MTC develop robot with decision-making capability

Using machine learning and visual recognition, the robot can be taught to make assembly decisions based on the components put in front of it.

A demonstrator developed at Coventry-based MTC mimics a typical electronic assembly using multiple components and can show manufacturers how robotics can be used to create a low cost, reactive assembly system.

Most industrial automation technology is programmed to do a specific job and changing the process can require major investment in fixturing and reprogramming. The MTC system is trained to recognise components and assembly variables and find solutions in its database. According to MTC, it combines a robot operating system with a collaborative robot and low-cost vision sensors.

In a statement, MTC senior research engineer Mark Robson said, "Giving robots the decision-making capability of a human operator can dramatically improve their productivity and flexibility in variable conditions. Our demonstrator project shows how machine learning can be applied to achieve this.