阅读说明：本技术 用于远程焊接方案控制的系统和方法 (System and method for remote welding schedule control ) 是由 杰弗瑞·R·伊德 科迪·J·鲍曼 于 2020-10-21 设计创作，主要内容包括：公开了用于远程控制焊接功率供应装置的焊接方案的系统和方法。在一些示例中,提供了一种用于监视或控制焊接功率供应装置的远程装置,该远程装置控制一个或多个焊接工具(例如,焊炬)和/或附件(例如,送丝器)的功率,并向该一个或多个焊接工具和/或附件输送功率。该远程装置包括用于接收一个或多个输入的用户接口,该一个或多个输入被提供给控制电路系统,该控制电路系统被配置成经由远程收发器向该焊接功率供应装置传输信号或从该焊接功率供应装置接收信号。在一些示例中,这些信号包括与一个或多个焊接方案相对应的数据。(Systems and methods for remotely controlling a welding profile of a welding power supply are disclosed. In some examples, a remote device for monitoring or controlling a welding power supply is provided that controls and delivers power to one or more welding tools (e.g., a welding torch) and/or accessories (e.g., a wire feeder). The remote device includes a user interface for receiving one or more inputs, the one or more inputs provided to control circuitry configured to transmit signals to or receive signals from the welding power supply via a remote transceiver. In some examples, the signals include data corresponding to one or more welding protocols.)

1. A remote device for monitoring or controlling a welding power supply to control and deliver power to one or more welding tools or accessories, the remote device comprising:

a user interface for receiving one or more inputs;

control circuitry comprising a transceiver configured to transmit one or more signals to or receive one or more signals from the welding power supply, the one or more signals including data corresponding to one or more welding protocols, the control circuitry configured to:

receive one or more first inputs from the user interface to implement a first welding protocol of the one or more welding protocols;

generating one or more first signals corresponding to the first welding profile in response to the one or more first inputs from the user interface;

transmitting the one or more first signals to the welding power supply to control the welding power supply to implement the first welding profile;

receive one or more second inputs from the user interface to implement a second welding protocol of the one or more welding protocols;

generating one or more second signals corresponding to the second welding regime in response to the one or more second inputs from the user interface; and

transmitting the one or more second signals to the welding power supply to control the welding power supply to implement the second welding regime.

2. The remote device of claim 1, wherein the first welding regime corresponds to one or more of: a root pass welding operation, a hot pass welding operation, a joint fill welding operation, or a cap pass welding operation.

3. The remote device of claim 2, wherein one or more of the root pass welding operation, the hot pass welding operation, the joint fill welding operation, or the cap pass welding operation comprises one or more sub-settings.

4. The remote device of claim 3, wherein the one or more sub-settings comprise one or more of: a reach-in setting, a descent setting, an arc control setting, or a hot start setting.

5. The remote device of claim 4, wherein the one or more sub-settings of one or more of the root bead welding operation, the hot bead welding operation, the joint fill welding operation, or the cap bead welding operation are the same.

6. The remote device of claim 4, wherein the one or more sub-settings of one or more of the root bead welding operation, the hot bead welding operation, the joint fill welding operation, or the cap bead welding operation are different.

7. The remote device of claim 4, wherein the arc control sub-settings further comprise a drop setting and a reach setting.

8. The remote device of claim 1, wherein the control circuitry is further configured to:

receiving one or more third inputs to control one or more operational settings of the welding power supply, the one or more operational settings including one or more of a butt weld or a cross weld, a butt weld, or an overhead weld;

generating one or more third signals corresponding to the one or more operational settings in response to the one or more third inputs from the user interface; and is

Transmitting the one or more third signals to the welding power supply to control the welding power supply to implement the operational settings.

9. The remote device of claim 1, wherein the control circuitry is further configured to:

receiving one or more fourth inputs to control one or more welding parameters of the welding power supply, the one or more welding parameters including one or more of a butt or cross weld, a butt weld, or an overhead weld;

generating one or more fourth signals corresponding to the one or more welding parameters in response to the one or more fourth inputs from the user interface; and

transmitting the one or more fourth signals to the welding power supply to control the welding power supply to implement the one or more welding parameters, wherein the one or more welding parameters include one or more of: voltage, current, power value, material type, number of welds to be performed or welding time.

10. The remote device of claim 1, wherein the one or more welding protocols comprise values associated with one or more welding parameters comprising one or more of: voltage, current, power value, material type, number of welds to be performed or welding time.

11. The remote device of claim 1, wherein the remote device is a portable handheld wireless device.

12. The remote device of claim 1, wherein the control circuitry further comprises a network interface to connect to a remote computing system via one or more of a LAN, WAN, bluetooth, Wi-Fi, or cellular network.

13. The remote device of claim 1, wherein the one or more signals between the remote device and the welding power supply are encoded with information to uniquely identify the respective device or system.

14. The remote device of claim 1, wherein the one or more signals between the remote system and the welding power supply are transmitted with one or more transmission characteristics for uniquely identifying the respective system.

15. The remote device of claim 1, wherein the control circuitry is further configured to activate a monitoring mode to limit remote device control of the one or more welding protocols to a predetermined number of welding protocols.

16. The remote device of claim 1, wherein the remote device operates in a display only mode, thereby preventing the user interface from controlling the welding power system.

17. The remote device of claim 1, wherein the welding power system operates in a pure display mode, thereby preventing the user interface from controlling the remote device.

18. A method for monitoring or controlling a welding power supply via a remote device to control and deliver power to one or more welding tools or accessories, comprising:

receiving one or more first inputs at a user interface to implement a first welding protocol of the one or more welding protocols;

generating, at control circuitry, one or more first signals corresponding to the first welding profile in response to the one or more first inputs from the user interface;

transmitting the one or more first signals to the welding power supply via the transceiver to control the welding power supply to implement the first welding regime;

receive one or more second inputs via the user interface to implement a second welding protocol of the one or more welding protocols;

generating, at the control circuitry, one or more second signals corresponding to the second welding profile in response to the one or more second inputs from the user interface; and

transmitting the one or more second signals to the welding power supply via the transceiver to control the welding power supply to implement the second welding regime.

19. The method of claim 18, wherein the first welding regime corresponds to one or more of: a root pass welding operation, a hot pass welding operation, a joint fill welding operation, or a cap pass welding operation.

20. The method of claim 18, further comprising:

receiving an acknowledgement signal at the control circuitry indicating that the one or more first signals were received at the welding power supply and that the first welding profile has been implemented in response to the one or more first inputs; and

adjusting, via the control circuitry, indicia on the user interface corresponding to the first welding profile to reflect a change at the welding power supply, wherein the one or more indicia include an icon, text, graphic, or animation corresponding to the one or more welding parameters of the welding power system.

