Citation
(1998), "New software boosts arc welding productivity", Industrial Robot, Vol. 25 No. 2. https://doi.org/10.1108/ir.1998.04925bad.004
Publisher
:Emerald Group Publishing Limited
Copyright © 1998, MCB UP Limited
New software boosts arc welding productivity
New software boosts arc welding productivity
The latest version of ArcTool introduces some significant new facilities to improve the productivity of FANUC are welding robots. A robot is a universal tool that can be used in virtually any application. By definition the control system must be programmed in general terms.
ArcTool is a software package, available from Coventry-based FANUC Robotics, that interfaces between the robot control system and the operator. Using ArcTool the robot can be programmed using the everyday terminology of welding. No special programming language is required. Also, it includes sub-routines that are relevant to arc welding.
In the latest upgrade version 4.3 there is a new facility called Collision Guard. This is a software and servo-hardware facility that is able to detect tool collisions in the majority of applications. This eliminates the need for shock sensors, and therefore reduces both costs and down time.
In addition there is multi-pass co-ordinated motion control. This co-ordinates motion between the robot and any auxiliary manipulators that act as additional axes to the robot. This fully supports welding functions such as root pass memorising, arc voltage control, touch sensing and through arc seam tracking (TAST).
TAST is a facility that is used to keep a torch centrally over the weld when weaving. The power sin curve created by the weaving is analysed by the system. If the peaks and troughs are not equal, then the system automatically adjusts the torch position relative to the joint until they are.
The touch sensing speed for part or weld seam location has been increased by 275 per cent to 75mm/sec. This is used to compensate for part off-set by detecting wire contact. Again this facility can be fully co-ordinated with any auxiliary axis manipulators.
In addition, the set-up time for certain power supplies can be reduced by a massive 90 per cent using a new "plug and play" facility.
Finally, four levels of password protection are now available. These are operator, program, set-up and install. Up to 100 user names can be accepted. The system logs access time and any changes to control data to provide a full "audit trail" of use and program modifications.
For more information contact Maurice Hanley, FANUC Robotics (UK) Limited, Seven Stars Industrial Estate, Wheler Road, Coventry CV3 4LB. Tel: 01203 639669; Fax: 01203 304333.