The Use of Automated Systems in Dispensing Adhesives

Abstract

In order to produce quality bonded joints for structural applications, such as in the automotive industry, it is necessary to use automated systems to achieve the required reliability of the joint. This paper describes the use of an automated dispensing system, the gun of which is carried on a Fanuc robot. The work piece, typically a car door, may be carried on a single axis table. The robot dispensing system and table are integrated together with a central control system. A vision system consisting of a laser line of light and a camera is used for. on-line inspection of the adhesive bead. In response to information from the vision system, the dispensing characteristics and robot control are modified in an on-line control system. Hardware and software performance are discussed together with results from a typical process. Suggestions are also made for the appropriate design of joints to more easily meet the stringent requirements of automated adhesive dispensing. Proposals are made for the design of the most appropriate automated dispensing facility.