Illinois Tool Works Inc.
TRACKING WELDING TORCHES USING RETRACTABLE CORDS

Abstract:

Described herein are examples of torch tracking systems that monitor travel directions, speeds, and/or distances of welding torches using retractable cords. In some examples, the torch tracking systems use a sensor to measure a speed at which a reel extends and/or retracts a cord, and/or measure a length of the cord that is extended and/or retracted. The reel or cord can be attached to some portion of the welding torch, such that movement of the torch away from the reel causes the reel to extend more cord, and movement towards the reel allows a spring loaded spool of the reel to automatically retract the cord. While reel based torch tracking systems may provide coarser tracking than the more complex and/or expensive torch tracking solutions, their simplicity and low cost may make them an attractive alternative.