Overview
Welding Smart Camera “In the Torch”
(2020-302-002)
Pacific Shipyards International, Vigor Marine, LLC, Hepinstall Consulting Group, Gatekey Engineering, Inc., EnergynTech, D’Angelo Technologies, LLC, Miller Electric, Hobart Brothers Co.
March 2020 – March 2022
INDUSTRY INVESTMENT: $1,296K | NSRP INVESTMENT $1,286K
OBJECTIVE
The objective of this project is to deliver a portable SMART Camera-Enabled Welding Torch System to enable the welder to view the weld and welding parameters through the helmet without looking directly at the weld.
SUMMARY
This exciting new welding capability is designed for shipboard and shipyard applications. It will eliminate the need for mirror welding in inaccessible locations, significantly reduce eye injuries common across all shipyards, provide voltage and current information at point of use on the video screen during welding, and provide a digital recording of weld quality and process information to enable forensic analysis. This project will provide a SMART technology-enabled welding toolset to attract the “next generation” welding workforce. The system will be designed to be price-competitive with other welding torch systems.
PROJECT RESULTS
The project successfully integrated and demonstrated a prototype system, and demonstrated its use in both shipyard mockup environments and in the shipyard, using production welding power supplies and wire feeders. In trials, the system received very positive reviews from welders using the system, and these welders were comfortable with the system in very little time, and some were immediately oriented and comfortable. The originally proposed benefits were validated through these trials. Further commercialization will be required before the full implementation will be achieved.
POINT OF CONTACT: Mike Buelsing | Pacific Shipyards International, LLC | [email protected]
To request a copy of the Final Report please email [email protected]