Background

Conventionally, a welding power supply includes a control panel positioned with the welding power supply to provide access to controls at the location of the welding power supply. However, remote control of welding power supplies has proven challenging. Accordingly, it is desirable to employ systems and methods that provide an operator with a tool for remotely controlling a welding power supply.

Disclosure of Invention

A system and method for remotely controlling a welding profile of a welding power supply, substantially as illustrated by and described in connection with at least one of the figures, is disclosed.

Drawings

Fig. 1A is an illustration of an example remote device, according to aspects of the present disclosure.

Fig. 1B is an illustration of an example display of a remote device, according to aspects of the present disclosure.

Fig. 1C is an illustration of an example remote device providing a list of welding scenarios, in accordance with aspects of the present disclosure.

Fig. 1D is an illustration of an example remote device providing an updated welding regime according to aspects of the present disclosure.

Fig. 2A is a listing of example welding scenarios in accordance with aspects of the present disclosure.

Fig. 2B is a list of example operational settings according to aspects of the present disclosure.

Fig. 3A is a schematic diagram of an example welding system, in accordance with aspects of the present disclosure.

Fig. 3B is a schematic view of another example welding system, in accordance with aspects of the present disclosure.

Fig. 3C is a schematic view of another example welding system, in accordance with aspects of the present disclosure.

Fig. 4 is a flow chart representing an example method for remotely controlling a welding regime in accordance with aspects of the present disclosure.

The drawings are not necessarily to scale. Where appropriate, like or identical reference numerals are used to refer to like or identical parts.

Detailed Description

Systems and methods for remotely controlling a welding profile of a welding power supply are disclosed. When welding using remote control, it is desirable to be able to remotely alter the welding regime at the work site during welding. This provides for a quick change from an existing setting to a new setting after the welding is completed. As the welding schedule or welding program changes, the different settings change to settings that are customized specifically for the welding operation being performed (e.g., a root pass welding operation, a hot pass welding operation, a joint fill welding operation, or a cap pass welding operation). The operational settings of the welding power supply may also be altered to optimize welding performance, wherein the operational settings include one or more of: flat welding or horizontal welding, vertical welding or overhead welding.

As disclosed herein, a welding protocol includes one or more instructions for configuring a welding system for a particular welding operation. For example, a welding profile includes specific settings (e.g., control settings) for a welding power supply, specific tools (e.g., type of torch, cutter, etc.), materials to be welded (e.g., type, thickness, etc.), electrodes, time, movement rate and/or wire feed speed, joint type, and/or other data associated with welding parameters for a particular welding operation.

The welding plan may also include information about the part or workpiece on which the welding operation is being performed. For example, the welding profile may include information about: material type, work piece thickness, number of welds to be performed, weld location on the work piece, quality requirements, and/or work piece preparation.

The instructions and/or welding schedule information may be stored in a memory storage device associated with the remote device and/or the welding power supply, and may be used to configure the system for a particular welding operation.

In some examples, a default welding regime may be implemented for one or more welding operations. A default welding profile may be used as a starting point for a welding operation, which may be configured for a particular welding operation. For example, the configured welding scheme may vary based on: differences in the materials being welded, variations in the welding power supply and/or tools employed, environmental conditions, and/or weld quality standards for a particular welding operation.

Conventionally, when an operator is performing multiple welds, particularly when the welding power supply control panel is at a distance from the workpiece, the multiple welds may be performed using a "middle of the road setting" setting. In other words, for two different welds with different ideal settings, the first weld may be too hot and the second weld too cold. The settings for each weld may be within the operational threshold for each weld, but neither weld is performed with the ideal welding regime.

Advantageously, the disclosed systems and methods improve welding performance because an optimal welding regime (and/or other operational settings or welding parameters) is remotely and intuitively implemented, such as in response to changes in weld joint, weld location, welding tool, materials, and the like. Thus, each weld may be performed in a desired setting.

Systems and methods for remotely controlling a welding profile of a welding power supply are disclosed. In some examples, a remote device for monitoring or controlling a welding power supply is provided that controls and delivers power to one or more welding tools (e.g., a welding torch) and/or accessories (e.g., a wire feeder). The remote device includes a user interface for receiving one or more inputs, the one or more inputs provided to control circuitry configured to transmit signals to or receive signals from the welding power supply via a remote transceiver. In some examples, the signals include data corresponding to one or more welding protocols.

To implement remote control of the welding profile, control circuitry (e.g., remote control circuitry) receives one or more first inputs from the user interface implementing a first welding profile of the one or more welding profiles. For example, a list of welding scenarios may be obtained via a user interface, and an operator may select a first welding scenario for implementation. Once selected, the control circuitry generates one or more first signals corresponding to the first welding regime in response to the one or more first inputs. The first signal may contain data for uniquely identifying the selected first welding protocol and/or be transmitted with characteristics for uniquely identifying the selected first welding protocol. Accordingly, the first signal is transmitted to the welding power supply via the transceiver to control the welding power supply to implement the first welding regime.

The remote device displays information associated with the first welding profile (including welding parameters and/or other operating parameters associated with the first welding profile) and stores information regarding previous inputs. In some examples, the operator may attempt to change from a first welding profile to a second welding profile. For example, during a given welding operation, parts may require different welding schemes to ensure proper welding. This may include changes in joints, changes in orientation, changes in materials, etc. Accordingly, the control circuitry may receive one or more second inputs from the user interface that implement the second welding regime. The control circuitry generates a second signal corresponding to a second welding regime in response to a second input from the user interface. The second signal is then transmitted to the welding power supply via the transceiver to control the welding power supply to implement a second welding regime.

In some examples, the first welding schedule or the second welding schedule corresponds to a root pass welding operation, a hot pass welding operation, a joint fill welding operation, or a cap pass welding operation. In an example, the remote device may control one or more operational settings and/or welding parameters of the welding power supply. For example, the control circuitry may receive one or more third inputs that control one or more operational settings of the welding power supply, which may include one or more of a butt weld or a cross weld, a butt weld, or an overhead weld. The control circuitry may then generate one or more third signals corresponding to the operational settings in response to a third input from the user interface and transmit the third signals to the welding power supply to control the welding power supply to implement the operational settings.

Similarly, the control circuitry may receive one or more fourth inputs that control one or more welding parameters of the welding power supply, which may include at least a butt or cross weld, a butt weld, or an overhead weld. In response to a fourth input, one or more fourth signals corresponding to the one or more welding parameters are generated and transmitted to a welding power supply to control the welding power supply to implement the welding parameters. For example, the welding parameters may include voltage, current, power value, material type, number of welds to be performed, or welding time.

