>SAS< Introduces Spring Loaded Locater

>SAS< Automation, a leading robotic end-of-arm tooling manufacturer introduced new Spring Loaded Locaters that are ideal for insert mold labeling applications.  Available in two sizes, the SLL 10-15 and SLL 16-30 are ideal for precision accuracy and performing several processes at the same time.  Spring Loaded Locaters provide the assurance required in complex and low tolerance applications.

Significant Features:

• Provides accuracy of +/- .001 inches
• Sized to fit your End-of-Arm Tool, robot and mold
• Locaters can dock on existing mold locators
• Custom lengths, strokes and diameters available.

“These locaters have enabled several >SAS< customers to consistently increase production of complex insert molded parts while reducing labor,” said Robert Dalton, General Manager for SAS Automation. “Our insert mold tools and spring-loaded locaters have automated many operations that used to be performed manually.”

>SAS< Announces New Electric Grippers

Electric grippers are becoming more popular for applications that require high speeds and for those requiring light or moderate grip forces. Electric is also cleaner than either pneumatic or hydraulic and, therefore, electric grippers are very effective for handling products such as circuit boards or other dust sensitive products.

Another major advantage of electric powered grippers is control. A microprocessor can be added to an electric gripping system which can be made to vary clamping force and velocity. This can be done at little additional cost, making the gripper able to cope with a variety of sizes and shapes and reducing the need to change grippers to accommodate different types of parts.

>SAS< Automation is pleased to offer both electric grippers and pneumatic grippers to provide our customers with options to more closely meet your manufacturing requirements.

Click here for more information.

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>SAS< Automation Announces Peter Zimmermann as General Manager

KARLSRUHE, GERMANY >SAS< Automation, a leading robotic tooling supplier today announced Peter Zimmermann, as General Manager for its European operation. This announcement was made by >SAS< Automation’s President, Trent P. Fisher, PE.

“Mr. Zimmermann comes to >SAS< Automation with an exceptional background. It includes over twenty years experience in plastics molding and packaging/palletizing automation, sales, and management. We welcome both his tremendous automation experience and enthusiasm for new growth in sales,” said Fisher.

“>SAS< has enjoyed above average growth in sales and is continuing its expansion into new markets and countries. Mr. Zimmermann will be instrumental in executing and managing these new market initiatives,” added Fisher.

The General Manager position oversees the European locations and includes: engineering, new product development, operations, sales (including international expansions), business development, and marketing for all areas.

Prior to joining >SAS<, Peter Zimmermann was employed by HEKUMA GmbH and ILSEMANN AUTOMATION, both automation companies specializing in plastic injection molding and packaging. Mr. Zimmermann holds both Engineering and MBA degrees and is returning to his hometown of Karlsruhe after 20 years.

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>SAS< Announces New Line of Tool Changers

>SAS< Automation recently introduced a complete line of tool changers that allow EOAT (end-of-arm tooling) and gripper systems to be quickly and accurately mounted to the robot arm. The tool changers have two separate sides. The robot side (QSR) is permanently attached to the robot arm.  The tool side (QST) is permanently attached to each individual EOAT. The EOAT mounts to the robot by fitting the two sides together and then locking them into position.  The use of >SAS< tool changers assures perfect positioning each time an EOAT is mounted.  This reduces set-up time and the risk of damage to both the EOAT and the mold. >SAS< tool changers automatically connect multiple ports including air, vacuum, and electric, thereby greatly reducing set-up time. Reliable port connections provide additional safety ensuring that all connections are aligned correctly. Click here for more information:

QST...Semi-Automatic Tool Changer QSR...Semi-Automatic Tool Changer

>SAS< Automation announces wide range of Internal Diameter Grippers

The IDG is a cost effective solution when compared to bladder grippers and automated or magnetic clamps. The IDG now comes in three sizes to accommodate very small, to very large or fragile parts.

The IDG grips and releases on command and is highly recommended for manipulating breakable parts as well as heavy parts. Unlike standard clamps, the IDG distributes forces evenly over the entire contact area making the IDG ideal for irregular shaped parts.

