U.S. patent application number 14/296528 was filed with the patent office on 2015-05-14 for system and method for pendant component for a welding system.
The applicant listed for this patent is LINCOLN GLOBAL, INC.. Invention is credited to STEPHEN R. COLE.
Application Number | 20150129581 14/296528 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 53042839 |
Filed Date | 2015-05-14 |
United States Patent
Application |
20150129581 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
COLE; STEPHEN R. |
May 14, 2015 |
SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR PENDANT COMPONENT FOR A WELDING SYSTEM
Abstract
The invention described herein generally pertains to a system
and method related to controlling a welding system having a tractor
welder engaged with a track by utilizing a pendant component that
is configured to receive an input from a user and displaying data
via a graphical display. The pendant component includes one or more
inputs that correspond to data displayed, wherein the one or more
inputs include a first toggle switch and a second toggle switch, an
encoder knob, a first set of buttons and a second set of
buttons.
Inventors: |
COLE; STEPHEN R.; (CHULA
VISTA, CA) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
LINCOLN GLOBAL, INC. |
CITY OF INDUSTRY |
CA |
US |
|
|
Family ID: |
53042839 |
Appl. No.: |
14/296528 |
Filed: |
June 5, 2014 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
|
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61903155 |
Nov 12, 2013 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
219/60A ;
219/132 |
Current CPC
Class: |
B23K 9/1087 20130101;
B23K 9/0286 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
219/60.A ;
219/132 |
International
Class: |
B23K 9/10 20060101
B23K009/10; B23K 9/028 20060101 B23K009/028 |
Claims
1. A device, comprising: a processor coupled to a memory, the
processor configured to execute the following computer- executable
components stored in the memory: a display component that is
configured to render a graphic to display at least one screen; an
input component that is configured to receive an input associated
with the graphic; and an output component that is configured to
communicate a first electronic signal to a welding system based on
the input, wherein the electronic signal controls a portion of the
welding system; the input component further comprises the
following: a first toggle switch that is configured to receive an
input for navigation on the at least one screen; a second toggle
switch that is configured to receive an input for selection of a
value for one or more parameters displayed on the at least one
screen; an encoder knob that is configured to receive at least one
of a rotational input to control a motion for a torch to move to
and from a track and a depressing input to move the torch to a
center position; a first set of inputs that are configured to allow
selection based on the at least one screen; and a second set of
inputs that are configured to allow selection of one or more
parameters, wherein the second toggle switch provides selection for
a value of the parameter selected; and a power source that is
configured to generate a portion of electrical power for
consumption by at least one of the processor, the memory, the
display component, the input component, or the output
component.
2. The device of claim 1, wherein the welding system includes a
power source for a tractor welder, the torch, a motor that moves
the tractor welder on the track, a motor that moves the torch to
and from the track, a wire feeder, a motor that moves the torch to
and from the workpiece, a motor that oscillates the torch, or a
power source for a wire that is supplied by the wire feeder.
3. The device of claim 1, further comprising: a casing having a
front opposite of a back, a first side opposite a second side, a
top side, a bottom side, and a thickness that separates the front
and the back, wherein the casing houses at least one of the
processor, the memory, the display component, the input component,
or the output component; a connector component on at least one of
the first side or the second side; an indentation region at least
one of the first side or the second side of which the connector
component resides; a strap member that connects to at least one of
the first side or the second side of which the connector component
resides; and the connector component counter-balances a weight of a
wired connection to the connector component to facilitate carrying
the device.
4. The device of claim 1, the output component is configured to
receive a second electronic signal from the welding system, wherein
the second electronic signal is representative of a detected value
of the welding system.
5. The device of claim 1, wherein the first toggle switch is
further configured to receive an input for a value change of one or
more parameters displayed on the at least one screen.
6. The device of claim 1, wherein the first electronic signal is
representative of a setting from a user for one or more
parameters.
7. The device of claim 1, wherein the first electronic signal is
representative of an arc current, an arc voltage, a wire feed
speed, a movement for the torch, a left dwell, a right dwell, a
travel speed of a tractor welder for the welding system, an
oscillation speed, or an oscillation width.
8. A device, comprising: the device being in an electrical
communication with an orbital welding system that includes: a
welding torch detachably coupled to a track affixed adjacently to a
pipe, wherein the welding torch includes an electrode to perform a
welding operation to deposit a layer of material onto the pipe and
the welding operation is on an inner diameter of the pipe or an
outer diameter of the pipe; and a welding power source that creates
an arc between the electrode and the workpiece; a processor coupled
to a memory, the processor configured to execute the following
computer-executable components stored in the memory: a display
component that is configured to render a graphic to display at
least one screen; an input component that is configured to receive
an input associated with the graphic; and an output component that
is configured to communicate an electronic signal to the orbital
welding system based on the input, wherein the electronic signal
controls a portion of the welding system; the input component
further comprises the following: a first toggle switch that is
configured to receive an input for navigation on the at least one
screen; a second toggle switch that is configured to receive an
input for selection of a value for one or more parameters displayed
on the at least one screen; an encoder knob that is configured to
receive at least one of a rotational input to control a motion for
a torch to move to and from a track and a depressing input to move
the torch to a center position; a first set of inputs that are
configured to allow selection based on the at least one screen; and
a second set of inputs that are configured to allow selection of
one or more parameters, wherein the second toggle switch provides
selection for a value of the parameter selected; and a power source
that is configured to generate a portion of electrical power for
consumption by at least one of the processor, the memory, the
display component, the input component, or the output
component.
9. The device of claim 8, wherein the device is hosted on a first
network and communicates with the orbital welding system that is
hosted on a second network., wherein the communication is via the
Internet.
10. The device of claim 8, further comprising a controller that
performs the welding operation with the orbital welding system
based on the electrical signal.
11. The device of claim 8, wherein the electrical communication is
a wireless communication.
12. The device of claim 8, the display component further renders
one or more graphics to represent a pairing of parameters that can
be selected by the first toggle switch and adjusted by the second
toggles switch, wherein the pairing is at least one of the
following: a wire feed speed and a current; a left dwell and a
right dwell; an oscillation speed and an oscillation width; or a
travel speed and a voltage.
13. The device of claim 8, further comprising at least one of the
following: a motor that moves the tractor welder on the track; a
motor that moves the torch to and from the track; a wire feeder; a
motor that moves the torch to and from the workpiece; a motor that
oscillates the torch; a power source for a wire that is supplied by
the wire feeder; a settings component that is configured to receive
a user input that automatically sets an orientation from a
perspective of a user in which the orientation defines which
direction is a left direction, a right direction, a left dwell, a
right dwell, a forward direction, a backward direction, or a
steering direction in relation to the encoder knob; and a welding
progress component that is configured to automatically maneuver the
torch to a user- defined position based on a user input from at
least one of the first first toggle switch, the second toggle
switch, one of the first set of inputs or one of the second set of
inputs.
14. The device of claim 8, further comprising: a casing having a
front opposite of a back, a first side opposite a second side, a
top side, a bottom side, and a thickness that separates the front
and the back, wherein the casing houses at least one of the
processor, the memory, the display component, the input component,
or the output component; a connector component on at least one of
the first side or the second side; an indentation region at least
one of the first side or the second side of which the connector
component resides; a strap member that connects to at least one of
the first side or the second side of which the connector component
resides; and the connector component counter-balances a weight of a
wired connection to the connector component to facilitate carrying
the device.
15. The device of claim 8, wherein the output component is
configured to receive an additional electronic signal from the
orbital welding system.
16. The device of claim 15, wherein the additional electronic
signal is representative of a measured value of the orbital welding
system.
17. The device of claim 8, wherein the electronic signal is
representative of a setting from a user for one or more parameters
used in for the welding operation.
18. The device of claim 8, wherein the electronic signal is
representative of at least one of an arc current, an arc voltage, a
wire feed speed, an amount of movement for the torch, a left dwell,
a right dwell, a travel speed of a tractor welder for the welding
system, an oscillation speed, or an oscillation width.
19. The device of claim 8, further comprising: the device is in an
electrical communication with an additional orbital welding system;
and the device communicates an electronic signal to control a
welding operation performed by one of the orbital welding system or
the additional welding system.
20. An orbital welding system, comprising: a welding torch
detachably coupled to a track affixed adjacently to a pipe, wherein
the welding torch includes an electrode to perform a welding
operation to deposit a layer of material onto the pipe and the
welding operation is on an inner diameter of the pipe or an outer
diameter of the pipe; a welding power source that creates an arc
between the electrode and the workpiece; a pendant component that
includes: a processor coupled to a memory, the processor configured
to execute the following computer-executable components stored in
the memory: a display component that is configured to render a
graphic to display at least one screen; an input component that is
configured to receive an input associated with the graphic; and an
output component that is configured to communicate an electronic
signal to the orbital welding system based on the input, wherein
the electronic signal controls a portion of the welding system; and
the input component further comprises the following: a first toggle
switch that is configured to receive an input for navigation on the
at least one screen; a second toggle switch that is configured to
receive an input for selection of a value for one or more
parameters displayed on the at least one screen; an encoder knob
that is configured to receive at least one of a rotational input to
control a motion for a torch to move to and from a track and a
depressing input to move the torch to a center position; a first
set of inputs that are configured to allow selection based on the
at least one screen; a second set of inputs that are configured to
allow selection of one or more parameters, wherein the second
toggle switch provides selection for a value of the parameter
selected; and the display component further renders one or more
graphics to represent a pairing of parameters that can be selected
by the first toggle switch and adjusted by the second toggles
switch, wherein the pairing is at least one of the following: a
wire feed speed and a current; a left dwell and a right dwell; an
oscillation speed and an oscillation width; or a travel speed and a
voltage.
Description
PRIORITY
[0001] This application claims the benefit of priority to U.S.
Provisional Application Ser. No. 61/903,155, filed Nov. 12, 2013,
and entitled "SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR PENDANT COMPONENT FOR A WELDING
SYSTEM." The entirety of the aforementioned application is
incorporated herein by reference.
TECHNICAL FIELD
[0002] In general, the present invention relates to a pendant
component that controls a welding system. More particularly, the
present invention relates to a pendant component that provides
intuitive and accessible user inputs for controlling a welding
system, and in particular, a tractor welder on a track system.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0003] Welding systems reside at the core of the modern industrial
age. From massive automobile assembly operations to automated
manufacturing environments, these systems facilitate joining in
ever more complicated manufacturing operations. Hot wire welding
processes a wire or electrode being heated (e.g., via current) and
received by a puddle created by a main heat source (e.g., plasma
arc, tungsten inert gas (TIG) welding, metal inert gas (MIG)
welding, flux core, among others). The hot wire welding process
includes the resistance heating of the up to or near a melting
point of such wire. In hot wire welding processes, the formation of
an arc is avoided since an arc condition disrupts or overheats the
puddle. A wire heated near or close to the melting point of the
wire without arcing events is received by the puddle with little or
no disruption. In order to prevent a formation of an arc, a welding
parameter related to the workpiece can be detected. The welding
parameter can indicate an arc condition in which the hot wire
welding process can be adjusted.
[0004] Additionally, welding may involve, raising, cladding,
building up, filling, hard facing, overlaying, joining, and other
welding applications. When confronted with a workpiece having a
curved surface, an orbital welding process may be used to rotate
the welding head to apply a weld to the curved surface. The most
common examples, where orbital welding is used, is the welding of
pipe. Pipe welding may include thin wall application where the
welding head is rotated about the other surface two piece ends
being joined together, alternatively, pipe welding may include deep
groove geometries where the welding electrode extends into a grove
formed between the two pipes being joined to lay down successive
beads of weld material to fill the groove and join the thick walled
pipes. Orbital welding systems may include a welding head that is
mounted on a guide track or a fixture that clamps or is otherwise
supported on the workpiece and rotated to supply a weld. Orbital
welding often involves limited visibility of a welding zone with
lead cameras and/or trailing cameras.
[0005] Welding systems can include numerous controls that can be
adjusted by a user during a welding operation. For instance,
conventional welding systems can include up to sixteen (16)
buttons, inputs, and switches that require years of experience to
comprehend and use efficiently. Often, a change in one adjustment
can lead to a change in another adjustment in order to maintain
consistency.
[0006] Orbital welding systems and non-orbital welding systems can
be compromised by the number of adjustments a user can implement
and what is needed is an improved device control such welding
system in a more efficient manner.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0007] In accordance with an embodiment of the present invention, a
hand-held device is provided. The device that includes a processor
coupled to a memory, the processor configured to execute the
following computer-executable components stored in the memory: a
display component that is configured to render a graphic to display
at least one screen; an input component that is configured to
receive an input associated with the graphic; and an output
component that is configured to communicate a first electronic
signal to a welding system based on the input, wherein the
electronic signal controls a portion of the welding system. The
input component can include a first toggle switch that is
configured to receive an input for navigation on the at least one
screen; a second toggle switch that is configured to receive an
input for selection of a value for one or more parameters displayed
on the at least one screen; an encoder knob that is configured to
receive at least one of a rotational input to control a motion for
a torch to move to and from a track and a depressing input to move
the torch to a center position; a first set of inputs that are
configured to allow selection based on the at least one screen; and
a second set of inputs that are configured to allow selection of
one or more parameters, wherein the second toggle switch provides
selection for a value of the parameter selected. The device can
further include a power source that is configured to generate a
portion of electrical power for consumption by at least one of the
processor, the memory, the display component, the input component,
or the output component. Further, the first toggle switch can be
configured to receive an input for a value change of one or more
parameters displayed on the at least one screen, wherein the value
change is for a parameter that is selected by default, pre-defined,
pre-programmed, and the like.
[0008] In an embodiment, a device (also referred to as a pendant
component) is provided that is an electrical communication with an
orbital welding system that includes: a welding torch detachably
coupled to a track affixed adjacently to a pipe, wherein the
welding torch includes an electrode to perform a welding operation
to deposit a layer of material onto the pipe and the welding
operation is on an inner diameter of the pipe or an outer diameter
of the pipe; and a welding power source that creates an arc between
the electrode and the workpiece. The device further includes a
processor coupled to a memory, the processor configured to execute
the following computer-executable components stored in the memory:
a display component that is configured to render a graphic to
display at least one screen; an input component that is configured
to receive an input associated with the graphic; and an output
component that is configured to communicate an electronic signal to
the orbital welding system based on the input, wherein the
electronic signal controls a portion of the welding system. The
input component further includes the following: a first toggle
switch that is configured to receive an input for navigation on the
at least one screen; a second toggle switch that is configured to
receive an input for selection of a value for one or more
parameters displayed on the at least one screen; an encoder knob
that is configured to receive at least one of a rotational input to
control a motion for a torch to move to and from a track and a
depressing input to move the torch to a center position; a first
set of inputs that are configured to allow selection based on the
at least one screen; and a second set of inputs that are configured
to allow selection of one or more parameters, wherein the second
toggle switch provides selection for a value of the parameter
selected. The device can further include a power source that is
configured to generate a portion of electrical power for
consumption by at least one of the processor, the memory, the
display component, the input component, or the output component.
