Hitachi has developed a welding management system that utilizes multiple local magnetic sensors and a curved correction sensor to monitor the joining state of a target position. The system processes detection values to identify and notify users of any defective welding occurrences. GlobalData’s report on Hitachi gives a 360-degree view of the company including its patenting strategy. Buy the report here.

According to GlobalData’s company profile on Hitachi, M2M communication interfaces was a key innovation area identified from patents. Hitachi's grant share as of June 2024 was 34%. Grant share is based on the ratio of number of grants to total number of patents.

Welding management system using magnetic sensors for defect detection

Source: United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO). Credit: Hitachi Ltd

The granted patent US12042877B2 outlines a welding management system designed to enhance the monitoring and quality control of welding processes. Central to this system is a magnetic detection unit that identifies magnetism generated around a target joining position during the welding process, which is initiated by the energization of the member being welded. The system comprises multiple first magnetic detection units positioned around the target area and a second magnetic detection unit that is curved to encompass the joining position. A data processing unit analyzes the detection values from these units to assess the joining state, generating information that is communicated through a notification unit. This unit can highlight specific first magnetic detection units when defective welding is detected, allowing for targeted troubleshooting.

Additionally, the patent describes various configurations of the magnetic detection units, including the possibility of the second unit functioning as one of the first units in certain circumferential sections. The data processing unit can utilize different methods to generate joining state information, such as analyzing waveforms or differences in detection values. Furthermore, the system includes a control unit that can manage the operation of welding machines based on the processed information, thereby integrating quality control directly into the welding process. This innovative approach aims to improve the reliability and efficiency of welding operations by providing real-time feedback and control mechanisms.

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GlobalData Patent Analytics tracks bibliographic data, legal events data, point in time patent ownerships, and backward and forward citations from global patenting offices. Textual analysis and official patent classifications are used to group patents into key thematic areas and link them to specific companies across the world’s largest industries.