Ordinarily, parts are presented to a robot for pick up at fixed locations—the escapement of a feeder bowl, for example, or the pockets of a thermoformed tray. To save space and eliminate the cost of trays and feeders, manufacturers would like a robot to pick randomly oriented parts out of a bin, box or tote.
But, that’s easier said than done. Humans have long been masters of dexterity, a skill made possible by touch, vision and hand-eye coordination.