An end effector is the commercial end of any robotic unit. Using robotic systems for the first time can be a difficult task. Often, you will need a wide range of add-ons and accessories to facilitate the proper functioning of a robot.
An end effector is one of the critical components enabling the easy execution of tasks in the workplace. Numerous end effectors are available in the market today. However, all of them come with a similar appearance but different specifications. Here is some basic information about end-effectors.
End Effector: What is it?
End effectors are external devices fixed on a robotic unit’s wrist to facilitate easy interaction between the robot and its role. Many end effectors available today are either electromechanical or mechanical and play the role of sensors, process tools, or a robot gripper.
End effectors can either be sophisticated sensors for robotic assessment or ordinary two-fingered robotic grippers. These devices are also known as EOAT (End of Arm Tooling). The end effector is one of the most critical parts of a robot, without which the unit becomes useless.
Types of End Effectors
There is a wide range of end effectors. Here are the basic ones that are used in nearly all situations.
· Grippers
Grippers are popularly used robotic end-effector devices that enable users to pick and manipulate items. They are ideal for machine tending, assembly, and pick-and-place tasks. There are various types of grippers available today, with some of the most commonly used being fingered options. These are available in 5,4,3,2, and 6, and sometimes more fingers based on the task at hand. Other grippers available include needle, magnetic, and vacuum grippers. Gripper technologies are also advancing with time.
· Sensors
If you want to convert your robot into a sensor-based programmable gadget, consider affixing a sensing system. Sensors are effective for applications like automated analysis, which saves inspection engineers from manual data collection processes. Many sensors available today, like laser scanners, ultrasonic sensors, infrared sensors, and 3D and 2D cameras, can act as end effectors.
· Process Tools
To understand process tools, you want to visualize a worker running a power gadget. Grippers can only hold a workpiece, while a process tool can transform it (the workpiece). There is a wide range of process tools like robot painting, robot welding, robot machining, and 3D printing tools.
· Tool Changers
While tool changers are not classified under end effectors, they connect to the outer end part of a robotic unit. They lie between the end effector and the wrist area. These devices facilitate the autonomous change between a range of tools.
Choosing the Ideal End Effector for Your Application
There are various end effectors today, and choosing the right one based on your needs can be a difficult task. To establish the best end effector for your needs, you should first determine what you need to achieve from your task. Here are steps you need to follow when picking an end effector.
- Ascertain the tasks the robot will be executing to accomplish the task.
- Identify the various end effectors that can facilitate the delivery of your tasks.
- Evaluate the relevant factors involved, like complexity and the cost
- Choose the end effector that suits your news best
Different robotic end effectors can help you achieve a similar task. For instance, you can connect a spray painting EOAT on your robot’s wrist to play the role of a process tool. You can also hold the spray gun using a gripper.
How to Use a Robotic End Effector
Different end effectors are operated differently and also use various programming interfaces and communication codes. They also need varied skill levels to facilitate proper functioning. Here is a basic process of using end-effector gadgets.
- Connect the end effector on your robot’s wrist
- Affix power connections which can be pneumatic, electric, or hydraulic
- Connect possible communication interfaces between the robot controller, end effector, or computer.
- Integrate the end effector programming in your robot’s program. Remember, robotic programming can be a challenging process that requires expertise to execute.
Finally
You do not have to struggle with end effector programming. Adopting the proper robot programming software helps you execute the process with minimal struggle.