Engineering Design and Prototyping Methodology in Complex Environments: The In-Bore Welding Tool

The engineering process is a critical area in the design and development of devices for scientific, industrial and technological applications. This process involves the conceptualization, design, prototyping and production of equipment suitable for specific operations or functions. The main objectives of equipment engineering are to optimize the performance, efficiency of functionality, safety and reliability of devices, as well as to reduce costs and production time. The application of advanced engineering methodologies, such as Computer-Aided Design (CAD), systems analysis and advanced manufacturing techniques such as Additive Manufacturing (AM), allows the creation of high specialized and high performance equipment to satisfy the specific needs of modern industries. In the framework of advanced technologies such as nuclear fusion, equipment engineering plays a key role in solving complex challenges and developing innovative solutions involving various aspects of engineering knowledge. This paper presents the design and prototyping process of a tool for in-bore welding of pipes used in fusion nuclear power plants, called In-Bore Welding Tool (IBWT).