Abstract: In an automated welding machine, where a flow of liquid coolant is supplied to welding components on the machine from a source of coolant and then returned to the source of coolant, a safety system is provided that shuts down the flow of coolant in the event of a fault. Faults are detected by a supply sensor and a return sensor for measuring the flow rates of coolant in the supply and return lines. A microprocessor is adapted to compare the supply flow rate and return flow rate and detect differences between the two rates. The difference between the detected rates as compared to a leak threshold value, and the microprocessor is adapted to generate a valve shutoff signal in the event the detected difference in flow rates exceeds the leak threshold value. A value in the supply coolant line is responsive to the valve shutoff signal to shutoff flow of coolant in response thereto.

Abstract: A robotic clutch with central thrust bearing (10) having a robot adaptor (12) and robotic clutch with central thrust bearing (10) which further has a housing (18) with a housing central opening (18A) therethrough and a housing cavity (18C). The housing (18) further has a housing coupler (18D) in communication with the housing cavity (18C). A toggle breakaway (14) which has a toggle breakaway collar (14F) securely fastened thereto extending downwardly therefrom through the housing central opening (18A). The toggle breakaway (14) is securely connected to the robot adaptor (12). A thrust roller bearing (22) which has a thrust roller bearing central opening (22A) therethrough and a top thrust roller bearing (22T) is circumferentially positioned along an inner surface of the housing top (18T). The thrust roller bearing (22) further has a bottom thrust roller bearing (22B) securely connected to the toggle breakaway collar (14F).

Abstract: An annular cross-sectioned clutch assembly for connecting a tool such as a paint gun to the end of a robotic arm is provided. A diaphragm-mounting plate connects on an outer side to the end of the robotic arm. An annular diaphragm is mounted to the diaphragm-mounting plate. The diaphragm has an inner surface, with the inner surface forming a pressure tight chamber with the diaphragm-mounting plate for connection to a programable source of air pressure. A clutch plate has an annular diaphragm-engagement surface engaged with a central portion of the diaphragm. Springs between the clutch plate and the diaphragm-mounting plate bias the clutch plate away from the diaphragm-mounting plate in conjunction with air pressure in the chamber. Structure is provided to establish a normal position of the clutch assembly. Additional structure is provided to establish physical limits of travel of the clutch plate with respect to the diaphragm-mounting plate.

Abstract: In an automated welding machine, where a flow of liquid coolant is supplied to welding components on the machine from a source of coolant and then returned to the source of coolant, a safety system is provided that shuts down the flow of coolant in the event of a fault. Faults are detected by a supply sensor and a return sensor for measuring the flow rates of coolant in the supply and return lines. A microprocessor is adapted to compare the supply flow rate and return flow rate and detect differences between the two rates. The difference between the detected rates as compared to a leak threshold value, and the microprocessor is adapted to generate a valve shutoff signal in the event the detected difference in flow rates exceeds the leak threshold value. A valve in the supply coolant line is responsive to the valve shutoff signal to shutoff flow of coolant in response thereto.

Abstract: An intelligent load sensing system employs a piezoelectric sensor and digital processor for providing accurate sensing of loads, collisions, and vibrations.

Abstract: Peck drilling operations using a drilling tool with a rotatable bit are controlled according to the present invention. A control computer is used to detect various drilling conditions, such as dull or broken bits, transitions between different materials in a workpiece and a breakthrough condition. The control computer continually monitors the thrust and torque applied to the drill bit. A separate feed amp and computer having a pre-programmed feed motion routine for controlling the feeding movement of the drill bit signals the control computer when the bit is in a peck cycle. The control computer is responsive to an indication that the bit is a peck cycle for ignoring the thrust and torque readings during the peck cycle. By determining when the bit is in a peck cycle, the control computer is able to differentiate between a normal peck cycle and other drilling conditions, such as a dull or broken drill bit, transition between materials or breakthrough.

Abstract: A breakaway clutch for robot end-of-arm tooling includes a housing and movable member constrained within the housing for movement along a central axis. A tool connecting member is linked to the movable member by way of a capsule-shaped link. The tool connecting member is located such that a movable member is in the normal position and the tool connecting member is movable in all directions except in the direction of a front housing wall. The movable member is biased toward the normal position, with the biasing being adjustable to vary the bias and thereby vary the sensitivity of the clutch to forces applied to the movable member by way of the tool connecting member. Movement of the movable member away from the normal position is sensed to send an alarm signal to the robot controller.

Abstract: A variable compliance device having a tool plate attached between a tool and a robot arm to allow limited movement of the tool plate relative to the robot arm. A concave bill seat connected to the tool plate and a pin having a concave surface house a bearing ball. An inflatable diaphragm exerts a force on a piston toward the pins to force the pins against the bearing balls. Movement of the tool plate relative to the robot arm causes the pins to move relative to the robot arm. The force of the diaphragm on the pins resists movement of the tool plate relative to the robot arm, and restores the tool plate to its original position after the outside force is removed. If the pins are moved beyond a selected point, a sensor senses the movement and sends a signal to shut down the robot.

Abstract: A device for adding intercom functions to a residential or small business phone system uses existing telephone equipment and wiring. The device attaches to the incoming telephone line to switch telephone calls and generate user coded ringing signals. The invention allows the user to simultaneously use existing telephone equipment as an intercom system and for normal outside telephone use.

Abstract: An improved adapter is provided for an interchangeable robot end-of-arm tooling system. The quick change adapter is made from modular components including a body, an interface package, and a robot adapter plate with locator system.

Abstract: An interchangeable robot end-of-arm tooling system is provided for performing multiple tasks using interchangeable tools within a work cell. The system includes a computer control for the system attached to the robot controller, a quick change adapter, and at least two tools adapted for attachment to the quick change adapter.

Abstract: An improved adapter is provided for an interchangeable robot end-of-arm tooling system. The quick change adapter is made from modular components including a body, an interface package, and a robot adapter plate with locator system.