The fastening quality improvements achieved with automated assembly systems have given rise to a requirement for an on-line quality checking module. The module is capable of determining the key characteristics of an installed fastener without interrupting the automated assembly process. The three key characteristics measured by the module include:
Hole diameter
Countersinking height
Fastener protrusion
The module, recently developed by Dassault Aviation's Robotics organization consists of a 50mm x 400mm (2″x15″)module specially configured to fit within a standard barrel of Dassault current multifunction end-effectors.
The module can be operated independent of the end-effector, or it can be integrated with the end effector in order to permit the measurements to be effected efficiently during the fastening installation process.
The module is capable of providing information that goes beyond the three basic characteristics since it can also be used to measure eccentricity and tapper. It can also be used to determine the perpendicularity of an installed fastener.
The accuracy with which the measurements can be made is ±5 μm (two ten thousands of an inch) and .05 degree