Tactile sensing of density uniformity in powder beds after die filling

The use of tactile sensors has been explored as a novel means of assessing density uniformity of powders in molding dies prior to compaction. Nonuniform mass distribution after the die filling process was detected as gradients in the transmitted pressure by a tactile sensor located at the bottom of the die. The effect of process variables on fill uniformity was determined by comparing the coefficients of variation of transmitted pressure distributions. Direct measurements of the density uniformity after compaction were consistent with the trends in pressure distribution measured by the tactile sensor. Thus, this work demonstrates the feasibility of using tactile sensors as a quality assessment, process development, or training tool in dry pressing operations. (C) 1998 Elsevier Science S.A. All rights reserved.