Mobile robot system with fibre laser for welding

The mobile robot system changes the use of laser technology in the industrial environment. Instead of bringing components to stationary systems, processing is moved directly to the workpiece.

This opens up new possibilities for production and maintenance, especially for large or difficult-to-access components. The focus is on an integrated system that combines all the necessary components in one unit and can therefore be used independently of traditional machine infrastructure.

Alpha Laser presents mobile robot system with integrated system

The system from Alpha Laser is designed as a fully integrated solution. A 4 kW fibre laser forms the technical basis for welding processes. The system is complemented by an integrated cooling system and its own Siemens-based control system. The design has a clear objective: all the functions required for operation are brought together in one mobile unit. With a weight of around 1.9 tonnes, the system remains transportable and can be brought directly to the customer. This enables welding work to be carried out directly on the component without it having to be transferred to a production environment.

Flexible combination of welding processes with wire and powder

A key feature is the ability to utilise different welding processes in one system. In addition to classic wire welding, a powder-based process is also available. Both systems - wire feeder and powder feeder - are integrated. This allows the system to be adapted to different requirements. Depending on the material and application, it is possible to switch between the processes. This flexibility is particularly relevant for changing components or repair applications where there are no standardised processes.

3D scanner enables measurement and direct path planning

An integrated 3D scanner significantly expands the functionality of the system. Components can be measured directly on site without the need for external systems. The recorded data is transferred directly to the control system. Path planning is automated on this basis. Programming is carried out directly on the display, which speeds up the preparation of the welding process. This significantly reduces the amount of manual programming required, especially for complex geometries.

Use without a conventional machine environment

A key advantage of the system is that there is no need for additional machine structures. Large lathes or linear axes are not necessary, as the machining is carried out directly on the existing component. The system is brought to the existing machine or workpiece. This means that existing production systems can continue to be used, while the laser technology can be flexibly supplemented. Repairs can also be carried out without having to dismantle or transport components. The most important features of the system at a glance:

• mobile robot system for use at the customer
• Integrated 4 kW fibre laser with cooling
• Welding with wire or powder possible
• 3D scanner for measurement and path planning
• Control system based on Siemens

Development from manual welding lasers to robot solutions

Alpha Laser has built up its development in the field of laser technology over several decades. Its origins lie in manual welding, initially primarily in the dental sector. From there, the technology was continuously expanded. With increasing power requirements, the portfolio developed towards industrial applications with higher power levels. Today, typical power ranges are between 4 and 12 kW. The mobile robot system is a result of this development and combines the flexibility of earlier systems with automated processes.

Classification of mobile laser technology

The system symbolises a shift in the way manufacturing technology is handled. Processes are no longer exclusively organised centrally, but can be flexibly relocated to different sites. This reduces transport costs and enables direct processing on the component. At the same time, technical performance is maintained as all relevant components are integrated. The mobile robot system thus demonstrates how laser technology adapts to changing requirements in production and maintenance.