Abstract: A workpiece positioner is provided which is adapted to move a workpiece from a load/unload zone to a work zone spaced from the load/unload zone. The workpiece positioner comprises a first stationary frame, a second frame coupled to the first frame so as to be rotatable relative to the first frame about a first axis, a first drive device for effecting rotation of the second frame about the first axis, and a first workpiece holder adapted to releasably receive a workpiece. In accordance with a first embodiment of the present invention, the first holder is rotatably mounted to the second frame so that the workpiece holder and the workpiece are maintained in a substantially constant orientation relative to the first frame as the second frame is rotated about the first axis. In accordance with a second embodiment of the present invention, the workpiece positioner further includes a second drive device coupled to the second frame so as to move with the second frame.

Abstract: A robot programming system is provided comprising a simulated work cell configuration, a tool position and orientation sensor assembly, and a programing computer. The simulated work cell configuration includes a tangible artificial tool and a tangible artificial workpiece, wherein the position and orientation of the artificial tool relative to the workpiece is variable. The sensor assembly is operative to sense the position and the orientation of the artificial tool. The programming computer is in communication with the sensor assembly and is programmed to (i) display a variable virtual robot configuration based upon the sensed position and orientation of the artificial tool, (ii) receive discrete artificial tool positions and orientations from the sensor assembly, and (iii) create a robot job data file including the discrete artificial tool positions and orientations.