Automation

On the Show Floor

Force Compliance: The Key to Robot Finishing Applications

Suhner’s Mike Ricketts on adding feel to robotic finishing.

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Sanding, grinding and polishing our high-value production tasks, but are notoriously difficult to automate, especially when I surface finish is needed. Engineering robotics with the kind of force feedback necessary to emulate the touch of human hand is the goal, and the more complex the surface which must be finished, the more difficult it is to develop automated systems.  

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Written by

James Anderton

Jim Anderton is the Director of Content for ENGINEERING.com. Mr. Anderton was formerly editor of Canadian Metalworking Magazine and has contributed to a wide range of print and on-line publications, including Design Engineering, Canadian Plastics, Service Station and Garage Management, Autovision, and the National Post. He also brings prior industry experience in quality and part design for a Tier One automotive supplier.