Optical scanner assisted robotic assembly

Abstract

Purpose

This paper aims to propose the method of automatic robotic assembly of two or more parts placed without fixing instrumentation and positioning on the pallet.

Design/methodology/approach

Assembly tasks performed by industrial robots are usually based on a constant program, extensive tooling, fixing objects in a given place and a relatively limited sensory system. In this study, a different approach is presented. The industrial robot program is adjusted to the location of parts for assembly in the work space. This leads to a transition from a clearly defined assembly sequence realized by the industrial robot to the one in which the order of execution of the assembly operations can be determined by the mutual position of parts to be assembled.

Findings

The method presented in this study combines many already known algorithms. The contribution of the authors is to test and select the appropriate combination of methods capable of supporting robotic assembly process based on data from optical 3D scanners. The sequence of operations from scanning to place the parts in the installation position by an industrial robot is developed. A set of parameters for selected methods is presented. The result is a universal procedure that determines the position of the preset models in partial measurements performed at a fixed relative position of the sensor, the measurement object.

Originality/value

The developed procedure for determining the position of the parts is essential to develop a flexible robotic assembly system. It will be able to perform the task of assembly on the basis of appropriate search algorithms taking into account the selected and implemented sequence of assembly position and orientation of parts, particularly the base unit freely placed on an assembly pallete. It is also the basis of a system for testing different algorithms to optimize the flexible robotic assembly.

Citation

Wojciechowski, J. and Suszynski, M. (2017), "Optical scanner assisted robotic assembly", Assembly Automation, Vol. 37 No. 4, pp. 434-441. https://doi.org/10.1108/AA-07-2016-068