Abstract
To improve the efficiency of the drilling of round steel pipes used for the construction of greenhouses, we developed an automated drilling system that can be operated by one worker. The system enables us to (1) detect the weld seam of a steel pipe with an eddy current sensor, (2) set any drilling location on the pipe easily from a touch panel, and (3) avoid the need to remove burrs or rough edges on the drilling surface. We compared the work efficiency of the new system with that of conventional manual drilling. The new system reduced labor and time, irrespective of the number of drilling operations, and obviated the need for skill in setting the drill and identifying the weld seam by eye. Conventional manual operation requires two or more workers, but the new system requires only one. Since the system uses a pair of drill bits installed directly opposite each other, there is no need to remove burrs or rough edges.
