How Z-Tracking Eliminates Robot Reprogramming and Improves Application Quality
In high-precision manufacturing environments, consistency is everything. Even the smallest variation in part geometry can affect the accuracy of adhesive or sealant application — leading to rework, waste or quality issues. That’s where Coherix Z-Tracking comes in.
A Process Engineer from KUKA Systems GmbH recently shared their experience using Z-Tracking, noting that:
“The use of Z-Tracking reduces the frequent robot re-programming efforts. Furthermore, the requirement to optimize the distance between the application nozzle and the part surface is eliminated, especially with part-to-part variation, which has a direct effect on the application quality.”
Z-Tracking dynamically adjusts for height variations in real time, allowing robots to maintain the ideal nozzle-to-surface distance throughout the dispensing process. This adaptive control not only improves bead consistency and adhesion quality but also removes the need for constant manual adjustments or time-consuming reprogramming.
For manufacturers, that means:
- Less downtime due to robot re-teaching
- Higher first-pass yield with consistent material application
- Improved process stability across variable parts and surfaces
Z-Tracking is one of the many ways Coherix is helping manufacturers optimize their automated gluing operations with 3D machine vision and adaptive process control.