Optimized clamping technology for laser welding

Erlangen, Germany – A bit of practical work is an essential part of studying an engineering subject. This practical experience is being acquired by around 40 mechanical engineering students at Regensburg University, thanks to a cooperation agreement with the Laser Welding Division of LPKF Laser & Electronics AG.

The specifications are ambitious. Groups of two to three participants are given an identical task: to develop and evaluate clamping methods for the robot-assisted TwinWeld welding technique. The narrow terms of reference provide a realistic production framework for the task. All the groups are to develop solutions following two different basic approaches and then present the results. The winners will be rewarded with a cash prize.

The first step in this process has already been undertaken: the students took part in a factory tour of the LPKF office in Erlangen, accompanied by their professors Dr.-Ing. Stefan Hierl and Dr.-Ing. Thomas Schaeffer. Hierl thus revisited his previous place of work; before taking up his lecturing duties at the university, he was in charge of the Laser Welding Division. Thus, he knows most everything there is to know about the engineering side of the business.

LPKF is delighted to be able to cooperate with the university, as Frank Brunnecker, the current branch manager, explains: "We highlight the fact that a job in the engineering profession is regularly associated with exciting challenges. At the same time, we are raising our profile at the university with the aim of attracting students to apply to us for employment when they have finished their degrees – as an active part of our endeavors to recruit qualified technical staff."

LPKF Laser & Electronics AG produces machines and laser systems used in electronics production, medical technology, the automotive industry, and the fabrication of solar panels. Around 20% of LPKF’s employees work in research and development