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Useful technology for your idea file

Collision sensor

No one likes downiimc, particularly when

manufacturing low-uosi, high-volume

parts. Implementing an air-actuated colli-

sion protection device can help maintain high

production.

One company, lor example, installs the

sensor ul the base of 1 pneumjitie gripper

designed to loadmil.uJ .ujloirmmv p;uls [on

spin hulurice machine. If there is .1 collision

or dynamic overload, the sensor absorbs the

shock in eliminate downtime Ironi changing

out a broken gripper or Kent slide.

Response is fast and stiffness, programma-

ble. Unlike spring-loaded devices. Ouiek-

STOP's hreak.-uwa> threshold varies with air

pressure to accommodate a wide range of

loads. Other applications: machine tools, arc

welding, material handling.

Applied Robotics, Iric

648 Saratoga Rd.. Glenville, NY 12302, 518-

W-IIXHl.

A/ft Pft£>4tffte

P/STGK firm

Afl/rr ffOTAT/Off SLOCK

AIR ffice

Because it is prig, ram ma hie, QuickSTQP avoids the nui-

sance trips 01 Ibid spring settings. Sensor operation: A

regulated nirsirppiy provides positive, variable pressure ID

hold the unit rigid during norms I epetalion. At Impart. Ihe

sir chamber opens: a "loss el pressure' signal shuts Ihe sys-

tem down. 0elents allow easy reset

Reprinted from DESIGN NEWS August 26.1996

cl996 fy CAHNERS PUBLISHING COMPANY1