SCHUNK is expanding its portfolio of mechatronic universal grippers for flexible machine loading with an additional module: The new EZU centric gripper reliably handles cylindrical and eccentrically positioned workpieces. Thanks to its robust, sealed construction and expandable gripping force in StrongGrip mode, it fulfils all the requirements of challenging production and assembly processes.
The automation expert has developed a common software platform for its mechatronic gripper series that guarantees consistent programming and commissioning. On this basis, different gripping methods can be used for application-specific handling. In addition to the normal BasicGrip mode, users can get more force out of the gripping process with both the EGU and the new EZU: In StrongGrip mode, the nominal gripping force can be dynamically increased to up to 200%. This means that even heavy, insensitive workpieces can be handled without having to change the gripper. In addition to this newly acquired flexibility, users benefit from extensive communication interfaces, PLC functional modules and plug-ins from all leading robot manufacturers, as well as a consistent control protocol for data exchange.
Like its 2-finger counterpart, the EZU also has integrated gripping force maintenance with workpiece loss detection. The gripping forces can be generated without a minimum travel distance, which significantly speeds up the overall process. Even in the event of an emergency stop or power failure, the EZU retains at least 80 percent of its gripping force. Another plus: the integrated absolute encoder ensures permanent referencing and a quick restart.
The centric gripper has been developed to process a wide range of parts in flexible production. For this purpose, SCHUNK offers the EZU in three sizes with strokes of 30 to 40 millimeters and with a gripping force ranging from 175 N to a maximum of 3,600 N. Its freely programmable jaw stroke enables the efficient handling of different workpiece sizes. The universal gripper also shows what it is made of in terms of fault tolerance. Its spur gear generates an almost constant gripping force along the entire length of the finger, which also forgives positioning inaccuracies.
Thanks to the sealed construction and the tried and tested sliding guide, the gripper is particularly well-suited for use in harsh environments in which chips or coolant are ejected. In the dust-tight version, the degree of protection of the guides can be increased to IP64 so that the gripper can also be used in sanding applications under the influence of splash water. This makes it a robust all-rounder in all production environments.