Abstract: A system comprises a feed assembly for applying composite tape; a unit for forming lateral stripes across a portion of the tape that has been applied; a camera for capturing images of the lateral stripes; and a processor programmed to process the images of the lateral stripes to identify any discontinuities in the tape. Those stripes intersecting any discontinuities will make those discontinuities apparent.

Abstract: A system comprises a feed assembly for applying composite tape; a unit for forming lateral stripes across a portion of the tape that has been applied; a camera for capturing images of the lateral stripes; and a processor programmed to process the images of the lateral stripes to identify any discontinuities in the tape. Those stripes intersecting any discontinuities will make those discontinuities apparent.

Abstract: Systems and methods for in-process vision inspection for automated machines are disclosed. In one embodiment, a head assembly includes a tool moveable over a workpiece and adapted to perform a manufacturing operation on the workpiece, and an inspection unit operatively positioned proximate the tool and moveable with the tool relative to the workpiece. The inspection unit is adapted to perform a vision inspection of a portion of the workpiece simultaneously with the performance of the manufacturing operation on the workpiece. In a particular embodiment, the inspection unit includes a camera adapted to monitor an area including the portion of the workpiece upon which the tool has performed the manufacturing operation, and a processor operatively coupled to the camera and adapted to receive an image from the camera and to analyze the image to determine a presence of a defect within the portion of the workpiece.

Abstract: Apparatus for flash activation of the cement employed in the assembly of shoes comprising supports for positioning shoe components adjacent a source of heat, controls for energizing the source of heat in accordance with a predetermined schedule to accommodate interruptions in the flow of components through the apparatus by incorporating reheat cycles to maintain cement activation during interruptions, the controls for permitting the apparatus to be operated in advance of processing shoe components to establish a desired temperature level in the apparatus prior to processing shoe components, and providing processor controls for regulating the operation of the apparatus in a manner to turn out shoe components with properly activated cement on surfaces intended to be joined in assembly of completed shoes.