In the automotive industry, manufacturers and suppliers have introduced monitoring of relevant laser beam parameters during production in all high volume production as well as for critical components. They have profited within a few months from extended service intervals, more consistent product quality, reduction of defective parts, and avoidance of rejects.
Since 2010 fully integrated systems without human interfaces have been available, which exchange and utilise laser data via fieldbus systems with robot and master controller or via central PCs with the manufacturing management. Manufacturing data can thus be compared worldwide. Along with the optimisation of the means of production, this enables the significant qualitative improvement of the end products.
Typical applications
Monitoring of laser parameters in the manufacture of powertrains, in particular transmission parts, axles, clutches, injection pumps, airbags, lighting components, seat mechanisms, car body shell assembly units, and batteries/accumulators.
In the main, a variety of materials or components with a high value-added proportion are welded and soldered by means of laser beams. Laser beam diagnostics are an essential component in quality assurance in all these cases.
Preferred PRIMES systems in use
The following diagnostics systems have been installed in medium to large numbers within the automotive industry: HP-MSM, PMM, FM, PM, CPM, PMT, BCS, BM.
In some cases integration is implemented via fieldbus systems where many measuring cycles are required. Individual measurements are carried out by the customer's own maintenance and service staff.
