How a High-Force Robotic Gripper Can Be Collaborative

Automate 2019 - A cobot is only as safe as its tooling.

Collaborative robots are defined by the features that allow them to work in close proximity to humans. Beyond the design of the arm itself, these requirements extend to the end-of-arm tooling as well. For example, a cobot wielding a cutting torch loses its collaborative advantages because it still needs to be guarded as a traditional, non-collaborative robot would.

 So, how can a collaborative robot manipulate large payloads? Because of the high forces required to pick up heavy objects, rigid grippers rated for these payloads have pinch points.

 German workholding company Schunk GmBH has developed the Co-act EGL-C, a certified collaborative gripper which uses force sensors to approach the workpiece with a low force safe for human fingers, then increase force to grip the part properly once human hands are out of the pinch area.

Written by

James Anderton

Jim Anderton is the Director of Content for ENGINEERING.com. Mr. Anderton was formerly editor of Canadian Metalworking Magazine and has contributed to a wide range of print and on-line publications, including Design Engineering, Canadian Plastics, Service Station and Garage Management, Autovision, and the National Post. He also brings prior industry experience in quality and part design for a Tier One automotive supplier.