Abstract: A welding device applies weld material between two work pieces such that the work pieces are connected mechanically with one another. The welding device includes a welding head and a central element. The welding head performs a welding action during transport thereof along an operating direction between the work pieces. Two primary sensor members are arranged on the central element upstream of the welding head relative to the operating direction. The sensor members register geometric properties of a spacing between the work pieces in which spacing the weld material is to be applied. Each sensor member is configured to maintain contact with a respective wall of the two work pieces adjoining the spacing while allowing variation of lateral distances between the central element and the adjoining wall. This is accomplished by the sensor members being pivotally attached to the central element via at least one pivoting axis oriented essentially perpendicular to the operating direction.

Abstract: A welding device applies weld material between two work pieces such that the work pieces are connected mechanically with one another. The welding device includes a welding head and a central element. The welding head performs a welding action during transport thereof along an operating direction between the work pieces. Two primary sensor members are arranged on the central element upstream of the welding head relative to the operating direction. The sensor members register geometric properties of a spacing between the work pieces in which spacing the weld material is to be applied. Each sensor member is configured to maintain contact with a respective wall of the two work pieces adjoining the spacing while allowing variation of lateral distances between the central element and the adjoining wall. This is accomplished by the sensor members being pivotally attached to the central element via at least one pivoting axis oriented essentially perpendicular to the operating direction.