Development of Fully Automated and Integrated ('Instamatic') Welding Systems for Marine Applications

摘要

This is the final report of a two-year research program entitled 'Development of Fully Automated and Integrated ('Instamatic') Welding Systems for Marine Applications'. The objective of this research program from July 1, 1980 through June 30, 1982 was to develop fully automated and integrated systems. These systems package many operations involved in welding, including feeding the electrode, manipulating the torch, etc., through careful engineering, so that the welding system can be operated by a person with no welding skill. These systems have been nicknamed 'instamatic' welding systems, since they are similar to the easy to operate 'instamatic' cameras. Following a general discussion on the development of the concept of the instamatic welding systems, discussions are given on two types of systems which have been built and tested: underwater stud welding systems, and those using arc processes. Discussions are also given on possible uses of the automatic welding systems.