Robotics Engineer -- Mountainview , CA / C2C/

Hi,

Position: Robotics Engineer
Location: Mountainview , CA
Duration: Long Term

Interview process: 1 video Interview

1. Planning and site preparation

• Identify the application: Determine the specific task for the robot, such as pick-and-place, assembly, or machine tending. This will guide your selection of the robot arm, gripper, and camera.
• Assess the environment: Conduct a site survey to identify potential hazards and ensure a stable, vibration-free mounting surface for the robot. A clean, well-lit workspace is essential for proper camera performance.
• Review all manuals: Before starting, carefully read the installation and connection manuals for all components the robot arm, camera, and gripper.
• Gather tools and materials: Collect all necessary equipment, including Allen keys, screws, power supplies, communication cables, and any required mounting plates or adapters.

1. Mechanical installation

• Mount the robot arm: Securely fasten the robot arm to its base using the manufacturer's specified bolts. The mounting surface must be able to withstand the arm's weight and torque.
• Install the camera: Mount the camera onto the arm's "tool flange," often using an adapter plate and alignment pins for precise positioning. For an "eye-in-hand" configuration, the camera is mounted directly on the wrist to capture images from the end-effector's perspective.
• Mount the gripper: Attach the gripper to the tool flange, or to the camera's adapter plate if an eye-in-hand setup is used. Ensure the connection is secure and properly aligned.
• Manage cables: Route and secure all electrical and communication cables along the robot arm. Leave enough slack to accommodate the arm's full range of motion without straining the wires.

1. Electrical and software integration

• Connect all power and control: Link the camera and gripper to the robot controller or a dedicated controller using the correct communication protocols. This involves connecting power supplies and data cables. For Universal Robots, this may involve installing a URcap via a USB drive.
• Power on the system: Activate the system's power. For safety, ensure that lock-out/tag-out procedures are in place to prevent accidental startup during work.
• Calibrate the system:
• Robot arm: Perform the initial robot setup and calibrate the arm's movements within the robot's control software.
• Gripper: Calibrate the gripper's open and close positions and test its ability to grasp and release objects.
• Camera: Execute a hand-eye calibration procedure. This teaches the robot the precise spatial relationship between its gripper and the camera, allowing it to accurately "see" and interact with its environment.
• Create the work program:
• Use the visual data from the camera to program pick-and-place routines.
• Teach the robot key positions and tasks.
• Utilize machine vision software to enable object recognition and feature extraction, which enhances the robot's flexibility when handling different parts.

1. Testing and fine-tuning

• Test all movements: Run the programmed movements at a low speed to confirm proper functionality and clearance with surrounding equipment.
• Verify safety measures: Test all safety features, including protective stops and virtual limits, to ensure the system operates safely around personnel.
• Run production tests: Once initial tests are successful, run the system at production speed and monitor for any issues. This allows for fine-tuning of timings and trajectories.
• Optimize the cycle time: Refine the program to maximize efficiency. The camera can capture the next image while the robot is moving, which helps to reduce overall cycle time.