Seam-tracking apparatus for a welding system employing an array of eddy current elements

摘要

A seam-tracking apparatus for a welding system has a welding arm which directs an energy beam toward a seam. The seam-tracking apparatus includes an eddy current sensor formed by an array of eddy current elements, each producing a respective electrical signal when positioned adjacent to the seam to be tracked. An eddy current signal processor receives each respective electrical signal so as to generate position data indicative of the location of the seam. A controller is responsive to the position data so as to align the eddy current sensor and the welding arm over the seam so that the energy beam continuously impinges on the seam, as the welding arm advances along the seam. The eddy current sensor may be flexible, in which case the seam-tracking apparatus can track a seam between workpieces having curved surfaces.