Easy finger change during the running process

Automatic quick-change system

With the new quick-change system BSWS-R, SCHUNK enables automated finger changes during the running process. The cleverly designed system consists of only a few components and is compatible with all grippers with PGN-plus-P screw connection diagram. The BSWS-R is the next step in the evolution of SCHUNK's BSWS series.

In many industries, production is increasingly moving toward "high-mix - low-volume." It is becoming a great advantage for companies to be able to produce a wide range of variants even in the smallest batch sizes without manual settings. This flexibility is now made possible by the BSWS-R quick-change system. With the latest evolution of the BSWS series, robots can automatically change their gripper fingers while the process is running - in less than three seconds!

Simple design, easy application, more freedom

Until now, automated changing was only possible by replacing the entire gripper. In contrast, the BSWS-R performs this task with minimal use of components: all that is required for each gripper finger is a quick-change base, two adapter pins and a storage station. The base is bolted to the workpiece-specific gripper finger and the adapter pins are attached to the gripper's base jaw. When the base moves into the storage station, the locking pin is actuated and the form locking mechanism is released. The robot moves up out of the quick-change gripper jaw. The fingers and base remain in the storage station. No additional effort is required because the robot performs the change under its own power. The new system design eliminates the need to drill through the finger and only requires threaded holes. This gives users even more freedom in designing their fingers.

Process reliability through attendance monitoring

The BSWS-R is available in nine sizes. In smaller versions up to size 100, the storage stations are designed with elastomeric bearings. This makes them ideal for use with cobots. For even greater process reliability, an optional inductive proximity switch is available to verify that the finger is inside the storage station. The base is also prepared for the installation of an RFID data carrier for finger coding. In addition to the new BSWS-R, the two manual changeover systems in the series remain available: With the proven BSWS, the operator changes the finger with an Allen wrench, with the BSWS-M with the push of a button. schunk.com