Further, the first toggle switch can be configured to receive an
input for a value change of one or more parameters displayed on the
at least one screen, wherein the value change is for a parameter
that is selected by default, pre-defined, pre-programmed, and the
like.
[0009] In an embodiment, an orbital welding system is provided that
includes a welding torch detachably coupled to a track affixed
adjacently to a pipe, wherein the welding torch includes an
electrode to perform a welding operation to deposit a layer of
material onto the pipe and the welding operation is on an inner
diameter of the pipe or an outer diameter of the pipe; and a
welding power source that creates an arc between the electrode and
the workpiece. The system can further comprise a pendant component
that includes: a processor coupled to a memory, the processor
configured to execute the following computer-executable components
stored in the memory: a display component that is configured to
render a graphic to display at least one screen; an input component
that is configured to receive an input associated with the graphic;
and an output component that is configured to communicate an
electronic signal to the orbital welding system based on the input,
wherein the electronic signal controls a portion of the welding
system. The input component further includes the following: a first
toggle switch that is configured to receive an input for navigation
on the at least one screen; a second toggle switch that is
configured to receive an input for selection of a value for one or
more parameters displayed on the at least one screen; an encoder
knob that is configured to receive at least one of a rotational
input to control a motion for a torch to move to and from a track
and a depressing input to move the torch to a center position; a
first set of inputs that are configured to allow selection based on
the at least one screen; and a second set of inputs that are
configured to allow selection of one or more parameters, wherein
the second toggle switch provides selection for a value of the
parameter selected. Further, the first toggle switch can be
configured to receive an input for a value change of one or more
parameters displayed on the at least one screen, wherein the value
change is for a parameter that is selected by default, pre-defined,
pre-programmed, and the like.
[0010] These and other objects of this invention will be evident
when viewed in light of the drawings, detailed description and
appended claims.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0011] The invention may take physical form in certain parts and
arrangements of parts, a preferred embodiment of which will be
described in detail in the specification and illustrated in the
accompanying drawings which form a part hereof, and wherein:
[0012] FIG. 1 illustrates a front view of an orbital welding
system;
[0013] FIG. 2A illustrates a side view of an orbital welding
system;
[0014] FIG. 28 illustrates a perspective view of an orbital welding
system;
[0015] FIG. 3A is a diagram illustrating portion of a hot wire
welding system;
[0016] FIG. 38 is a diagram illustrating portion of a hot wire
welding system;
[0017] FIG. 4 is a diagram illustrating a system that includes a
device that provides user interaction with a welding system;
[0018] FIG. 5 is a diagram illustrating a device utilized by a
plurality of users to interact with a welding system;
[0019] FIG. 6 is a diagram illustrating a plurality of devices
utilized to interact with a plurality of welding systems;
[0020] FIG. 7 is a diagram illustrating a device communicating with
a welding system over at least one of a network or a
subnetwork;
[0021] FIG. 8 is a diagram of an embodiment of a device to interact
with a welding system;
[0022] FIG. 9 is a diagram of a front view of an embodiment of a
device used to interact with a welding system;
[0023] FIG. 10 is a diagram of a rear view of an embodiment of a
device used to interact with a welding system;
[0024] FIG. 11 is a diagram of an embodiment of a device to
interact with a welding system;
[0025] FIG. 12 is a diagram of a system that utilizes a device to
interact with a welding system as well as features such as weld
score, check point, and welding sequences;
[0026] FIG. 13 illustrates a screen shot that relates to startup
screen for user authentication;
[0027] FIG. 14 illustrates a screen shot in accordance with an
embodiment of the subject innovation;
[0028] FIG. 15 illustrates a screen shot in accordance with an
embodiment of the subject innovation;
[0029] FIG. 16 illustrates a screen shot in accordance with an
embodiment of the subject innovation;
[0030] FIG. 17 illustrates a screen shot in accordance with an
embodiment of the subject innovation;
[0031] FIG. 18 illustrates a screen shot in accordance with an
embodiment of the subject innovation;
[0032] FIG. 19 illustrates a screen shot in accordance with an
embodiment of the subject innovation;
[0033] FIG. 20A illustrates a screen shot in accordance with an
embodiment of the subject innovation;
[0034] FIG. 20B illustrates a screen shot in accordance with an
embodiment of the subject innovation;
[0035] FIG. 21 illustrates a screen shot in accordance with an
embodiment of the subject innovation;
[0036] FIG. 22 illustrates a screen shot in accordance with an
embodiment of the subject innovation;
[0037] FIG. 23 illustrates a screen shot in accordance with an
embodiment of the subject innovation;
[0038] FIG. 24 illustrates a screen shot in accordance with an
embodiment of the subject innovation;
[0039] FIG. 25 illustrates a screen shot in accordance with an
embodiment of the subject innovation;
[0040] FIG. 26 illustrates a screen shot in accordance with an
embodiment of the subject innovation;
[0041] FIG. 27 illustrates a screen shot in accordance with an
embodiment of the subject innovation;
[0042] FIG. 28 illustrates a screen shot in accordance with an
embodiment of the subject innovation;
[0043] FIG. 29 illustrates a screen shot in accordance with an
embodiment of the subject innovation;
[0044] FIG. 30 illustrates a screen shot in accordance with an
embodiment of the subject innovation;
[0045] FIG. 31 illustrates a screen shot in accordance with an
embodiment of the subject innovation;
[0046] FIG. 32 is a diagram of an embodiment of a device to
interact with a welding system;
[0047] FIG. 33 illustrates a screen shot in accordance with an
embodiment of the subject innovation;
[0048] FIG. 34 illustrates a screen shot in accordance with an
embodiment of the subject innovation;
[0049] FIG. 35 illustrates a screen shot in accordance with an
embodiment of the subject innovation;
[0050] FIG. 36 illustrates a screen shot in accordance with an
embodiment of the subject innovation;
[0051] FIG. 37 illustrates a screen shot in accordance with an
embodiment of the subject innovation;
[0052] FIG. 38 illustrates a screen shot in accordance with an
embodiment of the subject innovation;
[0053] FIG. 39 illustrates a screen shot in accordance with an
embodiment of the subject innovation;
[0054] FIG. 40 illustrates a screen shot in accordance with an
embodiment of the subject innovation;
[0055] FIG. 41 illustrates a screen shot in accordance with an
embodiment of the subject innovation;
[0056] FIG. 42 illustrates a screen shot in accordance with an
embodiment of the subject innovation;
[0057] FIG. 43 illustrates a screen shot in accordance with an
embodiment of the subject innovation;
[0058] FIG. 44 illustrates a screen shot in accordance with an
embodiment of the subject innovation;
[0059] FIG. 45 illustrates a screen shot in accordance with an
embodiment of the subject innovation;
[0060] FIG. 46 illustrates a screen shot in accordance with an
embodiment of the subject innovation;
[0061] FIG. 47 illustrates a screen shot in accordance with an
embodiment of the subject innovation.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
[0062] Embodiments of the invention relate to methods and systems
that relate to controlling a welding system having a tractor welder
engaged with a track by utilizing a pendant component that is
configured to receive an input from a user and displaying data via
a graphical display. The pendant component includes one or more
inputs that correspond to data displayed, wherein the one or more
inputs include a first toggle switch and a second toggle switch, an
encoder knob, a first set of buttons and a second set of buttons.
The first toggle switch and the second toggle switch control
navigation and value selection for a parameter. The encoder knob is
a dedicated control for torch head movement in relation to a track
and further includes a centering feature based on a depression of
the encoder knob. The first set of buttons and the second set of
buttons can be respectively used for selection based on the
displayed data and parameter adjustment selection.
[0063] "Welding" or "weld" as used herein including any other
formatives of these words will refer to depositing of molten
material through the operation of an electric arc including but not
limited to submerged arc, GTAW, GMAW, MAG, MIG, TIG welding, or any
electric arc used with a welding system.
[0064] The best mode for carrying out the invention will now be
described for the purposes of illustrating the best mode known to
the applicant at the time of the filing of this patent application.
The examples and figures are illustrative only and not meant to
limit the invention, which is measured by the scope and spirit of
the claims. Referring now to the drawings, wherein the showings are
for the purpose of illustrating an exemplary embodiment of the
invention only and not for the purpose of limiting same, FIGS. 1-4
illustrate a welding system that is used with an automated or
semi-automated welding system. One illustrative example of a
welding system is orbital welding, which is often used for the
joining of tubes or pipes of various types of materials. For
example, a Tungsten Inert Gas (TIG) or Gas Tungsten Arc Welding
(GTAW) welding torch may be used to orbit around the pipes to be
welded together by an automated mechanical system. FIGS. 1-28
illustrate an example embodiment of orbital welding system 100
(also referred to as welder, system, welding system, and/or welder
system) as used in an orbital welding environment. Orbital welding
system 100 includes a welding tractor (not shown) that travels
around the pipes or tubes, a welding power source (not shown) and
controller (not shown), and a pendant (not shown) providing
operator control. It is to be appreciated that the subject
innovation can be used with any orbital or non-orbital welding
system. Moreover, the subject innovation can be used with any
welding operation that includes an arc and a hot wire that is
liquefied to deposit welding material onto a workpiece.
[0065] System 100 (as seen in FIGS. 1-28) is generally used in deep
groove welding. In the example shown, welding system 100 includes
an orbital TIG welder having a welder body or chassis 101, which
may be attached to the work piece or supported on a track. Welder
100 includes a welding torch, generally indicated at 30, having a
welding electrode 32 for depositing weld material to form a weld
joint at welding zone Z. Electrode 32 is an extended electrode
having an electrode length suitable for the groove G being welded.
Extended electrode 32 may have any length suitable for a given deep
groove weld, including lengths greater than 10 millimeters. As
depicted in the example shown, electrode length may be greater than
100 millimeters. The particular example shown has a length of about
120 millimeters. This example is not limiting as electrodes having
greater or lesser lengths may be used depending on the depth of the
groove G.
[0066] Welding torch 30 is connected to a shield gas supply 102,
that provides an inert gas, such as Argon gas, to welding torch 30.
Welding gas supply 102 may include a container, such as a cylinder,
that stores shield gas S under pressure, and delivery of shield gas
S, via appropriate tubing or other conduits, may be controlled by a
regulator or other controller 107. A non-pressurized source may be
used also with gas delivery provided by a pump or the like. When
welding thick plates or heavy wall pipes, the weld joint design
typically provides a narrow groove to permit an elongated electrode
to be placed in the joint with some adjustment of the torch angle
to assure a good weld created by layering a series of weld beads
upon each other until the joint is filled. This process may be
referred to as narrow groove welding or deep groove welding
interchangeably throughout the following description. Narrow groove
welding is a process where successive single bead weld layers are
applied on top of one another in a narrow groove or joint. One of
the considerations in the narrow groove environment is maintaining
sufficient shield gas to protect the molten weld puddle from
atmospheric contamination. Typically, an inert shield gas, such as
Argon, is provided from outside the weld joint with a long
electrode extending into the groove below the shield gas
supply.
[0067] The welder may include a wire feeder connected to a supply
of welding wire, such as a spool 103 that provides wire W to one or
more wire guides 104', 104. In the example shown, a pair of
extended wire guides 104', 104 are provided and fed by independent
spools 103 located on either side of chassis 101. The extended wire
guides 104', 104 are supported on first camera device and wire
guide system 105 (also referred to as first mount system 105) and
second camera device and wire guide system 106 (also referred to as
second mount system 106) respectively that are each laterally
outward of electrode 32 and above the workpiece or pipe P. It is to
be appreciated that the support for the extended wire guides 104',
104 can be chosen with sound engineering judgment without departing
from the intended scope of coverage of the embodiments of the
subject invention.
[0068] The orbital welding system can include wire guides 104', 104
can include a position device that provides automated or
semi-automated motion, wherein the motion can be in any direction
within a 3-dimensional environment in proximity to an arc created
within welding zone Z. For instance, the wire guides 104', 104 can
extend inward and downward toward electrode 32 and welding zone Z.
The example welder is supported on a track and drive by a tractor
drive around pipe (also referred to as workpiece W) with wire
guides 104', 104 being located in lead and lag positions relative
to welding electrode 32. In an embodiment, first mount system 105
is coupled to height adjustment device 130 that allows adjustment
of first mount system 105 toward welding zone Z or away welding
zone Z. It is to be appreciated that the adjustment toward welding
zone Z or away welding zone Z can be automated or semi-automated.
Further, the adjustment can be to a side of the welding zone Z or
to an opposite side of the welding zone Z (e.g., a left motion, a
right motion, etc.). Height adjustment device 130 is further
coupled to support member 132 that is coupled to a portion of
chassis 101 of welder system 100. Similarly, second mount system
106 is coupled to height adjustment device 124 that allows
adjustment of second mount system 106 toward welding zone Z or away
welding zone Z. It is to be appreciated that the adjustment toward
welding zone Z or away from welding zone Z can be automated or
semi-automated. Further, the adjustment can be to a side of the
welding zone Z or to an opposite side of the welding zone Z (e.g.,
a left motion, a right motion, etc.). Height adjustment device 124
is further coupled to support member 126 that is coupled to a
portion of chassis 101 of welder system 100.
[0069] First mount system 105 supports camera device 113 and wire
guide 104', wherein both camera device 113 and wire guide 104' are
positioned to aim on or toward welding zone Z. Similarly, second
mount system 106 supports camera device 112 and wire guide 104,
wherein both camera device 112 and wire guide 104 are positioned to
aim on or toward welding zone Z. It is to be appreciated that
system 100 includes camera device 112 and camera device 113 but
such devices are solely for illustrating various embodiments and
are not to be considered limiting on the subject innovation. It is
to be appreciated that camera device 113 and wire guide 104' move
together (or independently) with welder system 100 which enables
supply of welding wire consistently at welding zone Z and/or where
wire is fed from wire guide 104'. It is to be appreciated that
camera device 112 and wire guide 104 can move together (or
independently) with welder system 100, which enables supply of
welding wire consistently at welding zone Z and/or where wire is
fed from wire guide 104' and ultimately from wire feeder (wire
supply or spool 103).
[0070] FIG. 3A and 38 illustrate diagrams of a hot wire welding
system 300 and a hot wire welding system 302 in accordance with the
subject innovation. For instance, hot wire welding system 300 can
be a TIG welding system and hot wire welding system 302 can be a
MIG welding system. As discussed above, it is to be appreciated and
understood that any suitable hot wire welder system can be
implemented with the subject innovation and such systems in FIGS.
