Abstract: A method for joining studs to workpieces, in particular for the purpose of stud welding, comprising the steps of acquiring a distinguishing dimension of a stud to be joined by the application of a sensing element to the stud and through measurement of a travel distance of the sensing element as it is applied to the stud; and then joining the stud to a workpiece, if the dimension of the stud is within an allowable tolerance range, and the allowable tolerance range is adapted in dependence on the travel distance of the sensing element measured during a preceding method step.

Abstract: A joining element feed device comprises a supply unit that supplies a joining process with joining elements from a container. The container includes a cover movable between a closed position and an open filling position. The joining element feed device includes an identification device able to identify joining elements that are to be poured into the container and/or a person who intends to pour the joining elements into the container. The identification device includes a reading device for reading an identification code on the joining elements or person and a control unit for verifying or recording the identification code. The joining element feed device further comprises a closing device actuated by the control unit for moving the cover to or locking the cover in the closed position.

Abstract: A method for joining studs to workpieces, in particular for the purpose of stud welding, comprising the steps of acquiring a distinguishing dimension of a stud to be joined by the application of a sensing element to the stud and through measurement of a travel distance of the sensing element as it is applied to the stud; and then joining the stud to a workpiece, if the dimension of the stud is within an allowable tolerance range, and the allowable tolerance range is adapted in dependence on the travel distance of the sensing element measured during a preceding method step.

Abstract: Proposed is a joining system (10) as well as a method of operating a joining system (10) for joining elements (20) onto components (22), in particular for the short-time arc welding of elements (20), such as metal studs (20), onto components (22), such as metal sheets (22), having a central unit (12), which comprises a control device (30) and connectable to which is at least one joining unit (14) from a selection of different joining units, each of which comprises at least two modules (16, 18). The control unit (30) is designed so as to recognise (S16, S28) the mutual compatibility of the at least two modules (16, 18) of a connected joining unit (14) as well as the compatibility of the connected joining unit (14) with the central unit (12).

Abstract: Proposed is a joining system (10) as well as a method of operating a joining system (10) for joining elements (20) onto components (22), in particular for the short-time arc welding of elements (20), such as metal studs (20), onto components (22), such as metal sheets (22), having a central unit (12), which comprises a control device (30) and connectable to which is at least one joining unit (14) from a selection of different joining units, each of which comprises at least two modules (16, 18). The control unit (30) is designed so as to recognise (S16, S28) the mutual compatibility of the at least two modules (16, 18) of a connected joining unit (14) as well as the compatibility of the connected joining unit (14) with the central unit (12).