Beam offset detection in laser stake welding of tee joints based on photodetector sensing

Abstract This paper presents an experimental study where a photodetector is used in a laser beam welding tool to monitor beam deviations (beam offsets) in stake welding of tee joints. The aim is to obtain an early detection of deviations from the joint centerline in this type of welding where the joint is not visible from the top side. The photodetector used is a GaP diode sensitive in the spectral range 150-550 nm corresponding to the spectral emissions form the plasma plume during keyhole welding. The photodetector signal has been evaluated by change point detection methods with respect to their detection performance. Both an off-line and an on-line method have been evaluated. The off-line method can be used to guide post weld inspection and the on-line method has the potential to enable on-line adaptive position control and/or the possibility to stop the process for repair. The results shows that the proposed method can be used as a go/no go system and to guide post weld inspection.