sub> T » <sub>T</sub> .................. OR
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...... _ „control circuit 52 can visually present the weld score for live execution. Visually presented results for live performance can be visually presented with results from any previous simulated runs for the same junction.
Each run (eg simulated or live) of the multi-run weld session (eg weld assignment) can be evaluated separately based at least in part on target specifications (eg minimum, target, maximum ) for tool position parameters (eg, working angle, offset angle, CTWD, travel speed, target) and / or electrical parameters (eg, welding voltage, welding current, wire feed speed). For example, a root pass run may have different specification parameters than subsequent runs. After a multi-run session run is completed, control circuit 52 can determine whether the completed session run satisfies the target parameter values for the respective run. For example, weld data 327 for a multi-run session run can be compared to the target parameter values to generate a score for each parameter and / or a total score for the respective run. Control circuit 52 can determine if the run passes the target specifications for the respective run.
Control circuit 52 determines (node 988) whether all executions of the selected weld session (eg weld assignment) have been completed. IF all runs of the selected multi-run session have not been completed, then the operator selects (block 990) the next run. In some modalities, the operator can proceed to the next execution
163 τ »go go% τ .............- O
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JL IVJL Jl JL 11ir (1 *<sup>:</sup> 'heh' session of multiple executions regardless of whether the target / specs. In addition, or alternatively, the operator can proceed to the next session run of multiple runs regardless of whether weld data 327 for the previous run is complete. For example, if detection device 16 cannot track the position and orientation of welding torch 14 for at least a portion of a multi-run session run, the operator can continue to carry out each run of the run session. various executions. The operator calibrates (block 976) the joint for each run of a multi-run session, such as by using the joint calibration tool 610 to calibrate the position of a first end of the joint and the second end of the joint. As can be seen, the joint calibration tool 610 can be directly interconnected with the workpiece 82 for the initial calibration of the joint before the first run. Subsequent calibrations can directly interconnect the 610 joint calibration tool with the previously formed weld bead from one or more previous runs. Consequently, the calibrated ends of the joint for each execution can have a different position in relation to the one or more detection devices 16 of the welding system 10. When the subsequent calibration for the next run is complete, the operator selects again (nodes 978) whether to run the next run in simulated weld mode or live weld mode.
IF all runs of the selected multi-run session have been completed, then control circuit 52 can visually present (block 992) the results of each of the live runs through visual presenter 32 of weld base 12 and / or the visual display of the welding torch 14. For example, the control circuit 52 may visually display the
164 weld data 327 from each of the executions in vi t;
target for each of the live executions. In addition, or alternatively, control circuit 52 may determine whether the execution group passes the target specifications for the multi-execution session based on one or more evaluations of the executions. For example, control circuit 52 may evaluate the group of runs based on a geometric mean of the scores for each run, an arithmetic mean of the scores for each run, whether each run was completed with a pass or pass score, or any combination thereof. In some embodiments, a threshold number (for example, 1, 2, or 3) of runs with untracked welding torch position and orientation may not affect the session evaluation of multiple runs. That is, the one or more runs with untracked position and tool orientation cannot be counted in the geometric and / or arithmetic mean. After visual presentation of the session results (block 992), the operator can select (block 994) to retest with the selected session. The operator removes the previously tested joint, and configures (block 974) a new joint for further testing. Control circuit 52 may assign a different test number to the new joint for additional testing than the previously tested joint serial number, then making it possible for the operator and an instructor to review and evaluate weld data 327 for each Union.
As described herein, various parameters can be tracked (eg, detected, displayed, and stored) during the operation of the welding system 10 (eg, in real time while the welding system 10 is being used) including, but not limited to, tool position parameters (eg, working angle, offset angle, CTWD, travel speed, target) and arc parameters (eg,
165 welding, welding current, speed of allmentac arc parameters, for example, can be detected in welding torch 14 (for example, using voltage sensor 425, current sensor 427, or other sensors, as illustrated in Fig. 25), converted using analog to digital conversion (ADC) circuits and communicated to computer 18 by means of a communication interface 68 (eg RS-232 communication channel), as described herein with respect to FIG. 1. Alternatively, or in addition, when detected in the welding torch 14 (for example, in the handle of the welding torch 14), the arc parameters can be detected in welding cable 80, welding power source 28, wire feeder 30 or some combination thereof, each of which is illustrated in FIG. 2.
