Gas metal arc welding torch with vision system

摘要

A gas metal arc welding torch has an integral optical system which images the weld puddle on the face of a fiber optic cable. A concentric torch configuration is disclosed having a slim profile filler wire guide that is removably mounted on the ring-shaped torch body and projects into the gas cup at an angle to the optical axis to minimize obstruction of important regions of the weld scene. The fiber optic cable is coupled to a video camera and a viewing system or controller; real time observation of the weld area is made and used to control the weld process.