After having been implemented, the welding power supply is configured to provide confirmation to the remote device that the command has been executed. For example, the control circuitry will receive a confirmation signal that the first, second, third, or fourth signal was received at the welding power supply and, in response, that the selected welding profile, operating parameters, and/or welding parameters have been implemented. After the confirmation has been received, the control circuitry adjusts indicia on the user interface corresponding to the implemented welding regime, operating settings, and/or welding parameters to reflect the change at the welding power supply. In the event that an acknowledgement is not received, the control circuitry may be programmed to display the last confirmed welding profile, operation, and/or welding parameters, and/or update the display to the welding profile, operation parameters, and/or welding parameters selected based on the particular welding operation and/or operator preferences.

In some examples, the remote device is a portable handheld wireless device. In some examples, the remote user interface or the welding user interface includes one or more of a button, a membrane panel switch, or a graphical user interface for providing input to control the welding power system. In some examples, the control circuitry includes one or more network interfaces for connecting to a remote computing system via one or more of a LAN, WAN, bluetooth, Wi-Fi, or cellular network. In some examples, various signals between the remote device and the welding power supply are encoded with information to uniquely identify the respective device or system. In some examples, various signals between the remote system and the welding power supply are transmitted along with one or more transmission characteristics that uniquely identify the respective system.

Since the remote device is only one control source so that the user interface of the welding power supply may similarly control the welding regime, in some examples, the remote device may operate in various modes to avoid conflicts between commands. In some examples, the welding power supply receives commands from both the remote device and the welding power supply (e.g., via the welding interface) and implements the commands. For example, the control circuitry of the welding power supply may implement one or more techniques to avoid conflicts between multiple control sources. These techniques may include implementing a priority scheme based on the arrival time of the signal, the source of the signal, and/or the received command (e.g., turn off of the signal and adjustment of the welding parameters).

Advantageously, the operator may specify limits for the remote device control, thereby limiting which welding protocols (or what welding parameter ranges within those welding protocols) are available for modification. The remote control is further managed by activating one or more locks (e.g., hardware and/or software) to the predetermined welding recipe and/or welding parameters, which prevents inadvertent or unauthorized modification.

In a disclosed example, a remote device for monitoring or controlling a welding power supply to control power to and deliver power to one or more welding tools or accessories; a user interface for receiving one or more inputs; control circuitry comprising a transceiver configured to transmit one or more signals to or receive one or more signals from the welding power supply, the one or more signals including data corresponding to one or more welding protocols, the control circuitry configured to: receiving, from the user interface, one or more first inputs to implement a first welding protocol of the one or more welding protocols; generating one or more first signals corresponding to the first welding profile in response to the one or more first inputs from the user interface; transmitting the one or more first signals to the welding power supply to control the welding power supply to implement the first welding profile; receiving, from the user interface, one or more second inputs to implement a second welding protocol of the one or more welding protocols; generating one or more second signals corresponding to the second welding profile in response to the one or more second inputs from the user interface; and transmitting the one or more second signals to the welding power supply to control the welding power supply to implement the second welding profile.

In some examples, the first welding regime corresponds to one or more of: a root pass welding operation, a hot pass welding operation, a joint fill welding operation, or a cap pass welding operation.

In some examples, one or more of the root pass welding operation, the hot pass welding operation, the joint fill welding operation, or the cap pass welding operation includes one or more sub-settings. In an example, the one or more sub-settings include one or more of: a dig setting, a drop setting, an arc control setting, or a hot start setting. In an example, one or more sub-settings of one or more of the root pass welding operation, the hot bead welding operation, the joint fill welding operation, or the cap pass welding operation are the same. In an example, the one or more sub-settings of one or more of the root bead welding operation, the hot bead welding operation, the joint fill welding operation, or the cap bead welding operation are different. In an example, the arc control sub-arrangement further comprises a drop arrangement and an reach arrangement.

In some examples, the control circuitry: receiving one or more third inputs that control one or more operational settings of the welding power supply, the one or more operational settings including one or more of a butt weld or a cross weld, a butt weld, or an overhead weld; generating one or more third signals corresponding to the one or more operational settings in response to one or more third inputs from the user interface; and transmitting the one or more third signals to a welding power supply to control the welding power supply to implement the operational settings.

In some examples, the control circuitry: receiving one or more fourth inputs controlling one or more welding parameters of a welding power supply, the one or more welding parameters including one or more of a butt or cross weld, a butt weld, or an overhead weld; generating one or more fourth signals corresponding to the one or more welding parameters in response to one or more fourth inputs from the user interface; and transmitting the one or more fourth signals to a welding power supply to control the welding power supply to implement the welding parameters.

In some examples, the one or more welding parameters include one or more of: voltage, current, power value, material type, number of welds to be performed or welding time.

In some examples, the control circuitry: receiving a confirmation signal that one or more first signals were received at the welding power supply and that the first welding profile has been implemented in response to the one or more first inputs; and adjusting indicia on the user interface corresponding to the first welding profile to reflect the change at the welding power supply.

In some examples, the one or more indicia reflect information displayed on a welding user interface of the welding power supply. In some examples, wherein the one or more indicia include an icon, text, graphic, or animation corresponding to the one or more welding parameters of the welding power system.

In some examples, the one or more welding scenarios include values associated with one or more welding parameters including one or more of: voltage, current, power value, material type, number of welds to be performed or welding time.

In some examples, the remote device is a portable handheld wireless device.

In some examples, the remote user interface or the welding user interface includes one or more of a button, a membrane panel switch, or a graphical user interface for providing input to control the welding power system.

In some examples, the control circuitry includes a network interface to connect to a remote computing system via one or more of a LAN, WAN, bluetooth, Wi-Fi, or cellular network. In some examples, one or more signals between the remote device and the welding power supply are encoded with information to uniquely identify the respective device or system.

In some examples, one or more signals between the remote system and the welding power supply are transmitted with one or more transmission characteristics that uniquely identify the corresponding system. In some examples, the control circuitry is configured to activate a monitoring mode to limit remote device control of the one or more welding protocols to a predetermined number of welding protocols.

In some examples, the remote device operates in a pure display mode, thereby preventing the user interface from controlling the welding power system. In some examples, the welding power system operates in a pure display mode, thereby preventing the user interface from controlling the remote device.

In some disclosed examples, a method for monitoring or controlling a welding power supply via a remote device to control power to and deliver power to one or more welding tools or accessories, the method comprising: receiving, at a user interface, one or more first inputs implementing a first welding protocol of the one or more welding protocols; generating, at control circuitry, one or more first signals corresponding to the first welding profile in response to the one or more first inputs from the user interface; transmitting the one or more first signals to the welding power supply via the transceiver to control the welding power supply to implement the first welding profile; receiving, via the user interface, one or more second inputs to implement a second welding protocol of the one or more welding protocols; generating, at the control circuitry, one or more second signals corresponding to the second welding profile in response to the one or more second inputs from the user interface; and transmitting the one or more second signals to the welding power supply via the transceiver to control the welding power supply to implement the second welding profile.

