Published online by Cambridge University Press: 09 March 2009
A robot-based automatic system for adjusting energy regulators in electric cookers is described in this paper. It is claimed that this system improves the quality of the regulators and increases productivity. First, the operator's intuitive judgement and decision-making are simulated on a microcomputer; the structure and performance variables of the regulator are then described. A discussion of computer modelling of the regulator then follows, leading to the development of an algorithm for the adjustment procedure and overall strategy of the system. Experiments on 2,000 regulators showed that this automated operation was superior to the manual procedure as regards consistency and accuracy. This technique based on a robot may be applied to quality control and manufacture of a variety of similar products.