Abstract: The present disclosure is directed to devices and methods for automating weld termination. In one embodiment, a compensation device is provided to grip a weld dam comprised of silicon dioxide. The compensation device is used to impart linear motion along an x-axis, y-axis, and z-axis, and rotational motion about the z-axis, to the weld dam. Via the imparted linear and rotational motion, the weld dam is then abutted against a surface of a workpiece, the workpiece comprising a first and a second section. In some embodiments, the workpiece surface includes uneven terminal ends of the first and second sections. In other embodiments, the workpiece surface is a bottom surface.

Abstract: Disclosed herein are embodiments and methods of a visual guidance and recognition system requiring no calibration. One embodiment of the system comprises a servo actuated manipulator configured to perform a function, a camera mounted on the face plate of the manipulator, and a recognition controller configured to acquire a two dimensional image of the work piece. The manipulator controller is configured to receive and store the face plate position at a distance “A” between the reference work piece and the manipulator along an axis of the reference work piece when the reference work piece is in the camera's region of interest. The recognition controller is configured to learn the work piece from the image and the distance “A”. During operation, a work piece is recognized with the system, and the manipulator is accurately positioned with respect to the work piece so that the manipulator can accurately perform its function.

Abstract: The present disclosure is directed to devices and methods for automating weld termination. In one embodiment, a compensation device is provided to grip a weld dam comprised of silicon dioxide. The compensation device is used to impart linear motion along an x-axis, y-axis, and z-axis, and rotational motion about the z-axis, to the weld dam. Via the imparted linear and rotational motion, the weld dam is then abutted against a surface of a workpiece, the workpiece comprising a first and a second section. In some embodiments, the workpiece surface includes uneven terminal ends of the first and second sections. In other embodiments, the workpiece surface is a bottom surface.

Abstract: The present disclosure is directed to methods for damming and backing welds. In one embodiment, a method of welding a workpiece is provided in which the workpiece includes a first section, a second section, and a weld groove disposed therebetween. Opposing edges of the first and second sections are positioned adjacent to each other and at least partially form a bottom of the weld groove. A silicon dioxide weld dam is abutted against a terminal end of the workpiece relative to a weld direction. The weld dam is positioned at a weld joint termination point to prevent molten metal from flowing through a terminal end opening of the groove at the weld joint termination point. The first and second sections are welded together along opposing edges in the weld direction up to the weld joint termination point. Finally, the dam is removed, exposing the terminal end of the workpiece.

Abstract: Disclosed herein are embodiments and methods of a visual guidance and recognition system requiring no calibration. One embodiment of the system comprises a servo actuated manipulator configured to perform a function, a camera mounted on the face plate of the manipulator, and a recognition controller configured to acquire a two dimensional image of the work piece. The manipulator controller is configured to receive and store the face plate position at a distance “A” between the reference work piece and the manipulator along an axis of the reference work piece when the reference work piece is in the camera's region of interest. The recognition controller is configured to learn the work piece from the image and the distance “A”. During operation, a work piece is recognized with the system, and the manipulator is accurately positioned with respect to the work piece so that the manipulator can accurately perform its function.