Page 82 - MTW JANUARY 2022 Digital Magazine

TECH INNOVATION

High precision in ROBOTICS

APPLICATIONS

Robot axes must be calibrated at regular intervals.
Micro-Epsilon’s induSENSOR (LVDT) displacement
sensors carry out this task. Mounted on robot axes,
these gauges detect the zero point via a probe tip
when the axis is turning.

Robot technology has been booming for years now and the market is growing enormously. Modern industries
all over the world are increasingly relying on more intelligent robots that operate at high precision and 100%
reliability. Operators benefit from increased flexibility in production processes as well as higher quality, reduced
material and cost savings. When discussing smart robot technology, innovative sensors that act as interfaces
between the robot and its environment are of vital importance.

he demands on intelligent robotics are becoming higher. that ensure the correct operation of the robot. These must
Absolute accuracy down to the micron range, longevity, determine the status data of the robot, e.g. its orientation in the
Thigh flexibility, higher speeds and lower costs are just room, calibration, speed measurement or recognition of rotating
some of the fundamental requirements. Modern sensors play a movements. An example of this application is the calibration of
major role when it comes to fulfilling these specifications. Camera the robot axes carried out by induSENSOR LVDT displacement
systems perceive the environment, temperature sensors detect sensors from Micro-Epsilon. These robot axes must be adjusted
hot spots and bodies, and laser triangulation sensors determine during commissioning and at regular intervals within the context
micrometer-precise positions and distances. They help integrate of quality assurance. The measuring gauges are mounted on the
the robot into its environment. To carry out its tasks, the robot robot axes and detect the zero point during the rotation of the
requires information about the position of tools and the position axis using a feeler gauge. The integrated electronics evaluates the
or nature of production goods. Reliable operation is particularly feeler gauge and transmits a switch signal to the robot control.
important with collaborative robots that involve human-machine Using this procedure, the robot is adjusted reliably, independent
interaction. of the operator. As the measurement is carried out at high
With sensors for robotic applications, two different possibilities speed and fed into the control system automatically, downtime
are distinguished. On the one hand, there are internal sensors is also avoided. The gauges are perfectly suitable due to their

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