Appeal No. 2004-0278 Page 10
Application No. 09/626,362
computer-generated virtual image display compares desired and actual sensor positions
through a real time feedback system allowing the user to properly position
the feature sensor.
A typical gauging station for an automotive vehicle part as shown in Figure 1
could take the form shown in Figure 2. Workpieces to be gauged at gauging station 200
rest on transporting pallets 220, which are moved along an assembly line via pallet
guides 230 that pass through guide channels 231 in the pallet. At the gauging
station 200, a sensor mounting frame 210 (only one half of which is shown in
perspective in Figure 2) surrounds the workpiece 100 to be gauged and provides a
plurality of mounting positions for a series of optical gauging sensors or feature sensors
240-1 through 240-n.
The calibration system includes a calibration sensor array 300 that may be
positioned at a convenient vantage point, such as above the space that is occupied by
the workpiece in the gauging station. The calibration system further includes a portable
reference target 400. The reference target 400 can be mounted on any suitable fixture,
allowing it to be positioned in front of the feature sensor 240 for the calibration
operation. In Figure 3 a first reference target 400 is shown attached to a simple tripod
stand 402 with cantilevered arm 404. A second reference target 400b is attached by
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Last modified: November 3, 2007