A scan solution prototype from Blackbird Robotersysteme (Garching, Germany) introduced at LASER World of PHOTONICS 2017 features a distance sensor based on optical coherence tomography (OCT) to detect and measure 3D laser weld seam topographies in high resolution. The system captures and analyzes detailed data within and beyond the actual laser processing zone, such as in to-be-welded components, seam tracking of fillet welds, and real-time detection of any weld errors or imperfections occurring during welding operations. The OCT sensor's measuring light is coaxially coupled in a laser welding head's beam path and then guided together with the laser beam via the head's main mirrors. Monitoring always takes place directly within the process zone, thereby inherently avoiding contour following limitations that occur to some extent in lateral monitoring solutions. The measuring beam has a scan system of its own that enables positioning all around the processing point.
The first test systems will be installed in 2017. The scope of delivery includes the scan optics and control system, as well as the complete software architecture.
For more information, please visit www.blackbird-robotics.de.