AI for laser welding from Trumpf for the automotive industry
A new AI solution from Trumpf checks the quality of components, such as batteries for electric cars, immediately after laser welding in order to identify potential defects. Trumpf is thus increasing productivity in automotive manufacturing with laser welding using artificial intelligence (AI).
The AI solution from Trumpf can identify potential defects, which also enables repairs to be carried out in the laser welding station. "This allows users to reduce their production costs, as the AI solution can replace other, time-consuming quality inspections," says Martin Stambke, Product Manager responsible for AI quality inspection at Trumpf. The first customers from the automotive industry are already using the solution in series production, which the high-tech company is now presenting at its in-house exhibition Intech from April 1 to 4, 2025 in Ditzingen.
Trumpf AI solution for numerous applications
The solution takes a picture of the weld seam and the AI analyzes whether it meets the specifications that the user has defined for the production process. The sensor technology generates traceable measured values for the user, enabling transparent quality control without black box decisions. If the weld seam is too narrow or too wide, for example, the AI notifies the user while the component is still in the laser cell. Users can quickly decide whether a repair is necessary, thereby ensuring the quality of the welding work. This increases the first-pass yield, i.e. the proportion of components that meet their quality standards on the first pass. "This is particularly important for manufacturers of batteries for electric cars, for example, as it reduces the number of rejects and cuts costs," says Stambke. The AI solution is suitable for many other applications such as the welding of car body parts, hairpins for electric motors or contacts for electronic components.
AI application without programming knowledge
"Customers get an easy-to-use AI tool that integrates seamlessly into the Trumpf system of lasers, sensors and optics," says Stambke. Users can use Trumpf AI without any programming knowledge; they simply need to train the artificial intelligence before using it. To do this, the user marks correct and faulty weld seams in corresponding image material. Trumpf offers suitable software for the training process in the form of EasyModel AI. Using the system is as simple and intuitive as using smartphone apps. Just a few training images are enough.