1-38 are not to be limiting on the scope of the subject claims.
System 300 includes a first power supply 310 that provides a first
heat source to create an arc between an electrode (e.g., a
non-consumable electrode for instance) and a workpiece W, wherein a
puddle is created by the electrode. System 300 further includes hot
wire power supply 320 (e.g., welding wire power supply) that heats
a welding wire fed into a puddle formed by the electrode. In other
words, hot wire power supply 320 can energize a welding wire that
is fed or delivered into the puddle to deposit welding material
(e.g., liquefied welding wire) onto workpiece W.
[0071] System 302 includes a first power supply 310 that provides a
first heat source to create an arc between an electrode (e.g., a
non-consumable electrode for instance) and a workpiece W, wherein a
puddle is created by the electrode. System 302 further includes hot
wire power supply 320 (e.g., welding wire power supply) that heats
a welding wire fed into a puddle formed by the electrode. In other
words, hot wire power supply 320 can energize a welding wire that
is fed or delivered into the puddle to deposit welding material
(e.g., liquefied welding wire) onto workpiece W. It is to be
appreciated that welding systems 100, 300 and 302 can be chosen and
used with sound engineering judgment without departing from the
intended scope of coverage of the embodiments of the subject
invention.
[0072] It is to be appreciated that systems 300 and 302 can be a
hot wire TIG welder system or a hot wire tandem welder system. The
subject innovation can relate to an arc that is created by any
suitable wire processes, wherein such wire processes can include
non-consumable electrode processes.
[0073] FIGS. 4, 8-11, and 32 illustrate a device 402, and in
particular, pendant component 402 that can be utilized to
communicate and/or receive data with welding system 404, wherein
welding system 404 can be a suitable welding environment such as,
but not limited to orbital welding system (e.g., orbital welding
system 100), a welding system (e.g., welding system 300, 302), and
the like. Device 402 can be a hand-held device that is used to
control a tractor welder that is affixed to a track as well as
receive data communications from such tractor welder. Device 402 is
illustrates as a hand-held device that can include physical
indentations or curvature to fit to a user's hand. Moreover, as
discussed below, device 402 includes a streamlined set of inputs to
control welding system 404, whereas conventional techniques include
a plurality of inputs for each control. In other words, device 402
(also referred to as pendant component 402) reduces inputs by
eliminating an input for each parameter that can be controlled.
[0074] FIG. 4 illustrates system 400 that includes a device (also
referred to as pendant component 402) that communicates with
welding system 404. Pendant component 402 can be configured to
transmit and/or receive data between a user or an operation and a
portion of welding system 404. In an embodiment, pendant component
402 can transmit data to controller 406 and power source 408 to
manage a welding operation performed by the welding system 404.
Yet, it is to be appreciated that pendant component 402 can receive
data associated with the welding system 404 as well as transmit
data to control welding system 404. In particular, pendant
component 402 is a separate component from welding system 404,
wherein connectivity therebetween is at least electrical signals
associated with power and/or control via wired, wireless, or a
combination thereof. By way of example and not limitation, a
welding parameter value can be set by a user via pendant component
402 in which at least one of controller 406 or power source 408
performs the welding parameter at the user setting. Moreover in
such example, pendant component 402 can display the welding
parameter with real time feedback to display the value of the
welding parameter.
[0075] Generally, the welding parameter can be, but is not limited
to being, a welding parameter that affects arc current level for
the welding operation. Yet, it is to be appreciated that the
welding parameter can be, but is not limited to being, an arc
voltage, a travel speed of a tractor welder that performs the
welding operation, a wire feed speed, an arc current level, a
height of torch, a distance between workpiece W and torch, an
oscillation width of electrode, a temperature of welding wire, a
temperature of electrode, a type of material of workpiece W, a
frequency of oscillation of electrode, a polarity of the arc
current, a polarity of the current for welding wire, a parameter
that affects an arc current of the welding operation, a type of
electrode, a gauge of wire, a material of wire, oscillation dwell,
left oscillation dwell, right oscillation dwell, any and all
variation of advanced process controls (e.g., move controls,
pulse-frequency, ramp rates, background level ratios, etc.), and
the like.
[0076] Pendant component 402 includes at least power source 410
that supplies a portion of power to one or more components utilized
by the pendant component 402 such as, but not limited to, processor
420, memory 430, input component 450, output component 460,
communication component 802, authentication component 804, media
component 806, GPS component 808, motion detection component 810,
safety component 812, log component 816, or data store 818. In an
embodiment, power source 410 is a battery, an external power
source, a DC power source, an AC power source, or a combination
thereof. It is to be appreciated that power source 410 can be an
external power source such as a power cord that connects to a power
supply such as, but not limited to, a power grid, a generator, an
outlet, and the like. In another embodiment, power source 410 can
be a rechargeable battery that includes a charging station (not
shown) in which the charging stations supplies power to charge the
rechargeable battery. In such embodiment, pendant component 402 can
include one or more notifications (not shown) that illustrate a
battery level is low or a charge is requested.
[0077] Pendant component 402 can include input component 450 that
is configured to receive an input from at least one of a user, an
operator, a machine, a computing device, among others. Input
component 450 can be, but is not limited to being, a button, a
switch, a toggle switch, a knob, an encoder knob, a touchpad, a
joystick, a touch screen, a mouse, a mouse button, a keyboard, a
keypad, a microphone, a camera, a video camera, a motion sensor,
and the like. In general, input component 450 can receive an input
from a user or an operator to control a portion of welding system
404. For instance, the input can be, but is not limited to being, a
button activation, a switch activation, a voice command, a motion,
a gesture, a hand gesture, an eye movement, a sound, a touch screen
input, and the like. The input received via input component 450 can
be a value or a setting for a welding parameter for welding system
404. In another embodiment, input component 450 can receive
selections from a user or an operator to determine a welding mode,
a welding setting, a configuration of a welding component, among
others (as discussed in more detail below).
[0078] Output component 460 can further be included with pendant
component 402, wherein output component 460 can transmit the input
received via input component 450 to welding system 404. For
instance, a welding parameter can be set to a value via input
component 450 and communicated to welding system 404 via output
component 450. Moreover, output component 460 can receive data from
welding system 404 for display via display component 440. For
instance, data related to one or more parameters of the welding
operation performed by welding system 404 can be communicated to
output component 460 for display via display component 440. It is
to be appreciated that output component 460 can communicate with
welding system 404 with a wireless signal, a wired signal, or a
combination thereof. Further, display component 440 can render a
portion of a graphic for display and can include a speaker for
audio. For instance, display component 440 can illustrate graphics
related to settings, welding parameters, welding modes, positions
of a tractor welder, user settings, types of welding, and the like.
Display component 440 can include a video graphics engine and a
display, wherein the display can be, but is not limited to, a
screen, a CRT, an LCD, a plasma screen, a dot matrix screen, a
monitor, etc. In an embodiment, display component 440 is external
to pendant component 402 and a wired or wireless connection is used
to render graphics for display. For instance, pendant component 402
can include a port (e.g., video port, graphics port, HDMI, VGA,
serial, S-Video, USB, component, etc.) to connect to an external
device for display of data. For instance, pendant component 402 can
connect to a tablet for display of data via a wired or wireless
connection. It is to be appreciated that pendant component 402 can
utilize an internal display and/or external display and such
examples are not limiting on the subject innovation.
[0079] Turning to FIGS. 5-7, various configurations for pendant
component 402 and welding system 404 are illustrated. It is to be
appreciated that the following examples are for illustrative
purposes only and are not to be limiting on the subject innovation.
FIG. 5 illustrates a plurality of users 502 that can interact with
pendant component 402 to control a portion of welding system 404
and/or receive data from welding system 404. For instance, there
can be any suitable number of users 502 such as, user.sub.1 to
user.sub.N, where N is a positive integer. For instance, a welding
environment can include one or more welding cells in which welding
operations are performed, wherein a welding cell can include a
welder tractor on a track that utilizes a pendant component. As
various users or operators work in the welding cell, each user can
share the pendant component. In this particular example, each
operator or user can be authenticated via a log in (discussed in
more detail below). As illustrated, it is to be appreciated that
pendant component 402 can transmit and/or receive data to and from
welding system 404 via wired connection, a wireless connection,
and/or a combination thereof.
[0080] Turning to FIG. 6, a configuration for a plurality of
pendant components 402 that control a plurality of welding systems
404 is illustrated. In this example, one or more pendant components
402 can control one or more welding systems 404. In an embodiment,
there can be a plurality of pendant components such as pendant
component.sub.1 to pendantp component, where P is a positive
integer. In general, there can be any suitable ratio between
pendant components 402 and welding systems 404 such as X:Y, where X
and Y are respective positive integers. For instance, there can be
a ratio of one-to-one, two-to-five, or one-to-two between pendant
components and welding systems. In another example, a first pendant
can be associated with a first welding system based on a
characteristic. In such example, the characteristic can be a type
of welding system, a skill of the operator, a type of weld, a type
of workpiece, a years of experience, a type of employee (e.g.,
administrator, foreman, an operator, etc.), and the like. It is to
be appreciated that a plurality of characteristics can be used
between pendant components and welding systems. In another example,
a first pendant component can be used with two or more welding
systems 404. Based on use of authentication and logging into
pendant component (discussed in more detail in relation to
authentication component 804), one or more users can use a single
pendant component to control two or more welding systems.
[0081] FIG. 7 illustrates pendant component 402 that communicates
between networks and/or sub-networks to interact with welding
system 404. In an embodiment, pendant component 402 and welding
system 404 can be hosted by a first network, wherein pendant
component 402 hosted by a first subnetwork of the first network
communicates (e.g., receives and/or transmits data) with welding
system 404 hosted by a second subnetwork of the first network. In
another embodiment, pendant component 402 can be hosted by a first
network and welding system 404 can be hosted by a second network,
wherein the interaction between the first network and the second
network is via the Internet and exchange of data packets based on
Internet Protocol addresses for pendant component 402 and welding
system 404 or a component of welding system 404. It is to be
appreciated that the first network, the second network, the first
subnetwork, the second subnetwork, and the like can be, but are not
limited to being, LAN, WAN, Wi-Fi network, Ethernet Network,
cellular network (e.g., 3G, 4G, LTE, etc.), a cloud-based network,
a remote network, among others.
[0082] Referring back to FIGS. 4, 8-11, and 32, pendant component
402 can include communication component 802 that configured to
manage data communications associated with input component 450
and/or output component 460. For instance, communication component
can be any suitable connector or port for use with pendant
component 402 or welding system 404. In an embodiment,
communication component 802 can facilitate connecting external
devices for data communication with pendant component 402. In such
embodiment, the communication component can be a Universal Serial
Bus (USB) port, a Controller Area Network (CAN) bus, a wireless
communication transmitter, a wireless communication receiver, a
12-volt charger port, a 9-volt charger port, a micro USB port, a
mini USB port, a micro-A USB port, a micro-B USB port, a mini-A USB
port, a mini-B USB port, a type A USB port, a type B USB port, a
serial bus, an Ethernet port, video port, graphics port, HDMI, VGA,
serial, S-Video, component, a data port, an infrared port, and the
like.
[0083] Pendant component 402 can further include an authentication
component 804 that provides user authentication. Authentication
component 804 can employ a logging in for a user or operator based
on one or more credentials received. By way of example and not
limitation, authentication component 804 can sign into pendant
component 402 with at least one of a username and password, a voice
recognition, a facial recognition, a touch screen input, touch
screen pattern entry, security question, at least one number (e.g.,
employee number, badge number, PIN, etc.), at least one letter or
symbol, a biometric data (e.g., thumbprint, inductance,
fingerprint, handprint, a resistance, etc.), a keycard, wireless
transmission of data (e.g., NFC, RFID, Bluetooth, etc.), a
transmission of data between a device (e.g., smartphone, tablet,
laptop, USB flash drive, USB pen drive, etc.) and authentication
component 804, a suitable exchange of data from a user to
authentication component that identifies said user, and the
like.
[0084] Pendant component 402 can provide a user-specific user
interface based on the logging in provided by authentication
component 804. Moreover, authentication component 804 can provide
component-based access for pendant component 402. In
component-based access, a component described herein can be
accessible or not accessible based on credentials or level of
access of the user. In particular, full access to a user log may
only be accessible to an administrator (e.g., access to log
component 816), while log component 816 still logs data for each
user regardless of level. For instance, authentication component
804 can associate a user authentication with a particular user
interface that includes a level of data access. For example, each
level can afford access to settings related to interaction with
welding system 404. In an embodiment, a first level can be an
administrative level and a second level can be an operator level.
The administrative level can include features related to defining
welding operations (e.g., values for parameters, type of welds,
setup, etc.) for an operator(s) to use, whereas the operator level
allows controls to perform a defined welding operation with welding
system 404 using pendant component 402. In an embodiment, pendant
component 402 can utilize a plurality of levels for users,
operators, administrators, foreman, and the like. In an embodiment,
each user can include a level of access. The level of access by a
user can be defined by an administrator for each user during setup
of pendant component 402.
[0085] At startup of pendant component 402, authentication
component 804 can utilize a log in screen that displays available
user interfaces based on a corresponding level of access. As will
be discussed below, the amount of access for each user can be
defined in various manners and the example of administrator and
operator (e.g., two-level) is not to be limiting on the subject
innovation.
[0086] In particular, level of access can be dynamic and tied to
any user-defined criteria such as, but not limited to, skill level,
years of experience, and the like. In an embodiment, pendant
component 402 can include a test component (not shown) that allows
a user to perform a test that, if passed, allows the user to have
additional access to user interfaces with pendant component 402. In
such embodiment, the test is tied to particular settings for a
welding operation that can assist in identifying a skill level of
the user. Moreover, the test can be monitored (e.g., real time,
in-person by a supervisor, captured by video or images, etc.) and
upon approval, additional access to user interfaces can be granted
to the user.
[0087] Pendant component 402 can further include media component
806 that is configured to capture at least one of a portion of a
video, an image, or a sound. Media component 806 can capture a
portion of media based on activation to capture a portion of
activity while pendant component 402 is being used. In an
embodiment, a button can be activated by the user (via input
component 450) which triggers a recording or a capture of an image.
Media component 806 can be utilized to monitor quality, record
operator progress, report complications, among others.
[0088] GPS component 808 (also referred to as Global Positioning
System component 808) can identify a geographic location of pendant
component 402. For instance, in an environment where pendant
components are specific to each user, the GPS component 808 can be
used to verify the user is at an appropriate welding cell at an
appropriate time. In another embodiment, the GPS component 808 can
facilitate locating a lost pendant component. In still another
embodiment, GPS component 808 can be used to direct a user or
operator to a particular material or workpiece for a welding
operation to be performed at a specific welding system.
