Robot Control

More about IVS machine vision robot control solutions

The employment of industrial robots has risen considerably in recent years. Co-bots have also grown in popularity as a result of the demand for a versatile robot that can work alongside people. Industrial robots have become a cornerstone in the modern production line, thanks to the demand for ever more flexible production control and the emergence of flexible manufacturing.

Because robots can switch between product ranges and component kinds, they require “eyes” to observe and discern between product types in real-time. In addition, there is a push to expand the use of automation and reduce the usage of manual labour in manufacturing. Robots can take over some of the more repetitive manufacturing and assembly duties, but as speeds and complexity rise, a robot’s capacity to comprehend a complex scene becomes increasingly difficult.

IVS has a track record of successfully integrating vision systems with some of the world’s leading robot manufacturers. We provide complete solutions that include the hardware, software, programming and testing required to complete and simplify your production task. We also carry out in-depth planning to ensure our systems meet your requirements.

What is a collaborative robot?

Robots designed for direct contact with humans in a shared area are called collaborative robots, or cobots. These differ from traditional robots, where they would need to be enclosed with a safety enclosure. Cobots work side by side with humans, perform a variety of tasks and offer a safe working environment. Safety is our priority, therefore we provide a comprehensive risk assessment with every robot system.

How do you control and link vision systems to a robot?

We can use a PLC to control robots or provide robot waypoint data directly from our vision software, providing us with a lot of flexibility in terms of the solutions we can supply. Within the robot’s software package, positions and paths may be created. Furthermore, each position can be designated a specific safety position to ensure that the system operates safely even in exceptional circumstances. Communication with robots is made as simple as possible, all of our software is intuitive and simple to learn. All of this can all be set up by our in-house experts and training can be provided if required.

Why add industrial vision onto a robot?

You can give a robot “eyes” by adding vision devices to it. This in turn avoids the need for expensive and complex fixtures and nests by defining a specific location for the robot to look for objects. Vision devices can also be fitted to conveyor belt gantries to pre-scan the scene before the robot picks a product, ensuring a precise pick every time.
Robotic automation’s adaptability allows the robot to adapt to wider variations in part type, shape, size, and placement, lowering the manufacturing cell’s complexity. As a result, integrating a vision system expands the range of applications, such as robot palletising and de-palletising.

What hardware can be integrated with a robot control vision system?

The following equipment can be integrated directly onto the robot head:

• Custom grippers, vacuum pads, or even needle grippers for even the most difficult pick and place applications
• LED illuminators
• Laser projectors
• Standard or variable focal length lenses: Our robotic inspection systems can employ standard or variable focal lenses. Variable focal lenses allow for rapid focal length changes, again minimising the need for multiple fixed-position cameras
• Screwdriving systems
• Applicator heads for glue, sealants etc

What robots are compatible with vision systems?

All of the main robot manufacturers, including ABB, Kuka, Kawasaki, Yaskawa, Fanuc, Omron, Franke Emika, Hanwha, Universal Robots, Doosan Robotics, Staubli, Nachi, Aubo, Neuromeka, Fanuc, and Hyundai are compatible for use with IVS robot vision systems.