Prediction of laser spot weld shape by using artificial neural network

An artificial neural network (ANN) and a weld shape model are developed for the analysis and simulation of the correlation between the laser spot welding (LSP) parameters and weld shapes. The input parameters of the ANN consist of laser power, welding time and defocusing. The output is weld shape parameters namely: surface diameter, bottom diameter, nugget diameter, penetration depth and cross section area. The shape parameters predicted by the ANN are converted into a weld profile by the weld shape model. The combined influence of laser power and welding time on the weld shape is simulated. A comparison is made between measured and calculated data. The calculated results are in good agreement with measured data.