A Five-Axis Robotic Laser And Vision Integrated "On-Line" Welding System

Abstract

A five axis robotic laser welding system has been designed and built for an "on-line" automotive joining application. A high power CO2 laser beam is manipulated through the use of a robotic beam delivery system and is focused onto the work piece. An optical probe communicates the coordinates or geometry of the parts to the clamping and welding robots. The essential features of the robots, laser, optical probes and clamping system have been discussed. The system versatilities also have been outlined.