Systems and methods for in-process vision inspection for automated machines
First Claim
1. A method comprising:
- using a tape lamination machine to lay composite tape on a forming tool;
forming lateral stripes on a portion of the tape laid on the forming tool, the lateral stripes extending across a width of the tape laid on the forming tool; and
using a camera to capture images of the lateral stripes; and
processing the images of the stripes to identify any discontinuities in the tape, wherein those stripes intersecting any discontinuities will make those discontinuities apparent.
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Accused Products
Abstract
Systems and methods for in-process vision inspection for automated machines are disclosed. In one embodiment, a head assembly includes a tool moveable over a workpiece and adapted to perform a manufacturing operation on the workpiece, and an inspection unit operatively positioned proximate the tool and moveable with the tool relative to the workpiece. The inspection unit is adapted to perform a vision inspection of a portion of the workpiece simultaneously with the performance of the manufacturing operation on the workpiece. In a particular embodiment, the inspection unit includes a camera adapted to monitor an area including the portion of the workpiece upon which the tool has performed the manufacturing operation, and a processor operatively coupled to the camera and adapted to receive an image from the camera and to analyze the image to determine a presence of a defect within the portion of the workpiece.
37 Citations
10 Claims
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1. A method comprising:
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using a tape lamination machine to lay composite tape on a forming tool; forming lateral stripes on a portion of the tape laid on the forming tool, the lateral stripes extending across a width of the tape laid on the forming tool; and using a camera to capture images of the lateral stripes; and processing the images of the stripes to identify any discontinuities in the tape, wherein those stripes intersecting any discontinuities will make those discontinuities apparent. - View Dependent Claims (2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10)
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Specification