Abstract: Described in this application is a zero-backlash preload gear assembly. The assembly is specifically described for use with a positioning system in order to significantly reduce or eliminate mechanical error and improve tolerances. Furthermore, the assembly allows for infinite positioning of a work surface in order to facilitate improved efficiency of an automated system.

Abstract: Described in this application is a zero-backlash preload gear assembly. The assembly is specifically described for use with a positioning system in order to significantly reduce or eliminate mechanical error and improve tolerances. Furthermore, the assembly allows for infinite positioning of a work surface in order to facilitate improved efficiency of an automated system.

Abstract: A dual cylinder pivotal work piece holding device includes a fixture pivotally mounted on a frame. A crank arm drives the fixture about a pivot axis. First and second cylinders have rods pivotally connected to the crank arm at a drive point offset from the fixture pivot axis. The rods form an oblique angle with each other and a controller is provided for extending and retracting the rods in a coordinated cycle so that at least one of the rods is moving at any instant during rotation of the fixture.

Abstract: An adjustable shelving unit for a robotic work station includes a plurality of elongated upright channel members each having a C-shaped transverse cross-section, the channel members being arranged in parallel pairs; and at least one shelf being releasably and movably clamped to the channel members by spring nut means so as to be adjustable in both height and angle with respect to the channel members. The adjustable shelving unit is useful in combination with a work piece positioning device and can even be attached thereto so that bins for parts and parts can be stored near their point-of-use.

Abstract: The invention relates to a workpiece positioner and assembly therefore which optimizes workpiece rotation for manufacturing processes, and specifically for use with an industrial robot. In general, the workpiece positioner assembly is supported on a base. The workpiece positioner assembly is rectangular in shape and includes drive arms and idler arms between which workpieces are supported. Due to the unique shape of the workpiece positioner assembly, the workpiece-to-workpiece rotational clearance can be reduced to zero due in part to the position of cross tubing from the drive end of the workpiece positioner assembly to the idler end of the workpiece positioner assembly. The cross tubing does not interfere with the workpiece rotational area thereby allowing workpiece size and orientation to be increased without affecting positioner swing or operation height.

Abstract: A device for indicating the alignment of a tool held by the arm of a robot includes a frame mounted at a known coordinate, an electrical switch mounted on the frame and connected to the robot, a lever having opposite first and second end portions and a central portion therebetween pivotally connected to the frame such that the first end portion normally makes contact with the switch in the absence of outside forces on the lever. The second end portion of the lever has a target bore therein for receiving the tool with a given tolerance for misalignment of the tool. If the tolerance is exceeded, the tool engages the second end portion of the lever and forcibly pivots the first end portion out of contact with the switch to indicate misalignment of the tool.