Tool Changing

Tool Changing

Tool changers are devices that fix to the wrist of a collaborative robot (cobot), enabling it to quickly and easily switch from one tool to another. This allows you to have several tools operating in the same area, to complete a particular set of tasks. As a result, a robot tool changer reduces set up times and provides you with greater versatility.

Similarly, robot base systems enable you to easily move your robot from one workstation to another, allowing you to re-deploy your robot in seconds. This means that the robot can service multiple workstations as required and provides you with flexibility.

RARUK Automation is the exclusive distributor of GRIP products in the UK. We are proud to offer the complete GRIP product range. To find out more, get in touch today and our team of automation experts will be happy to help.

Manual Tool Changers

GRIP manual tool changers, also known as manual connectors, are designed for precision and ease of use. A manual tool changer allows you to quickly swap tools or grippers on the end of a robot arm. This is possible with a mechanical release lever, offering maximum safety and accuracy.

GRIP tool changer advantages include:

• High repeatability to < 0.02 mm
• Durable – no loss in accuracy after 5,000 tool changes
• Can withstand high loads
• Intuitive operation
• Can be released and closed with one hand
• Lightweight
• Made of high-strength aluminium, anodised
• Locking pin secures the hand lever against unintentional release

Automatic Tool Changers

GRIP automatic tool changers, or auto connectors, are fully automatic, mechanical end-of-arm tool changing systems. The locking and unlocking mechanism is activated through the robot’s own movement. Multiple different tools can be ‘parked’ in trays, allowing the robot to easily swap between end-effectors.

GRIP automatic tool changer advantages include:

• Fully automatic
• High repeatability to < 0.02 mm
• Durable – no loss in accuracy after 1,000,000 tool changes
• Can withstand high loads
• No external energy, such as compressed air or electricity, is required
• Integrated pneumatic feedthroughs
• Module for electric actuated tools is optional
• Made of high-strength aluminium, anodised
• A spring actuated pin ensures additional safety during operation

Robot Base Changers

The GRIP base connector allows the entire robot to be easily moved from one workstation to another. The robot is bolted to a manual tool changer, which is bolted to a table or cell. This means that a robot can be easily re-deployed to a different cell without having to be unscrewed, as a simple pull of a lever releases the robot from its current position. The entire process takes only a few seconds. This innovative system allows manufacturers to maximise the flexibility of their collaborative robot.

GRIP robot base changers advantages include:

• Allows transfer of entire robot arm
• Optimisation of robot cells and resources
• Intuitive to use
• Very strong
• Repeat accuracy of < 0.02 mm