February 2004 Application Article

Series GRF Gripper Used in Lathe Loading Operation

Parts are fed down a conveyor to an automated part handler. The Series SM Slide moves the lower assembly horizontally above the conveyor belt. The Series STP Slide provides vertical motion and lowers the handler so that the Series GRF Gripper, attached to a Series RI Rotary Actuator, can grasp a part. The Series RI Rotary Actuator then rotates the part 90°, allowing the Series GRF Gripper to insert the part into a lathe. The part handler retracts while the lathe performs various operations to the part. When the lathe is finished, the part handler returns the part to the conveyor belt. This entire process is repeated for the next part waiting on the conveyor. This application reduces labor costs, increases safety, and provides higher cycle rates.