The vibratory alignment of the parts in robotic assembly

Abstract

Purpose

This paper aims to consider the experimental and theoretical investigation of the vibratory alignment of the peg-hole, when the peg is fixed in the remote centre compliance (RCC) device, and the vibrations are provided either to the hole or to the peg.

Design/methodology/approach

The experimental analysis of the circular and rectangular peg-hole vibratory alignment using the attached to the robot arm RCC device, under vibratory excitation of the hole, has been performed. The parameters of the vibratory excitation and the part-to-part pressing force influence on the alignment process have been analysed. The mathematical approach of the vibratory alignment using the passive compliance device with the vibrations provided to the peg has been proposed, and the simulation has been carried out.

Findings

The research has approved the applicability of the RCC device for both of the vibratory alignments of the non-chamfered peg-hole parts either circular or rectangular ones. The compensation of the axial misalignments has been resulted by the directional displacement of the peg supported compliantly. To perform the successful alignment of the parts, it has been necessary to adjust the frequency and the amplitude of the vibrations, the pressing force, the lateral, as well as the angular stiffness of the device.

Research limitations/implications

The experiments on the vibratory alignment of the rectangular peg-hole parts have been carried out considering only the translational misalignment moved into one direction. The non-impact regime of the vibratory alignment has been analysed.

Practical implications

The obtained results can be applied in designing the reliable and efficient devices of the vibratory assembly for the alignment of the non-chamfered peg-hole parts, as well as for chamfered ones, if the axial misalignment exceeds the width of the chamfer. The vibratory technique and passive compliance provide possibility to accomplish the assembly operations using the non-expensive low accuracy robots.

Originality/value

The new method and the mathematical approach of the vibratory assembly using the RCC device can ensure the reliable alignment of the non-chamfered parts, chamfered circular and the rectangular ones, in case the axial misalignment exceeds the assembly clearance, and prevent jamming and wedging.

Citation

Baksys, B., Baskutiene, J. and Baskutis, S. (2017), "The vibratory alignment of the parts in robotic assembly", Industrial Robot, Vol. 44 No. 6, pp. 720-729. https://doi.org/10.1108/IR-11-2016-0289