Recognizing MAG Process Parameters on the Basis of the Sound Emitted

Abstract

Manufacturing companies and enterprises are faced with two big challenges: accomplishing constant product quality with a lower price. These are the conditions for survival of production in the increasing competition both at the regional and global levels. Another very important characteristic of manufacturing systems is the flexibility and agility of manufacturing processes because companies are forced to respond to market demands where buyers’ wishes must be particularly satisfied. Furthermore, this requires efficient manufacturing systems focused on automation, computers and software. Development of robotic welding systems is indeed impressive and that technology nowadays represents one of the leading branches in the application of industrial robots. The scientific challenge is contained in the tendency to make the performances of technological equipment approximate to human capabilities or even surpass them. During a welding process, sound is emitted as one of the physical and natural phenomena. This phenomenon is treated with attention by using modern measuring equipment, i.e. directed microphones which allow separation of sound emission of the process from the total emission. Control of robots based on visual, acoustic and energy feedbacks represents the basis for their further development and application in this technology.