Overview
Advanced Systems Development of the Remote Climbing Robot (2010-622)
Project Team:
- Robotic Technologies of Tennessee
- General Dynamics Bath Iron Works
- Northrop Grumman Ship Systems
- Tennessee Technological University
May 2010 - January 2012
NSRP ASE Investment: $198K
Industry Investment: $198K
Objective:
Enhance the previously developed Mobile Robotic Welding System through remote operation capability, an increased number of supported weld types and environments, and adaptive torch control.
Summary:
This project will develop an enhanced MRWS platform that will allow for remote operation across a wide range of weld types in a number of different welding environments. The enhancements will: 1) expand the range of weld tasks the MRWS can address, 2) further reduce support structures (scaffolding, man lifts, etc.) and other time consuming procedures, 3) increase by up to 50% the efficiency of the weld-time process, 4) increase safety levels for workers, 5) enable less skilled (or inexperienced welders) to take on more complex welding tasks, and 6) provide shipyard supervisors flexible labor alternatives for solving construction challenges. Planned enhancements include a laser weld-seam vision and tracking system, adaptive depth and weave-width control for the welding torch, and remote system operation via a wireless tablet PC. The project team will also develop a software tool to assist in the weld set-up process with the robotic platform, and investigate the potential benefits of using a multi-torch system within the shipbuilding enterprise. Versions of the MRWS platform are in use at Bath Iron Works, VT Halter Marine, Ingalls Shipbuilding and NASSCO.
Key Deliverables:
Request Final Report from NSRP – Limited Distribution authorized to U.S. shipyards and NSRP ASE Program representatives
Point of Contact:
James Beard, Robotic Technologies of Tennessee