In some examples, the first welding protocol corresponds to one or more of: a root pass welding operation, a hot pass welding operation, a joint fill welding operation, or a cap pass welding operation.

In some examples, the method comprises: receiving, at the control circuitry, a confirmation signal that the one or more first signals were received at the welding power supply and that the first welding regime was implemented in response to the one or more first inputs; and adjusting, via the control circuitry, indicia on the user interface corresponding to the first welding profile to reflect a change at the welding power supply, wherein the one or more indicia include an icon, text, graphic, or animation corresponding to the one or more welding parameters of the welding power system.

Several examples are provided regarding welding power supplies and various accessories. However, the concepts and principles disclosed herein are equally applicable to a variety of power systems and control systems, including but not limited to engine-driven power systems for driving one or more of the following: a generator, an air compressor, and/or a hybrid welding power supply.

As used herein, "power conversion circuitry" and/or "power conversion circuitry" refers to circuitry and/or electrical components that convert electrical power from one or more first forms (e.g., power output by a generator) to one or more second forms having any combination of voltage, current, frequency, and/or response characteristics. The power conversion circuitry may include safety circuitry, output selection circuitry, measurement and/or control circuitry, and/or any other circuitry for providing appropriate characteristics.

As used herein, the terms "first" and "second" may be used to recite different components or elements of the same type, not necessarily to imply any particular order.

As used herein, the term "welding-type system" includes any device capable of supplying power suitable for welding, plasma cutting, induction heating, air carbon arc cutting (e.g., CAC-a), and/or hot wire welding/preheating (including laser welding and laser cladding), including inverters, converters, choppers, resonant power supplies, quasi-resonant power supplies, and the like, as well as control circuitry and other ancillary circuitry associated therewith.

As used herein, the term "welding-type power" refers to power suitable for welding, plasma cutting, induction heating, CAC-a, and/or hot wire welding/preheating (including laser welding and laser cladding). As used herein, the term "welding-type power supply" and/or "power supply" refers to any device capable of supplying welding power, plasma cutting power, induction heating power, CAC-a, and/or hot wire welding/preheating (including laser welding and laser cladding) power when power is applied thereto, including, but not limited to, inverters, converters, resonant power supplies, quasi-resonant power supplies, and the like, as well as control circuitry and other ancillary circuitry associated therewith.

As used herein, "circuit" or "circuitry" includes any analog and/or digital component, power and/or control element (such as a microprocessor, Digital Signal Processor (DSP), software, etc.), discrete and/or integrated component, or portions and/or combinations thereof.

As used herein, the terms "control circuitry," "control circuitry," and/or "controller" may include digital and/or analog circuitry, discrete and/or integrated circuitry, a microprocessor, a Digital Signal Processor (DSP) and/or other logic circuitry, and/or associated software, hardware, and/or firmware. The control circuitry or control circuitry may be located on one or more circuit boards that form a portion or all of the controller and are used to control the welding process, devices such as a power source or wire feeder, and/or any other type of welding-related system.

As used herein, the term "memory" includes volatile and non-volatile memory devices and/or other storage devices.

As used herein, the terms "torch" (torch), "welding torch (welding torch)," welding tool "or" welding-type tool "refer to a device configured to be manipulated to perform welding-related tasks, and may include a handheld torch, a robotic torch, a welding gun, a gouging tool, a cutting tool, or other devices for generating a welding arc.

As used herein, the terms "welding mode," "welding process," "welding-type process," or "welding operation" refer to the type of process or output used, such as Current Control (CC), voltage Control (CV), pulsed Gas Metal Arc Welding (GMAW), Flux Cored Arc Welding (FCAW), gas tungsten arc welding (GTAW, e.g., TIG), Shielded Metal Arc Welding (SMAW), spray, short circuit, CAC-a, gouging process, cutting process, and/or any other type of welding process.

As used herein, the term "welding program" or "welding program" includes at least one set of welding parameters for controlling a weld, which may include a welding profile, operating settings, or otherwise. The welding program may further include other software, algorithms, processes, or other logic for controlling one or more welding-type devices to perform welding.

Fig. 1A illustrates a detailed view of an example remote device 94. As shown, the remote device 94 provides one or more remote user interfaces, such as the battery indicator 42, the remote display 44, and one or more input devices 46-56 (e.g., buttons, knobs, switches, and/or a touch screen). For example, the input devices 46-56 may allow the user to toggle by selection via the button 46. Selections may be made to control the associated engine via input 52, to control the welding process via input device 56, to control the welding sequence program via input device 54, to control power via input device 48, and/or to invoke menus via input device 50. Thus, the remote device 94 is operable to: receive inputs associated with one or more commands from the input devices 46-56, transmit signals (e.g., via a remote transceiver 92 of the remote control circuitry 90, as shown in fig. 3A-3C) including data corresponding to the inputs, and change indicia on the remote display 44 to reflect the commands, as disclosed herein.

FIG. 1B shows a detailed view of remote display 44. As shown, remote display 44 includes a plurality of regions, each for displaying one or more indicia corresponding to one or more operating parameters. In some examples, each region displays a single marker that may change color, flash, appear, disappear, or some other visual cue may be provided to provide information to the operator. In some examples, which indicia and/or which type of indicia are dynamic such that an operator may select a particular indicia to be displayed in a predetermined area, and/or one or more events may trigger a transition from one indicia to another within a given area (e.g., when a battery is dead, a battery icon may be replaced with a lightning bolt indicating that the battery is charging).

In the example of fig. 1B, the regions may include one or more of icons, text, graphics, or animations. As shown, region 60 provides an engine icon (e.g., for indicating whether an associated engine power driven system is on), region 62 provides a fuel gauge icon (e.g., for an associated engine), region 64 provides a battery charge icon (e.g., for an associated energy storage device such as in a hybrid power generation system), region 66 provides a wireless signal icon (e.g., for an associated communications network), region 68 shows an air compressor icon (e.g., for indicating whether an associated air compressor is on), region 70 provides text indicating a welding profile, region 72 provides text indicating an arc length setting, region 74 provides text indicating a power on/off status, region 76 provides an output voltage icon, and region 78 provides an output current icon.

As disclosed herein, each region and/or marker may provide information associated with one or more welding parameters. Each signature may change in response to changes in one or more welding parameters (and adjusted values) and/or a change in state (change in wireless signal strength). For example, the additional or alternative markings may correspond to engine run time, wire feed speed, welding sequence, material type, or material thickness. In some examples, display 44 may include a visual display (e.g., a graphical user interface and/or a touch screen), and one or more input devices (e.g., buttons, knobs, switches, and/or a touch screen).

