http://www.schunk-usa.com/RSS/news/EN/overview/index.rss en Wed, 01 Jul 2009 14:27:45 GMT Wed, 10 Mar 2010 08:06:33 GMT http://217.5.167.5/schunk_files/website_images/schunk_logo_top_navi_v2.gif http://www.schunk-usa.com/RSS/news/EN/overview/index.rss http://www.schunk-usa.com/RSS/news/EN/overview/index.rss?13464 Mon, 08 Mar 2010 11:30:00 GMT http://www.schunk.com/schunk/schunk_websites/news/news_detail.html?article_id=13464&country=INT&lngCode=EN&lngCode2=EN
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SCHUNK has improved its user-friendly modular system. With two software solutions "Toolbox Rotation" and "Toolbox Translation" every GEMOTEC system from the rotary and linear modules to the gantry modules can be designed. Therefore the high efficiency of individual components can be completely exploited and avoids an expensive over-sizing.
The tool is based on Excel and was revised and updated. Beside the proven components, they also contain innovations from the modular assembly automation, e.g. the components from the SCHUNK miniature modular system. The software is very clearly structured and can be used in five languages (German, English, French, Spanish and Italian). Guidance loads as well as cycle times can be calculated. Moreover, the load of the hydraulic end position dampeners of the individual linear and rotary modules can be calculated based on the parameters.

]]> http://www.schunk-usa.com/RSS/news/EN/overview/index.rss?13400 Mon, 01 Mar 2010 10:00:00 GMT http://www.schunk.com/schunk/schunk_websites/news/subject_of_the_month.html?article_id=13400&country=INT&lngCode=EN&lngCode2=EN
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Companies have enormous freedom in design
Within these focuses, there is a lot of freedom: the development of basic technologies, concrete applications, and feasibility studies are sponsored as well. Possible experiments are multimodal human-robot interfaces, high speed force control of robots, object recognition for gripping applications or a synchronized control of larger robot groups.
Interested companies can participate at three open contests, whereby the first one has just ended and will be evaluated. The next contest will be expected in the second quarter of 2010. The projects should have a volume of maximum 300.000 euro and should be carried out with one to three partners. Up to one third of the subsidies amount can be spent for hardware from the so-called ECHORD fund.

Experts predict an increase in the pursuit of service robotics. This is no surprise: Modern robot applications offer an enormous potential to the economy and society. Pilot applications already show how robots might become more and more the intelligent helpers of humans. In addition to universities and other research institutes, industrial enterprises should focus on development in this sector, and make it a reality. Therefore the European Union has decided to subsidize the transfer of knowledge between research institutes and industry financially support this pursuit as well.
The development of new products always comes with a high risk because the developers are entering new territories. Therefore projects of this kind are presumed to be high cost, and their success is often uncertain. This is the reason why relatively few industrial enterprises dared to implement new products.

Mechatronical components for the ECHORD research
As an expert in automation, SCHUNK participated in setting up the EU-project. With its long research experience in the main focuses of the research project, SCHUNK supports the project groups with know-how, but also with the latest hardware. Subsidized project groups also receive innovative automation components from SCHUNK at very affordable prices.
Thus the SCHUNK Dextrous Hand SDH with three fingers, seven programmable degrees of freedom and precise tactile sensor systems are ideal pre-conditions for projects of the research focus on "Robot hands and complex manipulation". Moreover, numerous gripping, rotary and linear modules can be freely and flexibly combined with the individual lightweight arms.
Proven as a partner for development projects
As one of the central innovation driver in service robotics, SCHUNK already helped numerous projects in the past. In the field of "mobile manipulators", SCHUNK built up systems with partner companies, which offer the optimum precondition for applications in household and industry. The mobile platform Scitos from Metralabs or the mobile manipulator MM-500 from Neobotix are just two examples for this.
Even in the research focus "human-robot interfaces and safety", SCHUNK already enriched several research projects with its innovative components. Thus the project ImRoNet aims at researching internet-based, multimedia-based or multimodal user interfaces to tele-operation with robots. Thereby new methods and components were designed and experimentally validated, by which the robots can be served institutionally in a typical operational environment. The service robot Care-O-bot 3 was designed as a home help, for fetching or bringing household objects, such as car keys, to set the table and to open doors and drawers and to interact with other humans. It unifies numerous innovations from mechatronics, controllers, sensor systems and kinematics. During the project AMaRob innovative methods were researched with SCHUNK components for controlling manipulators of rehabilitation robots. Based on the received experiences, severely handicapped persons should be able to act independently in the future.


Bureaucratic efforts are to be minimized
Those who want to apply for financial subsidies for new developments, have to run through a time-consuming and complex process. Inexperienced applicants hardly ever obtain the necessary funds. With the EU-funded project ECHORD (European Clearing House for Open Robotics Development), the access to financial subsidies for service robotic projects should be easier, and at the same time, the exchange between the research institutes and industry should be intensified.
The EU project ECHORD was developed within the seventh framework program of the EU for research promotion. It approaches research groups and industrial enterprises in the field of robotics and has a project volume of 24 million euro. Of this 19 million euro is passed on to third parties. The project is coordinated by the Technical University of Munich (TUM).

EU-funded program ECHORD The EU program for intensifying the European-wide cooperation of science and industry, as well as for subsidizing the European (service) robotics.
Run-time:	Approximately three years
Begin:	January 2010
Volume:	24 million euro, from 19 million euro subsidies
Run-time of the individual projects:	12 to 15 months
Volume per project:	max. 300.000 euro
Number of projects:	approximately 50
1st. Tender:	October 5, 2009 until December 1, 2009
2nd. Tender:	still open
3rd. Tender:	still open
Informationen:	www.echord.info

About 50 projects are to be funded
There are three rounds, where every European manufacturer and research group may file an application for experiments. