Abstract: In accordance with the present invention, a compact laser system with nearly continuous wavelength scanning is presented. In some embodiments, the compact laser system can be scanned over a broad range. In some embodiments, the compact laser system can be scanned at high scan rates. In some embodiments, the compact laser system can have a variable coherence length. In particular, embodiments with wavelength scanning over 140 nm with continuously variable scan rates of up to about 1 nm/?s, and discrete increase in scan rates up to about 10 nm/?s, and variable coherence lengths of from 1 mm to about 30 mm can be achieved.

Abstract: In a method for automatic multi-layer welding of a joint formed by two joint surfaces according to which method the contour of the joint in a number of cross-sections is established by means of a sensor emitting signals representative of the contour of the current cross-section of the joint. After evaluation, said signals control the deposition of the weld beads by means of a continuously fed electrode which is directed towards a welding zone in the joint.