[0089] Pendant component 402 can include safety component 812 that
provides automatic shutdown of welding system 404 based on a
detected parameter. For instance, the parameter can be associated
with motion detect component 810. Based on a motion of pendant
component 402, safety component 812 can control a welding operation
performed with welding system 404. For instance, if motion is
detected that suggests a dropping of pendant component 402, safety
component 812 can de-activate welding system 404. In another
example, a sensor can be placed on pendant component 402 that
corresponds to a user hands holding pendant component 402. In such
example, if the sensor does not detect the user hands, welding
system 404 can be terminated, paused, or unable to be activated.
Safety component 812 provides a layer of security based on one or
more sensors or collected data so that welding system 404 is not
active while an operator or user does not have pendant component in
his or her control (e.g., being held, within reach, etc.). In
another example, safety component 812 can be a kill switch that
terminates and stops a welding operation being performed with the
welding system 404.
[0090] In an embodiment, pendant component 402 can further include
at least one of log component 816, query component 814, and data
store 818. For instance, log component 816 can track and/or record
data related to authentication, user access, activity after
authentication, welding operations, controls activated, user
queries, among others. For instance, log component 816 can track
information such as, but not limited to, date of use, duration of
time for use of pendant component 402, type of welding program used
during use, settings changed or updated by user, check point
information, weld score information, welding sequence data, and the
like. Moreover, log component 816 can track various user data in
connection with use of pendant component 402. In such a case, the
log component 704 can track which particular user utilized a
particular user interface at a specific date and/or time. In an
embodiment, a power source can log data in which pendant component
402 can interact for checkpoint monitoring (e.g., checkpoint
component discussed below), production monitoring, weld score (weld
score component discussed below), and the like.
[0091] Moreover, pendant component 402 can include query component
814 that allows the querying of such data stored and/or logged. In
other words, query component 814 can allow a user to search most
any data associated with pendant component 402 and/or welding
system 404. In an embodiment, query component 814 can receive a
user query via input component 450 and query component 814 can
evaluate data stored in data store 818 and/or collected by log
component 816 to identify a search result for the user query. For
instance, a user can query a welding parameter setting used with a
particular welding operation and query component 816 can provide a
search result based on a stored welding parameter. In another
example, a query can relate to a user authentication on a
particular date and a search result can be provided.
[0092] Pendant component 402 further includes data store 818 that
can include any suitable data related to authentication component
804, communication component 802, media component 806, GPS
component 808, motion detect component 810, safety component 812,
query component 814, log component 816, and the like. For example,
data store 818 can include, but not limited to including,
authentication data, GPS data, media captured, motion detected
data, welding sequences, welding parameters, historic data, and the
like. A "data store" or "memory" can be, for example, either
volatile memory or nonvolatile memory, or can include both volatile
and nonvolatile memory. The data store of the subject systems and
methods is intended to comprise, without being limited to, these
and other suitable types of memory. In addition, the data store can
be a server, a database, a hard drive, a flash drive, a pen drive,
an external hard drive, a portable hard drive, a cloud-based
storage, a solid-state drive, and the like.
[0093] Turning to FIGS. 9, 10, and 32, embodiments of pendant
component 402 are illustrated. In a first embodiment, pendant
component 402 is illustrated in FIGS. 9 and 10 with a front view
and rear view respectively. Pendant component 402 can include
casing 902 having a front opposite of a back, a first side opposite
a second side, a top side, a bottom side, and a thickness that
separates the front and the back, wherein casing 902 houses at
least one of processor 420, memory 430, display component 440,
input component 450, or output component 460. Indentation region
904 can be at least one of the first side or the second side of
which connector component 914 resides. It is to be appreciated that
casing 902 can be a material such as, but not limited to, a
plastic, a polymer, a metal, an alloy, an aluminum, a
high-temperature resistant material, and the like. One of sound
engineering judgment can select various material compositions of
casing 902 without departing from the scope of the subject
innovation and such variations are intended to be included within
the scope of this disclosure.
[0094] Casing 902 can be constructed with a shape to fit into one
or more hands such that a curvature or indentation for comfort as
well as maintaining a firm handle on device 402. As discussed,
indentation region 904 can be straight (as depicted), curved, or
formed to fit a palm or one or more fingers. It is to be
appreciated that indentation region 904 can be on either the first
side or the second side or a both the first side and the second
side. In an embodiment, indentation region 904 can include four
curved regions to individually fit a hand that is wrapped around
casing 902 when a user is gripping device 402. In another
embodiment, a rounded edge is provided with the indentation region
904 for additional comfort to fit a palm or a hand that is gripping
casing 902.
[0095] Connector component 914 is illustrated as being a wired
connection with wire or cable 916 that provides electrical
connections for power and/or data communication. In another
embodiment, connector component 914 is a wireless component that
transmits data wirelessly between pendant component 402 and welding
system 404. Connector component 914 can be on at least one of the
first side or the second side. Strap member 906 can connect to at
least one of the first side or the second side of which connector
component 914 resides. Strap member 906 can include an adjustable
strap 908, adjustment clip 910, and anchor 912. Connector component
914 can counter-balance a weight of wire 916 to connector component
914 to facilitate carrying pendant component 402.
[0096] Device 402 (e.g., pendant component 402) can include display
component 440 that renders a portion of a graphic for display.
Moreover, display component 440 can include a speaker (not shown)
to output audio to a user. Display component 440, as discussed
above, can include video graphics card, display, electronics,
connectors, and the like to present visual data to users. In
particular, display component 440 can include a lens on an exterior
to protect a screen of display component 440, wherein the lens can
be a protective covering to prevent scratching, breaking or other
damage to display component 440. For instance, the lens can be a
protective covering, a plastic lens, a replaceable lens, and the
like. For instance, the lens can be a durable, scratch resistance
material that is placed directly onto display component 440 that
allows for protection but can also be replaced to maintain a clear
and unobstructed view of display component 440.
[0097] Device 402 or pendant component 402 can include input 918
that is a shutdown activation. In an embodiment, input 918 can be a
button that provides a termination of a welding operation that is
being performed. In other words, when a welding operation is being
controlled and/or performed by using pendant component 402, input
918 can be activated by a user to shutdown the welding operation.
The shutdown can be based on a safety concern, a performance issue
(e.g., misaligned, incorrect setting, incorrect parameter value,
etc.).
[0098] Device 402 can include faceplate 920 that can be
interchangeable and/or replaceable, wherein faceplate 920 includes
one or more graphics, icons, logos, text, numbers, and the like to
convey to a user what a function for one or more inputs. In an
embodiment, a firmware or update of software for pendant component
402 can be provided which assigns or re-assigned an input to a
different functionality in which an additional faceplate 920 with
graphics, icons, etc. to match functionality for one or more
inputs.
[0099] A first set of inputs 922 is illustrated on the front side
of device 402. First set of inputs 922 are configured to allow
selection based on the at least one screen shown on display
component 440. For instance, first set of inputs 922 can have one
or more buttons that align below display component 440. In an
embodiment, there can be five (5) buttons. It is to be appreciated
that any suitable number of buttons can be utilized with first set
of inputs 922 as well as inputs need not be buttons. For instance,
first set of inputs 922 can be considered a portion of input
component 450. Based on a screen displayed, each button can
correspond to a selection on such screen. As an example, screen
shots are illustrated in FIGS. 14-31. In an embodiment, a button
can correspond to an icon on the screen and activation of such
button is a selection of such icon and corresponding functionality.
For instance, a button can be "exit" with an icon, wherein
depressing such button will exit that screen. In another instance,
a button can activate a selection corresponding to the screen such
as "enter" illustrated as an icon.
[0100] Device 402 and/or pendant component 402 can include first
toggle switch 924 that controls navigation between selections
displayed on display component 440. First toggle switch 924 is
configured to receive an input for navigation on the at least one
screen.
[0101] Pendant component 402 can further include second toggle
switch 926 that is configured to receive an input for selection of
a value for one or more parameters displayed on the at least one
screen.
[0102] First toggle switch 924 can control navigation between
selections displayed on display component 440 as well as increase
or decrease of a selected welding parameter via second set of
inputs 944. Further, first toggle switch 924 can be configured to
receive an input for a value change of one or more parameters
displayed on the at least one screen, wherein the value change is
for a parameter that is selected by default, pre-defined,
pre-programmed, and the like. Additionally, second toggle switch
926 can control a selection of a value for one or more parameters
displayed on display component 440. In an embodiment, first toggle
switch 924 is aligned with a displayed graphic on display component
440, wherein the alignment illustrates first toggle switch 924
adjusts the displayed graphic which is representative of a selected
welding parameter. In an embodiment, second toggle switch 926 is
aligned with a displayed graphic on display component 440, wherein
the alignment illustrates second toggle switch 926 adjusts the
displayed graphic which is representative of a selected welding
parameter. In an embodiment, a first graphic can be displayed on a
first side of display component 440 and a second graphic can be
displayed on a second side of display component 440, wherein first
toggle switch 924 is on the side of the first graphic and aligned
there under and second toggle switch 926 is on the side of the
second graphic and aligned there under. The alignment is reflective
of which toggle switch adjusts a first welding parameter that is
represented by the first graphic or a second welding parameter that
is represented by the second graphic. For example, a first
icon/graphic (e.g., color change, text, number, etc.) can represent
the first toggle switch 924 (indicated by an image associated with
the first toggle switch 924) and a second icon/graphic can
represent the second toggle switch 926 (indicated by a second image
associated with the second toggle switch 926). In a particular
example, a graphic "L" can be indicated on the display for one of a
selected welding parameter pair and a graphic "R" can be indicated
on the display for the other of a selected welding parameter pair,
wherein the first toggle switch 924 (physically located on the left
side of the pendant component 402) adjusts the one of the selected
welding pair having the "L" and the second toggle switch 926
(physically located on the right side of the pendant component 402)
adjusts the other of the selected welding pair having the "R."
[0103] Second set of inputs 944 are configured to allow selection
of one or more parameters, wherein first toggle switch 924 and
second toggle switch 926 provides selection for a value of the
parameter selected. In an embodiment, there can be four (4) buttons
such as first button 930, second button 932, third button 934, and
fourth button 936. It is to be appreciated that any suitable number
of buttons can be utilized with second set of inputs 944 as well as
inputs need not be buttons. For instance, second set of inputs 944
can be considered a portion of input component 450 and can be any
suitable inputs. In another embodiment, second set of inputs 944
can include eight (8) buttons for selection to adjust a welding
parameter, wherein each button is dedicated to eight (8) welding
parameters. In another embodiment, second set of inputs 944 can
include eight (8) buttons in which each button corresponds to two
welding parameters, wherein adjustment of each of the two welding
parameters is managed by first toggle switch 924 and second toggle
switch 926 respectively. In an embodiment, second set of inputs 944
can be depressed for a duration of time which can navigate to a jog
mode and the depressed second set of inputs 944 can select what
motions can be jogged.
[0104] Second set of inputs 944 can be tied to an adjustment of a
single welding parameter. In another embodiment, second set of
inputs 944 can each correspond to two welding parameters to adjust
in which the two welding parameters have a relationship. For
instance, FIG. 32 illustrates an embodiment of paired welding
parameters for each button in set of inputs 944. By way of example
and not limitation, the pairings for each button can be as follows:
wire feed speed and arc current; left dwell and right dwell;
oscillation speed and oscillation width; and travel speed of
tractor welder and arc voltage. It is to be appreciated that each
paired welding parameter can be related to one another such that a
change in one of the paired welding parameter will affect the other
paired welding parameter. In other words, set of inputs 944 are
inputs that, when activated, can initiate a display screen that
shows which welding parameter can be adjusted using an input (e.g.,
first toggle switch 924, second toggle switch 926, etc.). For
instance, the display can illustrate an icon representative of the
welding parameter(s) that is selected for adjustment with first
toggle switch 926 or second toggle switch 928. It is to be
appreciated that any suitable pairings can be associated to each
button of second set of inputs 944 and the above example is not to
be limiting on the subject innovation.
[0105] In an embodiment, first toggle switch 924 and/or second
toggle switch 926 can receive two respective inputs, wherein the
first input is a motion toward the top side of pendant component
402 and the second input is a motion toward the bottom side of
pendant component 402. It is to be appreciated that any suitable
input can be utilized for first toggle switch 924 and second toggle
switch 926 and a toggle switch is solely for example. For instance,
first toggle switch 924 can be a two button configuration to allow
receipt of two inputs.
[0106] Pendant component 402 can further include encoder knob 920
that is configured to receive at least one of a rotational input to
control a motion for a torch to move to and from a track and a
depressing input to move the torch to a center position. Encoder
knob 920 can be located between first toggle switch 924 and second
toggle switch 926. Encoder knob 920 can be any suitable input that
can receive a rotational (e.g., clockwise and/or counter-clockwise)
input as well as an additional input, wherein the additional input
can receive a depressed input (e.g., a motion toward the rear side
of casing 902).
[0107] Third set of inputs 946 can include first input 938 and
second input 940. First input 938 can control a start and/or stop
of a welding cycle associated with welding system 404. Second input
940 can control sector selection and program selection (discussed
in more detail below).
[0108] In an embodiment, a setting can be implemented (via settings
component 1108 discussed below) that allows for an accelerated
increment or decrement for adjustment based on a duration of
activation of the input. In particular, a parameter can be adjusted
with a first rate of increment or decrement when an input is
activated and upon a set duration of time, a second rate of
increment or decrement can be used to adjust the parameter, wherein
the first rate is less than the second rate. By way of example and
not limitation, an input can increase or decrease a value by 1
unit. Upon activating the input for a set time, e.g., 2 seconds,
the increase or decrease can go from 1 unit to 5 units. This allows
for a more rapid adjustment from one established value to another
value when the values are far apart in value.
[0109] In an embodiment, a color-coded scheme can be associated
with one or more inputs to correspond to a graphic or icon on
display component 440. For instance, first toggle switch 924 can be
outlined or colored with a first color and second toggle switch 926
can be outlined or colored with a second color. The first color can
be used with a first graphic or icon displayed on display component
440 and the second color can be used with a second graphic or icon
displayed on display component 440 to illustrate that activation of
the first toggle switch 924 corresponds to the first graphic having
the first color and second toggle switch 928 corresponds to the
second graphic having the second color. It is to be appreciated
that a color-coded scheme can be employed for each screen in which
an input is used to interact with an icon or graphic. In a
particular embodiment, a first color is associated with first
toggle switch 924 and a second color is associated with second
toggle switch 926, wherein based on the screen displayed or
parameters available for adjustment, an icon is color coded to one
of the first toggle switch 924 or the second toggle switch 926 and
the matched color adjusts the matched icon or graphic (icon or
graphic is representative of a parameter).