The welding system 10 can visually detect and display (eg, numerically, graphically, and so on) the arc parameters through a screen visible on the display 32 of the welding system 10 in a similar way to the screens illustrated in Figures 20 and 21, for example. An example of display 996 having a weld mode indicator 998 indicating that weld system 10 is in a live arc weld mode can be displayed visually on display 32 as illustrated in FIG. 62. As illustrated in figure 55, the arc parameters can be visually displayed on the screen
996. For example, on the illustrated screen 996, a voltage graph 340 can visually present a time series of arc voltage 337 produced by the welding torch 14, and an amperage graph 340 can visually present a time series of the current 338 produced by welding torch 14. In certain modes, you can apply filters to at least some of the arc parameters and tool position parameters to smooth out noise on the output charts.
166 time series 340 of the values detected by the torch of s
It will be appreciated that the arc parameters can be synchronized in time by the welding software 244 in real time with the tool position parameters that are captured through the motion tracking system (eg detection device 16). In other words, the arc parameters and the tool position parameters can be plotted on their respective graphs 340 such that the data points for each of the time series are vertically aligned with the data points of each of the all other time series that are captured at approximately the same time (for example, within 100 milliseconds, within 10 milliseconds, or even closer in time, in certain modes). This makes it possible for the user to correlate the arc parameters with the tool position parameters. Although not illustrated in Figure 62, in certain modes, the wire feed speed can also be detected in real time in the same way as voltage and current.
As illustrated in Figure 62, in certain modes, each arc parameter (as well as each tool position parameter) can be individually rated relative to a predefined upper limit, lower limit, and / or target value, and scores 341 they can be illustrated on screen 996. In addition, in certain modes, a total score of 1000 can be determined by welding software 244 and displayed on screen 996. In addition, in certain modalities, the total score 1000, Target total score indications 1002, and high total scores 1004 (for example, of an entire class) can be determined by the welding software 244 and displayed on screen 996. In addition, in In certain modalities, an Indication 1006 of whether the test was successful or unsuccessful can also be determined by welding software 244 and displayed on screen 996. In
167
<img file="MX360446B_D0056.tif" />
certain modalities, the total score 1000 may base individual 341 for the tool position parameters, but not based on the individual 341 scores for the arc parameters.
Furthermore, as illustrated in FIG. 62, in certain embodiments, a general status bar 1008 may be displayed on screen 996. General status bar 1008 may include indications of whether all of the tool position parameters are within their range. respective upper and lower limits or not. For example, if one of the tool position parameters is not within their respective upper and lower limits, the general status bar 1008 may indicate, at the same vertical position on screen 996, that the pattern values within corresponding tool, a red state. Conversely, if all of the tool position parameters are within their respective upper and lower limits, the general status bar 1008 may indicate, in the same vertical position on display 996 as the corresponding tool position parameter values. , a green state. It will be appreciated that other status colors can be used in other modalities.
As illustrated, in certain embodiments, the value 339 for each of the parameters (eg, tool position parameters and arc parameters) can be visually presented as an average value during the course of a trial period. For example, as illustrated in Figure 55, the average voltage and amperage over the illustrated test period are 18.7 volts and 146 amps, respectively. Figure 63 is another illustration of display 996 shown in figure 62. In this case, the average voltage and amperage are illustrated as being 0.1 volts and 2 amps, respectively, which are in the order of noise, indicating that an arc Actual weld is not being detected. In such a situation, the amperage and voltage can
168 used by 244 welding software to determine if n during a given “weld mode” test period. If the value of either voltage or amperage is below a certain predetermined threshold (for example, the average voltage is less than 10 volts) or between a certain predetermined minimum and maximum threshold (for example, the average voltage is between -8 volts and + 10 volts), the 244 welding software can determine that a weld did not actually take place during the time period. In such a scenario, the welding software 244 can automatically mark a test as failed (or "unsuccessful") and / or the test can be marked by the welding software 244 as having no weld detected. For example, as illustrated, in certain embodiments, if the average voltage and / or average amperage for a given test period does not meet certain predetermined thresholds or fall within certain predetermined ranges, indication 1006 of whether the test was successful or unsuccessful can show that the test was "unsuccessful" (which can also be presented visually for other reasons, such as the total score not meeting a specific requirement, for example). Furthermore, as also illustrated, in certain modalities, when the average voltage and / or average amperage for a given test period do not meet certain predetermined thresholds or fall within certain predetermined ranges, rather than illustrating the total score 1000 on the screen 996, a message "Arc Not Detected" 1010 can be displayed instead.
