True robo-vision arrives

Citation

(2005), "True robo-vision arrives", Sensor Review, Vol. 25 No. 2. https://doi.org/10.1108/sr.2005.08725bab.002

True robo-vision arrives

True robo-vision arrives

Keywords: Robots, Machine vision

DVT Corporation and KUKA Robot have announced the launch of a robot with seamlessly integrated machine vision. A two-tier vision management tool enables simpler operation of the robot's visual faculties, while the robot's use of vision is set to become ... almost second nature.

Integrating a robot with a vision system into one single package required KUKA and DVT to address three issues: connectivity, programmability and support.

Connectivity

In the new set-up, the DVT Corporation's Vision System (DCVS) directly connects to the KUKA Robot Controller (KRC) via fast ethernet, without the need for additional devices such as a SmartLink. This means that Vision is no longer managed separately from the robot, nor does it require its own PC monitor. Rather, Vision Systems Management is accessed directly from the robot's teach pendant, a hand held screen with simplified input buttons (see Plate 1).

“Not only does this reduce cost and simplify operation of the robot's vision,” says Ian Tatton, DVT's Director of Business Development for Northern Europe, “it means the operator's perception is of a robot with integral vision, so there is going to be an increased expectation that the robot will perform tasks that incorporate a vision function.”

Plate 1 KUKA robot teach pendant, with KUKA vision software

Programmability – innovative twin GUI

Programming DVT's Vision System to meet these expectations is also subject to a ground-breaking new development from KUKA, that changes how robotic vision is managed and operated. DVT's award winning Framework software remains present on board the camera itself. Accessed through the robot's teach pendant, a trained operator can set up any number of work routines, inspections, tests, locating coordinates, scans, OCR activities or other tasks. Ongoing training is supplied free of charge by DVT, so operators can keep up with the rapid developments in machine vision technology.

However, KUKA Vision is a new second tier user interface that utilises DVT's ActiveX control to provide a much simplified, operation only version of the software. This means that while one trained operator can programme or set up a variety of tasks, any operator can perform these tasks without training. KUKA Vision provides the operator with intuitive, obvious one- click controls governing key functions of the robot's vision system; including tasks such as connect to cam; see or record an image; see data; or switch the robot's product routine.

Flexible operation

This does not just reduce the need for trained vision systems operators, but it also expands vision operations among a wider group of untrained users. It also means that a robot can be loaded up with a variety of vision dependent routines, between which any operator can switch. In addition, when circumstances demand, specialised vision tools, such as DVT's Spectrocam, can be loaded.

Cameras can be located in any position either near a line or area of work, or on the robot itself. The vision system can also be used to locate and correctly identify any number of tools the robot may need to use, such as drills and grinders. All of these routines can be pre-programmed by a trained operator, and implemented at the touch of a button by any user.

For futher information, contact: DVT Corporation, MWB Business Exchange, 4th Floor, 494 Midsummer Boulevard, Milton Keynes MK9 2EA. Tel: +44 (0)1908 255772; web site: www.dvtsensors.com. Kuka Robot, Hereward Rise, Halesowen, West Midlands, B62 8AN. Tel. +44 (0121) 585 0800; web site: www.kuka.co.uk