Camera on robot aids assembly inspections
September 1st 2005

A new inspection system using a robot-mounted camera is providing a unique approach to the examination, integrity and traceability of mass manufactured assemblies, according to system developer Goldlogic Control Systems of Worsley, Manchester.

The system uses the six-axis mobility and accuracy of ABB robots to position a camera at various pre-determined positions to examine key features of an assembly.

Iain Smith, founder of GCS, comments "The manoeuvrability and repeatability of the ABB rotor and the accuracy of its programming system, mean that the camera can be positioned at the optimum angle for illuminating and photographing the target - a vital factor when inspecting welds, for example, and an impossible task with a static camera system."

Fully supportable OEM equipment is specified for the system, including a ceiling/wall/floor mounted ABB IRB or floor mounted IRB 2400 robot, Siemens V723 camera and Siemens S7 PLC that communications with camera and robot over a Profibus network.

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