Precision and quick affixing method for flexible automated assembly
US5771553A · kind A · utility
Assignees
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Oct 3, 1996 |
| Grant date | Jun 30, 1998 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Oct 3, 2016 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC Y)Emerging Cross-Sectional Technologies
- CPC primaryY10T29/53022
- WIPO fieldHandling
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
An error reduction and accommodation method and system can be used in an automated assembly environment. This method and system use a simple localized calibration process devised to improve similarity between an actual device and a simulated model when an off-line programming technique is used. The system uses grid-hole tables with modular fixtures holding the workpieces. The grid-hole table has round holes instead of screw holes or T-slots and allows modular fixtures with round pins to be placed on the grid-hole table with greater precision. A compliant coupling which is able to accommodate any small error in the system and when used with any end-tool, allows the assembly robot to carry out tasks within the modular system. The use of the grid-hole table and modular fixtures allows the robot, once taught the grid-hole table and the modular fixtures, to be subsequently programmed off-line to carry out any tasks with any standardized modular fixture placed any where on the grid-hole table. The modular fixtures easily slide into any selected grid-holes as required and may be used without further clamping or may be clamped to the grid-hole table, if so desired.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.