John Lewis

John Lewis, contributing editor, Association for Advancing Automation (A3).

Articles

AI and Machine Learning April 24, 2023

How to organize, protect and apply big data in automation

Big data in automation and manufacturing can transform operations, but great care needs to be applied when inserting it into a company.

By John Lewis
Courtesy: Landing AI, Association for Advancing Automation (A3)
Workforce Development May 12, 2022

What’s needed to get started for an automation career

Before getting started on a career in automation, it’s important to assess your goals as well as your interests, background, talents and more.

By John Lewis
Robotics February 6, 2014

Machine vision tops sensors in flexibility for Ford body panel selection

Inside Machines: Ford improved flexibility by switching from sensors to machine vision for body panel inspection, increasing reliability, and improving quality and information flow. The noncontact machine vision inspection system avoids significant maintenance required with sensor replacement, easily accommodates new models and design changes, and reduces overall inspection costs.

By John Lewis
Robotics August 14, 2012

Machine vision, ID-reader network integration

Integrate Ethernet-based machine vision and image-based ID readers into factory networks for more direct communications and less expense. See photos, examples.

By John Lewis
Process Safety April 23, 2012

Machine vision cuts PV module assembly time

Photovoltaic (PV) assembly is among industries benefitting from a machine-vision enhanced automated soldering system from Mondragon Assembly, to shorten cycle times, ensure consistently high product quality, and enhance equipment usability.

By John Lewis
Process Safety April 23, 2012

Machine vision technologies for photovoltaic soldering

A photovoltaic assembly soldering machine uses machine vision to improve quality and throughput. Machine vision technologies include Cognex In-Sight 5100 intelligent vision system to optimize the process of soldering the cross-links between photovoltaic modules. See related application article.

By John Lewis
Process Safety April 19, 2012

Vision-guided robots automate oil tool assembly

Machine vision locates parts for picking by one robot and checks the diameter and location of the pipe before it is threaded by a second robot, without fixturing or accurate locating. The application may lead to a new generation of vision-enabled robots to improve productivity and quality for oil tools.

By John Lewis
Process Safety April 19, 2012

Technology checklist for oil tool automated assembly

A machine vision robotic assembly application for an oil tool industry manufacturer used the following technologies. See related application article.

By John Lewis
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