Workpiece`s e.g. automotive vehicle door, positioning device, has load sensor detecting whether load on abutment assembly exceeds preset level or not, and controller stopping movement of assembly if load exceeds preset level

摘要

#CMT# #/CMT# The device has an actuator assembly (48) adapted for moving an abutment assembly between a locating position and an inserted position, where the abutment assembly includes two abutment members (38, 40). A sensor is mounted to one of the two abutment members, and is adapted for detecting distance between a portion of a workpiece (16) and one of the two abutment members. A controller (49) includes a load sensor (76) to detect whether load on the abutment assembly exceeds a preset level or not. The controller stops movement of the abutment assembly if the load exceeds the preset level. #CMT# : #/CMT# An independent claim is also included for a method of positioning a movably mounted portion of a workpiece relative to a body of the workpiece. #CMT#USE : #/CMT# Used for a workpiece (claimed) e.g. automotive vehicle door. #CMT#ADVANTAGE : #/CMT# The utilization of the two abutment members allows proper positioning of the movable portion of the workpiece. The controller stops movement of the abutment assembly if the load exceeds the preset level, thus preventing damage to the workpiece during operation. The device eliminates deposition of unwanted materials on the workpiece. #CMT#DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS : #/CMT# The drawing shows a front elevational view of a positioning device. 10 : Positioning device 12 : Robotic apparatus 16 : Workpiece 24 : Arm assembly 26 : End effector 30 : Wrist assembly 34 : Spray nozzles 38, 40 : Abutment members 48 : Actuator assembly 76 : Load sensor.