Mike Wilson

Robot Modeling and Control

Preface. 1. Introduction. 2. Rigid Motions and Homogeneous Transformations. 3. Forward and Inverse Kinematics. 4. Velocity Kinematics-The Jacobian. 5. Path and Trajectory Planning. 6. Independent Joint Control. 7. Dynamics. 8. Multivariable Control. 9. Force Control. 10. Geometric Nonlinear Control. 11. Computer Vision. 12. Vision-Based Control. Appendix A: Trigonometry. Appendix B: Linear Algebra. Appendix C: Dynamical Systems. Appendix D: Lyapunov Stability. Index.

The role of seam tracking in robotic welding and bonding

Discusses the application of robots for automated welding and bonding in manufacturing industry, and the part that laser‐based seam tracking systems have played.

Developments in robot applications for food manufacturing

Purpose – The purpose of this paper to provide an overview of the current state of play for robot applications in the food industry.Design/methodology/approach – This paper is based on experience and knowledge gained by working in the automation with specific contact with the food sector and automation suppliers who are working in that sector.Findings – The food sector has enormous potential for the application of robots and many of the technical challenges are solved. The major problems lie in the lack of the necessary engineers to both conceive and implement automated solutions.Originality/value – This paper provides an overview of the current situation including the benefits in favour of automation together an assessment of the challenges to be solved.

Vision systems in the automotive industry

Discusses the application of low cost laser based seam tracking systems to welding robots in the automotive industry.

TIP TIG: new technology for welding

Purpose – The paper aims to report on a new welding technology, TIP TIG.Design/methodology/approach – The principle of operation and benefits of the technology are described together with a typical application.Findings – The study finds that the technology provides the quality of TIG welding at the speeds of MIG welding, providing significant cost savings to the user.Practical implications – TIP TIG provides a good opportunity for all users of robotic MIG welding to improve the quality of their product and reduce their costs.Originality/value – The paper introduces a new and useful technology to the robot industry.

Robots at the heart of the welding system

Welding has been one of the leading applications for industrial robots since they were first introduced in the late 1970s. The majority of the early installations were spot welding applications in the automotive industry and by the mid “80 s it was unusual to see a car plant without a couple of hundred robots wielding spot‐weld guns.

Robotics Industry Forum – 2006

Purpose – To review the Robotics Industry Forum, held in November 2006 in Orlando, Florida.Design/methodology/approach – The paper reviews some highlights of the forum.Findings – The format of the event provides for various presentations on a range of topics from robotics in the automotive industry to advances in the development of robot technology, analysis of economic trends and their influences on the robot industry to the opportunities and challenges of new markets such as China.Originality/value – Provides information of value to all those involved with robotics in manufacturing.

UK Robotics ‐ lost and found

Reports on a study organized by leading robotics organizations and sponsored by the DTI to review various sectors where the UK can develop a world‐class industry, namely: hazardous environments; transportation and services; construction; medical and pharmaceutical; food industry; agriculture and horticulture; and advanced robotics technology. Reviews the recommendations and proposes further action which should be taken for further development of a strong robotics industry.