Oqton and Valk Welding Partner for Automated Robotic Welding

Oqton, a software provider focused on intelligently automating production, and Valk Welding, a company vested in flexible arc welding robots, have entered a partnership. Oqton’s software will become part of Valk Welding’s Automatic Robotic Programming (ARP) solution for high-mix, low-volume (HMLV) production.

The Valk Welding ARP powered by Oqton enables faster programming than traditional offline programming solutions, the companies say. The new techniques and processes the companies will jointly develop are intended to enhance the use of automated robotic welding for unique or small batch production that was previously only viable using manual methods, the companies note.

The Valk Welding ARP powered by Oqton autonomously generates robotic welding programs directly from 3D CAD files, reducing the need for programming. The solution relies on artificial intelligence to learn from an operator’s best practices to refine processes for future parts. Welders can use this software without previous knowledge of robots or 3D geometry. The ease of use of the Valk Welding ARP powered by Oqton make this a solution for HMLV robotic welding for steel fabrication subcontractors who are manufacturing lifting platforms, transport pallets, fencing, and automotive sub-frames, according to the companies.

“Happy to have Oqton in our ARP-Automatic Robot Programming suite," says Peter Pittomvils, chief commercial officer, Valk Welding Group. "Besides our own projects, we also support Oqton to all other Panasonic system integrators to also serve their customers with this great solution and our experience.”

Sources: Press materials received from the company and additional information gleaned from the company’s website.