Abstract: A rollup barrier is provided for a robotic station. The barrier includes a track having a tapered portion at its lower end. A switch is mounted at the extreme lower end of the track. The switch prevents actuation of the robotic equipment unless the barrier is moved to its extreme lowermost position. Extensible cylinders are used for connection to a chain trained around a sprocket in order to roll the roller.

Abstract: The invention relates to a work piece holder with top mounted robot which optimizes floor space for a work piece positioner and a robot. In general, the work piece positioner assembly and the top mounted robot is supported on a base frame. Attached to the base frame, is a first superstructure and a second superstructure which supports a work piece positioner and the top mounted robot. Above the first superstructure and second superstructure is a frame structure fixed in the unitary assembly to the first superstructure and the second superstructure. Attached to the frame structure is a robot stand and a robot. Due to the unique shape of the work piece holder with top mounted robot, the floor space of the combined robot and work piece positioner is significantly reduced, and the overall cost of the system is reduced.

Abstract: The invention relates to a rotational flash guard and method of use of a rotational flash guard. In general, the flash guard is attached to a support frame by an arm, a linkage mechanism pivotally interconnects the arm and the support frame, and an extensible power member connects the support frame to the linkage mechanism. Due to the unique configuration of the rotational flash guard it is adapted for movement about a work piece positioner to allow for use of a robotic tool while providing protection to the operator and other workers.

Abstract: A fluid powered rotary indexer includes a housing with a piston rotatably mounted therein. The housing includes ports providing fluid communication to opposing compartments within the housing so as to rotate the piston clockwise or counterclockwise upon the introduction of fluid into one compartment or the other. The piston is rotatably supported by a bearing which is mounted to a work surface. An adapter is connected to the piston for rotation therewith and supports a tool or work piece. The sealing rings are provided between the piston and the housing to provide a fluid seal for the chamber. A central opening is provided in the assembly through which cables, wires, and tubing can be extended.

Abstract: A break away barrier utilizes first and second spaced apart upstanding posts positioned a predetermined safe distance away from the outer movement limit of a robot. A pair of barrier assemblies are hinged to the first and second spaced apart upstanding posts and are hinged for movement from a closed position inside the safe distance to an open position outside the safe distance. A break away latch permits the opening and separation of the first and second barriers in response to a predetermined force.

Abstract: A quick change fixture mounting arrangement includes a pair of mating ball-and-socket connectors at the headstock end of the fixture and a ball joint coupler at the tailstock end of the fixture. This arrangement allows for some misalignment of the fixture relative to the axis of rotation and permits the fixture to be rotated about a second, external axis of rotation.

Abstract: A quick change fixture mounting arrangement includes a pair of mating ball-and-socket connectors at the headstock end of the fixture and a ball joint coupler at the tailstock end of the fixture. This arrangement allows for some misalignment of the fixture relative to the axis of rotation and permits the fixture to be rotated about a second, external axis of rotation.

Abstract: A robot aligning apparatus includes a pointer which may be connected to either the robot or the tool carried by the robot. The apparatus also includes a stationary post having a sleeve mounted thereon. The robot or the tool with the pointer mounted thereon are moved to a test station adjacent the sleeve and post, and the sleeve is moved upwardly over the pointer to indicate proper alignment.

Abstract: An improved workcell is provided with a door hinged at a midpoint between the opposite sides and maintained in a parallel relationship to the workcell access opening, thereby minimizing the clearance space required to open and close the door. The workcell is formed of a plurality of posts and wall panels which can be quickly and easily assembled and disassembled, such that the workcell is portable. The wall panels are pinned to the posts and include hollow ribs to receive cabling, wiring, and tubing for work functions within the workcell.

Abstract: A side-by-side robot workcell includes two tables each of which is movable from a work position to a load position. Linkages are connected to the tables and cause the tables to have a slow speed at the time the tables approach either the load or the work position, and a faster speed in the middle of the movement between the work and load positions.

Abstract: A deburring head is mounted on a frame for movement toward and away from a workpiece also mounted on the frame. The deburring head includes a plurality of deburring brushes which are rotated and which are adapted to engage the workpiece and remove burrs from the workpiece.

Abstract: A wire brake for a robotic welding torch includes an adapter which is attached to the upper end of the welding torch and which includes an adapter bore through which the wire electrode is inserted. A cylinder body is threadably attached to the adapter and includes a reciprocating piston having a piston stem which is movable into a brake position engaging the wire electrode so as to hold the wire electrode against axial movement within the adapter bore.