Friday, February 26, 2010

Analog feedback for Grippers

Many applications have a need for precise jaw position feedback on pneumatic grippers.  Precise jaw position feedback may be needed for higher process speeds or improved quality control.  A few of ideas for use of the analog feedback on pneumatic grippers are to:

  • Differentiate objects by physical size based on jaw position.
  • Feedback to an analog pressure control circuit to control grip pressure based on position to prevent object deformation while ensuring a secure grip on the object.
  • Part present in gripper detection.

Balluff offers a number of sensors and technologies ideal for analog feedback relative to jaw position on pneumatic grippers:

Measurement with analog magneto-inductive linear sensors (BIL or Micro BIL)
An analog sensor that uses magneto-inductive linear technology is attached to the gripper in a position where it will sense the grippers internal magnet mounted on the piston.  The Micro BIL unit (pictured below) can slide into the t-slot of many modern grippers, taking the place of existing hall-effect or reed-switches and providing analog feedback.






Measurement with analog inductive sensor
To use this method you utilize an analog proximity sensor.  The analog proximity sensor measures position based on the amount of the sensor face  covered by a moving target on the gripper.  The image below shows an example of how this could be mounted and used.
Analog prox sensor detects jaw position.

Direct measurement of a inclined target
Better suited for large grippers with longer strokes a inclined target, like shown below, moves with the gripper jaw.  An analog inductive sensor detects the inclined target and feeds back jaw position.





For more information contact Scott Equipment.  We will be glad to assist you in specifying a Balluff analog sensor for your application.

Wednesday, February 24, 2010

SMC CBG1 End Lock Cylinders

Need your cylinder to hold position if you lose air pressure?  The SMC CBG1,  that is now manufactured in Indianapolis, may be the answer.

The SMC CBG1 series is based on the CG1 series cylinders.    In addition to the features of the CG1 series the CBG1 series also includes:
  • Three available end locking types: Head side, rod side or both
  • Standard with a choice of manual override: Locking or non-lock type
  • Very low 2mm maximum locking backlash
  • Lock holding force of up to 5390N (1,211 lbs.)
  • Very low maximum lock release pressure of 0.15Mpa (21.75 psi)
  • Standard with urethane bumper or available with optional air cushion for extra end of stroke kinetic energy absorption capability
  • The design of the CBG1 allows for rod seal replacement if necessary
  • Available with optional internal magnet for end of stroke sensing capability
  • 8 bore sizes from 20mm to 100mm
For more information contact Scott Equipment.  We will be glad to assist you in specifying a CBG1 for your application.

Friday, February 19, 2010

New Industrial Bumpers

ITT Enidine has released a line of high performance industrial bumpers.

These products are individually sized to decelerate moving loads under various conditions and in compliance with industry mandated safety standards. They are engineered to conform with OSHA, AISE, CMAA and other safety specifications such as DIN and FEM.

Typical Applications
  • Control of Bridge Cranes (Cab Operated)
  • Portal Cranes
  • Harbor Cranes
  • Gantry Cranes
  • Stacker Cranes
  • Large Container Transport
  • Ladle Transfer Cars
Features and Benefits of Enidine Bumper Products
  • The bumper is manufactured of expanded polyurethane resin.  The special microcellular structure consists of open and closed cells. This enables the buffers to provide high performance with excellent elasticity and energy absorption.  This proprietary, anti-aging material is self-extinguishing and offers long service and shelf life.
  • Rugged design suitable for outdoor use. 
  • Temperature capability from -40ºC (-40ºF) to +80ºC (175ºF)
  • A steel safety chain is encased within each bumper and attached to the metallic support. This safety feature prevents potential injury or damage to property due to the bumper breaking away from its mounting in the case of catastrophic impact.
  • Resistant to mechanical wear, oil, grease and gasoline.
  • Stud and four bolt mounting configurations available.
For more information contact Scott Equipment.

Saturday, February 6, 2010

Virtual Demo Room

The link below will lead you to a Microsoft Photosynth of our demo/training room in Charlotte, NC. Microsoft Photosynth is a innovative technology that takes a group of photos and splices them together in three dimensions to create an immersive viewing experience.

Our fully operational demo room is open to all customers.  Contact us to schedule a visit.

Full window link:  View full photosynth