Fanuc Plans For Machines That See And Feel

ByJohn Teresko Robots are not yet plotting to replace people, but if you want to further that effort, contact Fanuc Robotics North America Inc., Rochester Hills, Mich. The company wants partners to help with development of six-axis robot assembly systems with vision and force-sensing capabilities. The company first developed the product, the I-21i, to assemble minirobots in its own factory. The sensory controls can locate randomly positioned parts in any orientation. That minimizes the need for expensive part fixturing, the company says. The integrated force sensor provides a precise "feel" of insertion. Use it to insert parts in horizontal, diagonal, and vertical directions. For more information call 800-47-ROBOT.