Fig. 64 illustrates an example of screen 1012 that can be presented visually as part of welding software mapping development routines 244. In particular, Figure 64 illustrates a screen 1012 that enables entry of completion criteria for a series. of welding tests and length requirements associated with the test. As illustrated, display 1012 is presented
169 visually when the Completion Criteria / Requirement tab t '. *
INDUSTRIAL <sup>.</sup>..............
Assignment development routines is selected (and therefore highlighted on screen 1012). As illustrated, other tabs associated with configuration settings of the 244 welding software assignment development routines may include, but are not limited to, a Task Name 1016 tab that causes a display to be visually displayed where the assignment name and other general information related to the assignment may be entered; and the Joint Design tab 1018 which causes a screen to be visually displayed in which joint properties to be welded (eg joint type, length, etc.) can be entered; a 1020 Base Metals tab that causes a display to be visually displayed in which properties related to the base metals to be welded can be entered; a Filler / Shield Metals tab 1022 that causes a display to be visually displayed when properties related to filler metals (eg, welding electrode) and shielding gases can be entered; a 1024 Electrical Load / Position tab that causes a screen to be visually displayed in which properties (eg upper limits, lower limits, target values, etc.) of the tool position parameters and arc parameters, respectively, can be entered; a Preheat / Post-weld Heat tab 1026 that causes a screen to be visually presented in which properties related to pre-heat and post-weld heat, respectively, can be entered; a Welding Procedure / 1 Pass tab 1028 that causes a screen to be visually displayed in which properties related to the welding procedure (eg, type of process, etc.) and the number of passes in the test (eg, one pass or more than one pass); and a Real Time Feedback tab 1030
170 which causes a screen to be visually presented in real-time feedback related properties. It will be appreciated that, in certain modes, all the properties related to an assignment can be entered in the described screens, they can be automatically detected by the welding software 244 (for example, based on specific equipment of the welding system 10, based on in other properties that are established, and so on), or some combination thereof.
As illustrated in Figure 64, screen 1012 related to the Completion Criteria / Length Requirements tab 1014 Includes a first section 1032 dedicated specifically to completion criteria properties and a second section 1034 dedicated specifically to associated length requirements with the test. In certain embodiments, in completion criteria section 1032 of screen 1012, a series of entries 1036 makes it possible for a target score (eg, 90 as illustrated) to be entered, a number of welding tasks in a set of welding tasks (eg 5 as illustrated), a number of successful weld tests required per weld assembly (eg 3 as illustrated) and whether a weld test will not be passed if an arc is not detected (for example, as shown in figure 63). In addition, as illustrated, in certain embodiments, an illustration 1038 of what these end criteria selections will look like to the user (eg, as illustrated in Figure 62 in the Actions 1040 section of screen 996). In addition, in certain embodiments, in the length requirements section 1034 of the screen 1012, a series of entries 1042 makes it possible for a length of a Start (A) section of a weld to be ignored in the compilations of scores, a section End (B) of a weld that will be ignored in the compilations of scores and a maximum length (C) of the test, which can be
171
ΙΜΡΙ less than the ingot length (which, for example, can be i INDUSTRIAL LRQIRITY
<img file="MX360446B_D0057.tif" />
screen related to the joint design tab 1018) will be entered. In addition, in certain embodiments, respective illustrations 1044 of relative dimensions of the entered properties with respect to length requirements can also be illustrated to assist the user in configuring length requirements.
