Keywords
Citation
(2001), "KUKA measures up", Industrial Robot, Vol. 28 No. 1. https://doi.org/10.1108/ir.2001.04928aaf.003
Publisher
:Emerald Group Publishing Limited
Copyright © 2001, MCB UP Limited
KUKA measures up
KUKA measures up
Keywords KUKA, Statistical process control, Robots, Accuracy
KUKA, in conjunction with robot sensor applications specialist, Amatec, has developed a fully integrated 3D measurement system for accurate and reliable process control and in-line gauging (see Plate 2).
All KUKA inspection robots are self-calibrating and use a carbon fibre reference tool in process which means that the robot is unaffected by fluctuations in temperature.
The robot can operate in a realistic, manufacturing environment and is a proven, low-cost alternative to traditional, fixed sensor tunnel systems.
Plate 2 KUKA, in
conjunction with robot sensor applications specialist, Amatec, has developed a
fully-integrated 3D measurement system for accurate and reliable process control
and in-line gauging
KUKA robots are programmed via KUKA's own hand-held controller which incorporates the camera image for faster programming and set-up times. The LMI sensor equipment is fully integrated inside the KUKA controller for very fast communications between the sensor and robot. This means setting and measuring times are substantially quicker than conventional systems.
KUKA inspection robots are already used by car makers such as Audi, BMW, DaimlerChrysler, Opel, Land Rover, PSA, Renault, Rover and Vauxhall for measuring vehicle bodies and sub-assemblies.
"The flexibility of robotic measurement means different versions of car part variations can be measured within the same measuring station, offering unprecedented cost savings", commented Alan Shilton, KUKA UK's managing director.
Further details are available from: KUKA Welding Systems + Robot Ltd, Hereward Rise, Halesowen, West Midlands B62 8AN, UK. Tel: +44 (0)121 585 0800; e-mail: sales@kuka.co.uk