ALAS · Adaptive laser cladding system with variable spot sizes

The ALAS project aims to shorten the gap between research and economy with latest research activities in the fields of optics and laser processing, by providing an innovative, adaptive laser cladding system with variable spot size to end users. Thus, Europe’s SMEs will be empowered to strengthen their global market position as the productivity will increase due to shortened setup times, flexibility gain and controlled quality.The main features of the ALAS system are:- Simple interfacing with the operatorAdapted to complex geometries, thanks to track width variationReal-Time laser power control to avoid heat accumulation in the part to be processedCompact design that minimize the safety laser requirements of the traditional laser cellsProvision to interface with the rest of elements of the laser cellThe working plan has been designed to attain the goal of the present project. To develop an adaptive tool for laser cladding, this project has been divided in 8 WP including the RTD task as well a dissemination and management WPs. The work will comprise:- The design of an adaptive optical path : to be able to vary the track width- The development of a laser cladding monitoring and control system: it will be based on a vision system that will check the real melt pool dimension and act on laser power- The development of the control interface of the ALAS system: which will be user friendly and easy to use.The coordinator will have the responsibility to carry on in good way this project.Regarding the impact of ALAS, it will yield:Higher processing flexibility and productivityAn increase of the market share for the end usersImproved repairing sector competitiveness.Improved the working conditions of operators.New opportunities for high-technology products, for which European industry has competitive advantages, like optical design, system solutions for laser cladding or other laser processes