The machine needs the sensor to provide the necessary information to properly perform the relevant operation. For example, there are many collaborative robots that integrate torque sensors and cameras to ensure a better view during operation and to ensure the safety of the work area.
In recent years, with the continuous development of manufacturing industry in our country, robots are widely used in various industries, robots can be applied to production, sensor play a great role. Today we're going to talk about some common sensors that can be integrated into a robot unit.
Two-dimensional vision sensor
Two-dimensional vision is basically a camera that can perform multiple tasks. From detecting moving objects to positioning parts on transmission belts. Two-dimensional vision has been on the market for a long time, and has taken a certain share. Many smart cameras can detect parts and help the robot determine their position, so that the robot can adjust its actions appropriately based on the information it receives.
Three-dimensional vision sensor
In contrast to two-dimensional vision, three-dimensional vision is a relatively recent technology. A 3D vision system must have two cameras at different angles or use a laser scanner. In this way, the third dimension of the object is detected. There are also many applications that use 3D vision. For example, parts picking and placing, using 3D vision technology to detect objects and create 3D images, analyze and select the best way to pick up.
If vision sensors give a robot its eyes, force/moment sensors give it a sense of touch. The robot uses a force/moment sensor to sense the force of the end-effector. In most cases, the force/moment sensor is located between the robot and the fixture, so that all the forces fed back to the fixture are monitored by the robot.
With force/moment sensors, applications such as assembly, manual guidance, instruction, and force limitation can be realized.
Collision detection sensor
The sensors come in various forms. The primary application of these sensors is to provide a safe working environment for operators, and collaborative robots are most likely to use them. Some sensors can be some kind of tactile recognition system that senses pressure through a soft surface and, if it senses pressure, will send a signal to the robot to limit or stop its movement.
Some sensors can also be built directly into the robot. Some companies use accelerometer feedback, while others use current feedback. In both cases, safety is ensured by triggering an emergency stop when the robot senses an abnormal force. But you will still be hit by the robot before it stops. So the safest environment is one where there is no risk of collision at all, and that's what this sensor is going to do.
For industrial machines to collaborate with one another, they must first find ways to keep workers safe. These sensors, which come in various forms, from cameras to lasers, have one purpose: to tell the robot what's going on around it. Some security systems can be programmed to slow down the robot automatically when a person is in a certain area/space, and to stop working if the person continues to approach.
The simplest example is the laser safety sensor on the elevator door. When the laser detects an obstacle, the door immediately stops and goes backwards to avoid a collision. Much the same is true of most security sensors in the robotics industry.
Part detection sensor
In a parts-picking application, (assuming there is no visual system), you have no way of knowing if the robot gripper is grabbing the part correctly. Parts detection apps can give you feedback on grip position. For example, if the gripper misses a part, the system detects the error and repeats the operation to make sure the part is grabbed correctly.
Other sensors
There are many other sensors on the market for different applications. Such as weld tracking sensor, tactile sensor, etc.
Sensor is the key component to realize software intelligence. Without these sensors, many complex operations would not be possible. They not only realize complex operations, but also ensure that these operations can be well controlled during the process.