Method for Regulating Energy Input of a Pulsed Arc Plasma During a Joining Process and Apparatus

Simple SummaryContent extracted from patent full text and abstract with AI.

This invention is a method and apparatus for real-time regulation of the energy input (such as temperature) of a pulsed arc plasma during joining processes like welding or soldering. It achieves this by using two photodiodes sensitive to different wavelengths to measure the emitted light from the arc plasma in two distinct spectral ranges. By comparing these signals, the system can generate control signals to accurately regulate the power supplied to the plasma, ensuring optimal process conditions and preventing defects like burning through thin materials.

Use CasesContent extracted from patent full text and abstract with AI.

• Automated welding systems for manufacturing (e.g., automotive, aerospace, shipbuilding)
• Soldering processes in electronics or metal assembly
• Precision welding or soldering of thin metal sheets or sensitive materials
• Industrial robots requiring adaptive control of arc welding parameters
• Quality monitoring and control in high-precision joining operations
• Retrofitting existing welding equipment for improved process control

BenefitsContent extracted from patent full text and abstract with AI.

• Provides ultra-fast, real-time control of plasma energy input, increasing process stability and precision.
• Reduces defects (e.g., burn-throughs, poor joints) by preventing excessive or insufficient heat application, especially in thin materials.
• Enables use in simple or complex (modern) welding equipment, adapting to different process requirements.
• Compact and cost-effective, with potential integration directly into welding torches or machines.
• Improved quality assurance and repeatability by adapting energy delivery to actual process conditions.
• Potentially lowers material waste and saves energy by optimizing each welding or soldering pulse.
• Easier adaptation to different materials and processes due to adjustable settings and modular design.

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Inventors & Applicants

Patent Abstract

The invention relates to a method for regulating an energy input of a pulsed arc plasma during a joining process, particularly during a welding or soldering process, wherein the method comprises the following steps: Detecting first measurement signals for a first temporal course of emitted light from an arc plasma of the joining process in a first spectral region using a first photodiode, which has a sensitivity maximum at a first wavelength, detecting second measurement signals for a second temporal course of the emitted light from the arc plasma of the joining process in a second spectral region, which is at least partially different from the first spectral region, using a second photodiode, which has a sensitivity maximum at a second wavelength different from the first wavelength, generating control signals in that in an evaluation device the first measurement signals and the second measurement signals are compared, and regulating an energy source, which is configured to provide pulsed energy for the arc plasma in accordance with the control signals. The invention further relates to an apparatus for regulating an energy input.