Abstract

This paper describes an attempt to provide assistance during the teach-in process of welding robots by an experimental adaptation of training simulator components. A mounted camera system continuously monitors the relative position and orientation of the welding torch and workpiece. The simulation contains images of metal textures and a welding seam that are computed in real-time and that are displayed using augmented reality technology. Feedback on deviations from the ideal position, orientation, and movement is displayed during the process and can also be analysed afterwards. The experimental application is strongly limited by the restriction to a given set of basic workpieces. However, the visual feedback was considered by the programmers to be very helpful and the application showed great potential that could be used for dedicated industrial products.