Abstract: A flexible tool for handling small objects, as well as a method for handling small objects using the flexible tool. The flexible tool comprises one or more mini robots, such as a free arm robot and one or more hexapod(s) working in an internal workspace when performing operations on small objects. Furthermore, an external space can be used for storing the objects during non-operation. The hexapods are to engage with a small object and to move a small object between the internal workspace and the external space, and the free arm robot is to move one or more hexapod(s). Fast measurements of robot positions are included, the measurements being feed back to a computer system controlling the mini robots. The computer system further comprises vision and motion planning.
Type:
Grant
Filed:
June 28, 2002
Date of Patent:
May 25, 2004
Assignee:
Microbotic A/S
Inventors:
Tom Olesen, Søren Olesen, Henrik Andersen, Preben Damgård Jensen