Key principles.
Asymmetric
Asymmetric features ensure single correct orientation for vibration feeders or vision systems.
Vacuum or grip
Flat surfaces for vacuum picking, defined grip features for mechanical grippers.
Color/finish difference
Surfaces machine vision will detect — contrasting color or finish to background.
Designed-in
Reference features for laser/optical sensors. Repeatable, defect-tolerant.
Standard interfaces
Standard tool changer interfaces (Schunk, ATI). Quick-change between operations.
Stable footprint
Parts must rest stably on conveyor. Avoid features causing tipping.
FAQ
Single stable orientation, accessible pick surface, machine-vision-readable features, no fragile features that can't survive handling.
Asymmetric features (chamfered corner, missing feature, off-center hole) ensure parts self-orient. Critical for high-volume automation.
Adequate contrast, defined edges, repeatable features. Avoid mirror surfaces unless designed for. Backlight or front-light per setup.
Modern robots use force feedback for compliant assembly. Chamfered insertion + feedback enables precise positioning despite robot tolerance.
Parts < 100mm typically vibration-fed. Features must orient consistently. Asymmetric weight distribution helps.
At 10,000+ units/year, automation-ready design saves 30-60% per assembly cost. Below 1000 units manual assembly often cheaper.
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