[0110] FIG. 10 illustrates a rear view of device 402 and/or pendant
component 402. As discussed, the rear side of casing 902 can
include one or more inputs 942. It is to be appreciated that the
one or more inputs 942 can be additional inputs, a set of the first
inputs, a set of the second inputs, the first toggle switch, the
second toggle switch, the encoder knob, a set of the third inputs,
or a combination thereof. Although five (5) inputs are illustrated
it is to be appreciated that any suitable number of inputs can be
placed or located on a rear side of casing 902 of device 402. For
instance, one or more inputs 942 can be located to align with one
or more fingers of a user that is gripping or holding device 402.
As illustrated, one or more inputs 942 can be aligned with fingers
wrapped around device 402. However, one or more inputs 942 can be
any suitable configuration (e.g., horizontally aligned, matched to
fingertips, combination of horizontal and vertical inputs, etc.).
It is to be appreciated that the one or more inputs 942 can be in
addition to second set of inputs 944. In another embodiment, the
one or more inputs 942 can have the same or similar functionality
of one or more of the second set of inputs 944 functionality.
[0111] Turning to FIG. 11, pendant component 402 is illustrated
with additional features, modules, and/or components that enhance
interaction with welding system 404. Pendant component 402 can
include mode component 1102 that allows a user to select a mode,
wherein the mode can be a testing mode, a welding mode, teaching
mode, virtual reality mode, simulation mode, jog mode, setup mode,
among others. Testing mode can be used to illustrate a movement or
control of welding system 404 without welding. Welding mode can be
actual performance of welding with welding system 404. Teaching
mode can be used to weld with materials that are scrap or not used
for a finished workpiece or product. For instance, quality
monitoring or supervising can be deactivated for teaching mode.
Virtual reality mode or simulation mode can be a mode that uses
device 402 with a computer or other components to simulate a
welding operation with welding system 404. Jog mode can allow
movement of tractor welder (e.g., torch movement toward and/or away
from track, travel speed of tractor welder on track, torch height,
etc.) without performing a welding operation by using pendant
component 402. Setup mode can allow configuration of the welding
operation or a portion of a component used to perform the welding
operation (e.g., settings related to the welding operation, welding
parameters, operation configuration, among others).
[0112] Preset component 1104 (also referred to as sector component
1104) can include user-specific settings that are pre-determined
for pendant component 402. Based on, for instance, authentication
of a user, settings can be pre-determined or set by each user so
pendant component 402 can be customizable. For instance, a specific
travel speed for a welding operation may be desired for a first
user whereas a second user may desire a slower speed for the
welding operation. In such instance, preset component 1104 can
allow each of the first user and second user to program such travel
speeds for the welding operation respectively. It is to be
appreciated that any suitable setting can include a specifically
tailored preset for each user such that upon authentication such
customization is loaded for the authenticated user.
[0113] In an embodiment, a sector can be used to define a preset
for a welding operation. In an embodiment, device 402 can include
eight (8) sectors. However, it is to be appreciated that any
suitable number of sectors can be utilized. By way of example and
not limitation, a sector can be associated with a particular
welding parameter value. In another example, a sector can be
associated with a location on workpiece. For instance, a first
sector can have a first set of welding parameters and a second
sector can have a second set of welding parameters. When a user
activates the first sector, the first set of welding parameters are
used. When the user activates the second sector, the second set of
welding parameters are used. In this example, the activation
between the first sector and the second sector can be an input
(e.g., button, input, voice command, etc.) as described with input
device 450.
[0114] In an embodiment, a pass input (illustrated in FIGS. 14, 19,
25, and 33, for example) can be utilized, wherein the pass input is
activated by selection of one of the first set of inputs 922 which
can correspond to a portion of a graphic displayed. The pass input
can allow a selection of a group of settings for a weld pass on the
workpiece. For example, there can be any suitable number of weld
passes on a workpiece, wherein each pass can have one or more
settings particular thereto. In a particular example, a "V" groove
weld can include a first pass from a first side to a second side
opposite thereof with a first group of settings, and a second pass
from the second side to the first side with a second group of
settings. A pass input can allow selection between each pass
created. Each user can include his or her created passes. In
another example, a supervisor or administrator can create one or
more passes. The pass can be created for a particular workpiece or
welding operation. Moreover, the pass can be created for a specific
direction on the workpiece and/or a depth or distance of the
electrode to the workpiece (e.g., gap-fill). Upon creation, the
pass can be created with a file name which can be displayed when
the pass input is selected. Moreover, more than one pass can be
created for particular sector (as described above). In other words,
each of number of sectors for the workpiece can include a number of
passes defined or created.
[0115] Custom program component 1106 is configured to allow a user
to create a welding operation with customized parameters. Welding
operations can be customized by the user or authenticated user in
which customization affords increased efficiency for each user. The
customization can include various parameters such as, but not
limited to, travel speed, arc current, arc voltage, oscillation
speed, oscillation width, wire feed speed, left dwell, right dwell,
among others. Moreover, the customization can be specific to a type
of welding operation (e.g., MIG, TIG, etc.) or a type of material
available (e.g., wire gauge, type of wire, workpiece material,
etc.). Any suitable number of programs can be created for each user
and each user can have his or her respective programs. Moreover, a
program can be shared to other users via network, Internet, etc.
For example, a supervisor can determine a user created customized
program works well for a welding operation and distribute it to
other users and operators. In another embodiment, custom program
component 1106 can be utilized to create a welding sequence
(discussed in FIG. 12).
[0116] Settings component 1108 is configured to configure pendant
component 402. Settings component 1108 can provide a granular
setting for each user or group of users. In an embodiment, settings
component 1108 can include settings for a user level and/or
operator level, wherein such levels can be further segmented into
other sets or groups (e.g., first user level, second user level,
first operator level, second operator level, etc.). In an
embodiment, an administrator or authenticated user can set or
adjust settings component 1108. In general, a user with cleared
authentication can adjust settings with pendent component 402.
[0117] Settings component 1108 can adjust at least one of the
following: track settings (e.g., inner diameter, outer diameter,
flat track, etc.) (see FIGS. 14-17), travel settings (see FIGS. 14
and 18), process settings (see FIGS. 14. 19-20), start settings
(see FIGS. 14 and 21), end settings (see FIGS. 14 and 22),
increment settings (see FIGS. 14 and 23), user settings (see FIGS.
14 and 24), program settings (see FIGS. 14 and 25), user access,
welding parameter value increments, welding parameter adjustment,
accessible programs for each user, accessible controls for each
user, accessible welding parameters for adjustment, availability of
creating a customized program, availability of sector or presets,
color schemes, font size, button assignment for functionality, a
setting related to controlling welding system 404 or
receiving/displaying data associated with welding system 404,
icons, graphics, sound, settings related to display, screen layout,
media capture settings, communications settings, etc.), and/or any
setting related to components utilized with pendant component
402.
[0118] Welder progress component 1110 can be configured to
automatically employ a configuration for welding system 404 based
on a start of a welding operation, a completion of a welding
operation, or a progress of a welding operation. In an embodiment,
welder progress component 1110 can include initiate an automatic
jog mode upon startup of pendant component 402 and/or welding
system 404, wherein jog mode allows movement of tractor welder
(e.g., torch movement toward and/or away from track, travel speed
of tractor welder on track, torch height, etc.) without performing
a welding operation. In an embodiment, jog mode can be employed
automatically when a welding operation is not being performed
(e.g., at startup, at termination of welding operation, etc.). In
another embodiment, welder progress component 1110 can include
initiate an weld state mode upon startup of pendant component 402
and/or welding system 404, wherein weld state mode a mode that is
capable of performing a welding operation with welding system
404.
[0119] In another embodiment, welding progress component 1110 can
provide an auto-home feature that, upon completion of a welding
operation, maneuvers the torch to a position away from welding zone
Z and workpiece W to allow a user or operator to view. For
instance, at the completion of a weld, the torch is moved away from
the workpiece to an upper limit for torch height to allow a clear
view of workpiece. In another embodiment, a user or operator can
use an input to control the torch to a previous location prior to
the auto-home feature was used. For instance, a weld can be
performed and auto-home feature can be performed and a user can
press a continue input which places the torch back to a position
prior to the auto- home feature. Moreover, the location of the
auto-home feature can be user-defined, pre-defined by a machine,
pre-programmed, or a combination thereof. In such instance, a user
can set a welding operation parameter such as torch height and
travel (e.g., travel direction, travel orientation, configuration
of welding device orientation on a track as depicted in FIG. 18,
etc.) and upon completion of setting the welding operation, the
location can be stored. This stored location is then user-defined
in this example to facilitate physically accessing workpiece W or
torch without the need to re-adjust settings (e.g., torch height,
travel, etc.) each time the user want to move the torch or access
the workpiece.
[0120] Process selection component 1112 can be configured to allow
a selection of a welding operation based on user input, wherein
choices are presented to the user based on material available for
the welding operation. For instance, a first material can be
selected and based on that material, a set of choices are made that
are useable with the first material, and so on and so forth. In
this manner, a user is selecting materials that are available and
eventually a welding operation that can be performed based on
available supplies, equipment, etc. For example, a method of
selections for a welding operation can be provided. For example,
the following steps can be used with a method for selecting a
welding operation: a wire size can be selected ; a wire material or
a workpiece material can be selected; a process type can be
selected; a gas type can be selected or a unique process can be
selected; and a welding operation can be performed based on the
selections.
[0121] Transition component 1114 is configured to transition
welding system 404 and/or welding equipment related thereto from a
first value to a second value received via pendant component 402
and in particular, input device 450. For example, the transition
employed by transition component 1114 for changing a parameter from
an established value to a second value can be a linear increase, a
linear decrease, a slope, a per-parameter slope, a predefined
slope, an exponential decay, an exponential growth, a stepped
increased (e.g., increase by 5 units, decrease by 5 units, etc.), a
time based transition (e.g., change from the established parameter
to the second parameter in a period of time), a dynamically
determined slope, among others. For instance, a period of time can
be defined which is used to identify a slope for changing the
parameter from one value to another. By way of example, a time
period of 5 seconds can be defined in which a change of 1 arc
voltage to 6 arc voltage would translate to a transition of 1 volt
per second. It is to be appreciated that the transition can be
selected with sound engineering judgment without departing from the
scope of the subject innovation. Moreover, the transition can be
specific to each parameter. By way of example and not limitation, a
first transition can be used for arc voltage, a second transition
can be used for wire feed speed, and a third transition can be used
for tractor travel speed.
[0122] In an embodiment, settings component 1108 can be utilized to
re-program functionality for each button to customize pendant
component 402. For instance, a particular user can determine that
swapping functionality for the right side inputs and the left side
inputs is better suited for him or her due to being left-handed. In
another embodiment, a particular user can invert toggle in which an
up input would decrease a value and a down input would increase a
value.
[0123] FIG. 12 is a schematic block diagram of an exemplary
embodiment of welding system 1200 that utilizes welding job
sequencer component 1202 (also referred to as welding job
sequencer) to configure welding equipment for two or more weld
operations to assembly a workpiece. Welding job sequencer component
1202 that is configured to implement a welding sequence that
includes settings, configurations, and/or parameters to perform two
or more welding procedures on a workpiece. In particular, welding
job sequencer component 1202, as discussed above as welding job
sequencer, automatically configures welding equipment to create two
or more welds that include two or more welding schedules. Moreover,
welding job sequencer component 1202 utilizes the welding sequence
to aid an operator to perform the two or more welds. As discussed
above, welding job sequencer component 1202 can be utilized with
welding work cell 1204 that is semi-automatic. However, it is to be
appreciated and understood that welding job sequencer component
1202 can be implemented in a suitable welding environment or system
that includes at least welding equipment and an operator to
facilitate creating one or more welds. It is to be appreciated that
welding system 404 is also referred to as the welding work cell,
wherein the welding work cell and/or welding system 404 can produce
welds or welded parts. There are at least two broad categories of
work cells, including robotic work cells and semi-automatic work
cells.
[0124] Welding job sequencer 1202 can be controlled via pendant
component 402. User interaction with welding job sequencer 1202 can
be handled by pendant component 402. By way of example and not
limitation, pendant component 402 can be configured to provide at
least one of a selection of a welding sequence for use, a
modification to a welding sequence, one or more instructions based
on the selection of a welding sequence, details of a welding
sequence (e.g., creation date, author, settings, parameters, etc.),
among others. Pendant component 402 can further interact with
welding job sequencer component 1202 based on authentication via
authentication component 804. It is to be appreciated that pendant
component 402 can receive and/or transmit data between an operator
or a user with welding job sequencer 1202 in order to manage, use,
and/or edit a welding sequence for a welding operation.
[0125] Welding system 1200 further includes check point component
1206 that is configured to monitor a welding process and/or a
welding operator. It is to be appreciated that check point
component 1206 can be substantially similar to CHECKPOINT.TM., or
any quality assessment component that evaluates whether a weld
created meets a defined standard. In an example, check point
component 1206 can monitor in real time or be a reporting component
that collects data after a weld has been performed. For instance,
the welding process is monitored in real time or after a weld is
completed to detect at least one of a welding parameter (e.g.,
voltage, current, among others), a welding schedule parameter
(e.g., welding process, wire type, wire size, WFS, volts, trim,
wire feeder to use, feed head to use, among others), a weld on a
workpiece as the weld is created, a movement of an operator, a
position of a welding tool, a position or location of a welding
equipment, a position or location of an operator, sensor data
(e.g., video camera, image capture, thermal imaging device, heat
sensing camera, temperature sensor, among others), and the like.
Check point component 1206 includes an alert system (not shown)
that can communicate an alert or notification to indicate a status
of the monitoring. In an embodiment, check point component 1206 can
utilize thresholds, ranges, limits, and the like for the real time
monitoring to precisely identify a abnormality with welding system
1200. Furthermore, welding job sequencer component 1202 can
communicate an alert or notification to welding work cell 1204 or
the operator to at least one of stop the welding procedure,
continue with the welding procedure, pause the welding procedure,
terminate the welding procedure, or request approval of the welding
procedure. In an embodiment, check point component 1206 can store
monitoring data (e.g., video, images, results, sensor data, and the
like) in at least one of a server, a data store, a cloud, a
combination thereof, among others.
