Assembly Automation: Volume 16 Issue 1

Man and machine in harmony?

Steve Jordan

Looks at the interface between people and automation and considers which tasks are best suited to machines and which to people. Notes particularly the cost factors involved and…

Computer vision in interactive robotics

Roberto Cipolla, Nicholas Hollinghurst, Andrew Gee, Robert Dowland

Computer vision provides many opportunities for novel man‐machine interfaces. Pointing and face gestures can be used as a simple, passive means of interfacing with computers and…

Workplace ergonomics and simulation

Narinder Nayer

Notes the tendency to ignore ergonomics during the process of workplace design. Features Deneb/ERGO, a 3D graphic simulation and ergonomic analysis tool to meet this need. Focuses…

Deburring: a joint operation

Anna Kochan

Explores the potential for the use of robotic techniques in the component finishing task. Features a joint project by the French CEA (atomic energy commission) and Stäubli and…

Productronica ’95: wafers and waste

Gareth J. Monkman

Reports on Productronica ’95 and notes the domination of two main applications: semiconductor wafer processing and printed circuit board production. Focuses on items such as the…

Moll: sewing to perfection

Anna Kochan

Investigates the use of robotic sewing systems for assembling car headrest covers at Moll, a German company. Notes the key role of robots in the production process by virtue of…

Remploy: disabled and thriving

Anna Kochan

Focuses on Remploy, which seeks to find employment for disabled people. Discusses Remploy’s work in PCB assembly and the role of the well‐motivated staff in ensuring high‐quality…