This project will investigate the technical feasibility of using a cluster controller and off-line program development system for a cluster of industrial robots, programmable controllers and vision systems in a factory environment for the purpose of low volume assembly. The following issues will be investigated: 1. Use flexible tooling/grippers/hands for assembly tasks using robot 2. Use of IEEE 802 as a network standard for the interconnection of a cad system to a network of industrial robots, programmable controllers and vision systems in a factory. 3. Use of the cad system for the additional purpose of simulation and solid modeling of the robot and its work environment for off-line programming. Specifically, a cad system based on VAX780 hardware (digital equipment corporation) and American robot's Merlin (TM) robot and factory programmable controller and magiceye (TM) vision system will be used in this investigation.
