Industrial robots require an end effector that can handle multiple and varied parts with precision and simplicity. Designers of robot units often face challenges with the asymmetrical pipe-shaped, spherical, and conical parts. The shape of these parts is critical for consideration, and some fixture manufacturers offer different fingertips that can be added to the fixture to suit specific applications. Inquire if the fixture can be applied to your specific application.
The minimum and maximum size of objects to be handled is crucial information, and other geometric positions need to be measured to determine the ideal gripping position of the fixture, considering the internal and external geometric shapes.
Regardless of whether using a tool changer or adaptive fixture, it is essential to ensure that the robot tool can correctly handle all parts. Tool changers are large and expensive, but custom tools can be used to work on virtual sections of parts.
It is essential to know the maximum weight of the part to be handled, and the effective payload of the gripper and robot must be considered. Additionally, ensure that the gripper has the necessary gripping force to handle the part.
The material composition of the part will also be a focus of the gripping solution. The size and weight can be handled by the fixture, but the material must also be compatible with the fixture to ensure that the gripping component does not damage the part. For instance, some grippers cannot handle fragile items such as ceramics, wax, thin metal, or glass, which are prone to damage. However, force-controlled fixtures can also be part of the solution to reduce the impact on the fragile surface of parts for adaptive fixtures.