Schunk: Powerful 24 V grippers for small components with IO-Link
July 31, 2019
The compact, mechatronic 24 V gripper for small components type SCHUNK EGB with IO-link allows flexible processes during a fast-paced Pick & Place. It is based on the tried-and-tested SCHUNK EGP, and scores with a high speed and high gripping force. In the version with IO-Link, the electric gripper for small components satisfies the IO-Link Class B Standard suitable for increased power consumption, and can be directly connected with an IO-Link Class B Master. Its gripper fingers can be freely positioned within every cycle, meaning the highest level of flexibility.
Due to the pre-positioning, the shortest cycle times can be ensured. As the gripping force can be adapted to the respective workpiece using software settings in four stages, handling scenarios with deformation-sensitive parts can also be achieved. Within the permissible finger length, both the gripping force and the gripping speed remain virtually constant over the entire stroke. The position of the gripper fingers are detectable, using the integrated measuring system over the entire stroke, and no external sensors are required for monitoring. Quite the opposite in fact: intermediate positions or varying workpiece sizes can be monitored at any time. An integrated diagnosis tool permanently monitors the voltage, current, temperature, and condition of the gripper, and transmits errors automatically to the superior control system. If needs be, systems operators can also store maintenance intervals for the system on the tool. As the entire electronics of the SCHUNK EGP is space-saving in its interior, the gripper doesn’t take up any space at all in the control cabinet. Brushless and therefore maintenance-free servomotors and a clearance-free junction roller guide ensure a high level of efficiency, constant gripping forces across the entire finger length and make the SCHUNK EGP with IO-Link a dynamic, precise, and powerful expert for challenging handling of small and mid-sized parts.
High gripping force with compact dimensions and low weight
Just like its predecessor the pneumatic SCHUNK MPG-plus, the SCHUNK EGP takes screws on the side or at the base, which increases its flexibility within a system design. In order to increase the dynamics and the energy efficiency of higher-level systems, the gripper housing consists of a special high-performance aluminum. In addition, the design is rigorous in eliminating superfluous materials. The Pick & Place expert fits seamlessly in the program for modular high performance assembly from SCHUNK. It fulfills protection class IP30 and is suitable for the most various applications in the area of small component handling and assembly. The gripper for small components with IO-link will initially be available in sizes 40, 60, and 64 with a finger stroke of 6 mm/8 mm/ 10 mm, and maximum gripping forces of 140 N/210 N/300 N. The repeat accuracy during the gripping operation amounts to 0.02 mm, and during positioning of the gripper fingers it amounts to 0.1 mm to 0.2 mm. However, this depends on the fact whether the finger position is reached from one or two directions. The gripper is suitable for handling parts up to 0.7 kg/1.05 kg/1,25 kg. In addition to the version with IO-link, the 24 V gripper is again available with actuation via digital I/O.
