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.
Key Deliverables / Benefits:
Increased weld productivity will reduce life cycle maintenance cost across all maintenance and modernization availabilities, and as a result, reduce Total Ownership Cost of ships. It is also in direct support of improving the quality in ship repair through implementation of advanced technologies. The project will also significantly improve safety performance for shipyards and shipboard personnel. The participating shipyards anticipate a 30-50% reduction in eye injuries through use of the camera-enabled welding torch system.
Overview
Pacific Shipyards International, Vigor Marine, LLC, Hepinstall Consulting Group, Gatekey Engineering, Inc., EnergynTech, D’Angelo Technologies, LLC, Miller Electric, Hobart Brothers Co.
March 2020 – August 2021
INDUSTRY INVESTMENT: $1,296K | NSRP INVESTMENT $1,286K