Assembly machine with spatial positioning control
US7040196B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Jan 22, 2004 |
| Grant date | May 9, 2006 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Jan 22, 2024 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC B)Performing Operations; Transporting
- CPC primaryB25J19/0012
- WIPO fieldHandling
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
An assembly machine includes a support structure having a plurality of selectively moveable support members that facilitate manually manipulating a tool relative to a work piece. A controller continuously gathers position information regarding the support members to determine every position of the tool. The controller includes a teach mode that allows for storing selected tool activation positions in particular sequences for subsequent control of the tool according to necessary procedures for completing a variety of assembly processes. One example machine designed according to this invention includes selectively controlled biasing members that maintain a zero balance on the tool, provide an operator assist to moving the tool or both.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.