Robotic welding is a dynamic process that occurs at speeds far greater than the human eye can perceive. The MeltView® UD25 is a precision instrument for capturing crisp, clear images of robotic GMAW and laser processes at 700+ frames per second (fps) and 816x624 resolution. Its small, unobtrusive design allows mounting to robotic end effectors.
Examining the captured sequence enables users to identify necessary adjustments to the initiation and termination sequence and robot trajectory, as well as optimize or synchronize the elements of a process. The following video demonstrates the MeltView® UD25 monitoring a WAAM process at 700 frames per second (fps). Its high frame rate captures droplet formation, weld puddle motion and some indications of the substrate heating. If you watch through the video, you will see why you cannot melt out porosity.
Key improvements of the UD25 over the MeltView® SYNC/SYNC2, our previous compact medium frame rate cameras that can be mounted to robotic GMAW processes, are some of the following:
- Integrated illumination
- Remote focus mechanism
- Integrated protection
For this camera we selected the USB3 interface as it's appropriate for the target applications; however we can also implement this solution with a larger 10GIGE camera, offering the same resolution at 1600 frames per second. The UD25 can also be SYNChronized with 6kHz analog measurements of arc voltage and current.