Fully automated calibration of an eddy current sensor for high-precision feedback in pick-and-place applications using bioinspired dry adhesives

Abstract The integration of sensor systems in industrial applications requires not only simple technical implementation, but also an automated and scalable calibration methodology. This is a central prerequisite for reliable and easy use in adaptive robotic processes. In the present work, a systematic and fully automated process for the calibration of eddy current-based sensors is developed to enable the precise detection of misalignments in pick-and-place tasks using bioinspired robot end effectors. For this purpose, a method for automated optical reference alignment in combination with automated data acquisition for sensor calibration was designed and implemented. The developed setup enables efficient, reproducible, and automated calibration without manual intervention. The experimental validation proves the practical suitability of the approach and underlines its potential.