Canadian automation, machine vision, and robotics solutions specialist AV&R is working with the AMRC to develop the new system in a simulated industrial environment.
The AMRC’s Integrated Manufacturing Group (IMG) will be conducting trials of the AV&R system, which is now deployed at Factory 2050 thanks to funding from the High Value Manufacturing Catapult.
Automated visual inspection refers to the automating of the detection and classification of defects using robotics, for high-value complex metallic components used in the industries such as aerospace and medical.
The AV&R system uses a robot to handle a component lit from various angles, and rotates it in front of a camera so the system can acquire photometric data about the component surface.
AMRC engineers are configuring the system to collect significant data about AV&R’s testing process to optimise the set-up so the system can be used for bespoke inspection processes and be verified for use on multiple components across various industrial sectors. The team will also create a ‘digital twin’ that will assist operators and aid remote assistance for preventative maintenance.
Adds IMG senior project engineer Harry Burroughes: “Through our trials of the system we will processes various configurations of photometric data which will be translated and presented to the user of the system through various digital representations for user-friendliness.
“The development of this system will make quality testing more efficient, more repeatable and allow manufacturers to increase their testing capacity, speeding up the overall manufacturing process for complex components.
“This will allow the AMRC to extend our research and increase our capability for advanced visual inspection techniques for complex components used in many high value manufacturing sectors.”
