Real - Time Robotic Titanium Welding (1000-311)

Triton Systems, Inc. proposes to develop a robotic gas metal arc welding (GMAW) capability using a real-time integrated titanium welding monitoring and control (Ti-WMAC) system, which will use images in both visible and infrared spectra to sense the arc length and weld pool (respectively) generated in the welding process. GMAW is commonly employed for structural steel and aluminum applications, but the state of the art for this technology in titanium is in its infancy, certainly where real-time quality monitoring and control in a robotic welding system is concerned. Real-time data on weld pool and arc column length parameters coupled with nominal welding parameters, such as current and torch speed, will allow the robotic system to monitor the welding process and make critical modifications to continually maximize weld quality. Triton's innovative Ti-WMAC system, will enable the Army to replace their current steel parts with lighter fabricated titanium parts. Lighter-weight structural components are critical to the Future Combat System (FCS) initiative applications, such as lightweight howitzers and machine guns.