As shown in fig. 1A and 1B, the welding regime is currently designated as P2 GMAW (shown in area 70). In some examples, an operator may attempt to change from an existing welding profile to a new welding profile. For example, during a given welding operation, parts may require different welding schemes to ensure a proper weld. This may include changes in joints, changes in orientation, changes in materials, etc.

In some examples, remote welding recipe control may be implemented by employing input device 56 via remote device 94. Fig. 1C is an illustration of an example remote device providing a list of welding scenarios. As shown, the input device 56 may be a button that the operator may press to view a process selection icon in area 71. The input device 56 may be pressed and released (or some other suitable action, such as scrolling with the input device 46) until a given welding procedure is highlighted (e.g., as shown in area 70C) on the introductory screen, a list of welding plans may be cycled through using the up or down arrows of the input device 56 to display the available welding plan procedures (e.g., corresponding to the connected and/or controlled welding system).

Thus, the operator may scroll to area 70B to implement the SMAW XX18 welding protocol. To select a desired welding profile, one or more input buttons (e.g., input device 56) may be pressed. In some examples, during program selection, new adjustments to one or more welding parameters and/or welding protocols are automatically saved to the currently selected program. Thus, if no action is taken, the highlighted welding regime will be automatically applied and the settings will be saved and transmitted to the associated welding system.

Once selected, the control circuitry 90 generates one or more signals corresponding to the selected welding regime. These signals may contain and/or be transmitted with characteristics that uniquely identify the selected welding protocol. Accordingly, these signals are transmitted via the transceiver to the welding power supply to control the welding power supply to implement the selected welding regime (e.g., XX 18).

The remote device 94 displays information associated with the selected welding profile in the display 44, including welding parameters associated with the welding profile (such as voltage, current, arc length, etc.) and/or other operating parameters, and the remote device stores information regarding previous inputs.

FIG. 1D is an illustration of an example remote device providing an updated welding regime. As shown, the weld pattern "P1 XX 18" is shown in region 70D. Similarly, the welding parameters (e.g., voltage, current, etc.) associated with the selected welding profile will be updated according to the selected welding profile and/or according to values selected by the operator. Thus, the remote device 94 has been updated from the welding profile "P2 GMAW" shown in fig. 1A and 1B to the welding profile "P1 XX 18" shown in fig. 1D. As also shown, the voltage and current have been updated to reflect the selected welding regime.

Fig. 2A provides an example list of welding schemes and sub-schemes according to aspects of the present disclosure. In some examples, the welding protocol may include TIG, SMAW, GMAW, and/or other various welding protocols known to the operator or customized by the operator for a particular welding operation. Sub-schemes such as pulse out, auto stop, auto crater, reach, arc control, hot start, and/or other suitable sub-schemes that may be known or customized may also be included. Additional sub-schemes and/or additional arrangements (not shown) may be provided. In some examples, one or more sub-aspects of the welding regime are the same, while in other examples, one or more sub-aspects of different welding regimes are different. Further, the operator may employ the remote device 94 to create new welding scenarios, sub-scenarios, operational settings, sub-settings, and the like.

Fig. 2B provides an example list of operational settings and sub-settings in accordance with aspects of the present disclosure. In some examples, the operational settings include one or more of: a root pass welding operation, a hot pass welding operation, a joint fill welding operation, or a cap pass welding operation. In some examples, the sub-settings include one or more of: a reach-in setting, a descent setting, an arc control setting, or a hot start setting.

The operational settings and/or sub-settings may correspond to one or more welding scenarios, and in some examples may be individually customized. For example, an operator may provide input via one or more of the input devices 46-54 to adjust values associated with one or more operational settings and/or sub-settings. In some examples, one or more sub-settings of one or more of the root pass welding operation, the hot pass welding operation, the joint fill welding operation, or the cap pass welding operation are the same.

In some examples, one or more sub-settings of one or more of the root pass welding operation, the hot pass welding operation, the joint fill welding operation, or the cap pass welding operation are different.

As shown in fig. 2B, the arc control sub-settings may further include additional settings (such as a drop setting and an extend setting), which may also be self-defined based on operator preference and/or a particular welding operation.

As disclosed herein, an operator may access the list, scroll through and select a welding profile and/or operating settings to control the welding power supply to deliver power to the welding tool.

Fig. 3A is a block diagram of an example welding system 100 that includes a welding-type power supply 102 that includes power conversion circuitry 110 and control circuitry 112. As shown in fig. 3A, the example welding system 100 also includes a wire feeder 104 and a welding torch 106. Remote device 94, remote control circuitry 90, and remote transceiver 92 are communicatively coupled to welding system 100, as well as other components (e.g., a power generation system). The welding system 100 powers, controls, and supplies consumables to welding applications.

Using the remote device 94, an operator may transmit commands to the control circuitry 112 and receive information and alarms from the control circuitry via one or more of the central communication transceiver and/or the interface 92. Additionally, the remote device 94 may provide the status of the welding system 100 and connected components (e.g., on a display and/or via audible and/or tactile feedback).

In some examples, the remote control circuitry 90 initiates data transfer between the remote system and the welding system 100 at periodic intervals in response to an adjustment to one or more welding protocols or welding parameters, in response to user input, or in response to a combination of the adjustment and the user input. The remote control circuitry 90 of the remote device 94 further includes a network interface for connecting to the remote transceiver 92, the welding power supply 102, the wire feeder 104, and/or a remote computing system via one or more network types or communication protocols, including but not limited to a LAN, WAN, bluetooth, Wi-Fi, or cellular network.

In some examples, the remote device 94 is a portable handheld wireless device. In some examples, the remote device 94 is a smartphone, remote computer, tablet computer, dongle, accessory, or other device adapted to analyze, receive, and/or transmit data wirelessly and/or via wired communication. In an example, the remote user interface or the welding user interface includes one or more of a button, a membrane panel switch, or a graphical user interface for providing input to control the welding system.

In some examples, the signals transmitted between the remote system 94 and the welding system 102 are encoded with information that uniquely identifies the respective system. In some examples, the signals are transmitted with one or more transmission characteristics that uniquely identify the respective system.

In some examples, the listed welding schemes correspond to a root bead welding operation, a hot bead welding operation, a joint fill welding operation, or a cap bead welding operation. In an example, the remote device 94 may control one or more operating settings and/or welding parameters of the welding power supply 102. For example, the control circuitry 90 may receive one or more inputs that control one or more operational settings of the welding power supply 102, which may include one or more of a butt weld or a cross weld, a butt weld, or an overhead weld. The control circuitry 90 may then generate signals corresponding to the operational settings in response to input from the user interface and transmit the signals to the welding power supply 102 to control the welding power supply 102 to implement the operational settings.