• IDG 16
  (small diameter range: 26mm - 38mm)
• IDG 25
  (medium diameter range: 36mm - 56mm)
• IDG 44
  (large diameter range: 60mm - 132mm)

Force per jaw:

• IDG 16 (40 N)
• IDG 25 (100 N)
• IDG 44 (400 N)

Significant Features:

• Secures heavy parts.
• Nose adapter can easily be customized for locating or part stabilization.
• Requires one compressed air line; spring return.
• Ø1/8" Neoprene rubber cord stock inserts ensure a secure grip -- and can be replaced at low cost. Other elastomers can be used and are commercially available.
• Can be mounted using our standard tubing clamps or hard mounted to a custom plate.
• Material used can be changed depending on your application.

“This new gripper is simply a better clamping method for managing a wide range of parts that are hard to handle – at a reduced cost,” said Rob Dalton, General Manager for >SAS< Automation.

Click here for more information.

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>SAS< Automation Installs Solar Array

>SAS< Automation, a leading robotic tooling supplier already involved in international solar panel automation and production projects, is pleased to announce the addition of a new photovoltaic solar array to one of their own manufacturing facilities.

The solar panels are now generating approximately 36,000 watts of power on a sunny day and are expected to produce over 60 Million Watt Hours of electricity over the next year, saving the SAS manufacturing facility about 30% of their electricity costs.

The array consists of 222 solar panels each providing 230 watts for a total of 51.2 kWatts making this the largest array in the area. The solar installation was competed this month (July 2011) by local electricians, contractors, and installation crews.

This total project cost approximately 200.000 EUR. For this installation, SAS Automation was granted 100.000 EUR in a state grant and a 30% government tax credit. They will also be eligible to sell their Solar Renewable Energy Certificates (SREC) enabling the equipment to pay for itself within 3 years, and showing a positive income thereafter.

According to owner Trent Fisher, “We see an opportunity to continue to lead the industry by being the first “green” renewable energy robotic tooling supplier worldwide. We hope by installing the clean and reliable solar system, we will attract like-minded customers who share in the vision of reduced carbon emissions and taking action to curb the global warming green house effect. We are committed to renewable energy and pleased to take this leading step. My hope is that other manufacturers will see our success and better apply the opportunities that solar and other renewable energy sources offer.”

New Carton Gripper from >SAS< Automation

>SAS< Automation recently introduced a new palletizing Carton Gripper for plastic bins, Slip-top and corrugated cartons. The EOAT is designed to allow for independent placement of multiple cartons from a single pick.

Significant Features

• Designed for a specific carton size or range of sizes.
• Easily handles carton weights of more than 25 kg (50 lb).
• Tool weight is 70 kg for 2 cartons, 90 kg with Slip sheet and Pallet hook options.
• Welded aluminum frame for strength, rigidity and light weight.
• Robot extension mount for hose and cable clearance.
• Self-guided cylinders provide in-line clamping pressure for carton gripping.
• Stationary bolster plate grips cartons with fine, abrasive surface while providing narrow gap between cartons for tight pallet layers.
• Movable bolster plate has bonded rubber surface with ribs to securely grip cartons.
• New rotating hooks on movable bolsters secure bottom of Slip-top cartons when palletizing.
• Pneumatic valves are available in Discrete I/O, DeviceNet, or Ethernet versions.
• Slip-sheet or Pallet-hook options are available.
• Custom robot mounting pattern.

“This new lightweight gripper is a unique carton tool for palletizing heavy boxes. It’s heavy duty yet lightweight frame will reduce the tool payload while palletizing securely. This gripper is capable of handling cartons of multiple weights/sizes and also reduces set-up time making it a more cost effective solution versus managing individual custom grippers for a variety of box sizes ,” said Rob Dalton, General Manager for >SAS< Automation.

Click here for more information.

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Career Opportunity: General Manager

>SAS< Automation is currently seeking a qualified candidate to fill a General Manager position that will serve their German subsidiary located in Karlsruhe, Germany.

Click here for more information about the position, and how to apply. 

>SAS< Automation introduces additional size offerings of Dual Durometer Vacuum Cups

>SAS< Automation recently introduced the complete size range of the 2.5 bellows, green & yellow, Dual Durometer vacuum cups for handling difficult to grip parts.

The new vacuum cups are ideal for handling:

• Uneven surfaces
• Porous surfaces (corrugated cardboard and paper)
• Rough surfaces

These cups are manufactured with a specially developed material that features the elasticity of rubber and the wear resistance of polyurethane making them long-lasting.