Fig. 65 illustrates an example of a display 1046 that can be displayed visually when the welding procedure / one pass tab 1028 is selected. As described above, this screen 1046 enables you to enter properties related to the welding procedure and the number of passes in the test (for example, one pass or more than one pass). As illustrated, in certain embodiments, a first series of 1048 entries makes it possible to enter a process type (for example, FCAW-G as illustrated), a class and diameter of the filler metals (for example, the welding electrode) (for example, E71T-8JD H8 and 0.182 centimeters, respectively as illustrated), a weld pattern (for example, in wire versus fabric; illustrated in wire), a vertical progression (for example, up versus down; above as illustrated) and any comments related to the welding procedure. In addition, as illustrated, in certain modes, a second series of 1050 inputs enables minimum, maximum, and target values to be entered for the arc parameters (for example, volts, wire feed speed, and amps), marked as welding power source settings, and tool position position parameters (eg working angle, displacement angle, CTWD, displacement speed and target), marked as tool technique parameters. As also illustrated, in certain embodiments, a third series of inputs 1052 makes more detailed input related to minimum, target, and maximum values possible (for example, related to how many
172
<img file="MX360446B_D0058.tif" />
deviation from target values are allowed for the limits
INDUSTRIAL successively) for a highlighted arc parameter or tool layout parameter (for example, volts as illustrated). In certain modes, when more than one pass is selected for a given assignment, the minimum, target and maximum values for the arc parameters and / or the tool position parameters can be set individually for each pass within the assignment. In certain modes, inputting properties for multiple passes for a given assignment can be made possible through an Add Pass button 1054, as illustrated.
As described above with respect to Figures 62 and 63, arc parameters can be displayed visually when welding software 244 is in a live arc welding mode. Conversely, FIG. 66 illustrates an example of a display 1056 showing welding software 244 when it is in a simulated welding mode, as indicated by Weld Mode Indicator 998. As illustrated, when welding software 244 is in simulated welding mode, arc parameters are not displayed visually since actual welding is disabled in this mode, and a message indicating that may be displayed visually in its place.
In certain embodiments, the arc parameters are not visually displayed by default below the tool position parameters, as illustrated in Figures 62 and 63. Rather, Figure 67 illustrates an example screen 1058 that is illustrates by default (that is, before a weld test has been started). As illustrated, instead of the arc parameters, a welding procedure summary panel 1060 is illustrated to summarize to the user what the general properties (eg, target properties) are for a given test weld. In certain modalities, from the summary panel of
173
<img file="MX360446B_D0059.tif" />
As with all welds 1060, a user can select a view button V \ i that the screen 1064 illustrated in Figure 68 is displayed visually.
Illustrated, Figure 68 is a summary of all information related to the parameters of a weld test session or weld test assignment (for example, which can be entered through the selection of the different development tabs of assignments 1014-1030 illustrated in Figures 64 and 65).
Turning now to Figure 67, once the user has completed pre-test procedures and prepares to start a weld test, after triggering 70 of welding torch 14 to initiate a weld test, the welding procedures summary panel 1060 is replaced by the information related to the arc parameters to visually present the real-time graphs of the arc parameters during the execution of the welding test (see, for example, figure 69) , allowing the user to view all graphs related to tool position parameters and arc parameters in real time during the weld test. In fact, in certain embodiments, after activation of the trigger 70 of the welding torch 14 to initiate a welding test, any screen currently being presented visually can be replaced with, for example, screen 996 illustrated in FIG. 69 in such a way that all tool position parameters and arc parameters can be presented visually in graphical form and in real time.
