ISSN:
0143-991X
Source:
Emerald Fulltext Archive Database 1994-2005
Topics:
Mechanical Engineering, Materials Science, Production Engineering, Mining and Metallurgy, Traffic Engineering, Precision Mechanics
Notes:
Automating the welding process for the shipbuilding industry is very challenging and important, as this industry relies heavily on quality welds. Conventional robotic welding systems are seldom used because the welding tasks in shipyards are characterised by non-standardised workpieces which are large but small in batch sizes. Furthermore, geometries and locations of the workpieces are uncertain. To tackle the problem, a Ship Welding Robot System (SWERS) has been developed for the welding process. The main features of the SWERS include a special teaching procedure that allows the human user to teach the robot welding paths at a much easier and faster pace. In addition, operation of the system is made easier through a custom designed man-machine interface. Through this interface, only a few buttons need to be pressed to command the robot into different modes. Optimised welding parameters can be selected from a large database through a Graphical User Interface system.
Type of Medium:
Electronic Resource
URL:
http://dx.doi.org/10.1108/01439919910284000
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