Significant features:

• Firm bellows and a soft lip make the vacuum cup stable, durable, and flexible with excellent sealing properties
• Elasticity of rubber and wear resistance of polyurethane
• Excellent for textured and contoured surfaces
• Silicone-free and mark-free

>SAS< Automation introduces FORK TOOL for Palletizing

>SAS< Automation recently introduced a Fork Tool for handling a wide variety of containers from oversized heavy bags to open-top containers. Bags and other containers made of Kraft paper, polycarbonate, PVC coated, woven mesh, cotton are easily handled by this EOAT.

Retracting Fork-style EOATs are ideal for handling trays, totes, open-top containers, closed-top containers and other difficult to palletize containers that must be picked-up from the bottom.

Significant features:

• This tool uses 11.1 mm (7/16") diameter solid stainless steel fingers for strength, long-lasting durability, and ability to withstand harsh manufacturing environments.
• Stroking forks designed to pick product from a roller conveyor.
• One to three bag infeed conveyor(s)
• Forks retract through a stationary stripper plate and product is placed on the pallet.
• Single bags, multiple bags, or cases may be lifted at one time.
• Tool can be used to pick and place a pallet
• Slip sheet option available
• Load building station
• Full load discharge conveyor
• Safety Guarding
• Automatic pallet dispenser
• Control panel
• Reduces direct labor costs and improves safety by reducing lifting and repetitive motion injuries.

Click here for more information.

>SAS< Introduces New Sensi-Sure Grippers

New Sensi-Sure Gripper is an improved design of the popular >SAS< GRZ 10-10 Sprue/Part Plier family that now has jaw closing adjustment – thereby protecting parts from marring. Sensi-Sure Grippers provide an increased sensing range throughout the length of the jaw. The new body design guards the jaw to protect against sprue/part binding. Protect parts better with new >SAS< Sensi-Sure Grippers!

• Set screw adjustment of jaw closing position to adjust to your specific parts.
• Integrated jaw screw to allow jaw replacement.
• Sensor jaw redesigned to increase sensitivity and broaden the sensing range.

“This new gripper is another example of how >SAS< continuously improves our grippers to make them the best choice for all kinds of difficult to handle parts,” said Robert Dalton, General Manager for SAS Automation.

Click here for more information.

>SAS< Automation introduces new Uni-Grip and Uni-Clamp Robotic Gripper Systems

Uni-Grip and Uni-Clamp Robotic Gripper Tooling, is an exciting world premier being announced by >SAS< Automation at its booth at the 2010 K show. Essentially the Uni-Grip System is an universal system that allows for a precise gripper tool to be built with the added benefit of greater assembly flexibility, featuring:

• channel-nut free Cross Connectors and Gripper Mounting Clamps - fasten with unique first ever expanding channel mount, rather than a channel nut.
• center mountable components without dis-assembly or additional drop in channel nuts.

The Uni-Clamp Gripper Components are also universal; having the ability to mount into the extruded nut channels on different brands and sizes of frame profile. This means:

• unique and expanding channel hooks for component mounting on virtually any profile brand and type.
• allows use of current in-house frame profiles, eliminating waste and aggravation!

“Uni-Grip is a new system that is simply an ultra flexible solution which allows use with virtually any frame profile and allows adding mounting components at any time not only during the assembly process, but also during lean process improvements. There has never been a more flexible gripper system on the market today. We know the difficulty when trying to modify tools which may be built with different brands and configurations of frame profile – this universal system eliminates that expensive headache,” said Robert Dalton, General Manager for >SAS< Automation.

>SAS< Automation introduces “Green” EOAT Systems

>SAS< Automation is pleased to announce the addition of modular gripper components specifically for tool builders to better understand their “green” tooling options for reducing carbon emissions as well as reducing cycle times. The system identifies three types of EOAT systems:

Green EOAT System – most efficient and safest
Decentralized vacuum EOAT using vacuum cups mounted directly to the GGE/GGS… V manifold with integrated vacuum cartridge. Since the vacuum is being generated at the cup location there are no vacuum losses due to fitting connections. This allows you to use smaller vacuum generators and cups to generate the same amount of lifting force with much less vacuum flow required.