FIG. 70 illustrates an alternate display 1066 that can be displayed visually after the execution of a weld test. As illustrated, in certain embodiments, in addition to the arc parameters (eg, voltage, amperage, wire feed speed), the heat input 1068 can be displayed visually and, as with all other tool position and
174
<img file="MX360446B_D0060.tif" />
the arc parameters, is synchronized in time throughout respective industrial. In general, the detected voltage and amperage data and the detected travel speed data can be used to calculate the heat input in real time for each point in time throughout the time series (for example, based on time ) or at each location along the weld joint (for example, based on distance). In particular, in certain modes, heat input (in kilojoules) can be calculated as a function of voltage, amperage, and travel speed (in inches per minute) as:
HeatInput =
Amps x Volts x 60 1000 x Travel Speed
Also, although not illustrated in Figure 70, in certain embodiments, the weld size (fillet size: in millimeters) can be calculated in real time using the wire feed speed (WFS; in inches per minute), which can be either detected or specified by a user, travel speed (in meters per minute) and a default value for efficiency (%) and wire diameter (in millimeters) such as:
FileSize =
JV - x Wire Diameter 4 (25.4 x W'TiVjx Efficiency lOOOx Displacement Speed ^
.........
In certain embodiments, the default value for efficiency can take into account any detected spatter, which can be determined using the techniques described in Devices and Methods for Analyzing Spatter Generation Events, ”US Patent Application No. 2013/0262000, filed on March 30, 2012 in the name of Richard Martin Hutchison et al., which is incorporated herein in its entirety. For example, the default efficiency value may be
175 set to, for example, lower the default i
FROM AIDUSTRIAL EROIDNESS determine that more spatter generation events occur, Increase the default efficiency value when it is determined that fewer spatter generation events occur, and so on.
As used herein, the term "Default Range" can mean any of the following: a group of numbers limited by a predetermined upper limit and a predetermined Lower limit, a group of numbers greater than a predetermined limit, and a group of numbers less than a predetermined limit. Furthermore, the Range can Include numbers equal to one or more predetermined limits.
Although only certain features of the present invention have been illustrated and described herein, many modifications and changes will occur to those skilled in the art. Therefore, it should be understood that the appended claims attempt to cover all such modifications and changes that are within the true spirit of the Invention.
176
Contents16
115 sheets
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12 members in 7 offices
Priority claims14
| Document | Office | Kind | Date |
|---|---|---|---|
| 201462034648 | United States of America | P | |
| 201462034648 | United States of America | P | |
| 62034648 | United States of America | – | |
| 14808858 | United States of America | – | |
| 201514808858 | United States of America | A | |
| 201514808858 | United States of America | A | |
| 2015043370 | United States of America | W | |
| 2015043370 | United States of America | W | |
| 14808858 | – | – | – |
| 62034648 | – | – | – |
| PCTUS2015043370 | – | – | – |
| US201462034648P | – | – | – |
| US201514808858 | – | – | – |
| WO2015US43370 | – | – | – |
Members12
| Document | Office | Kind | |
|---|---|---|---|
| CA2954944A1 | Canada | A1 | |
| US2016039053A1 | United States of America | A1 | |
| WO2016022452A1 | World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO) | A1 | |
| MX2017000551A | Mexico | A | |
| EP3177423A1 | European Patent Office (EPO) | A1 | |
| CN107000101A | China | A | |
| US9724787B2 | United States of America | B2 | |
| BR112017002492A2 | Brazil | A2 | |
| MX360446BThis record | Mexico | B | |
| CN107000101B | China | B | |
| CA2954944C | Canada | C | |
| EP3177423B1 | European Patent Office (EPO) | B1 |
1 legal event, as the office reported them to INPADOC
Events
| Event | Code | |
|---|---|---|
| Grant or registrationFG | FG |
Numbers
- Publication
- 360446
- Publication, DOCDB
- 360446
- Publication, EPODOC
- MX360446
- Application
- 2017000551
- Application, DOCDB
- 2017000551
- Application, EPODOC
- MX20170000551
Titles
- Spanish
- SISTEMA Y METODO DE MONITOREO DE UN AMBIENTE DE SOLDADURA.
Classification
- CPC, 3
- B23K9/0956
- B23K37/00
- G09B19/24
- IPC, 5
- B23K13 08
- B23K9 095
- B23K37 00
- B23Q5 00
- G09B19 24