Blackbird has significantly advanced its award-winning solution for OCT edge tracking. As part of a new software release for edge tracking via optical coherence tomography (OCT), Blackbird presents a new feature developed specifically for the complex requirements of modern welding applications. The solution can now be used in an even broader range of applications and can respond to and communicate about various faults. In this way, the update supports flexible and tailored welding processes and sets new standards for production automation.

The requirements for edge tracking with OCT have evolved rapidly. Initially developed in collaboration with OEMs as a solution for tracking the edges of fillet welds at lap joints in the body-in-white segment, Blackbird's technology has encountered increasing challenges with the emergence of new joint geometries, particularly those arising from the specific requirements of new fields of application, such as agricultural and construction machinery.

The new release significantly expands on the features of the Blackbird OCT solution, which offers optimized edge tracking options for a wide variety of joint types that are in demand in modern welding applications. In addition to proven edge tracking for fillet welds at lap joints, the system now also supports precision edge tracking for T-joints, corner joints, edge joints, and butt joints.

The release's integrated quality feedback, which occurs in parallel with edge tracking, is another notable feature. RSU software versions 8.20.0 and higher have been updated with new features that will allow users to process a wide range of components on a single production line with efficiency and precision.

Further reading: Ralf Nürnberg (Blackbird Robotics) & Holger Schlüter (Scanlab): High precision laser welding for the electric vehicles of tomorrow, PhotonicsViews 21(2), April/May 2024, Pages 28-31, DOI: https://doi.org/10.1002/phvs.202400007