Welding sequence optimisation in the automotive industry: A review

Spot welding is the most common technique used to join sheet metals in the automotive industry due to the fast rate of production. Optimising the welding process including the sequence, number and location of the welds would significantly improve the quality of the final product and production cost. This paper presents an overview on the available methods to plan and optimise various aspects of the welding process including welding sequence, weld quantity and location. Firstly, the welding concept in the automotive industry is briefly reviewed. Secondly, the welding process optimisation with emphasis on the welding sequence is discussed. The common gaps and challenges are identified and, lastly, future research to plan and optimise the welding sequence in the automotive body is outlined.