Inventors:
John F. Hinrichs - Menomonee Falls WI
Assignee:
R. J. Tower Corporation - Grand Rapids MI
International Classification:
B23K 902
B23K 9127
Abstract:
The invention provides an automated system for welding a first metal part to a second metal part. The system includes a trainable articulated arm, and a moving mechanism for moving the arm. The moving mechanism comprises servos connected to the arm for moving the arm, and a robot controller connected to the mechanized means for controlling the movement of the articulated arm. The system further includes a welding torch, and a probe with physical dimensions comparable to the torch. The probe includes a seam tracking mechanism for tracking the location of a weld seam in response to movement of the probe along the seam, and a connector for transmitting probe movement to the controller. The system further includes a holder mounted on the articulated arm for interchangeable receiving the torch and the probe so that the torch and the probe assume essentially the same position relative to the arm. The invention also provides a method of welding a first metal part to a second metal part using the above system.
