Machine Learning Optimization for Robotic Welding Parametrization

Abstract

Welding physics is complex, and therefore the welding parametrization is time-consuming. In manual welding, the “hand”, the experience, and the best sensor of all (the eyes) can compensate for the difficulties in finding the right settings (welding parameters, robot posture, speed, ...) for a specific weld seam. In robotic welding the robotic arm and the sensors are limited, and the parametrization time escalates. This work aims to develop a flexible welding robotized system, through the introduction of (knowledge-based) decision support for welding parametrization in an advanced robotic work cell, in combination with advanced (collision-free) offline programming and advanced sensing. By selecting a specific application area, structural steel, this work will reduce the degree of complexity during the development, paving the way for the introduction of knowledge-based welding in the robotic arc welding sector.