This system provides a much “greener”, safer, and more cost-effective approach for certain applications in comparison to other methods such as these:

Yellow EOAT System - efficient
Centralized vacuum manifold with a single vacuum generator servicing 4 vacuum cups. Since this system has manifolds and fitting connections between the vacuum cups and vacuum source, there will be vacuum losses in the system. This system can still be desirable on flat smooth parts where little vacuum is lost at the cup.

Orange EOAT System – less efficient
Centralized vacuum system utilizing a vacuum pad and vacuum pump. The vacuum pad has an array of holes that draw vacuum through the vacuum chamber in the pad. The vacuum seal on the part can be made using vacuum cups or a closed cell foam. This system draws the highest vacuum flow.

“Our new modular off-the-shelf solution gives tool builders more choices in selecting vacuum systems based on both application and efficiency. We are especially pleased to bring the SAS GFD 1/4 MINI Vacuum Manifold option that allows for mounting of both standard vacuum generation systems and cups onto SAS’s gripper arms and frame profile; one of the most efficient choices that localize the vacuum at each cup or pad,” said Robert Dalton, General Manager for >SAS< Automation.

Click here for more information.

>SAS< Automation Introduces New Hybrid “HX” End Effectors for 5+ Axis Robots

>SAS< Automation recently introduced new Hybrid “HX” End Effectors for 5+ Axis Robots, made exclusively with the newly developed >SAS< HX hybrid frame profiles and modular off the shelf gripper components.

This new HX End Effector is specifically designed for increased flexibility, offering an optimal “hybrid” design that includes the benefits of tubular frame adjustability as well as extruded channel frame profile rigidity. Robotic production use includes long reach boom press tending applications or heavy-duty material handling.

Significant features and benefits:

1. Direct side channel mounting of standard >SAS< gripper component hardware, eliminating rotation or twist problems.
2. Modular design allows for side mounting or circumference component or connector clamping, offering added compatibility to other brands and types of systems.
3. Available with compliant oil resistant vacuum cups with hold down clamps to secure parts even when system fails.
4. Available in sizes of 40mm and 60mm OD, (HX-40/HX-60).
5. Center hole can be tapped to accommodate an M8 sized screw for connection of end plates/caps, connectors, etc.

Ideal for high-speed, heavy weight, or press tending applications – especially when gripping from a flat steel stack to load the stamping die to a formed part removal mode.

“The HX’s flexibility and adjustability allows for better routing of pneumatic hoses and electrical sensor wires to grippers and suction cups as well as many other necessary applications,” said Trent Fisher, President of >SAS< Automation. “It’s interchangeability with all of SAS’s modular EOAT line of components makes this one of our premier profiles,” he added.

Click here for more information.

>SAS< Automation introduces Adjustable BAG GRIPPER – smaller version

>SAS< Automation recently introduced a new, smaller adjustable bag gripper called >SAS< ABG-25 for a variety of bag handling applications that eliminates the need for costly custom tooling as it can be adjusted quickly for different production runs using a simple hand wheel. The ABG-25 is ideal for plastic, woven cloth and paper bags containing grains, chemicals, dog food, minerals and plastic resins.

This innovative gripper uses stainless steel fingers for both strength and their ability to withstand harsh manufacturing environments. A decker mechanism is designed to facilitate an accurate bag placement--crucial for a tightly packed pallet. In less than 30 seconds, the tool’s bag width can be changed from 7.25 to 21 inches.

>SAS< ABG-25 Gripper details:

• Handles Bag Weights: 2-25 kg ( 5-55 lb)
• Handles Bag Sizes: Width 185-530 mm (7.25-21 in), Length 300-900 mm (12-36 in) and Thickness 25-150 mm (1-6 in)
• Gripper Tool Weight: 38 kg (84 lb)
• Ball bearings for long life.
• Independent decker plates help center bags on conveyor and provide accurate bag placement for tight pallets.
• Can be fitted with servo drive to automatically adjust for different bag widths while on-the-move to accommodate multiple pallet loads.
• Uses 11.1 mm (7/16") diameter solid stainless steel fingers with radiused ends for long-lasting durability
• High flow pneumatic valves provide a complete open/close cycle in less than 600 milliseconds (.6 seconds).

Adjustable Bag Gripper PLAY View if you have broadband (256k)

Click here for more information.

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>SAS< Automation Introduces the QSA 150T
Semi-Automatic Tool Changer

>SAS< Automation recently introduced
a new Semi-Automatic Tool Changer for accurate, repeatable mounting of robotic end-of-arm tooling.

