31 August 2010

Camera-Assisted Infeed System Handles Complex Tasks

The Robo-Potsystem from MRW is a fully automated complete solution for the flexible infeeding, shape inspection and sorting of bulk small parts.

MRW develops and produces customer-specific optoelectronic infeed and testing systems for product assembly applications. The company’s Robo-Potsystem is a fully automated complete solution for the flexible infeeding, shape inspection and sorting of bulk small parts 2 to 300 mm long and measuring 0.5 to 60 mm in diameter.

This infeed system is camera assisted and suitable for medical technology applications, an example being the provision of handles to an assembly machine used in the production of single-use medical devices. The machine in question needs to be fed 100 parts per minute, and these parts must be the right type in the right position and free of damage. The manufacturer wanted a single system that could receive bulk goods, test them and sort them, and then make them ready for the assembly machine very quickly and in the proper orientation; the idea was to avoid having to acquire separate infeed, detection and handling systems from different manufacturers.

To satisfy the requirements in this case, MRW arranged two units in parallel. Bins convey the workpieces to the spiral conveyor, where they are positioned. At the outlet of this conveyor, a conveyor belt equipped with a camera sensor and downstream computer receives the parts (the handles). The passing handles are imaged by the camera; the computer analyzes the image data and determines any further measures to be taken. Manipulators such as turning and tipping stations then place the handles in the correct position and orientation.

As the parts cannot be stowed owing to their shape, the system uses separation chambers. Four pneumatically activated bolts block transport onward via the belt; a handle lies in each of the chambers, ready for synchronized conveyance into the next chamber. A buffer with individual handles therefore is in place, and a pair of handles is always standing ready for removal at the end of the two lines.

From bulk goods input to the synchronized issue of individual parts, MRW produces everything itself: components for part provisioning, separation, infeeding, detection, handling and control, as well as system electronics, mechanisms and software.

For further information:

MRW C.M. Fuisting GmbH & Co. KG
Iggingen-Brainkofen, Germany
www.mrw-fuisting.com
Hall 1, Stand 1316