Similarly, the control circuitry 90 may receive additional input to control one or more welding parameters of the welding power supply 102, which may include at least a butt or cross weld, a butt weld, or an overhead weld. One or more signals corresponding to the welding parameters are generated in response to the inputs and transmitted to the welding power supply 102 to control the welding power supply 102 to implement the welding parameters. For example, the welding parameters may include voltage, current, power value, material type, number of welds to be performed, or welding time.

After having been implemented, the welding power supply 102 is configured to provide confirmation to the remote device 94 that the command has been executed, such as via the communication transceiver 118 and/or the network interface 117. For example, the control circuitry 90 will receive a confirmation signal via the transceiver 92 that the first, second, third, or fourth signal was received at the welding power supply 102 and, in response, that the selected welding regime, operation, and/or welding parameters have been implemented. Upon receiving the confirmation, the control circuitry 90 adjusts the indicia on the user interface display 44 corresponding to the implemented welding regime, operating settings, and/or welding parameters to reflect the change at the welding power supply 102 (e.g., at the user interface 114). In the event that an acknowledgement is not received, the control circuitry 90 may be programmed to display the last confirmed welding profile, operation settings, and/or welding parameters, and/or update the display 44 to the welding profile, operation parameters, and/or welding parameters selected based on the particular welding operation and/or operator preferences.

In some examples, the remote device 90 is a portable handheld wireless device. In some examples, the remote user interface or the welding user interface includes one or more of a button, a membrane panel switch, or a graphical user interface for providing input to control the welding power system. In some examples, the control circuitry 90 includes one or more network interfaces or transceivers 90 for connecting to a remote computing system via one or more of a LAN, WAN, bluetooth, Wi-Fi, or cellular network. In some examples, various signals between the remote device 90 and the welding power supply 102 and/or another remote computing system are encoded with information to uniquely identify the respective device or system. In some examples, various signals between the remote system 90 and the welding power supply 102 are transmitted along with one or more transmission characteristics that uniquely identify the respective system.

In some examples, the power supply 102 receives power from an engine-driven power source (e.g., via a generator), utility power, a generator, an energy storage device, or other suitable power source, and supplies input power directly to the welding torch 106 via the power conversion circuitry 112. Based on the desired welding application, the welding torch 106 may be a welding torch configured for shielded metal arc welding (SMAW, or stick welding), gas tungsten arc welding (GTAW or Tungsten Inert Gas (TIG), Gas Metal Arc Welding (GMAW), Flux Cored Arc Welding (FCAW). In the illustrated example, the power supply 102 is configured to supply power to the wire feeder 104, and the wire feeder 104 may be configured to route input power to the welding torch 106. In addition to supplying input power, the wire feeder 104 may also supply filler metal to the welding torch 106 for various welding applications (e.g., GMAW welding, Flux Cored Arc Welding (FCAW)). Although the example system 100 of fig. 3A includes the wire feeder 104 (e.g., for GMAW or FCAW welding), the wire feeder 104 may be replaced by any other type of remote accessory device, such as a stick welding and/or GTAW welding remote control interface that provides stick welding and/or GTAW welding.

The power supply 102 receives primary power 108 (e.g., from an engine-driven power source via a generator, from utility power, from a generator, from an energy storage device), conditions the primary power, and provides output power to one or more welding devices according to the requirements of the system 100. The power supply 102 includes power conversion circuitry 110 that may include transformers, rectifiers, switches, and the like capable of converting AC input power to AC and/or DC output power as dictated by the requirements of the system 100 (e.g., particular welding processes and schemes). The power conversion circuitry 110 converts an input power (e.g., the main power 108) to a welding-type power based on a welding voltage set point and outputs the welding-type power via a welding circuit.

In some examples, the power conversion circuitry 110 is configured to convert the main power 108 into a welding-type power output and an auxiliary power output. However, in other examples, the power conversion circuitry 110 is adapted to convert only the primary power to the welding power output, and a separate auxiliary converter 111 is provided to convert the primary power to the auxiliary power. In some other examples, the power supply 102 receives the converted auxiliary power output directly from the wall outlet. Any suitable power conversion system or mechanism may be employed by the power supply 102 to generate and supply both welding power and auxiliary power.

In some examples, the control circuitry 112 controls operation of the power supply 102 and may control operation of the power delivery system to provide the main power 108. The power supply 102 also includes one or more interfaces, such as a user interface 114 and a network interface 117. The control circuitry 112 receives input from a user interface 114 through which a user may control one or more components (including a power source and/or one or more accessories) and/or select a process and/or input desired parameters (e.g., voltage, current, particular pulsed or non-pulsed welding regime, etc.) for a welding output. The user interface 114 may receive input using one or more input devices 115, such as via a keypad, keyboard, physical buttons, touch screen (e.g., software buttons), voice-activated system, wireless device, remote device 94, or the like. In addition, the control circuitry 112 controls the operating parameters based on user input as well as based on other operating parameters. In particular, the user interface 114 may include a display 116 for presenting, showing, or indicating information to an operator. In some examples, control circuitry 112 receives input provided via remote device 94 via network interface 117. In this manner, the control circuitry 112 may provide data related to the operation of the system 100 (including alarms associated with the operation of the power supply 100) and/or receive commands from the remote device 94 (e.g., change the welding regime).

The control circuitry 112 may also include interface circuitry for communicating data to other devices in the system 100, such as the wire feeder 104. For example, in some cases, the power supply 102 wirelessly communicates with other welding devices within the welding system 100. Further, in some cases, the power supply 102 communicates with other welding devices using a wired connection, such as by using a Network Interface Controller (NIC) to transmit data via a network (e.g., ethernet, 10base100, etc.). In the example of fig. 3A, the control circuitry 112 communicates with the wire feeder 104 via the welding circuitry via the communication transceiver 118, as described below.

The control circuitry 112 includes at least one controller or processor 120 that controls the operation of the power supply 102. Control circuitry 112 receives and processes a number of inputs associated with the performance and requirements of system 100. Processor 120 may include one or more microprocessors, such as one or more "general-purpose" microprocessors, one or more special-purpose microprocessors and/or ASICS, and/or any other type of processing device. For example, the processor 120 may include one or more Digital Signal Processors (DSPs).

The example control circuitry 112 includes one or more memory devices 123 and one or more memory devices 124. Storage 123 (e.g., non-volatile storage) may include ROM, flash memory, a hard disk drive, and/or any other suitable optical, magnetic, and/or solid-state storage media and/or combinations thereof. The storage 123 stores data (e.g., data corresponding to a welding application), instructions (e.g., software or firmware for performing a welding process), and/or any other suitable data. Examples of stored data for welding applications include attitude (e.g., orientation) of the welding torch, distance between the contact tip and the workpiece, voltage, current, welding device settings, deposition rate, wire feed speed, puddle fluidity, and the like.

