Weiss’s dynamic HP70 pick-and- place direct-drive module’s compact “knuckle” design propels revolutionary space, speed and accuracy advantages.
Rotary table and automation specialist Weiss North America, Inc. (Willoughby, OH), has introduced its revolutionary HP70 Pick- and-Place direct-drive component that is claimed as thinner (60-mm wide) than any linear motor or pneumatic module on the market today. Despite its uniquely compact design, it surpasses all previous Pick-and-Place units when it comes to speed−achieving over 100 cycles per minute with repeat accuracy of 0.01mm.
Key to the HP70’s design, is a new drive concept that works with two linear motor axes that feature a unique ‘knuckle‘ design on the y/z axis that virtually eliminates the need for another linear motor for the z axis. Essentially, two horizontal axes with 125, 225, or 325mm stroke length are arranged in parallel above one another, and then connected via a kinematic unit. This guarantees a vertical stroke of 70 mm.
Alongside its extremely compact dimensions, the HP70 also impresses with other characteristics. Whereas other devices must start and stop two axes each time, the HP70 only brakes on one axis when transitioning from full-speed horizontal movement to vertical movement. The time-consuming start of a second axis is then completely eliminated. This allows the module to achieve over 100 cycles per minute with repeat accuracy of 0.01mm.
Advantages include that twice the number of work stations can be set up on the exact same rotary indexing table or linear assembly system.
The design also offers another key performance benefit, as both motors are encapsulated in fixed casings. With the obvious exception of the grippers, no moving cables are required either outside or inside the housing.
Key benefits:
Output can be boosted dramatically as the transport times from one processing station to the next are reduced. In many cases, the optimization potential can reach as much as 50 percent.
The process for changing and retrofitting components has also been simplified, as customers can now easily fit additional valves themselves – while the device remains in the installation.
- Additionally, the new unit is even more user-friendly, as the manual teaching of positions has been further simplified.
Applications include packaging.
Weiss North America, Inc.
888-934-7762
