Laser welding has become an established and widely adopted manufacturing process across numerous industries due to its precision, efficiency, and adaptability. Recognized for delivering high-quality, consistent welds with minimal thermal distortion, it has become a standard in sectors such as automotive, aerospace, electronics, and medical device production. We have seen different advancements in the last years to cover the new requirements of the industry. On one hand, the on-the-fly laser welding, which is an advanced manufacturing technique that enables precise and high-speed joining of components while they are in motion, making it ideal for automated production lines. This process uses high-powered lasers, often combined with real-time vision systems and motion tracking, to dynamically adjust the weld path and parameters as the workpiece moves. On-the-fly welding offers several advantages over traditional stationary methods, including reduced cycle times, improved alignment flexibility, and seamless integration into continuous manufacturing processes. On the other hand, handheld laser welding, which is a versatile and user-friendly technique that combines the precision of laser technology with the flexibility of manual operation. Unlike traditional welding methods, handheld laser welders produce clean, high-quality welds with minimal heat-affected zones, reducing the risk of warping or material damage. These systems are lightweight, easy to operate, and require minimal setup, making them ideal for small-batch production, on-site repairs, or applications involving complex or hard-to-reach joints.

Both new technologies demands new solutions in sources, laser heads, laser safety elements and process monitoring systems. We will discuss about the latest developments and remaining needs with the whole supply chain in this online meeting.