The position of the welding head relative to the welded seam is a decisive factor in the quality of automated welding processes. Even minor deviations affect the welding result and may cause the need for manual rework or rejection of the component. To measure the profile of the seams, scanCONTROL laser scanners are used. They provide precise profile information of the seam even on difficult surfaces. The calculated paths eliminate deviations from the component tolerance in such a way that the welding head is positioned over the desired seam at all times.