Abstract: An apparatus and method for performing manufacturing operations using position sensing for robotic arms that efficiently and accurately finds the location of a workpiece or features on a workpiece, with minimal need for adjustments.

Abstract: An apparatus and method for performing manufacturing operations using position sensing for robotic arms that efficiently and accurately finds the location of a workpiece or features on a workpiece.

Abstract: A computer controlled seedling transfer apparatus includes a pair of free-wheeling conveyors for supporting a commercial grower's seed flat and pot flat. Each conveyor includes an associated indexing mechanism for gripping the respective flat and translating the flat along the conveyor so that certain of the flat recesses are aligned with a transfer station between the flats. A seedling transfer mechanism is supported above the conveyors so that the mechanism can be moved transversely between the seed flat and pot flat. The seedling transfer mechanism includes extendable gripping fingers for gripping a seedling, removing it from the seed flat, transferring it to a specific pot flat recess and replanting the seedling. The indexing mechanisms for the two flats are computer controlled, as is the seedling transfer mechanism, to optimize the seedling transfer operation and to ensure that the pot flat is completely filled with seedlings.