Aerobotix (ABX) harnesses their expertise in aerospace manufacturing and deep knowledge of robotics to develop robust, innovative manufacturing and refurbishing solutions for their customers. Using large FANUC robots and end-effector technology from ATI Industrial Automation, Aerobotix created a fully automated system that measures the coating thickness on these highly accurate interceptor missiles. The robotic system utilizes three unique end-of-arm tooling (EOAT) systems to complete inspection on the missile, made possible with ATI’s Robotic Tool Changers and Tool Stands.

The hardware and equipment for the inspection process are quite different from the supplies needed for painting and sanding; however, ABX was able to integrate all three inspection operations into one process with custom-configured QC-210 Heavy Duty Tool Changers from ATI. The configuration includes ATI Utility Modules that pass utilities such as pneumatic air for compliance tools, electrical signals, and a Gigabit Ethernet for network communications through the tool changer directly to the EOAT.

Read the full article at RoboticsTomorrow.