Efficiently load cylindrical workpieces

Mechatronic gripper

SCHUNK is expanding its portfolio of mechatronic universal grippers for flexible machine loading with an additional module: the new EZU centric gripper reliably handles cylindrical and eccentrically positioned workpieces. Thanks to its robust, sealed construction and expandable gripping force in StrongGrip mode, it meets all requirements for demanding production and assembly processes.

SCHUNK is pushing ahead with the electrification of its portfolio to further expand the possibilities for efficient, future-proof production processes. After the successful market introduction of the smart EGU parallel gripper, SCHUNK now also presents a 3-finger version of the universal gripper: the EZU. With it, loading and unloading processes with cylindrical workpieces can be performed reliably. The flexible gripper can also be used in the automotive industry, for example for handling shafts or gears for production and assembly processes of drive trains.

Powerful thanks to StrongGrip

The automation expert has developed a common software platform for its mechatronic gripper series that ensures consistent programming and commissioning. On this basis, different gripping modes can be used for application-specific operations. In addition to the normal BasicGrip mode, users can get more power from the gripping process with both the EGU and the new EZU: In StrongGrip mode, the nominal gripping force can be dynamically increased to a maximum of 200 %. This means that even heavy, insensitive workpieces can be handled without replacing the gripper. In addition to this newly acquired flexibility, users benefit from comprehensive communication interfaces, PLC function modules and plug-ins from all leading robot manufacturers, as well as a standardized control protocol for data exchange.

Maximum process reliability - maximum flexibility

Like its 2-finger counterpart, the EZU also has an integrated gripping force retention function with workpiece loss detection. Gripping forces can be generated without a minimum travel distance, significantly speeding up the overall process. Even in the event of an emergency stop or power failure, the EZU retains at least 80 percent of its gripping force. Another plus: The integrated absolute encoder ensures permanent reference and fast restart.

The centric gripper is designed for handling a wide range of components in flexible production. SCHUNK offers the EZU for this purpose in three construction sizes with strokes from 30 to 40 millimeters and with a gripping force of 175 N to a maximum of 3,600 N. The freely programmable stroke of the gripping jaw allows efficient handling of different workpiece dimensions. The universal gripper also demonstrates its strengths in terms of fault tolerance. The gearing generates an almost constant gripping force over the entire finger length, which also forgives positioning inaccuracies.

Thanks to its sealed design and proven sliding guide, the gripper is particularly suitable for use in harsh environments where it is exposed to chips or cooling lubricant. In the dust-tight version, the conductor protection rating can be increased to IP64, so the gripper can also be used in sanding applications exposed to splash water. This makes it a robust all-rounder in all production environments. schunk.com