The three-dimensional welding station replaces conventional and robo-tically manipulated re-sistance spot-welding, and stitch-and-seam pro-cesses. Cycle times are up to six times faster. Optic systems move the laser beam rapidly from one weld location to the next, allowing quick access to weld and part locations.
The ability to move the beam eliminates complex mechanisms for workpiece motion. Work-holding fixtures can be more simple in design. The noncon- tact welding and minimal mechanical movement of the remote welders means little chance of part shifting caused by bumping or vi-bration. The no-tool weld-ing and single-side access allows one laser beam to reach locations previously requiring multiple hard-tooled, electrode-type spot-welding stations on oppo-site sides of assembly lines. The result is valuable floor-space savings, simple changeover for multiple parts and reduced maintenance requirements.