Robotic workcell system design for cement mortars production

A potential problem in the production of cement testing cubes is inconsistency in quality due to skill differences between operators and low repeatability in human performance of identical operations. To eliminate this problem and to enhance productivity, a state-of-the-art robotic workcell system, which utilized a multitasking control strategy and tool changer and sensor technology to automatically produce cement testing cubes, was proposed, designed, and integrated. A comparative analysis of compressive strength values of specimens made by human operators and robots indicated that the specimens made by the robotic workcell system had lower variation than the human made ones. In addition, the system was designed to (1) comply with the American Society of Testing Methods (ASTM) procedure requirements, (2) pass the cement and concrete reference laboratory inspection checklist, and (3) be a fully automated turnkey system. This study not only demonstrates that robotic workcells are flexible enough to be used in cement testing cube production, but also suggests that revision of ASTM procedures to facilitate implementation of high technology in the materials testing and measurement process should be considered.

Robotic workcell system design for cement mortars production Conference Paper