[0126] It is to be appreciated that pendant component 402 can
receive data related to check point component 1206. Moreover,
pendant component 402 can communicate user input or operator input
to check point component 1206. By way of example and not
limitation, pendant component 402 can display weld summary data
upon completion, communicate an alert (via alert system), or
communicate a status (e.g., continue weld, stop weld, pause weld,
etc.). Further, pendant component 402 can allow a user or operator
to view data monitored or captured via a video replay, image
captured replay, or numeric or text data display.
[0127] Weld score component 1208 is included with welding system
1200 and is configured to evaluate a weld created by an operator
within welding work cell 1204 upon completion of such weld. It is
to be appreciated that check point component 306 can be
substantially similar to WELDSCORE.RTM. or any quality assessment
component that evaluates whether an operator is able to perform a
weld with defined standards. Weld score component 1208 provides a
rating or score for the completed weld to facilitate implementing a
quality control on the workpiece and/or assembly of the workpiece.
For instance, weld score component 1208 can alert a quality
inspection upon completion, provide data collection of a job (e.g.,
assembly of workpiece, weld on workpiece, among others), and the
like. In an embodiment, an in-person quality inspection can be
performed upon completion of a portion of the assembly (e.g.,
completion of a weld, completion of two or more welds, completion
of assembly, among others). In another embodiment, weld score
component 1208 can utilize a sensor to collect data (e.g., video
camera, image capture, thermal imaging device, heat sensing camera,
temperature sensor, among others) to determine approval of the job.
For instance, a quality inspection can be performed remotely via
video or image data collected upon completion of a job to evaluate
a characteristic of a weld.
[0128] It is to be appreciated that pendant component 402 can be
used to allow interaction between a user or an operator with the
weld score component 1208. For instance, pedant component 402 can
display weld evaluation data to a user via display component 440
associated with pendant component 402. In another instance, pendant
component 402 can display an alert for a quality inspection. It is
to be appreciated that pendant component 402 can communicate data
from a user to weld score component 1208 and/or receive data from
weld score component 1208 to display to a user, wherein the data
can be associated with weld score component 1208.
[0129] It is to be appreciated that welding job sequencer component
1202 can be a stand-alone component (as depicted), incorporated
into pendant component 402, incorporated into welding work cell
1204, incorporated into check point component 1206, incorporated
into weld score component 1208, incorporated into a welding power
source, or a suitable combination thereof. Additionally, as
discussed below, welding job sequencer component 1202 can be a
distributed system, software-as-a-service (SaaS), a cloud-based
system, or a combination thereof. Further, it is to be appreciated
and understood that check point component 1206 can be a stand-alone
component (as depicted), incorporated into pendant component 402,
incorporated into welding work cell 1204, incorporated into welding
job sequencer component 1202, incorporated into weld score
component 1208, incorporated into a welding power source, or a
suitable combination thereof. Additionally, check point component
1206 can be a distributed system, software-as-a-service (SaaS), a
cloud-based system, or a combination thereof. Moreover, it is to be
appreciated and understood that weld score component 1208 can be a
stand-alone component (as depicted), incorporated into pendant
component 402, incorporated into welding work cell 1204,
incorporated into welding job sequencer component 1202,
incorporated into check point component 1206, incorporated into a
welding power source, or a suitable combination thereof.
Additionally, weld score component 1208 can be a distributed
system, software-as-a-service (SaaS), a cloud-based system, or a
combination thereof.
[0130] System 1200 can identify at least one welding sequence via a
welding sequence data store 1208 based on, for instance, an
authentication of a user or operator. The authentication via
pendant component 402 allows at least one of use of welding
equipment within welding work cell 1204 and/or use of the
identified welding sequence. As discussed above, data store (here,
welding sequence data store 1208) can be, for example, either
volatile memory or nonvolatile memory, or can include both volatile
and nonvolatile memory. The data store (here, welding sequence data
store 1208) of system 1200 is intended to comprise, without being
limited to, these and other suitable types of memory. In addition,
welding sequence data store 1208 can be a server, a database, a
hard drive, a flash drive, an external hard drive, a portable hard
drive, a cloud-based storage, a solid-state drive, a remote hard
drive connected via a network connection, and the like. It is to be
appreciated that pendant component 402 can communicate with welding
sequence data store 1208 to receive a welding sequence, to upload a
welding sequence, to edit a portion of a welding sequence, to
receive a portion of a welding sequence, to upload a portion of a
welding sequence, and the like. It is to be appreciated that
welding sequence data store 1208 can be a stand-alone component (as
depicted), incorporated into the pendant component 402,
incorporated into welding sequence component 1202, incorporated
into welding system 404, incorporated into check point component
1206, incorporated into weld score component 1208, or a combination
thereof.
[0131] FIGS. 13-31 illustrate screen shots related to graphics
rendered by pendant component 402 and in particular display
component 440. The following screen shots are representations of
graphics displayed on a display of pendant component 402 and are
solely for example and are not to be limiting on the subject
innovation. Moreover, each screen shot depicted includes graphical
images, icons, colors, fonts, of various sizes and shapes which are
also not to be limiting on the subject innovation. Additionally,
any values for parameters (e.g., welding parameters, settings,
etc.) are solely for example and not to be limiting on the subject
innovation for a range of such values or what the value or
parameter can be set.
[0132] FIG. 13 illustrates screen shot 1300 that relates to startup
screen for user authentication. The screen shot 1300 illustrates a
user and an identification. In an embodiment and as illustrated,
the identification can be a number. In another example, the screen
shot 1300 can be used for authentication of a user (via
authentication component 804). For instance, a user can sign into
pendant component 402 upon startup of the pendant component 402
with the screen shot 1300 being an initial start screen or splash
screen. As discussed above, the authentication can be with at least
one of a username and password, a voice recognition, a facial
recognition, a touch screen input, touch screen pattern entry,
security question, at least one number (e.g., employee number,
badge number, PIN, etc.), at least one letter or symbol, a
biometric data (e.g., thumbprint, inductance, fingerprint,
handprint, a resistance, etc.), a keycard, wireless transmission of
data (e.g., NFC, RFID, Bluetooth, etc.), a transmission of data
between a device (e.g., smartphone, tablet, laptop, USB flash
drive, USB pen drive, etc.) and authentication component 804, a
suitable exchange of data from a user to authentication component
that identifies said user, and the like. In another example, the
screen shot 1300 can display a notification to the user that to
sign on, an additional electronic communication is to occur (e.g.,
connect USB device, wireless communication, scanning of an image,
among others).
[0133] The screen shot 1300 can include a "reset" and an "enter"
that correspond each to one of the first set of inputs 922 for
selection thereof. Moreover, the second toggle switch 926 can be
used to enter a user identification.
[0134] FIG. 14 illustrates screen shot 1400 of a setup mode in
accordance with an embodiment of the subject innovation. Screen
shot 1400 can include graphical representations related to a setup
mode that include at least one of track setup, travel setup,
process setup, start settings, end settings, increments, users,
programs, among others. The setup mode can be selected by using the
first toggle switch 924, wherein selection can be indicated by a
modification of the graphical representation such as, but not
limited to, a highlight, a color change, a font change, among
others. An "enter" and "exit" input can correspond to the screen
shot 1400 and in particular the graphical representation for the
setup modes, wherein each input is associated with one of a first
set of inputs 922. For instance, a user can use the first toggle
switch to select "Travel Setup" and use the "enter" input (from
first set of inputs 922, for example) to proceed to a screen to
adjust travel setup.
[0135] FIG. 15 illustrates screen shot 1500 of a track setup mode
in accordance with an embodiment of the subject innovation. Screen
shot 1500 is of a setup for a track system that is on an outside
diameter of a pipe or curved workpiece illustrated by icon 1506
(e.g., welding device on an exterior of a curved workpiece). A
value for the track 1502 can be selected by the first toggle switch
924 and adjusted by the second toggle switch 926. A value for the
pipe 1504 can be selected by the first toggle switch 924 and
adjusted by the second toggle switch 926. An input of the first set
of inputs can correspond to the displayed "track" which proceeds to
track selection (e.g., flat, inner diameter, outer diameter, etc.)
and an input of the first set of inputs can correspond to "exit"
which will exit the screen represented by screen shot 1500. In an
embodiment, track selection can be performed by one of the first
set of inputs 922 with a selection of inner diameter or outer
diameter has been selected. In a particular example, upon selection
of inner diameter or outer diameter, the first toggle switch 924
can be used to set a track size and the second toggle switch 926
can be used to set pipe (e.g., workpiece) size.
[0136] FIG. 16 illustrates screen shot 1600 of a track setup mode
in accordance with an embodiment of the subject innovation. Screen
shot 1600 is of a setup for a track system that is on an inside
diameter of a pipe or curved workpiece illustrated by icon 1606
(e.g., welding device on an interior of a curved workpiece). A
value for the track 1602 can be selected by the first toggle switch
924 and adjusted by the second toggle switch 926. A value for the
pipe 1604 can be selected by the first toggle switch 924 and
adjusted by the second toggle switch 926. An input of the first set
of inputs 922 can correspond to the displayed "track" which
proceeds to track selection (e.g., flat, inner diameter, outer
diameter, etc.) and an input of the first set of inputs 922 can
correspond to "exit" which will exit the screen represented by
screen shot 1600. In an embodiment, track selection can be
performed by one of the first set of inputs 922 with a selection of
inner diameter or outer diameter has been selected. In a particular
example, upon selection of inner diameter or outer diameter, the
first toggle switch 924 can be used to set a track size and the
second toggle switch 926 can be used to set pipe (e.g., workpiece)
size.
[0137] FIG. 17 illustrates screen shot 1700 of a track setup mode
in accordance with an embodiment of the subject innovation. Screen
shot 1700 is of a setup for a track system that is flat proximate
to a workpiece. An input of the first set of inputs can correspond
to the displayed "track" which proceeds to track selection (e.g.,
flat, inner diameter, outer diameter, etc.) and an input of the
first set of inputs can correspond to "exit" which will exit the
screen represented by screen shot 1700.
[0138] FIGS. 15-17 illustrate screen shots of an embodiment of a
track setup. In another embodiment, FIGS. 33-35 illustrate another
embodiment of a track setup. In particular, FIG. 33 illustrates a
screen shot 3300 of a setup for a track system that has selected an
outside diameter of a pipe or curved workpiece illustrated by icon
at 3302 (e.g., welding device on an exterior of a curved
workpiece). Navigation between fields such as a track selection
(e.g., track style such as flat, outer diameter, or inner diameter)
at 3302, a track ring size (e.g., a value for the track) 3304, or a
pipe diameter (e.g., a value for the pipe) 3306 can be implemented
with the first toggle switch 924. Adjustment of the values for the
track selection (e.g., track style such as flat, outer diameter, or
inner diameter) at 3302, a track ring size (e.g., a value for the
track) 3304, or a pipe diameter (e.g., a value for the pipe) 3306
can be implemented with the second toggle switch 926.
[0139] FIG. 34 illustrates a screen shot 3400 of a setup for a
track system that has selected an inside diameter of a pipe or
curved workpiece illustrated by icon at 3402 (e.g., welding device
on an interior of a curved workpiece). Navigation between fields
such as a track selection (e.g., track style such as flat, outer
diameter, or inner diameter) at 3402, a track ring size (e.g., a
value for the track) 3404, or a pipe diameter (e.g., a value for
the pipe) 3406 can be implemented with the first toggle switch 924.
Adjustment of the values for the track selection (e.g., track style
such as flat, outer diameter, or inner diameter) at 3402, a track
ring size (e.g., a value for the track) 3404, or a pipe diameter
(e.g., a value for the pipe) 3406 can be implemented with the
second toggle switch 926.
[0140] FIG. 35 illustrates a screen shot 3500 of a setup for a
track system that has selected track style of flat illustrated by
icon at 3402 (e.g., welding device on a flat workpiece). Navigation
between fields such as a track selection (e.g., track style such as
flat, outer diameter, or inner diameter) at 3402, a track ring size
(e.g., a value for the track) 3404, or a pipe diameter (e.g., a
value for the pipe) 3406 can be implemented with the first toggle
switch 924. In an embodiment, an adjustment of the values for the
track selection (e.g., track style such as flat, outer diameter, or
inner diameter) at 3402 can be implemented by the second toggle
switch 926 in which selection to a different track style (e.g.,
inner diameter or outer diameter) can initiate graphical
representations for a track ring size (e.g., a value for the track)
3404 or a pipe diameter (e.g., a value for the pipe) 3406 to be
displayed to allow adjustment.
[0141] FIG. 18 illustrates screen shot 1800 of a travel setup in
accordance with an embodiment of the subject innovation. The first
set of inputs 922 can include one input that each corresponds to
"reset," "travel," "weave," "test," and "exit." Based on the
selection of the first set of inputs 922, the screen can allow the
user to select the setting. For instance, a weave pattern can be
selected, a travel direction can be selected, a direction on the
track can be selected, a side on which the torch resides can be
selected, among others via the screen shot 1800. For example, a
setting for "travel" can set orientation of at least one of left
dwell, right dwell, encoder knob steering, among others. Icon 1802
illustrates a welding device on a track in which an arrow indicates
travel. A user can select the arrow for travel (e.g., based on his
or her perspective looking at the welding system) via navigating on
the first toggle switch 924 or the second toggle switch 926 and
selection of the direction of travel with at least one of the first
set of inputs 922. Upon selection of travel, welding system in
communication with pendant component 402 can automatically set
orientation based on a perspective of the user (e.g., indicated by
selection of which arrow is representative of the travel). For
example, the set orientation can determine which direction is left,
right, steering via an input (e.g., encoder knob), among others.
Settings component 1108 can automatically configure one or more
controls for pendant component 402 based on the user input related
to defining travel from his or her perspective, wherein the one or
more controls can be, but is not limited to, directional control
(e.g., which way is left, which way is right, which way is forward,
which way is backward, etc.), left dwell, right dwell, encoder knob
steering (e.g., turning the encoder knob right matches the torch
moving to the right, turning the encoder knob left matches the
torch moving to the left, etc.), and the like.
[0142] FIG. 18 illustrates a screen shots of an embodiment of a
travel setup. In another embodiment, FIGS. 36-47 illustrate another
embodiment of a travel setup. In FIGS. 36-47, travel setup can be
performed such that an input from the first toggle switch 924 can
navigate between fields (e.g., a set orientation or a weave
pattern). Moreover, adjustment of such fields can be provided with
the second toggle switch 926, wherein the adjustment can be a
selection of the set orientation or a type of weave pattern. FIG.
36 illustrates a first set orientation 3602 with a first weave
pattern 3604 in screen shot 3600. FIG. 37 illustrates a second set
orientation 3702 with a first weave pattern 3604 in screen shot
3700. FIG. 38 illustrates a third set orientation 3802 with a first
weave pattern 3604 in screen shot 3800. FIG. 39 illustrates a
fourth set orientation 3902 with a first weave pattern 3604 in
screen shot 3900. FIG. 40 illustrates the first set orientation
3602 with the second weave pattern 4004 in screen shot 4000. FIG.
