Flexible Automation and Integrated Manufacturing 1996

ISBN Print: 978-1-56700-067-2

ENHANCED AUTOMATION OF INJECTION MOULDING BY VISUAL FEEDBACK

DOI: 10.1615/FAIM1996.200
pages 188-196

Résumé

An investigation is under way to develop techniques that may be used to provide feedback from the product of an injection moulding machine to the machine control system. Automated vision analysis is in use to assess the component produced and to collect data on surface quality and integrity. This information is used in real time to direct the operation of the moulding machine. The research is aimed at commercial injection moulding systems, particularly to the production of those components in which the condition of the moulded surface is considered vital to the quality of the product, such as in the case of moulded consumer goods. The current enquiry is directed towards plain flat surfaces and decorative finishes. The prevailing conclusion is that this information, together with data generated by sensors and timers standard to the machine, may be successfully directed towards the development of an enhanced process control strategy.