Abstract
This paper aims to develop an intelligent model for predicting top-bead width for the robotic GMA(Gas Metal Arc) welding process using BP(Back-propagation) neural network and multiple regression analysis. Firstly, based on experimental data, the basic factors affecting top-bead width are identified. Then BP neural network model and multiple regression models of top-bead width are established. The modeling methods and procedure are explained. The developed models are then verified by data obtained from the additional experiment and the predictive behaviors of the two kind of models are compared and analysed. Finally the modeling methods, predictive behaviors md the advantages of each models are discussed.