Quick affixing method

Citation

(2001), "Quick affixing method", Industrial Robot, Vol. 28 No. 6. https://doi.org/10.1108/ir.2001.04928fad.017

Quick affixing method

Keywords: Assembly

Applicant: National University of Singapore (Singapore, SG); Nanyang Polytechnic (Singapore, SG)Patent number: US5,771,553Publication date: 30 June 1998Title: Precision and quick affixing method for flexible automated assembly

An error reduction and accommodation method and system is presented that can be used in an automated assembly environment. This method and system use a simple localized calibration process devised to improve similarity between an actual device and a simulated model when an off-line programming technique is applied. The system uses grid-hole tables with modular fixtures holding the workpieces. The grid-hole table has round holes instead of screw holes or T-slots and allows modular fixtures with round pins to be placed on the grid-hole table with greater precision. A compliant coupling which is able to accommodate any small error in the system and when used with any end-tool, allows the assembly robot to carry out tasks within the modular system. The use of the grid-hole table and modular fixtures allows the robot to be subsequently programmed off-line to carry out any tasks with any standardized modular fixture placed any where on the grid-hole table, once it has been taught the grid-hole table and the modular fixtures. The modular fixtures easily slide into any selected grid-holes as required and may be used without further clamping unless desired. The invention is particularly suitable for a flexible automated assembly that has to cope with rapid product-and process-changes.

Jon Rigelsford