Tangentenführung

Tangentenführung is a concept primarily used in the field of mechanical engineering and manufacturing, particularly in the context of automated systems and robotics. It refers to a method of controlling the movement of a tool or an end-effector along a curved path by continuously aligning the tool's orientation with the tangent of that path. This ensures that the tool is always positioned perpendicular to the direction of motion at any given point along the curve.

The primary benefit of Tangentenführung is that it allows for consistent and precise application of forces or materials. For instance, in processes like welding, painting, or dispensing adhesives, maintaining a constant perpendicular relationship between the tool and the surface is crucial for uniform coverage and quality. Without Tangentenführung, the tool might tilt or angle incorrectly as it follows a curve, leading to uneven application or potential damage.

Implementing Tangentenführung typically involves sophisticated control systems that monitor the desired path and calculate the necessary adjustments to the tool's orientation in real-time. This often relies on sensors that can detect the tool's position and orientation, and algorithms that can extrapolate the tangent at each point on the programmed path. It is a key enabler for complex automated manufacturing tasks that require high precision along non-linear trajectories.