A look at the optimization of robot welding speed based on process modelling

• Simulation tools to search for optimal process parameters are of great interest to reduce the number of experiments and thereby reduce cost and production time. In this paper, robot simulation has been used in combination with finite element simulations to optimize robot speed in order to minimize distortion while keeping complete joint penetration. In an earlier work performed by the authors, a finite element model was developed to predict heat transfer and residual stresses of parts with complex shapes. An interface between a robot simulation model and a finite element analysis model was also constructed. In this paper, an iterative method for robot speed optimization has been developed using MATLAB. The algorithm is designed to maintain complete joint penetration while maximizing productivity by utilizing the fastest weld speed. The method makes it possible to optimize the heat input to the component and thereby minimize component deformation for parts with complex shapes. The system was evaluated on stainless steel plates with varying thicknesses. Robot weld paths were defined off line and automatically downloaded to the finite element software where the optimization was performed. Simulations and experimental validations are presented.

Subject headings

TEKNIK OCH TEKNOLOGIER  -- Materialteknik -- Bearbetnings-, yt- och fogningsteknik (hsv//swe)

ENGINEERING AND TECHNOLOGY  -- Materials Engineering -- Manufacturing, Surface and Joining Technology (hsv//eng)

Keyword

Finite Element Analysis (FEA); Off-Line Programming (OLP); Robot simulation; Temperature; Weld velocity; Welding speed; Computer simulation; Finite element method; Optimization; Parameter estimation; Process control; Robotics; Thermal effects

Other processing/assembly

Övrig bearbetning/sammanfogning

Produktions- och materialteknik

Manufacturing and materials engineering

Publication and Content Type

ref (subject category)

art (subject category)