Tool changing system reduces the need for multiple robots

Increasing the utilisation and productivity of automated manufacturing cells frequently requires several operations to be completed by robots, all within the production cycle time. The end-of-arm tools (EOAT) required during the cycle can range from drilling or grinding heads to grippers or gauges. Additional operations usually require additional robots; but with the facility to quickly and automatically change the tools on a robot arm, the need for a second or even third robot can be eliminated, thereby significantly reducing the capital investment required, improving payback and often reducing the overall cell footprint.

Staubli's range of automatic tool changers are specifically designed for these types of applications, and the introduction of the MPS 32 extends their benefits to installations using smaller, lighter tooling in compact cells. All are directly mountable on the robot flange and provide secure locking and unlocking. Staubli's tool changers now extend from 32kg right up to 630kg tool weight capability and in many applications have performed successfully for over 1million connection cycles.

Tool changer specification

The MPS 32 is a compact unit, just 63mm diameter and 40mm wide; both robot-side and tool-side elements together only weigh 0.7kg, which is claimed to be smaller and lighter than competitive products. It can handle payloads up to 32kg, operating within a pressure range of 4.5-10.0bar. The locking unit is a double-active, pneumatic system that ensures secure retention of the tool; additional internal springs ensure that the tool is securely held by the changer even if the pressure drops.

All systems required by the tools are connected automatically, employing the technology used in Staubli multi-coupling plates. Fluid lines, signal connections such as required for actuators, sensors, bus systems or fibre optics and power connections are automatically connected to the tool and disconnected without any loss of fluid or ingress of air into the circuits.

Staubli has many years of fluid, gas and electrical connector expertise as well as experience of manufacturing robots, and the company takes a broad approach to market requirements by designing tool changers that are suited to all robot makes and types. Equally significant is the contribution to the design of the tool changer by sister company in the Connectors Division, Multi-Contact. MC has designed an array of electrical connectors for both power and signals, housed in one unit and incorporating its multilam technology. The electrical connector units are modular in design, allowing the connector array to be replaced easily without any rewiring or requirement to disturb the main cables. The replacement module connects to the main cabling using Multi-Contact's multilam technology to ensure a quick and effective connection every time.

Tool changers or complete systems

Tool changers can be supplied separately or as part of a complete system including docking stations, with the option of tool-cooling circuits or inbuilt safety systems. The connections provided on each tool changer are modular and can readily be configured to the precise needs of any application by selecting the required connector from Staubli's wide range; total compatibility is ensured.

Advances in productivity and operational flexibility can be achieved using automated tool/gripper changers by minimising robot downtime and ensuring correct connection of all services each and every time. The level of capital investment required on additional robots is reduced too, by fully utilising all of the capabilities of the installed equipment. Coupled with the improvement in operator safety by eliminating any need to enter the cell to change tools, Staubli tool-changing mechanisms bring financial and production benefits to an increasingly competitive manufacturing sector.