New “Cutting Assistant” uses AI (artificial intelligence) to independently determine laser cutting parameters // Solution available for all TruLaser series with a power of 6 kW or more // Users save time and counteract the skilled worker shortage
At its in-house INTECH trade fair, TRUMPF is showcasing its “Cutting Assistant,” an application which uses artificial intelligence to improve the quality of laser-cut edges. To use it, production employees take a picture of their component’s cut edge with a hand scanner. The solution then assesses edge quality by evaluating for objective criteria such as burr formation. With this information, the Cutting Assistant’s optimization algorithm suggests improved parameters for the cutting process. The machine then cuts the sheet metal once more. If the quality still does not meet expectations, the user has the option to repeat the process. “With the Cutting Assistant, TRUMPF is once again demonstrating that we are a pioneer in the use of AI in industrial manufacturing. Users aren’t just empowered to combat the skilled worker shortage, they’re also able to save time and money. This gives them a competitive edge when it comes to productivity,” says TRUMPF product manager Louisa Peters. The high-tech company offers this solution for all TruLaser series featuring a power output of 6 kW or more. Most owners who are already in possession of TRUMPF machines should be able to simply download the Cutting Assistant.
AI evaluates edge quality and makes optimization suggestions
During laser cutting, users often have difficulty determining the correct parameters for their material grades. Materials which are not optimized for laser cutting often produce edges with wide variations in cut quality, forcing production employees to constantly change the technology parameters. This entails adjusting each individual parameter one by one— a process which demands a lot of time and employee experience. This presents challenges for many companies, especially those with inexperienced workers in production positions. By integrating the Cutting Assistant into the machine software, optimized parameters can be transferred seamlessly into the software without the need for programming. This saves time and reduces errors.
TRUMPF aims to further improve Cutting Assistant with users
TRUMPF experts have cut thousands of parts and drawn upon their years of expertise while developing the Cutting Assistant, using their extensive knowledge to train the software’s algorithm. For TRUMPF, the work on the Cutting Assistant continues. In the future, data from applications in the field will also be incorporated into the solution. This will enable faster and more reliable results, because the self-learning system will continuously improve. Through all of this, TRUMPF ensures that the algorithm does not distribute the user’s expertise. “Manufacturers and users alike benefit from this novel development approach. Of course, data security remains a top priority for TRUMPF,” says Peters. TRUMPF regularly provides users with online updates that they can download to their machines.