The memory device 124 may include volatile memory, such as Random Access Memory (RAM), and/or non-volatile memory, such as Read Only Memory (ROM). Memory device 124 and/or storage device(s) 123 may store various information and may be used for various purposes. For example, memory device 124 and/or storage device(s) 123 may store processor-executable instructions 125 (e.g., firmware or software) for execution by processor 120. Additionally, one or more control schemes for various welding processes, along with associated settings and parameters, may be stored in the storage device 123 and/or the memory device 124 along with code configured to provide specific outputs during operation (e.g., initiate wire feed, enable gas flow rate, capture welding-related data, detect short circuit parameters, determine an amount of spatter). One or more lists or look-up tables may be provided, and/or network connections to various databases that may be used to inform decisions such as accessing preferred welding parameters, storing updated welding parameter settings, etc.

In some examples, the remote control circuitry 90 stores one or more lists, such as in the memory 124, associated with values associated with one or more welding scenarios or welding parameters associated with the welding system 100. The remote control circuitry 90 may access the one or more lists in response to an input (e.g., from an operator input). Input having data corresponding to the one or more welding protocols may be provided via the transceiver 92 via one or more user input devices 46-54 of the remote device 94. In some examples, the remote control circuitry 90 is configured to store data in a memory storage device (e.g., at the remote control circuitry 90 and/or the memory 124).

In some examples, welding power flows from the power conversion circuitry 110 to the wire feeder 104 and the welding torch 106 via the weld cable 126. The example weld cable 126 may be attached to and detached from weld studs at each of the power supply 102 and the wire feeder 104 (e.g., to enable easy replacement of the weld cable 126 in the event of wear or damage). Further, in some examples, the welding data is provided using the weld cable 126 such that the welding power and the welding data are provided and transmitted together via the weld cable 126. The communication transceiver 118 is communicatively coupled to the weld cable 126 to communicate (e.g., transmit/receive) data over the weld cable 126. The communications transceiver 118 may be implemented using serial communications (e.g., full-duplex RS-232 or RS-422, or half-duplex RS-485), network communications (e.g., ethernet, PROFIBUS, IEEE 802.1X wireless communications, etc.), parallel communications, and/or any other type of communications technology. In some examples, the communication transceiver 118 may implement communications over the weld cable 126.

The example communication transceiver 118 includes a receiver circuit 121 and a transmitter circuit 122. Generally, the receiver circuit 121 receives data transmitted by the wire feeder 104 via the weld cable 126, and the transmitter circuit 122 transmits data to the wire feeder 104 via the weld cable 126. The communication transceiver 118 may be capable of remotely configuring the power supply 102 from the location of the wire feeder 104 and/or commanding and/or controlling the wire feed speed output by the wire feeder 104 and/or the welding power (e.g., voltage, current) output by the power supply 102. In some examples, these communications are transmitted via dedicated cables between components and/or wireless communication channels, as well as other suitable communication devices and/or techniques.

The example wire feeder 104 also includes a communication transceiver 119, which may be similar or identical in structure and/or function to the communication transceiver 118. Although communication over a separate communication cable is illustrated in fig. 3A, other communication media, such as wireless media, power line communication, and/or any other communication media may also be used.

In some examples, the gas supply 128 provides a shielding gas, such as argon, helium, carbon dioxide, and the like, depending on the welding application. The shielding gas flows to a valve 130 which controls the flow of gas and which may be selected to allow the amount of gas supplied to the welding application to be modulated or adjusted, if desired. The valve 130 may be opened, closed, or otherwise operated by the control circuitry 112 to enable, disable, or control the flow of gas (e.g., shielding gas) through the valve 130. The shielding gas exits the valve 130 and flows through a cable 132 (which may be packaged with the welding power output device in some embodiments) to the wire feeder 104, which provides shielding gas for the welding application. In some examples, the welding system 100 does not include the gas supply 128, the valve 130, and/or the cable 132.

In some examples, the wire feeder 104 uses welding power to power various components in the wire feeder 104, such as to power the wire feeder controller 134. As described above, the weld cable 126 may be configured to provide or supply welding power. The power supply 102 may also communicate with the communication transceiver 119 of the wire feeder 104 using the weld cable 126 and the communication transceiver 118 disposed within the power supply 102. In some examples, the communication transceiver 119 is substantially similar to the communication transceiver 118 of the power supply 102. Wire feeder controller 134 controls the operation of wire feeder 104. In some examples, the wire feeder 104 uses the wire feeder controller 134 to detect whether the wire feeder 104 is in communication with the power supply 102, and if the wire feeder 104 is in communication with the power supply 102, to detect a current welding process of the power supply 102.

In an example, the power supply 102 delivers the power output directly to the welding torch 106 without employing any contactors. In such examples, power regulation is controlled by control circuitry 112 and/or power conversion circuitry 110. In some examples, a contactor 135 (e.g., a high amperage relay) is employed and controlled by the wire feeder controller 134 and is configured to enable or disable continued flow of welding power to the weld cable 126 for a welding application. In some examples, the contactor 135 is an electromechanical device. However, the contactor 135 may be any other suitable device, such as a solid state device. Wire feeder 104 includes a wire driver 136 that receives control signals from wire feeder controller 134 to drive a roller 138 that rotates to draw wire off a wire spool 140. The welding wire is provided to the welding application through a torch cable 142. Likewise, wire feeder 104 may provide shielding gas from cable 132 through cable 142. The wire electrode, shielding gas, and power from the weld cable 126 are bundled together in a single torch cable 144 and/or are provided separately to the torch 106. In some examples, the contactor 135 is omitted, and output or welding type power is initiated and stopped by the power supply 102 without employing the contactor 135. In some examples, one or more sensors 127 are included in or coupled to the wire feeder 104 to monitor one or more welding parameters (e.g., power, voltage, current, wire feed speed, etc.) to notify the controller 134 during the welding process. In some examples, one or more sensors are included in the welding power supply 102.

In some examples, the remote device 94 includes remote control circuitry 90 operable to transmit information to and receive information from an auxiliary device (such as the wire feeder 104). Wire feeder 102 responds with control information and/or diagnostic information, and remote device 94 may store the diagnostic information (in memory of remote control circuitry 90) and/or display the diagnostic information on remote user interface 44.

In some examples, the remote device 94 serves as a link between the auxiliary device and the welding power supply 102. Thus, the remote device 94 may receive commands or data from the welding power supply 102 (or auxiliary device) and transmit commands or data from the welding power supply 102 (or auxiliary device) to the auxiliary device (or welding power supply 102).

