Finding Optimum Focal Point Position with Neural Networks in CO2 Laser Welding

CO2 lasers are increasingly being utilized for quality welding in production. Considering the high equipment cost, the start-up time and set-up time should be minimized. Ideally the parameters should be set up and optimized more or less automatically. In this article neural networks are designed to optimize the focal point position, one of the most critical parameters in laser welding.

The feasibility to automatically optimize the focal point position is analyzed. Preliminary tests demonstrate that neural networks can be used to optimize the focal point position with good accuracy in CW CO2 laser welding.