Leading robotics distributor RARUK Automation has announced two new partnerships that will unlock new applications for collaborative automation. Complementary to RARUK Automation’s Universal Robots product range, the new partnerships will offer innovative manual and automatic robot tool changers from GRIP, as well as the new collaborative 7th axis from Thomson®.
GRIP Tool Changers for Increased Collaborative Robot Flexibility
Based in Germany, GRIP is a specialist in intelligent tool changing systems for collaborative robots. RARUK Automation’s new, exclusive agreement will bring GRIP’s innovative solutions to UK manufacturers, enabling users to enhance the flexibility, safety and efficiency of their collaborative robot cells.
RARUK Automation is a long-standing distributor of the Universal Robots range, as well as complementary end-of-arm tooling (EOAT) and application solutions. GRIP’s tool changers are designed to integrate seamlessly with Universal Robots, with a URCap for easy set-up and programming. With both manual and automatic options available, the systems allow a single robot to perform multiple tasks by switching between tools quickly and safely.
Manual Tool Changers
Also referred to as manual connectors, these changers feature a mechanical release lever, which can be operated one-handed. They deliver high durability, precision and repeatability (<0.02 mm). With a locking pin to prevent unintentional release, user safety is prioritised with GRIP manual tool changers. These low weight connectors, made of anodised aluminium, can withstand high loads.
Automatic Tool Changers
GRIP’s auto connectors function as fully automated end-of-arm tool changing systems, with no external energy source required. The locking and unlocking mechanism is activated by the robot’s own movement, meaning that no human intervention is required. Matching the manual tool changers’ levels repeatability, GRIP’s automatic tool changers work with tool trays which enable the robot to seamlessly switch between multiple end-effectors and ‘park’ the tools it is not using.
Robot Base Changers
GRIP also offers a manual robot base connector that allows the entire robot to be relocated between workstations in seconds – without the need for unscrewing. An operator can release the robot from its position by simply pulling a lever, allowing it to be transferred to a new station. This intuitive solution optimises robot cell layouts and improves resource utilisation.
Ross Lacy, Sales Director at RARUK Automation, comments:
“Our partnership with GRIP will bring a new level of versatility for our customers. Their innovative tool changing systems enable collaborative robots to switch seamlessly between tasks – minimising downtime, boosting productivity and unlocking greater value for businesses.”
Thomson®’s Movotrak™ CTU Offers Extended Cobot Operating Range
Thomson®, a Regal Rexnord Brand, recently launched the Movotrak™ CTU (cobot transfer unit), which is now available from RARUK Automation.
The Movotrak™ CTU features collision detection settings for groundbreaking programming and control benefits. The collaborative 7th axis will immediately stop the cobot when it detects an obstacle. This offers increased reach for collaborative applications, whilst maintaining high standards of safety.
The collision detection system also monitors current continuously, detecting position errors in the motor, and providing comprehensive anti-collision capabilities along the entire 7th axis. The system includes a small reverse-move feature that eliminates pinch points following a stop.
A Versatile Solution
The 7th axis increases the robot’s operating range up to 10 metres, meaning that a cobot can be utilised for more than one workstation. Offering flexibility for users, the Movotrak™ CTU can be seamlessly mounted in a horizontal, inverted or wall-mounted configuration, making it an adaptable choice for diverse applications. Notably, the Movotrak™ CTU 7th axis is well-equipped for compatibility with even the largest cobots, such as the UR20 and UR30
Easy to Use
Fully compatible with Universal Robots, the Movotrak™ CTU can be programmed directly through a URCap interface on the UR Teach Pendant. All collision monitoring and safeguard logic runs in the Thomson drive, so bandwidth competition with the UR controls is minimal.
Similar to the freedrive of cobot joints, the Movotrak™ CTU 7th axis freedrive functionality enables hand-driven setting of linear waypoints during programming. Users manually slide the cobot where they would like it to be in a sequence along the 7th axis and register that with a simple push button. This could particularly benefit a range of applications, such as welding, quality inspection or lab automation.
Optimised Collaborative Robot Applications
The collaborative 7th axis offers maximised efficiency, as one robot can operate multiple workstations. It also offers 24/7 operation, enabling increased throughput. By utilising the Movotrak™ CTU, businesses can make efficient use of space and resources.
“We’re excited to partner with Thomson® to bring the Movotrak™ CTU to our customers.” Comments Ross Lacy. “This innovative 7th axis solution perfectly complements our range of Universal Robots cobots, offering enhanced reach, safety and flexibility. The Movotrak™ CTU empowers manufacturers to optimise their collaborative applications, maximise efficiency and unlock new automation possibilities.”
