Title: Indentation shape parameters as indicators of spot weld quality

Authors: D. Bracun, I. Polajnar, J. Diaci

Addresses: University of Ljubljana, Faculty of Mechanical Engineering, Askerceva 6, 1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia. ' University of Ljubljana, Faculty of Mechanical Engineering, Askerceva 6, 1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia. ' University of Ljubljana, Faculty of Mechanical Engineering, Askerceva 6, 1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia

Abstract: This contribution presents a laser-based method for three-dimensional (3D) measurements of the shape of an electrode indentation. The method is based on the illumination of the indentation with structured light and the detection of the image of the illuminated indentation by means of a digital camera. Image processing algorithms are employed to determine the 3D shape of the indentation. A batch of welds obtained from an automotive production process has been measured and analysed for characteristic geometrical indentation parameters such as diameter, depth, presence of cracks, splash, etc. The potential of indentation shape parameters to serve as indicators of spot quality is discussed.

Keywords: laser profilometry; laser triangulation; spot weld inspection; spot welding; weld quality; electrode indentation; image processing; automotive production; automobile industry; indentation shape parameters; NDT; non-destructive testing.

DOI: 10.1504/IJMPT.2006.011275

International Journal of Materials and Product Technology, 2006 Vol.27 No.3/4, pp.247 - 257

Published online: 10 Nov 2006 *

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