Patent ID: 7941291
Filing Date: 2011-05-10
Classification: G01B

Abstract:
1. A method of calculating distance in an assembly operation, the method comprising the steps of: providing an assembly comprising a first part, a second part and a driver coupled to the first part, and a sensor, wherein the driver is arranged to selectively move the first part relative to the second part; detecting the first known position using the sensor; actuating the driver to selectively move the first part between the first known position and a second position; registering speed and/or acceleration data of the driver between the first known position and the second position; measuring the time interval for the first part to move between the first known position and the second position; and calculating the distance moved by the first part between the first known position and the second position using the measured time interval and the data registered from the driver; evaluating the difference between a theoretical distance and the calculated distance, between the first known position and the second position; determining a correction factor based on the evaluated difference; re-evaluating a theoretical optimum distance of the second position relative to the first known position using the correction factor; and programming the driver, such that on actuation thereof for a subsequent assembly operation, the first part is moved relative to the first known position by the theoretical optimum distance evaluated for the second position.