Developments in Laser Scanning Techniques For Intelligent Manufacturing Systems

Computer-controlled automated inspection tasks are necessary in the development of intelligent manufacturing systems. The application of low power laser scanning techniques to automated assembly and tool condition monitoring tasks has been investigated with the aim of developing effective tool and process management systems integrated with the manufacturing process. As well as being more cost effective and reliable than human inspectors, automated inspection systems provide the technical feasibility and level of sophistication required for completely unattended operation for extended periods of time.
The laser scanning technique compares favourably with CCD vision systems. It has proved to be more suitable for higher component feed rates and requires considerably less signal processing power. It also has the advantage of being less susceptible to changes in ambient lighting conditions.
The current paper describes the development and application of laser scanners to automated assembly and to the inspection of tools for metal cutting. Both applications demonstrate the potential for such systems to provide a more reliable and cost effective alternative to human inspectors.