F012: From Collaborative Robotics to Autonomous AI-Driven Joining Technologies

With a new cobot welding system popping up on social media seemingly every day, it can be overwhelming and difficult for fabricators to know who & what to trust.

When done right, cobot welding technology is providing thousands of manufacturers of all types & sizes with productivity gains, quality improvements, and new-talent attraction – all at an affordable price, manageable risk, and quick implementation. But – the key here is cobot welding done right.

In this informative presentation, the pioneer of cobot welding systems will share observed Keys to Success and arm you with 10 Questions to ask your potential cobot welding suppliers, to help you separate the proven providers from the pretenders.

As labor shortages and skill gaps continue to challenge the fabrication industry, autonomous welding and AI offer a powerful, scalable solution. This session explores how Cortex AI combines advanced robotics and intelligent software to improve efficiency, quality, throughput, and attract new talent to a tech-driven industry. We’ll show how high-mix automation is achieved by eliminating manual programming through CAD-based automatic weld path generation, creating a seamless flow from design to production. Attendees will gain practical guidance on robot-friendly connection design, digital weld modeling best practices, and the use of CAD platforms such as Tekla Structures, SDS/2, and Advanced Steel. By aligning digital inputs with fabrication workflows, fabricators can reduce rework, improve consistency, and accelerate their journey into autonomous welding.