SpotSim - Simulation models for spot welds

Purpose and goal

1. To develop a new method for automated non-destructive testing of spot welds using thermography. The objective is partly fulfilled; the method is not fully developed. 2. To develop new simulation models in order to enable objective 1. The objective is partly fulfilled; we do have the models, but they are not yet as capable as what we were aiming at. 3. To synthesize and transfer knowledge from university to industry in order to enable industrial exploitation of the developed method. The objective is fulfilled; the industrial-academic cooperation has been good and useful.

Results and expected effects

The concrete results are a simulation model, a number of performed simulations, e number of performed experiments, and a large amount of measurement data. The less concrete result is increased knowledge. The results show that the method works and has a good potential, although additional development is needed to automatize the method. We are planning to continue the project, and are still hoping to get there and be able to sell such systems, albeit on a longer term.

Approach and implementation

The project has been performed in cooperation with Linköping University (LiU) and University West (HV). HV has performed laboratory experiments on materials (spot welds) from a potential customer. An engineer from TST have been supervised by a researcher from LiU to develop new simulation models. The development of these models turned out to be more difficult and time consuming than expected, and the final integration/demonstration could not be done during the project.