41 illustrates the second set orientation 3702 with the second
weave pattern 4004 in screen shot 4100. FIG. 42 illustrates the
third set orientation 3802 with the second weave pattern 4004 in
screen shot 4200. FIG. 43 illustrates the fourth set orientation
3902 with the second weave pattern 4004 in screen shot 4300. FIG.
44 illustrates the first set orientation 3602 with the third weave
pattern 4006 in screen shot 4400. FIG. 45 illustrates the second
set orientation 3702 with the third weave pattern 4006in screen
shot 4500. FIG. 46 illustrates the third set orientation 3802 with
the third weave pattern 4006 in screen shot 4600. FIG. 47
illustrates the fourth set orientation 3902 with the third weave
pattern 4006 in screen shot 4700. It is to be appreciated that
there can be any number of weave patterns and the subject
innovation includes the weave patterns described as well as those
known in the art. It is to be further appreciated that the subject
innovation includes user-created weave patterns in addition to
those weave patterns that are used and/or known in the art by one
of ordinary skill.
[0143] FIG. 19 illustrates screen shot 1900 of a process setup in
accordance with an embodiment of the subject innovation. The
process setup represented in screen shot 1900 can include settings
for a particular sector in the welding operation. For instance,
screen shot 1900 is representative of the settings for sector one
(1). In such example, the sector one (1) provides the parameters
for the welding operation when sector one (1) is selected. The
parameters can include at least one of the following: sector
selection, pulse, wire gauge or wire size (e.g., 0.045), type of
workpiece (e.g., steel), type of weld and/or gas used (e.g.,
CO2/AR), wire feed speed, arc current parameters, left dwell and
right dwell parameters, oscillation speed and oscillation width
parameters, travel speed and arc voltage parameters, among
others.
[0144] FIG. 20A illustrates screen shot 2000 in accordance with an
embodiment of the subject innovation. Screen shot 2000 relates to
an advanced process setup. Screen shot 2000 is representative of a
screen that provides access and/or configuration of advanced
process controls. In particular, a weld system or environment can
define an advanced process control and the screen shot 2000 can
allow access and/or configuration thereof. Screen shot 2000 can
allow selection or configuration of waveform control for a welding
operation. For instance, waveform control can be predefined options
based on a welding operation or a need for a particular welding
operation. Waveform control can be configured or selected in which
waveform output used for the welding operation can be customized,
pre-defined (e.g., from a set of programs) to manipulate one or
more welding parameters. In particular, a waveform control can be a
"mode" tailored for a particular welding operation, wherein the
"mode" can define one or more welding parameters or a range for one
or more welding parameters. For instance on a pulsing wave form,
the welding parameters can be, but not limited to, at least one of
frequency, peak to background balance, peak to background level,
ramp rates, among others. It is to be appreciated that the welding
parameters for a "mode" tailored for a welding operation can be
selected with sound engineering judgment and/or by one of ordinary
skill in the welding art and such selections are included within
the scope of the subject innovation.
[0145] FIG. 20B illustrates screen shot 2002 in accordance with an
embodiment of the subject innovation. Screen shot 2002 relates to a
process select setup. Screen shot 2002 is representative of a
process selection based on parameters and variables related to the
welding operation to be performed. For instance, a welding
operation that is to be performed with a process selected can be
created based on a type of material, a wire size, a waveform (e.g.,
pulse, constant voltage (CV), surface tension transfer (STT), among
others), type of shield gas (e.g., CO2, argon mix, among others).
An input of the first set of inputs 922 can correspond to the
displayed "reset" which clears the user selections, an input of the
first set of inputs 922 can correspond to the displayed "enter"
which activates a user selection (via the first toggle switch 924),
and an input of the first set of inputs 922 can correspond to
"exit" which will exit the screen represented by screen shot 2002.
For instance, a method of selections for a welding operation can be
provided. For example, the following steps can be used with a
method for selecting a welding operation: a wire size can be
selected ; a wire material or a workpiece material can be selected;
a process type can be selected; a gas type can be selected or a
unique process can be selected; and a welding operation can be
performed based on the selections.
[0146] FIG. 21 illustrates screen shot 2100 of start settings setup
in accordance with an embodiment of the subject innovation. The
screen shot 2100 is representative of a screen that allows for a
user to establish start settings for a welding operation. The start
settings can include, but are not limited to including, preflow,
upslope, run-in wire feed speed (e.g., starting wire feed speed),
run-in volts (e.g., starting volts), travel delay, height delay,
among others. One of the first set of inputs 922 can correspond to
"exit" to allow the user to leave the screen shot 2100. For
instance, first toggle switch 924 can be for navigation and second
toggle switch 926 can be for value change.
[0147] FIG. 22 illustrates screen shot 2200 of end settings setup
in accordance with an embodiment of the subject innovation. The
screen shot 2200 is representative of a screen that allows for a
user to establish end settings for a welding operation. The end
settings can include, but are not limited to including, crater wire
feed speed, crater volts, crater time, burn back time, down slope
time, post flow time, among others. One of the first set of inputs
922 can correspond to "exit" to allow the user to leave the screen
shot 2200. For instance, first toggle switch 924 can be for
navigation and second toggle switch 926 can be for value
change.
[0148] FIG. 23 illustrates screen shot 2300 of increments and
limits setup in accordance with an embodiment of the subject
innovation. The screen shot 2300 is representative of a screen that
allows for a user to establish increments and/or limits for a
welding operation. The increments and/or limits can be established
by an administrator in an example. The limits and/or increments can
be for the following: wire feed speed, volts, current, travel
speed, oscillation speed, oscillation width, left dwell, right
dwell, among others. One of the first set of inputs 922 can
correspond to "reset" displayed on the screen to clear user inputs
for the screen represented by screen shot 2300. One of the first
set of inputs 922 can correspond to "units" displayed on the screen
to change the unit of measure. For example, the unit of measure can
be changed from imperial units to metric units (or vice versa). One
of the first set of inputs 922 can correspond to "exit" to allow
the user to leave the screen shot 2300.
[0149] FIG. 24 illustrates screen shot 2400 of user setup in
accordance with an embodiment of the subject innovation. Screen
shot 2400 is representative of a screen that allows setup of users
for the pendant component 402. The setup screen (represented by
screen shot 2400) can allow an identification to be set for each
user and a corresponding category which represents a level of
authorization of access while using the pendant component 402. For
instance, a level of authorization can be a system administrator
(e.g., system admin) which has full access, a foreman which as a
first level of access, and an operator which has a second level of
access, wherein the first level of access is less than full access,
and the second level of access is less than the first level of
access. As discussed above, the pendant component 402 can include
any number of users, any number of categories, any number of levels
of access, so as to allow flexibility to tailor the pendant
component 402 to each user. For example, a low-level experienced
user may have an identification and category that does not afford
much access so as to limit the possibility of error from user
input. In another example, a high-level experience user can be set
to an identification and category that affords a high level of
access to give a range of freedom for the user to change settings,
values, parameter, etc. as the high-level experience user sees fit
during the use of the pendant component 402. One of the first set
of inputs 922 can correspond to the displayed icon "reset" on the
screen shot 2400 that allows the user input to be cleared. One of
the first set of inputs 922 can correspond to the displayed icon
"next" on the screen shot 2400 that allows the user input to
proceed to the next step in setting up a user. One of the first set
of inputs 922 can correspond to the displayed icon "add" on the
screen shot 2400 that allows the user to add a user to the setup
mode. One of the first set of inputs 922 can correspond to the
displayed icon "delete" on the screen shot 2400 that allows the
user to remove a user that has been setup. One of the first set of
inputs 922 can correspond to the displayed icon "exit" on the
screen shot 2400 that allows the user to exit the setup mode for
users.
[0150] FIG. 25 illustrates screen shot 2500 of program setup in
accordance with an embodiment of the subject innovation. The screen
shot 2500 is representative of a screen that allows a user to edit
programs, wherein the edit can be create, load, delete, modify,
among others. For instance, a user-created program can be loaded
via local storage, remote storage (e.g., server, network drive,
removable storage, portable storage, pen drive, USB drive, among
others), and the like. Details related to the program can be
displayed such as, but not limited to, name of the program, number
of the program, the location of where the program is used and/or
stored, among others. For instance, a user can include a personal
USB drive that includes identification information for
authenticating with the pendant component 402 as well as programs
that he or she uses which can be uploaded and used via screen
represented by screen shot 2500. One of the first set of inputs 922
can correspond to the icon/graphic displayed as "load" to allow the
user to load a program. One of the first set of inputs 922 can
correspond to the icon/graphic displayed as "save" to allow the
user to save a program. One of the first set of inputs 922 can
correspond to the icon/graphic displayed as "delete" to allow the
user to delete a program. One of the first set of inputs 922 can
correspond to the icon/graphic displayed as "exit" to allow the
user to exit the setup mode for programs.
[0151] FIG. 26 illustrates screen shot 2600 of wire feed speed and
arc current parameters in accordance with an embodiment of the
subject innovation. The screen shot 2600 is representative of a
screen that allows a user to adjust wire feed speed and/or current.
The screen represented by screen shot 2600 can be presented to the
user by selecting one of the second set of inputs 944. For example,
one of the second set of inputs 944 can include an icon or graphic
that corresponds to at least one of wire feed speed or current to
indicate that activation of one of the second set of inputs 944
allows the user to adjust such parameters. The first toggle switch
924 (physically located on a left side of the pendant component
402) can be linked to the wire feed speed which is also on the left
side of the pendant component 402. The second toggle switch 926
(physically located on a right side of the pendant component 402)
can be linked to the current which is also on the right side of the
pendant component 402. The screen can also include a graphic
representing which sector the welding operation is set. It is to be
appreciated that the screen shot 2600 is representative of a screen
that is displayed while the welding operation is being performed
and/or during a jog mode. One of the first set of inputs 922 can
correspond to a graphic or icon for "setup" which allows the user
to proceed to a setup screen. One of the first set of inputs 922
can correspond to a graphic or icon for "weld" which allows the
user to at least one of toggle weld, use a test mode, perform a
weld operation, or continue back to a weld operation.
[0152] FIG. 27 illustrates screen shot 2700 of left dwell and right
dwell parameters in accordance with an embodiment of the subject
innovation. The screen shot 2700 is representative of a screen that
allows a user to adjust left dwell and/or right dwell. The screen
represented by screen shot 2700 can be presented to the user by
selecting one of the second set of inputs 944. For example, one of
the second set of inputs 944 can include an icon or graphic that
corresponds to at least one of left dwell or the right dwell to
indicate that activation of one of the second set of inputs 944
allows the user to adjust such parameters. The first toggle switch
924 (physically located on a left side of the pendant component
402) can be linked to the left dwell which is also on the left side
of the pendant component 402. The second toggle switch 926
(physically located on a right side of the pendant component 402)
can be linked to the right dwell which is also on the right side of
the pendant component 402. The screen can also include a graphic
representing which sector the welding operation is set. It is to be
appreciated that the screen shot 2700 is representative of a screen
that is displayed while the welding operation is being performed
and/or during a jog mode. One of the first set of inputs 922 can
correspond to a graphic or icon for "setup" which allows the user
to proceed to a setup screen. One of the first set of inputs 922
can correspond to a graphic or icon for "weld" which allows the
user to at least one of toggle weld, use a test mode, perform a
weld operation, or continue back to a weld operation.
[0153] FIG. 28 illustrates screen shot 2800 of oscillation speed
and oscillation width parameters in accordance with an embodiment
of the subject innovation. The screen shot 2800 is representative
of a screen that allows a user to adjust oscillation width of a
torch and/or oscillation speed of a torch. The screen represented
by screen shot 2800 can be presented to the user by selecting one
of the second set of inputs 944. For example, one of the second set
of inputs 944 can include an icon or graphic that corresponds to at
least one of oscillation width or oscillation speed to indicate
that activation of one of the second set of inputs 944 allows the
user to adjust such parameters. The first toggle switch 924
(physically located on a left side of the pendant component 402)
can be linked to the oscillation speed which is also on the left
side of the pendant component 402. The second toggle switch 926
(physically located on a right side of the pendant component 402)
can be linked to the oscillation width which is also on the right
side of the pendant component 402. The screen can also include a
graphic representing which sector the welding operation is set. It
is to be appreciated that the screen shot 2800 is representative of
a screen that is displayed while the welding operation is being
performed and/or during a jog mode. One of the first set of inputs
922 can correspond to a graphic or icon for "setup" which allows
the user to proceed to a setup screen. One of the first set of
inputs 922 can correspond to a graphic or icon for "weld" which
allows the user to at least one of toggle weld, use a test mode,
perform a weld operation, or continue back to a weld operation.
[0154] FIG. 29 illustrates screen shot 2900 of travel speed and arc
voltage parameters in accordance with an embodiment of the subject
innovation. The screen shot 2900 is representative of a screen that
allows a user to adjust travel speed or a voltage. The screen
represented by screen shot 2800 can be presented to the user by
selecting one of the second set of inputs 944. For example, one of
the second set of inputs 944 can include an icon or graphic that
corresponds to at least one of travel speed or voltage to indicate
that activation of one of the second set of inputs 944 allows the
user to adjust such parameters. The first toggle switch 924
(physically located on a left side of the pendant component 402)
can be linked to the travel speed which is also on the left side of
the pendant component 402. The second toggle switch 926 (physically
located on a right side of the pendant component 402) can be linked
to the voltage which is also on the right side of the pendant
component 402. The screen can also include a graphic representing
which sector the welding operation is set. It is to be appreciated
that the screen shot 2900 is representative of a screen that is
displayed while the welding operation is being performed and/or
during a jog mode. One of the first set of inputs 922 can
correspond to a graphic or icon for "setup" which allows the user
to proceed to a setup screen. One of the first set of inputs 922
can correspond to a graphic or icon for "weld" which allows the
user to at least one of toggle weld, use a test mode, perform a
weld operation, or continue back to a weld operation.
