MODULAR SENSOR SYSTEM FOR FLEXI-PICKER AND MULTI-AXIS AUTOMATED MACHINES

Virtually all computer controlled multi-axis machines operate under ‘open loop’ control, in the sense that the exact position in space of the end effector cannot be sensed directly. Instead the position of the tool point is calculated in software by monitoring sensors on axes that track linear translation and rotations of motor shafts and gears. This may be suitable for low precision applications, however positional errors occur, and in cases accumulate. Hence there is a need for a sensor system with direct feedback of the end effector's spatial coordinates.