A study on signal processing algorithm for seam tracking in pipeline welding

The productivity and reliability are regarded as most essential features of the automatic welding system. From practical point of view, the carriage and band system has been verified as one of most effective welding systems for pipeline laying. The productivity depends on several parameters such as a performance of the welding system, the level of operator's skill and the reliable sensor systems. This application-oriented paper introduces new automatic welding equipment for pipeline construction. It is based on cutting-edge design and practical welding physics to minimize downtime due to the system faults. This paper also describes the control system which was designed and implemented for the automatic welding equipment. The system has the self diagnostic function which facilitates maintenance and repairs, and has the wireless network function via which the welding task data can be transmitted and monitored. The signal processing algorithm was also developed for the narrow welding groove in order to implement higher accuracy of seam tracking and fully automatic operation.