Robot Guiding Vision System for Machine Tool Tending Applications

ABB offers a software designed to identify the workpiece location and orientation from the picking area and guides the robot with precision in the robot cell. The FlexLoader Vision can handle an unlimited number of workpieces in various sizes and with complex geometries without any need for mechanical fixtures, reducing costs and complexity.

The control and communications with the robot are firmly integrated into the software, which allows a complete teach-in that is simple and intuitive from beginning to end. "With one of the easiest-to-use operator interfaces on the market, the teaching of a new workpiece is possible in less than 10 minutes," said an ABB spokesperson.

The FlexLoader Vision is open to communicate with a variety of camera sensors. It can be used for both 2D and semi-oriented 3D applications. The system reverts complex 3D images to well-known 2D images in order to increase the usability for the operator. No CAD files are required to teach-in new components.

Benefits and features include:

• Faster changeover time between components
• Parameterized teach-in interface for lathe applications provides a quick and easy user experience
• Pre-programmed robot code provides short installation time
• Single point of operating control
• PC-based architecture, scalable up to four cameras
• Pre-pick collision avoidance
• Supports user-defined grippers
• Out of reach prevention
• Choice of moving and rolling part avoidance
• Multilingual user interface
• User defined parameter to robot or external PLC
• Supports both 2D and 3D sensors.

Included in FlexLoader Vision:

• FlexLoader Vision software
• Industrial PC with Windows (EN)
• Vision sensor (2D or 3D)
• Camera lens
• Calibration plate
• RAPID interfacing and usage template
• CE or UL certification.

Additional options include:

• Robot calibration tool
• Additional cameras (up to four)
• Color camera for contrast enhancement
• High resolution camera
• Automated change of workpiece in production (remote start/stop, batch-based, or barcode-based)
• Illumination stand for camera.

For more information contact:

ABB Robotics, Inc.

1250 Brown Road

Auburn Hills, MI 48326

248-391-9000

www.abb.com/robotics