Coordination error control for accurate positioning in movable robotic drilling

Abstract

Purpose – This paper aims to propose a roadmap to control the robot–subassembly (R–S) coordination errors in movable robotic drilling. Fastener hole drilling for multi-station aircraft assembly demands a robotic drilling system with expanded working volume and high positioning accuracy. However, coordination errors often exist between the robot and the subassembly to be drilled because of disturbances. Design/methodology/approach – Mechanical pre-locating and vision-based robot base frame calibration are consecutively implemented to achieve in-process robot relocation after station transfer. Thus, coordination errors induced by robotic platform movements, inconsistent thermal effects, etc. are eliminated. The two-dimensional (2D) vision system is applied to measure the remainder of the R–S coordination errors, which is used to enhance the positioning accuracy of the robot. Accurate estimation of measured positioning errors is of great significance for evaluating the positioning accuracy. For well estimation of the positioning errors with small samples, a bootstrap approach is put forward. Findings – A roadmap for R–S coordination error control using a 2D vision system, composed of in-process relocation, coordination error measurement and drilled position correction, is developed for the movable robotic drilling. Practical implications – The proposed roadmap has been integrated into a drilling system for the assembly of flight control surfaces of a transport aircraft in Aviation Industry Corporation of China. The position accuracy of the drilled fastener holes is well ensured. Originality/value – A complete roadmap for controlling coordination errors and improving positioning accuracy is proposed, which makes the high accuracy and efficiency available in movable robotic drilling for aircraft manufacturing.