Twist and Route

A series of five angled swivel units offers an alternative solution to a classic engineering dilemma: how to deliver air, electrical and/or fluid lines to devices such as grippers, tools, tool handlers or vacuum cups mounted at the ends of pivoting, swiveling robot arms. These mechanisms have two double-acting opposed cylinders, which drive racks that rotate a hollow pinion. Offered by Techno-Sommer Automatic, New Hyde Park, NY, the pivoting transfer plate rotates 0-180 degrees when up to 8 bar pneumatic or hydraulic pressure is applied.

Identified as Models SW50D4, SW74D4, SW100D4, SW155D4 and SW195D4, they feature torque ratings of 1.5 Nm to 120 Nm at 6 bar. The largest of the group, SW195D4, can support up to 1400 lbs.

The through-hole in the pinion can be used to carry a myriad of items such as signal and power wiring, water lines, or even piston rods through the center. All units feature built-in self-adjusting hydraulic shock absorbers, proximity switch mounting points and flow controls. Air manifolds are built-in for tangle-free transmission of air to the attachments, and sealed ball bearings on either side of the pinion are pre-lubricated at the factory. Maximum cycle times can be adjusted for up to 171 cycles per minute, depending on the model and weight of the end effector.

Suggested applications for the swivel units include devices for loading and unloading machine tools, multiple grippers and transfer lines. Techno-Sommer Automatic is currently offering the units on a free trial evaluation basis.

--RM

For more information, contact Techno-Sommer Automatic, 2101 Jericho Turnpike, Box 5416, New Hyde Park, NY 11042-5416. 516-328-3970.
http://www.techno-sommer.com Circle 555.