초록 ▼

Methods and apparatus for "Intelligent" control of production processes such as machining, casting, heat treating and welding are disclosed. The key enabler of such control is electro-optical or other suitable sensors, generally non contact, capable of rapidly and accurately acquiring data from part

Methods and apparatus for "Intelligent" control of production processes such as machining, casting, heat treating and welding are disclosed. The key enabler of such control is electro-optical or other suitable sensors, generally non contact, capable of rapidly and accurately acquiring data from parts and tools used to produce them in a production "in-process" environment. Systems are disclosed to control not only the instant operation, but those processes connected therewith, both upstream and downstream. Data bases are generated and knowledge bases are used. Application of the invention can improve quality and productivity, and allow the production of parts which have unusual or individual material characteristics.

대표청구항 ▼

[ What is claimed is:] [1.] A method to optimize the use of new assembly tools or new assembly processes, comprising the steps of:(a) assembling at least two parts using an existing process in an assembly apparatus to form an assembly;(b) measuring at least one parameter of one of said parts or said

[ What is claimed is:] [1.] A method to optimize the use of new assembly tools or new assembly processes, comprising the steps of:(a) assembling at least two parts using an existing process in an assembly apparatus to form an assembly;(b) measuring at least one parameter of one of said parts or said assembly using at least one electrooptical sensor which is part of the assembly apparatus;(c) recording said at least one measured parameter of one of said parts or said assembly in a database;(d) introducing a predetermined, new assembly tool or other predetermined assembly process change;(e) measuring at least one parameter of a second part or assembly;(f) recording said at least one measured parameter of a second part or assembly in a database;(g) determining from said recorded measured parameters at least one change to make in said assembly apparatus or subsequent parts to optimize the use of said assembly apparatus or to optimize said assembly process; and(h) making said at least one change.