[0155] FIG. 30 illustrates screen shot 3000 of a jog screen for
movement of the torch in accordance with an embodiment of the
subject innovation. As discussed, a jog mode can allow movement of
tractor welder (e.g., torch movement toward and/or away from track,
travel speed of tractor welder on track, torch height, etc.)
without performing a welding operation. Screen shot 3000 is
representative of a screen that allows a jog mode to be used and/or
to control the welding system in real time without performing a
weld operation. For instance, the screen shot 3000 illustrates
travel speed and/or torch height that can be adjusted when a
welding operation is not being performed. One of the first set of
inputs 922 can correspond to a graphic or icon for "purge" which
allows a user to dispense a portion of shield gas. One of the first
set of inputs 922 can correspond to a graphic or icon for "feed"
which allows a user to feed wire out of the wire feeder, whereas
another one of the first set of inputs 922 can correspond to a
graphic or icon for "feed" which allows a user to retract wire back
to the wire feeder. One of the first set of inputs 922 can
correspond to a graphic or icon for "H Max" that allows a user to
adjust the torch at a maximum height (e.g., based on a predefined
limit, discussed above, or a mechanical-based limitation that is
from the torch not mechanically being able to move any higher). In
another embodiment, one of the first set of inputs 922 can
correspond to a graphic or icon for "home" which returns travel to
initial weld start location (e.g., also referred to auto-home as
discussed above). It is to be appreciated that any suitable graphic
or icon can be used to represent a user-defined location for the
return request (e.g., request upon activating the one of the first
set of inputs 922). One of the first set of inputs 922 can
correspond to the icon/graphic displayed as "exit" to allow the
user to exit the setup mode for programs.
[0156] FIG. 31 illustrates screen shot 3100 of a jog screen for
oscillation of the torch in accordance with an embodiment of the
subject innovation. Screen shot 3100 is representative of a screen
that allows a jog mode to be used and/or to control the welding
system in real time without performing a weld operation. The screen
can include icons/graphics representative of at least one of left
dwell, right dwell, oscillation width, oscillation speed, among
others. In an embodiment, the first toggle switch 924 can be used
to select one of left dwell, right dwell, oscillation width,
oscillation speed, and the second toggle switch 926 can be used to
adjust such parameter selected. In another embodiment, a pair of
the parameters can be active (indicated by a change of color on the
display for instance) and the first toggle switch 924 can be
associated with one of the pair and the second toggle switch 926
can be associated with the other of the pair. One of the first set
of inputs 922 can correspond to a graphic or icon for "purge" which
allows a user to dispense a portion of shield gas. One of the first
set of inputs 922 can correspond to a graphic or icon for "swap"
that allows a user to change the location on a display for
icons/graphics representing the parameters that can be adjusted and
thus the toggle switches that correspond. For instance, in FIG. 31,
selecting one of the first set of inputs 922 associated with the
"swap" can change travel and oscillation and travel perspective
setting. It could also take you to FIGS. 36 to 47. In another
embodiment, one of the first set of inputs 922 can correspond to a
graphic or icon for "swap" that allows a user to change the
activated pair of parameters that can be adjusted by the first
toggle switch 924 and the second toggle switch 926. For example,
selecting one of the first set of inputs 922 associated with the
"swap" can change the first toggle switch 924 to controlling
oscillation width to the second toggle switch 926 and the second
toggle switch 926 from controlling oscillation speed to the first
toggle switch 924. In still another embodiment, a selection of
"swap" can progress to screen shot 1800 illustrated in FIG. 18 to
set, adjust, or change travel (as discussed above). One of the
first set of inputs 922 can correspond to the icon/graphic
displayed as "test" to allow the user to view the changes while the
welding system performs with the established settings. One of the
first set of inputs 922 can correspond to the icon/graphic
displayed as "exit" to allow the user to exit the setup mode for
programs.
[0157] It is to be appreciated that the "device" can also be
referred to as the "pendant component." In an embodiment, the
welding system includes a power source for a tractor welder, the
torch, a motor that moves the tractor welder on the track, a motor
that moves the torch to and from the track, a wire feeder, a motor
that moves the torch to and from the workpiece, a motor that
oscillates the torch, or a power source for a wire that is supplied
by the wire feeder.
[0158] In an embodiment, the output component is configured to
receive a second electronic signal from the welding system. In an
embodiment, the second electronic signal is representative of a
detected value of the welding system. In an embodiment, the first
electronic signal is representative of a setting from a user for
one or more parameters. In an embodiment, the first electronic
signal is representative of an arc current, an arc voltage, a wire
feed speed, a movement for the torch, a left dwell, a right dwell,
a travel speed of a tractor welder for the welding system, an
oscillation speed, or an oscillation width.
[0159] It is to be appreciated that the "device" can also be
referred to as the "pendant component 402." In an embodiment of a
device, the device is hosted on a first network and communicates
with the orbital welding system that is hosted on a second
network., wherein the communication is via the Internet. In the
embodiment, the device can include a controller that performs the
welding operation with the orbital welding system based on the
electrical signal. In the embodiment, the electrical communication
is a wireless communication. In an embodiment, the electrical
communication is a physical coupling via a wired communication.
[0160] In an embodiment, the welding system includes at least one
of a motor that moves the tractor welder on the track; a motor that
moves the torch to and from the track; a wire feeder; a motor that
moves the torch to and from the workpiece; a motor that oscillates
the torch; or a power source for a wire that is supplied by the
wire feeder.
[0161] In an embodiment, the device includes a casing having a
front opposite of a back, a first side opposite a second side, a
top side, a bottom side, and a thickness that separates the front
and the back, wherein the casing houses at least one of the
processor, the memory, the display component, the input component,
or the output component. The device can further include a connector
component on at least one of the first side or the second side, an
indentation region at least one of the first side or the second
side of which the connector component resides, a strap member that
connects to at least one of the first side or the second side of
which the connector component resides, and the connector component
counter-balances a weight of a wired connection to the connector
component to facilitate carrying the device.
[0162] In an embodiment, the output component is configured to
receive an additional electronic signal from the orbital welding
system. In an embodiment, the additional electronic signal is
representative of a measured value of the orbital welding system.
In an embodiment, the electronic signal is representative of a
setting from a user for one or more parameters used in for the
welding operation.
[0163] In an embodiment, the electronic signal is representative of
at least one of an arc current, an arc voltage, a wire feed speed,
an amount of movement for the torch, a left dwell, a right dwell, a
travel speed of a tractor welder for the welding system, an
oscillation speed, or an oscillation width. In an embodiment, the
device is in an electrical communication with an additional orbital
welding system and the device communicates an electronic signal to
control a welding operation performed by one of the orbital welding
system or the additional welding system.
[0164] In view of the exemplary devices and elements described
supra, methodologies that may be implemented in accordance with the
disclosed subject matter will be better appreciated with reference
to the flow charts and/or methodologies. The methodologies and/or
flow diagrams are shown and described as a series of blocks, the
claimed subject matter is not limited by the order of the blocks,
as some blocks may occur in different orders and/or concurrently
with other blocks from what is depicted and described herein.
Moreover, not all illustrated blocks may be required to implement
the methods and/or flow diagrams described hereinafter.
[0165] A method can be provided that allows a user to navigate data
associated with welding system 404 with device 402. The method can
include at least one of the following: displaying a graphic related
to welding system 404; using a first input to select a pairing of a
first welding parameter and a second welding parameter; using a
first toggle switch to adjust the first welding parameter; using a
second toggle switch to adjust the second welding parameter; using
a second input to select a displayed option associated with the
graphic; using an input to access a sector or a program; using an
input to start or stop a welding cycle; using an input to terminate
the welding operation; using an encoder knob to adjust a torch
position toward or away from a track of the tractor welder; and
using a depression of the encoder knob to automatically center the
torch. The method can further include color-coding an input to a
color of the graphic rendered, wherein the color coding is
indicative of the input controlling such graphic and the welding
parameter represented by the graphic.
[0166] In an embodiment, a method can be provided that allows a
user to create a welding program based a preference of the user.
The method can include at least one of the following:
authenticating a user with the pendant component via a portion of
data; selecting a material for a wire (e.g., steel, stainless,
nickel alloy, cored wire, metal core, copper, among others) or
selecting a no wire welding operation; selecting a type of welding
process (e.g., pulse, constant voltage, surface tension transfer,
among others); selecting a shield gas (e.g., CO2, argon, argon mix,
among others); or selecting at least one of a start or stop of the
welding operation. In another embodiment, the method can include
selecting at least one start setting or end setting for the welding
operation. In another embodiment, the method can include selecting
at least one of a left dwell, a right dwell, a wire feed speed, a
voltage, a current, a travel speed, an oscillation speed, an
oscillation width, a torch height, among others.
[0167] In another embodiment, the method can include at least one
of the following: authenticating a user with the pendant component
via a portion of data; receiving data related to a selection of a
material for a wire (e.g., steel, stainless, nickel alloy, cored
wire, metal core, copper, among others) or receiving data related
to a selection of a no wire welding operation; receiving data
related to a selection of a type of welding process (e.g., pulse,
constant voltage, surface tension transfer, among others);
receiving data related to a selection of a shield gas (e.g., CO2,
argon, argon mix, among others); or receiving data related to a
selection of at least one of a start or stop of the welding
operation. In another embodiment, the method can include receiving
data related to a selection of at least one start setting or end
setting for the welding operation. In another embodiment, the
method can include receiving data related to a selection of at
least one of a left dwell, a right dwell, a wire feed speed, a
voltage, a current, a travel speed, an oscillation speed, an
oscillation width, a torch height, among others. It is to be
appreciated that the receiving of data can be at a component,
server, system, network, such as, but not limited to, a welding
system, an orbital welding system, a controller for a welding
system, a controller for an orbital welding system, a combination
thereof, and the like.
[0168] In another embodiment, the method can include at least one
of the following: authenticating a user with the pendant component
via a portion of data; transmitting data related to a selection of
a material for a wire (e.g., steel, stainless, nickel alloy, cored
wire, metal core, copper, among others) or transmitting data
related to a selection of a no wire welding operation; transmitting
data related to a selection of a type of welding process (e.g.,
pulse, constant voltage, surface tension transfer, among others);
transmitting data related to a selection of a shield gas (e.g.,
CO2, argon, argon mix, among others); or transmitting data related
to a selection of at least one of a start or stop of the welding
operation. In another embodiment, the method can include
transmitting data related to a selection of at least one start
setting or end setting for the welding operation. In another
embodiment, the method can include transmitting data related to a
selection of at least one of a left dwell, a right dwell, a wire
feed speed, a voltage, a current, a travel speed, an oscillation
speed, an oscillation width, a torch height, among others. It is to
be appreciated that the transmitting of data can be from at least
one of the device, the pendant component, the output component, and
the like. In another embodiment, the method can include
communicating a portion of data related to a measurement of a
welding parameter. For instance, the method can include
transmitting data representative of a measurement of a welding
parameter to at least one of the device, the pendant component,
among others. In another embodiment, the method can include
receiving data representative of a measurement of a welding
parameter. For instance, at least one of the device, the pendant
component, the output component, a welding system, a controller for
a welding system, among others, can receive data representative of
a measurement of a welding parameter.
[0169] In an embodiment, a method of can include at least one of
the following: displaying a portion of a graphic that is
representative of at least one of a left dwell, a right dwell, a
wire feed speed, a voltage, a current, a travel speed, an
oscillation speed, an oscillation width, a torch height; receiving
an input from a user, wherein the input corresponds to an
interaction with the portion of the graphic; and controlling a
portion of a welding operation with the input. The method further
includes displaying a pair of welding parameters based on a
selection of an input associated to one of the pair of welding
parameters. The method can further include linking a first toggle
switch to adjust a first welding parameter of the pair of welding
parameters that are displayed and linking a second toggle switch to
adjust a second welding parameter of the pair of welding parameters
that are displayed. For example, the pair of welding parameters can
be as follows: wire feed speed and current; left dwell and right
dwell; oscillation speed and oscillation width; travel speed and
voltage; travel speed and torch height; among others. It is to be
appreciated that any suitable combination of welding parameters can
be paired and such examples are not to be limiting. For instance,
the welding parameter can be, but is not limited to, an arc
voltage, a travel speed of a tractor welder that performs the
welding operation, a wire feed speed, an arc current level, a
height of torch, a distance between workpiece W and torch, an
oscillation width of electrode, a temperature of welding wire, a
temperature of electrode, a type of material of workpiece W, a
frequency of oscillation of electrode, a polarity of the arc
current, a polarity of the current for welding wire, a parameter
that affects an arc current of the welding operation, a type of
electrode, a gauge of wire, a material of wire. The method can
further include controlling the welding operation with the pair of
welding parameters based on a user input (via the pendant component
402).
[0170] While the embodiments discussed herein have been related to
the systems and methods discussed above, these embodiments are
intended to be exemplary and are not intended to limit the
applicability of these embodiments to only those discussions set
forth herein. The control systems and methodologies discussed
herein are equally applicable to, and can be utilized in, systems
and methods related to arc welding, laser welding, brazing,
soldering, plasma cutting, waterjet cutting, laser cutting, and any
other systems or methods using similar control methodology, without
departing from the spirit of scope of the above discussed
inventions. The embodiments and discussions herein can be readily
incorporated into any of these systems and methodologies by those
skilled in the art.
[0171] The above examples are merely illustrative of several
possible embodiments of various aspects of the present invention,
wherein equivalent alterations and/or modifications will occur to
others skilled in the art upon reading and understanding this
specification and the annexed drawings. In particular regard to the
various functions performed by the above described components
(assemblies, devices, systems, circuits, and the like), the terms
(including a reference to a "means") used to describe such
components are intended to correspond, unless otherwise indicated,
to any component, such as hardware, software, or combinations
thereof, which performs the specified function of the described
component (e.g., that is functionally equivalent), even though not
structurally equivalent to the disclosed structure which performs
the function in the illustrated implementations of the invention.
In addition although a particular feature of the invention may have
been disclosed with respect to only one of several implementations,
such feature may be combined with one or more other features of the
other implementations as may be desired and advantageous for any
given or particular application. Also, to the extent that the terms
"including", "includes", "having", "has", "with", or variants
thereof are used in the detailed description and/or in the claims,
such terms are intended to be inclusive in a manner similar to the
term "comprising."
[0172] This written description uses examples to disclose the
invention, including the best mode, and also to enable one of
ordinary skill in the art to practice the invention, including
making and using any devices or systems and performing any
incorporated methods. The patentable scope of the invention is
defined by the claims, and may include other examples that occur to
those skilled in the art. Such other examples are intended to be
within the scope of the claims if they have structural elements
that are not different from the literal language of the claims, or
if they include equivalent structural elements with insubstantial
differences from the literal language of the claims.
[0173] The best mode for carrying out the invention has been
described for purposes of illustrating the best mode known to the
applicant at the time. The examples are illustrative only and not
meant to limit the invention, as measured by the scope and merit of
the claims. The invention has been described with reference to
preferred and alternate embodiments. Obviously, modifications and
alterations will occur to others upon the reading and understanding
of the specification. It is intended to include all such
modifications and alterations insofar as they come within the scope
of the appended claims or the equivalents thereof.
* * * * *