Weiss North America Inc. has introduced its HP70 pick-and-place direct-drive component, measuring 60-mm wide. Despite its compact design, it achieves more than 100 cycles/min with repeat accuracy of 0.01 mm.
Key to the HP70’s design is a new drive concept that works with two linear motor axes that feature a “knuckle” design on the y/z axis that virtually eliminates the need for another linear motor for the z axis. Essentially, two horizontal axes with 125-, 225-, or 325-mm stroke length are arranged in parallel above one another and then connected via a kinematic unit. This guarantees a vertical stroke of 70 mm.
HP70’s two axes do not run vertically towards one another. If a unit has one horizontal axis and one vertical axis fitted next to one another, it becomes wider. However, by arranging the horizontal axes in parallel above one another a more compact unit is achieved.
HP70 only brakes on one axis when transitioning from full-speed horizontal movement to vertical movement. The time-consuming start of a second axis is completely eliminated, allowing the module to achieve more than 100 cycles/min with repeat accuracy of 0.01 mm.
End-user advantages are clear and simple: The same machining processes are handled in a smaller area, and floor space is saved as twice the number of workstations can be set up on the same rotary indexing table or linear assembly system. Transport times from one processing station to the next are reduced, boosting output. The optimization potential can reach as much as 50%.
The design offers another benefit as both motors are encapsulated in fixed casings. With the exception of the grippers, no moving cables are required either outside or inside the housing.
The process for changing and retrofitting components has also been simplified as users can fit additional valves themselves while the device remains in the installation. The fast and convenient procedure for setting up motion sequences has also been carried over from previous models.
Additionally, the manual teaching of positions has been further simplified. The module can be moved freely and have its respective position saved by the Weiss Application Software (WAS) at the push of a button. Used for fast, convenient, and secure commissioning of all freely programmable Weiss components,WAS features an intuitive and uniform graphic user interface.
The HP70 series is applicable for market applications such as packaging, small parts assembly, automotive supply, cleanroom, batteries, and switches/sockets. Its robust design offers all the advantages of a direct drive including dynamic performance, free programmability, low wear, precision, and compact dimensions.
