Flexible Tool Handling for Robots

SCHUNK is future-proofing its end-of-arm solutions and presenting the Robot PLUS portfolio. A highlight of this is the new tool changer CPS, which enables the automated exchange of end effectors on the robot.

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Combined with the PGN-plus-P double gripper, the tool changer brings speed to the handling of raw and finished parts in a single process step. Image: SCHUNK

Flexibility is the key in automated manufacturing. The increasing variety of process steps requires an agile interplay of the involved tools and systems. With a changing system, robots can perform different handling or processing tasks flexibly and without additional setup effort. Downtimes can be minimized. The new SCHUNK tool changer CPS is a flexible all-rounder for the automated change of end effectors on the robot.

Flexibility made in Germany

The new pneumatic tool changer CPS enables fast, process-safe changing of end effectors on the robot. Equipped with a SCHUNK magnetic gripper, raw parts are placed for further processing on a conveyor belt. Image: SCHUNK

Magnetically remove the raw parts from the tray and subsequently load and unload them in one work step using a pneumatic double gripper unit. A robot can handle this fully automated thanks to changing systems. With the new tool changer CPS, SCHUNK has deliberately focused on versatility. The pneumatically controlled system allows for quick and process-safe changing of grippers and other tools with up to 1,000 kg handling weight at the frontend. The series includes 18 sizes, so users can find the suitable changer for every robot.

Safety and Efficiency in Focus

With fast change cycles between different end effectors, tool changers minimize machine downtimes. Image: SCHUNK

The CPS consists of a change head (CPS-K) and a change adapter (CPS-A), which lock together securely and process-safe via compressed air. An integrated spring minimizes gap formation in case of unexpected air pressure drop and simultaneously ensures a self-holding lock. For more transparency in process monitoring, optionally available sensors monitor both the locking state and the presence of the tool.

A comprehensive range of signal, pneumatic, fluid, and communication modules expands the functionality and application possibilities of the CPS.

The tool changer can be used with a robot or also stationary, for example in fixture construction. Since it is fully compatible with existing SCHUNK changers, users save the need for re-teaching when changing. The mounting of the change head on the robot is very simple via ISO flanges or standardized adapter plates. The use of hardened steel in all functional parts makes the CPS particularly robust and durable, even in harsh machine environments.

Robot PLUS

With the new Robot PLUS portfolio, SCHUNK creates versatile design options for flexible robot automation. The comprehensive portfolio includes not only tool changers like the CPS and CPB but also newly developed compensation units and force-torque sensors. Thanks to its decades of experience in developing tailored, well-thought-out automation components, SCHUNK stands for particularly high productivity, flexibility, and resource conservation.

Contact:

www.schunk.com