Collaborative robot + handheld laser welding
Cobot-guided handheld laser cutting and welding demo
A practical application concept for mounting a handheld laser welding source on a collaborative robot, then using hand-taught paths for simple cutting and welding work.
Main demo video
The handheld laser source becomes a flexible cobot process tool.
Instead of fixing the head to a compact XY table, this setup mounts the handheld laser welding source on a collaborative robot. The operator can teach points by hand, then repeat the path for cutting or welding demonstrations.
- ✓Cutting test on 1.2 mm sheet metal.
- ✓Hand-guided point teaching for simple path setup.
- ✓Switch from cutting to no-wire welding mode.
- ✓Robot-guided welding pass with the same basic system.
Method comparison
How it differs from a common CNC-bed conversion
| Topic | Small CNC-bed conversion | Cobot-guided conversion |
|---|---|---|
| Motion platform | The laser head is fixed to a small XY bed. | The handheld laser source is mounted on a collaborative robot arm. |
| Workpiece handling | The part usually needs to fit the table. | The robot and laser can be moved closer to the workpiece. |
| Path setup | Programmed like a simple CNC process. | Operator can hand-teach points and repeat the path. |
| Function use | Often shown only as a cutting conversion. | Demonstrates both cutting and welding with one laser source. |
Short clips
Sales-ready clips for quick customer explanation
Not a CNC bed
Explains the key difference in the robot-guided method.
Hand-teach path
Shows point teaching by moving the cobot directly.
Cutting to welding
Shows the process switch from cutting to welding.
Welding result
Shows the robot-guided no-wire welding pass.
Basic workflow
From handheld source to repeatable robot path
Mount the source
Install the handheld laser source on the cobot end setup with process tooling.
Teach the path
Move the robot by hand, confirm points, and build a repeatable trajectory.
Run cutting
Use the guided path for simple cutting tests and tune focus or gas pressure.
Switch to welding
Change the copper nozzle, select welding mode, and run a robot weld pass.
Application fit
Best for demos, integrator validation, and flexible workshop trials.
This method is useful when customers need to see how a handheld laser system can become a robot-guided process tool for simple paths, light fabrication trials, or workpieces that are awkward to bring to a compact cutting table.
Final performance depends on laser power, head configuration, gas setup, robot payload, fixture design, material, thickness, safety enclosure, and site requirements.
Engineering notes
Cut quality tuning
The demo shows a 1.2 mm sheet cutting test. Focus and gas pressure can be tuned for cleaner edges.
Safety first
Use proper laser shielding, interlocks, PPE, fume extraction, and local safety standards.
Quotation review
Check material, thickness, path shape, fixture access, robot reach, payload, and expected cycle time.
Function change
Switching between cutting and welding requires the correct nozzle, mode, parameters, and safety setup.
For project review
Send the demo first, then collect the application details.
For a real project, collect material, thickness, drawing or sample photos, expected process, fixture constraints, and safety requirements before quoting.
Email application details