In-Depth Analysis of End of Arm Tooling (EOAT) in Bespoke Robotics

May 2024

Although robots can be described as a very flexible and adaptable solution for automation, the key to a successful robot automation project is in the design of the end of arm tooling (EOAT). EOAT refers to the devices or tools attached to the end of a robotic arm, crucial for various industrial applications. A well designed EOAT may encompass multiple features that allow robots to perform complex, customised tasks.

EOAT Requirements

Increased Productivity: Automation speeds up production processes and minimises human error.
Enhanced Safety: Reduces the need for human workers in dangerous environments.
Greater Precision and Flexibility: Tailored tooling solutions improve accuracy and adaptability in specialised applications.

Types of EOAT and Their Roles

1. Grippers

Grippers are the most common type of EOAT used for picking and placing objects. They can be customised to handle various materials and shapes, crucial in industries such as manufacturing and packaging. These can also have advanced features such as force feedback or the ability to open and close to different positions, allowing for even more flexibility.

2. Vacuum Grippers

These use suction to pick up objects, making them suitable for handling items with smooth or large surfaces. Vacuum grippers are predominantly used in packaging and automotive assembly lines. Recent developments in gripper designs now allow vacuum grippers to function on irregularly shaped products without compromising the vacuum head performance. In addition, intelligent valving can allow vacuum grippers to pick up multiple product sizes, eliminating the need to change tooling.

3. Tool Changers

Tool changers enable robots to switch between different tools automatically. This flexibility is key in environments that require multiple tasks to be performed by a single robot, reducing downtime and enhancing productivity. These quick change adaptors can provide both electrical and pneumatic connectivity, which allows for complex heads to be designed as an integrated

4. Welding Torches

Designed explicitly for welding tasks, these tools are integral in the fabrication and manufacturing sectors, where precision and durability are paramount. Tools such as the ingenious Smooth Robotics simplifies robotic welding by effectively learning from the user. The ability to select weld types and power sources makes this type of advancement for robotic welding a mammoth leap. This simplistic design also means that users do not require previous robot training. If you know where you want the robot to go, you can simply teach it.

5. Painting Tools

Painting tools are used for automated painting applications, providing uniform and precise coating applications in automotive and consumer goods manufacturing. This ensures consistency in such a precise application.

6. Sensors and Cameras

These tools are fitted to provide robots with vision and intelligence capabilities, which are crucial for precision tasks such as assembly, inspection, and quality control in high-tech industries. In addition, thermal imaging or, indeed, X-Ray systems can and have been added to robots for applications. Robots and Cobots are now being used in filming to provide videographers with a tool that can be simply programmed to carry out complex filming moves.

Each type of EOAT is designed to enhance the functionality and efficiency of robots in specific applications, proving essential in modern automated environments.

Grippers in Bespoke Automation

Grippers are integral to robotic systems’ functionality, allowing them to pick, place, hold, and manipulate objects. In bespoke automation, grippers can be customised to handle unique materials, operate in constrained spaces, or meet specific precision requirements. This adaptability makes them indispensable in the manufacturing, pharmaceutical, and food processing sectors.

Types of Grippers and Their Role

1. Mechanical Grippers Use physical contact to grasp objects, often through fingers or jaws. They are ideal for tasks requiring strong, stable grips.
2. Pneumatic and Hydraulic Grippers operate Using air or fluid pressure and offer precise control over gripping strength. They are useful in delicate operations like handling fragile items.
3. Magnetic Grippers: Employ magnets to hold ferrous materials, commonly used in metal fabrication and automotive industries.
4. Vacuum Grippers: Create a vacuum to adhere to items, perfect for smooth or irregular surfaces that are difficult for other grippers to handle.

Advantages of Using Grippers

• Versatility: Custom grippers can be designed to handle a variety of objects, making them versatile components of robotic systems.
• Efficiency: Speeds up production processes by enabling faster handling and processing of materials.
• Safety: Reduces human involvement in dangerous tasks, enhancing workplace safety.
• Precision: Delivers high accuracy in tasks requiring meticulous handling, essential in industries like electronics and aerospace.

Conclusion

The EOAT, within any application, is essentially the eyes, hand and, in some cases, ears within applications. They enhance the capabilities of robots, making them more flexible and efficient, especially in customised applications. The continuous development of gripper and EOAT technology promises even greater integration and utility in future industrial applications.

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