Automated Optical Inspection
This project sought to improve several manufacturing processes involving moving parts. At certain stages of production, the team needed to ensure that components were up to spec, assembled properly, and aligned correctly on the line. I was tasked with creating several programs to identify crucial dimensions and other key factors.
PLANNING
I began by familiarizing myself with the 2D machine vision system from Cognex that the client wanted to use. This involved extensive research on the technology capabilities and limitations, calibration techniques, internal programming language, and FTP and network protocols.
PROGRAMMING
After learning how to manipulate the InSight software, I was able to write programs for high-speed image acquisition, identification of various patterns and geometries, and computational data collection. After characterizing the hardware, I compiled a cognitive overview of my learnings into a single document for future use of the vision software.
SET UP & TESTING
Practice tests were conducted in my home to ensure program functionality before eventually performing the tests in the office with production-grade prototypes, custom test fixtures, and other proprietary components.
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Several tests required additional programs to accompany the automated optical inspection. These included basic stepper motor controllers and VBA macros to parse through the extensive data sets for easy consumption.
Mechanical Engineer
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