Objective:
Develop a virtual welding system through innovative uses of:
- Robust artificial intelligence technology
- New real-time processing system
- New, low-cost, wired and wireless sensor technology.
Summary:
To reduce welder training cost by as much as 50%, this effort is developing an affordable virtual welding system for training and personnel evaluation. One major change in the concept is to devolve from a full three-dimensional system back to a less complex pseudo two-dimensional system, known as 2½D. The reduction from 3D to 2½D will allow the use of a substantially less expensive, more typical welding hood with a low-cost color video display. The proposed system will reduce the amount of computational power required as well, making a low cost single-board computer more than adequate for the needed processing power. This system will be able to “teach” various weld styles and positions by virtually providing visualization and sound, and will provide immediate quality feedback through visual and audio indicators. A reduction in ship construction costs will be realized through increased new-hire productivity, reduced training budgets and a reduction in consumables expended during training.
Final Report – Approved for public release; distribution is unlimited
Overview
Project Team:
Phase 1
- Bender Shipbuilding & Repair
- Native American Technologies
- General Dynamics Electric Boat
Phase 2
- General Dynamics Electric Boat
- Native American Technologies
April 2008 - November 2011
NSRP ASE Investment: $1.7M
Industry Investment: $0.4M