In 1998 the prize awarded was also divided between two research teams due to the high standard of equally valuable inventions.

The distinguished works:

Automatic mounting welding system with universal weld processing for shipbuilding and steel construction.
The slide-guided assembly welding system is a common development product of MIKA Welding Technology GmbH, in Stralsund and the Department of Physics, Institute for Measuring and Regulation Technology in the University of Rostock. The equipment which is ready for serial production is distinguished by a modern sensory and control system, which ensure that the welding torch is automatically guided along the welding seam. The significantly increased duration of activation together with a simultaneous reduction of defective welding seams is one of the most important benefits of the system. The invention was evaluated as a further progressive step in the direction of economic, quality and operational safety and welding operational safety.

Innovative tacking grippers for metal shielded arc welding .
The innovative development of the company, Tack Engineering GmbH, Kehl is based on the idea of flexibly automating the tacking procedure during welding without the need for complex and elaborate systems. The MSG tacking gripper closes the gap in automation in robot welding sector. This is a combination of a workpiece gripper and a MIG/MAG torch connected via the drive elements and control. The tacking gripper can be used for picking up, handling and jointing. The MSG welding torch, which is flange-mounted onto the gripper, carries out both the tacking and welding tasks. The installation permits the retrofitting of welding robotic cells within a short time, which means that it is also economically feasible for small batches and frequent exchange between assemblies.