The purpose of any tool changer is to quickly mount a tool to the robot’s arm. This new >SAS< Semi-Automatic Tool Changer manages EOAT changes with both amazing speed and accuracy. The >SAS< tool changer automatically connects multiple ports including air, vacuum, and electric, thereby, greatly reducing set-up time. Reliable port connection provides additional safety ensuring that all connections are aligned correctly.

Built from modular construction, this tool changer couples air and vacuum lines automatically to the robot side.

The QSA 150T is for heavy duty applications. Made of lightweight aluminum with durable steel locators, the QSA 150T handles typical end-of-arm tool weights up to 75 lbs and has Allowable Maximum Loading of 200 lbs. Each tool supplies 10 pneumatic connections.

“This new Semi-Automatic Tool Changer is a faster, safer and more accurate tool changer and a better overall system for managing tools in a fast paced environment,” said Rob Dalton, General Manager for >SAS< Automation.

Click here for more information.

>SAS< Automation Introduces Internal Diameter Gripper – smaller version

>SAS< Automation recently introduced a new smaller version of their Internal Diameter Gripper (IDG) 16-26-33 ideal for parts that are small, fragile, or have an irregular shape.

The IDG grips and releases on command and is highly recommended for manipulating breakable parts. Unlike standard clamps, the IDG distributes force evenly over the entire contact area which is why they are most often used for irregular shaped parts.

This new IDG is a cost effective solution when compared to bladder grippers and automated or magnetic clamps.

Significant Features:

• Secures ID’s ranging from 26-33mm.
• Requires one compressed air line; spring return
• Extremely strong for its size -- jaws exert 14 lbs force @ 90 PSI.
• Ø1/8” Neoprene rubber cord stock inserts ensure a secure grip – and can be replaced at low cost. Other elastomers can be used and are commercially available.
• Nose adapter can easily be customized for locating or part stabilization.

“This new gripper is simply a better clamping method for small parts that are hard to handle – at a reduced cost,” said Rob Dalton, General Manager for >SAS< Automation.

>SAS< Automation -- Awarded Patent for Programmable Robotic End-of-Arm Tooling

>SAS< Automation recently awarded patent #7,611,180 for its innovative -- Programmable EOAT. This tool can be easily programmed to automatically relocate four separate component holders within the cycle of the robot, all within the same end-of-arm tooling (EOAT).

As stated on United States Patent #7,611,180, summary of the invention: “This invention relates to end of arm tooling for a robotic arm which together are programmable to change their configurations and operations to any one of a multiple of preprogrammed configurations and operations.”

Each of the four tool holders can be used for vacuum cups or grippers mounted on individual linear actuators which can be programmed for up to 28 separate locations (outputs from binary inputs). Thus, this programmable EOAT can save time and money by eliminating the hassle of dealing with multiple end-of-arm tools and tool changers. Its design allows for easy and fast interfacing with any robot style or make.

With these features incorporated into this programmable EOAT, a robot can pick and place or pull from an injection mold different sized items with just one EOAT. If four separate parts are picked up at one time, the program will also allow for re-positioning of these parts before releasing them.

According to Robert Dalton, General Manager for SAS “Getting more out of your robot directly relates to having end-of-arm tooling that can handle multi-functions with parts of different shapes and weights. Our new programmable EOAT will allow processors this functionality to help their robot to be more productive. This patent is one of many awarded to SAS for its engineering EOAT inventions.”

Click here for more information.

>SAS< Automation introduces Spring-loaded Docking Pins

>SAS< Automation recently introduced Spring-loaded Docking Pins for insert molding applications (IML).

In addition to requiring precise accuracy, insert molding applications are often performing several processes at the same time. Docking pins provide the assurance required in complex and low tolerance applications.

Significant Features:

• Provides accuracy of +/- .001 inches
• Sized to fit your End-of-Arm Tool, robot and mold
• Pins can dock on existing mold locators
• Custom lengths, strokes and diameters available.

“These docking pins have enabled several >SAS< customers to consistently increase production of complex insert molded parts while reducing labor,” said Robert Dalton, General Manager for SAS Automation. “Our insert mold tools and spring-loaded docking pins have automated many operations that used to be performed manually.”

Click here for more information.