Duncan, South Carolina – Stäubli unveils the full capacity of its TX2 series of collaborative robots; its MPS tool changers, which enhance the productivity of automated production lines; and innovative solutions and proprietary technology for fluid and electrical connectors.
The 6-axis machines excel in every facet of automation, including high-volume manufacturing, Industry 4.0 applications, and man-robot collaboration under all production conditions, illustrating the ability to produce a batch of one.
The TX2 line is offered in six model series – TX2-40, TX2-60, TX2-60L, TX2-90, TX2-90L, and TX2–90XL and is capable of handling loads between 2 kilos and up to 15 kilos, with a reach between 515mm and 1,450mm. With the launch of the TX2 series and CS9 safety control, Stäubli has opened a new chapter in man-robot collaboration. The 6-axis robots have a separate safe digital encoder for each axis and an integrated safety board. All safety features comply with the stringent requirements of the highest safety category, SIL3/PLe.
To ensure maximum safety, every movement of the robot is monitored by sensors. In addition, all the coordinates of the robot as well as its speed and acceleration are recorded in real time. For the TX2 series, Stäubli has opted for configurable, safe I/O modules as well as real-time Ethernet field bus systems
On the mechanical side, Stäubli has incorporated proven technology for sensitive environments. Like their predecessors, the new 6-axis models have an enclosed structure certified to protection class IP65 and IP67, which means they are waterproof. The TX2 series is thus ideal for use where stringent cleanroom and hygiene conditions are in force and for applications in harsh environments. Stäubli’s understanding of this is demonstrated by a 6-axis machine equipped to Humid Environment (HE) standard, which makes them ideal for use wherever high humidity, water spray, or liquid coolants are prevalent.
Two compact, fully automatic tool change systems – the MPS 130 and the MPS 260 – are designed for the medium-payload segment, rounding out the tool changer line. With the automatic tool changer, the application of robotic automation can be significantly expanded and their efficiency and productivity increased. Although they are ideal for applications in the automotive industry, the advantages of the automatic gripper and the prospect of increased efficiency will be attractive to other markets as well.
Stäubli Fluid Connectors has paid particular attention to a weight-optimized design of the new tool changer so users don’t have to invest in robots of the next-highest payload category. The weight of the MPS 130 is only 1.8kg on the robot side and just 1.1kg on the tool side. With the larger MPS 260, the weight is 3.8kg and 2.2kg, respectively. Although the changer is light, it is not short on strength and resilience. The MPS 260 has a maximum load of 350kg and a bending moment of 2,000Nm. The smaller MPS 130 has a maximum load of 100kg and a bending moment of 900 Nm.
As with the larger models, the two new additions meet the strictest safety requirements according to safety category 3, performance level d. The tool changers can be equipped with customized modules and components for media, data, and electrical power transmission. To guarantee maximum reliability, Stäubli is the only manufacturer worldwide to develop and produce the complete changer single-handedly. The locking mechanism, the media module and the entire connection technology comes from a single source. The advantage is that all components are produced under an integrated quality management system in the highest production quality.
Stäubli Electrical Connectors offer the CombiTac product line – a modular connector solution. Capable of covering a wide range of different applications from manufacturing equipment and testing fixtures to product subcomponents, the CombiTac connector is an excellent choice for projects that require consistent, reliable connections. The modular components can be selected and incorporated together to build a standardized connector that meets each specific project’s exact needs and demands, available in both panel mount and housed configurations.
From elevated current and voltage loads to delicate signal transmission, the electrical contacts can withstand significant shock and vibrational disruptions while maintaining strong contact force, as well as achieving mating cycle capabilities in the hundreds of thousands, thanks to Stäubli Electrical Connectors’ proprietary MULTILAM contact band technology. Accessories can be included to further protect small contacts from impact and damage. Floating mounting points ensure proper alignment, while the high-power contacts are touch protected to assure user safety.
Pneumatic and fluid couplers can be integrated along with the electrical connectors for a robust, compact solution, incorporating proprietary leak-proof shut-off valves to ensure safe performance.
Stäubli offers a variety of products. Learn more about Stäubli’s latest innovative solutions by visiting booth #1240 at Automate 2017 or clicking here.
Source: Stäubli North America