Applied Robotics’ Smart Gripper 2.1 Delivers Precision Direct-Drive Gripping Capabilities with Built-In Controller, Encoder, and Powerful Programming InterfaceGlenville, New York — January 7, 2007 – Applied Robotics Inc., a leading global manufacturer of robotic end-of-arm tooling and connectivity solutions, announced today the introduction of its new intelligent closed-loop direct-drive gripper. The Smart Gripper is designed to deliver precise gripping capabilities with a powerful programming interface, and is the only small gripper that offers easy integration with most commercially available robots. The gripper features accurate robotic finger positioning, adjustable grip force, easy installation and requires no external controller.
The company plans to showcase the new gripper on its booth #674 at the upcoming Lab Automation show to be held January 27-29 in Palm Springs, CA. “Our Smart Gripper offers unique performance advantages to our customers," said Jim Fitzgerald, vice president of Applied Robotics Inc. “It offers varying levels of force, able to take on any application, where efficiency and flexibility are a concern.”Applied Robotics' Smart Gripper is the only small direct-drive gripper available that can be integrated with most commercially available robots. Using a universal operating platform and closed-loop encoder-based positioning of robotic fingers, the new gripper brings precision and flexibility to applications and increases customer’s efficiency.
Its gripping fingers can be designed by the user, or provided by Applied Robotics, Inc. The gripper is operated using 24Vdc discrete signals for use with any robot controller. The user pre-programs motions into the Smart Gripper’s non-volatile memory, for recall later, triggered by the robot controller’s discrete output lines. Up to 32 programs can be selected using the gripper’s five discrete input lines.
The “Smart Gripper” can also provide status back to the robot controller using the gripper’s three discrete output lines,Applied Robotics Inc., headquartered in Glenville, N.Y., is an ISO-9001 registered, employee-owned company serving the world’s automation market. Founded in 1983, Applied Robotics designs and manufactures end-of-arm tooling and connectivity solutions intended to solve complex automation problems and improve efficiencies.
Serving a wide spectrum of customers and industries ranging from large Fortune 500 companies to small privately-held businesses, the company’s wrist-down solutions can be found in manufacturing, welding, assembly, material removal and material handling applications throughout the United States, Canada, Pacific Rim, Europe, Mexico, South America and Australia.
