Gripper Cleats

In the realm of robot automation, particularly within the context of pre- and post- 3R EDM workflows, gripper cleats play a vital role in enhancing the grasping force and stability of robot grippers. Let’s delve deeper into the world of these specialized gripper attachments and explore how they contribute to a smooth and efficient automated process.

Why Grippers Need a Boost

Standard gripper designs often rely on smooth gripping surfaces. While effective for some objects, this approach might not be sufficient for some workpieces. Such as workpieces with oily or wet surfaces, or those made from materials with low coefficients of friction (like some plastics), can be challenging for standard grippers to grasp securely.

As well as workpieces with uneven or non-uniform shapes might not fit perfectly within the standard gripper design, leading to potential slippage during handling.

The Power of Gripper Cleats

Gripper cleats address these challenges by providing an additional layer of grip enhancement. Here’s how they work:

Material Matters: Cleats are typically made from materials with a higher coefficient of friction compared to the base gripper material. Common choices include rubber, textured inserts, or even specialized coatings. This increased friction creates a stronger “bite” on the workpiece surface, preventing slippage during handling.

Shape and Design: Cleats come in various shapes and designs depending on the specific application. Some common types include:

Fingertip Cleats: These are small, raised features placed at the contact points of the gripper fingers, offering localized areas of enhanced friction.
Surface Cleats: These cover a larger area of the gripper surface, providing more extensive gripping force for workpieces with irregular shapes.
Custom Cleats: For specific applications, custom-designed cleats can be created to perfectly match the contours of the workpiece, ensuring a secure and stable hold.

Benefits of Using Gripper Cleats in Pre- and Post-EDM Automation

Improved Workpiece Handling: By enhancing gripping force, gripper cleats minimize the risk of workpieces slipping during pre-machining operations like cleaning or deburring, or during post-machining handling for further processing or inspection. This translates to a smoother and more reliable automated workflow.

Reduced Damage Risk: Securely held workpieces are less prone to accidental drops or collisions during handling, minimizing the potential for damage to the delicate features created by the 3R EDM process.

Versatility for Diverse Materials: Gripper cleats allow robots to handle a wider range of workpiece materials, including those with slippery surfaces or challenging shapes, without compromising on grip strength.

Conclusion

Gripper cleats are powerful allies in the world of robot automation, particularly within the pre- and post- 3R EDM workflow. By enhancing gripping force and stability, they ensure secure handling of workpieces, minimize the risk of damage, and contribute to a smooth and efficient automated process. So, the next time you’re looking to optimize your robot’s grip on pre- or post- 3R EDM workpieces, consider the power of gripper cleats – for a successful robotic handling system.