Software keeps welding torch on track

Software keeps welding torch on track

Keywords FANUC,Robots, Welding

For extended periods of welding without operator intervention, FANUC Robotics of Coventry have introduced TorchMate, a new software tool for robot arc welding.

This is used in conjunction with ArcTool the software interface between the robot control system and welding operator. ArcTool allows the operator to program the robot using everyday welding terminology rather than any specialist robot terminology.

TorchMate claims to take this one stage further by adding automatic corrections for bent torches and any misalignment caused by accidentally moving the torch tip for any reason, clamp collision or whatever.

The system incorporates automatic recovery procedures for any sensor errors or out-of-range errors. The last 100 adjustments to Tool Centre Path (TCP) are stored in a data table for subsequent analysis.

A simple calibration block, with no moving parts or electronics to fail, is used. After a robot has been programmed to follow a path correctly it is presented to the calibration cube. Subsequently it can "touch" on the cube and make corrections.

If, for example, the torch strikes a clamp that is out of position a collision detection facility, now incorporated in ArcMate, would signal that something out of program had occurred.

This could automatically trigger a recalibration cycle that takes under ten seconds.

Any deviation from the original calibration in the X, Y and Z planes would be fed back as a correction factor to keep the torch centrally positioned over the weld.

The sensitivity of the collision detection software is such that it is much more effective at minimising damage than the more conventional "broken hand" electromechanical devices.

Contact Maurice Hanley at FANUC Robotics (UK) Limited, Seven Stars Industrial Estate, Wheler Road,Coventry CV3 4LB, UK. Tel: +44 (0)1203 639669; Fax: +44 (0) 1203 304333.