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Method and Apparatus for Automated Welding

  • US 20110210110A1
  • Filed: 02/24/2011
  • Published: 09/01/2011
  • Est. Priority Date: 02/26/2010
  • Status: Abandoned Application
First Claim
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1. A method of welding plate joints during construction or repair of a storage tank, the method comprising the steps of:

  • a. positioning a series of plates forming a tank component next to one another to form a series of joints for welding;

    b. positioning a welding system on or adjacent to the series of plates, the welding system including a platform with an articulating welding arm positioned thereon, wherein the articulating arm comprises (i) a rotating base and at least two arm segments connected at a pivot point and extending from the rotating base, (ii) a welding head, and (iii) a joint sensor;

    c. directing the articulating arm with a controller to detect a first joint with the joint sensor;

    d. beginning to weld the first joint;

    e. adjusting the position of the welding head to track the weld joint based on data from the joint sensor;

    f. upon reaching a weld termination condition, to cease welding;

    g. rotating the base and positioning the welding head adjacent a second weld joint;

    h. repeating steps (d) through (f); and

    i. maintaining the platform in a substantially stationary position while performing steps (d) through (f).

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