Process Arms

Extended Reach Applications

Overview

Process Arms integrate with the manufacturing process. ELS provides engineering and development solutions to safely and efficiently transfer production parts. Process Arms provide exteded reach and control of the load through the articulating arm structure and traveling carriage. End of arm tooling provides control for attaching, manipulating, positioning and realease of the load.

Design Considerations

Operator Ergonomics – tooling is designed to meet customer ergonomic specifications such as pushbutton height ranges, visibility, push and pull forces, operator reach, walking distances, body position.

End Effecters – designed to match the part shape and to manipulate the part from initial loading through to unload positioning.

Tractor Drive – for home positioning.

Line Tracking – especially for assembly lines where the process arm and the assembly need to travel together along a path. There are two methods of Line Tracking: the None-Contact method accomplished by a remote speed signal or the Mechanical Engagement method where the Process Arm is attached to the assembly unit via a mechanical device.

Brakes – rotation brakes on joints to prevent damage to parts and improve safety. There are ergonomic benefits for limiting travel within a work area.

Control Functions – selection ranges from pneumatic to full PLC.

Parking Stands – used for providing a cradle or docking station for the Process Arm when it is in the home position.