The welding torch 106 delivers welding wire, welding power, and/or shielding gas for a welding application. The welding torch 106 is used to establish a welding arc between the welding torch 106 and the workpiece 146. The work cable 148 couples the workpiece 146 to the power supply 102 (e.g., to the power conversion circuitry 110) to provide a return path for the welding current (e.g., as part of the welding circuit). The example work cable 148 may be attached to the power supply 102 and/or detachable from the power supply 102 to facilitate replacement of the work cable 148. The work cable 148 may terminate with a clamp 150 (or another power connection device) that couples the power supply 102 to the workpiece 146. In some examples, the welding torch 106 includes or is coupled to one or more sensors 147 to monitor one or more welding parameters (e.g., power, voltage, current, wire feed speed, etc.) to notify the controller 134 and/or 112 during the welding process. Although the welding torch 106 (e.g., a welding tool as described herein) is shown connected by the wire feeder 104, in some examples, the welding tool may be directly connected to the welding power supply 102. For example, the planing and/or cutting tool may be directly connected to a stud or another power outlet of the welding power supply 102. In some examples, the wire feeder is integrated with the power supply, and a stud or other power outlet is provided on the housing of such an integrated enclosure.

FIG. 3B is a schematic diagram of another example welding system 152 in which the wire feeder 104 includes the user interface 114 in addition to or in lieu of the user interface on the welding power supply 102. In the example of fig. 3B, the control circuitry 134 of the wire feeder 104 implements the determination of the welding procedure and welding parameters described with reference to the control circuitry 112 of fig. 3A.

FIG. 3C is a schematic view of another example welding system 154 that includes a separate user interface 156. The user interface 156 is a separate device and may be connected to the welding power supply 102 and/or the wire feeder 104 to provide command and/or control information. The example user interface 156 includes the input device 115 and the display 116, and includes control circuitry 158. The example control circuitry 158 includes processor(s) 120 and memory 124 that stores instructions 125. The example user interface 156 further includes a communication transceiver 119 for enabling communication between the user interface 156 and the welding power supply 102 and/or the wire feeder.

3A-3C are illustrated with one user interface (114, 156) in conjunction with certain systems, this illustration is exemplary such that one or more of the interfaces disclosed herein and additional user interfaces may be incorporated in one or more of the example welding systems disclosed herein. Further, although the power supply 102 and the wire feeder 104 are illustrated as separate units, in some examples, the power supply and the wire feeder may be housed in a single housing or otherwise integrated. Additionally or alternatively, in some examples, a single controller, control circuitry, and/or interface may control the operation of the engine-driven power system 80, the power supply 102, and the wire feeder 104.

FIG. 4 provides a flowchart representative of example machine readable instructions 300 that may be executed by the example system 80 of FIG. 1A. The example instructions 300 may be stored in the storage(s) 123 and/or the memory 124 and executed by the processor(s) 120 of the control circuitry 112. Example instructions 300 are described below with reference to the systems of fig. 1A-3C.

In block 302, one or more first inputs implementing a first welding protocol of the one or more welding protocols (e.g., provided in fig. 2A) are received from a user interface (e.g., input devices 46-54) of the remote device 92.

In block 304, the remote control circuitry 90 generates one or more first signals corresponding to a first welding regime in response to one or more first inputs from the user interface. In block 306, the remote control circuitry 90 transmits the one or more first signals to the welding power supply 102 via the remote transceiver 92 to control the welding power supply to implement a first welding regime.

In block 308, the welding power supply 102 receives (via the network interface 117 or transceiver) one or more first inputs from the user interface to implement a first welding protocol of the one or more welding protocols. In block 310, the welding power supply 102 determines (via the control circuitry 112) whether the remote device 92 is in a shared or dedicated control mode. If the remote device 90 is not in the control mode, the method returns to block 302. If the remote device 90 is in the control mode and issues an authorization command, the welding power supply 102 implements the commanded change to the welding regime (via the control circuitry 112) in block 312.

In block 314, a second input implementing a second welding regime of the one or more welding regimes is received at the user interface.

In block 316, the remote control circuitry 90 generates one or more second signals corresponding to a second welding regime in response to one or more second inputs from the user interface. In block 318, the remote control circuitry 90 transmits the one or more second signals to the welding power supply 102 via the remote transceiver 92 to control the welding power supply to implement the second welding regime.

In block 320, the welding power supply 102 receives (via the network interface 117 or transceiver) one or more second inputs from the user interface to implement a second welding regime of the one or more welding regimes.

In block 322, the central control circuitry compares the first welding profile (existing welding profile) to the second welding profile and determines whether an adjustment is needed in block 324. If no adjustment is needed, the method returns to block 302. If an adjustment to the weld schedule is needed, the method proceeds to block 326 to adjust the weld schedule from the first weld schedule to the second weld schedule.

The present apparatus and/or method may be implemented in hardware, software, or a combination of hardware and software. The method and/or system may be implemented in a centralized fashion in at least one computing system, processor, and/or other logic circuit, or in a distributed fashion where different elements are spread across several interconnected computing systems, processors, and/or other logic circuits. Any kind of computing system or other apparatus adapted for carrying out the methods described herein is suited. A typical combination of hardware and software may be a processing system integrated in a welding power supply with program or other code that, when loaded and executed, controls the welding power supply such that it carries out the methods described herein. Another exemplary embodiment may include an application specific integrated circuit or chip, such as a Field Programmable Gate Array (FPGA), a Programmable Logic Device (PLD), or a Complex Programmable Logic Device (CPLD), and/or a system on a chip (SoC). Some implementations may include a non-transitory machine-readable (e.g., computer-readable) medium (e.g., flash memory, optical disks, magnetic storage disks, etc.) having one or more lines of code stored thereon that are executable by a machine, thereby causing the machine to perform the processes described herein. As used herein, the term "non-transitory machine-readable medium" is defined to include all types of machine-readable storage media and to exclude propagating signals.

The control circuitry may identify a welding condition for a given weld and automatically find an optimal value for one or more welding parameters for the welding condition. Example control circuit implementations may be an Atmel Mega16 microcontroller, an STM32F407 microcontroller, field programmable logic circuitry, and/or any other control or logic circuitry capable of executing instructions to run welding control software. The control circuit may also be implemented in analog circuitry and/or a combination of digital and analog circuitry. Examples are described herein with reference to various types of welders, but these examples may be used or modified for use in any type of high frequency switching power supply.

While the present method and/or system has been described with reference to certain embodiments, it will be understood by those skilled in the art that various changes may be made and equivalents may be substituted without departing from the scope of the present method and/or system. In addition, many modifications may be made to adapt a particular situation or material to the teachings of the disclosure without departing from the scope thereof. For example, blocks and/or components of the disclosed examples may be combined, divided, rearranged, and/or otherwise modified. Thus, the present methods and/or systems are not limited to the specific embodiments disclosed. Instead, the present method and/or system will include all embodiments falling within the scope of the appended claims, whether literally or under the doctrine of equivalents.