Economic Applications of Assembly Robots: Elements of Sensor Applications to Programmable Feeders

摘要

The fundamental groundwork performed for the design of a programmable feeder for block-like parts is described, with emphasis on the production and behavior of part orientation signatures. The technology of programmable feeders is introduced and a survey of sensor types and configurations which may be possible candidates for part signature systems is included. Special attention if focused on the behavior of the Skanamatic S17103 Sensor. The sensor's output measurement methods are considered and its response is examined as a function of distance. An experimental procedure for determining the variation of signal error with signal strength is presented. A second prototype programmable feeder and orienter is described. Appendices contain sensor specifications and signal error experimental data.