Clamps

Pneumatic clamp power is used to securely grip and control loads

Overview

The profile of a part provides opportunity to clamp control surfaces. Accurate and appropriate clamping pressure ensures the load can be lifted and manipulated to suit the production process.

Applications

Lift, transfer and manipulate many types of components including appliances, automotive components, drum handling, castings, weldments.

Design Considerations

Part Dimensions (width & length), weight, shape.

Sensory Feed Back – to sense the presence of a part, supply a specific limited force to the work part during gripping.

Controls – pneumatic, electro-mechanical.

Interchangeability – to accommodate different parts.

I.D. Grippers

Designed to Lift Cylindrical Parts by the Shaft Inside Diameter

Overview

This type of end effecter typically is used for cylindrically machined parts such as:
— Brake Rotors
— Wheel Rims

Design Considerations

Understanding the motion of the process is key to design criteria. Consideration is also given to part holding requirements.

Mechanical

Mechanical end effector tooling can provide an efficient and cost effective solution for many work processes

Overview

Mechanical lifters are the most common type of end effecter mainly used to pick and place loads.

Applications

Automotive assembly
Stamping
Machining Operation
Welding Automation

Design Considerations

Centre of gravity and guiding.

Safety - considerations for load stability and ease of tool operation.

Cycle time - Period required to complete one cycle of an operation; or to complete a function, job, or task from start to finish.

Vacuum Attachment

Used to attach to a variety of loads with flat and contoured surfaces.

Overview

End Effecter Vacuum Grippers are used to attach to loads of various shapes and sizes. Vacuum cups are ideal for use on A-surface components.

Applications

To lift, transport and position windshields, sheets of glass, metal, plastic, fiberglass

Design Considerations

— Part dimensions (width & length), rigidity to determine how many vacuum cups are required.

— Workflow process - understanding the transfer movements and articulation.

— Vacuum Pad change-out requirements to accommodate other loads.

— Safe control strategies.