Vision Systems in Flexible Parts Assembly
The success of a flexible feeding system heavily depends on its inherent flexibility and integration with diverse robots and vision systems. Integration with robots allows efficient handling of infeed components, pallets, fixtures, tools, and the outfeed of finished parts. The incorporation of a vision system significantly aids these processes by offering quality and dimensional checks and guidance for the robots.
Factors Influencing Vision System Performance
To implement a successful vision system, various factors need consideration, including:
- The characteristics of the parts (size, shape, color, and texture)
- Camera specifications (sensor resolution, quality of lenses)
- Quality of system calibration
- Working environment (lighting conditions and position)
Vision algorithms are typically sensitive to these environmental conditions, and efficient processing time is crucial when integrating a vision system for robot guidance in assembly processes.
Advantages of FlexiBowl® for Plastic Parts Assembly
FlexiBowl® is a flexible feeding device that integrates seamlessly with every robot and vision system brand. It can handle an entire range of parts within 1-250 mm and 1-250 g, eliminating the need for multiple dedicated vibratory bowl feeders. Its quick changeover mechanism ensures minimal downtime during maintenance operations. The absence of dedicated tooling and user-friendly software enables swift and multiple product changeovers within the same work shift.
The Future of Plastic Parts Feeders
In an intensely demanding and competitive plastics industry market, achieving low costs, high quality, and prompt delivery times is paramount for success. This is where robotics and flexible automation come into play as they help businesses meet market demand, maintain margins, and re-shore production. Deploying a robot on the manufacturing floor not only paves the way for more stimulating and intelligent job positions but also propels businesses into the Industry 4.0 era. Here, smart production sites comprise connected machines that communicate via the Internet of Things and individuals that collect information to make decisions. Thus, the effective use of robotics and flexible feeding systems like FlexiBowl can lead to increased productivity, decreased parts waste, improved production rates, and cost-effectiveness, all of which contribute to a more competitive and efficient plastic parts manufacturing industry.
