EFFECT OF VIRTUAL WELDING SIMULATOR ON TIG WELDING TRAINING

Abstract

The objective of the study is to analyze the contribution of our simulator to assisting trainees in developing their TIG (tungsten inert gas) welding skills. With use of the developed virtual welding simulator, three-dimensional welding processes can be performed in virtual environments comparable to those that occur during real welding. A 'welder performance analysis and evaluation module' is implemented in the virtual welding simulator in order to monitor individual and classroom-based development of trainees; in this way retrospective and current performance reports can be obtained. The calculated ideal welding parameters, the welding parameter data that are recorded during the virtual welding, and the results of the performance evaluation process are all stored in a database. Performance analysis is done by an expert system method in accordance with the opinions of four welding experts. Results are shown both visual and numerical formats. At the end of the user performance analysis, the user weaknesses can be identified and recommendations will be displayed on the screen. By doing this, significant shortcomings will be detected and readily made available for remediation easily. The software was developed in accordance with computer-aided education principles. The package also incorporates basic welding education knowledge and documentation concerning the effects on learning from use of the virtual welding simulator. The findings of the work show the positive impact of our welding simulator on welding education.