Laser-based inspection systems in flexible automation

The work reported relates to cutting tool condition monitoring. The authors have shown that light scattering can be used to facilitate programmable orientation and for inspection quality control situations. In addition, laser tooled feeders can allow the delivery of components in various modes, including: a sequence of components with just one orientation; a sequence of components with one orientation, followed by a sequence of the same type of components with different orientation; sequences of different components with different orientations; and counting of components into batches. Initial confidence in the ability of the laser-based inspection technique to detect and discriminate between small defects on cutting tools appears to have been well-founded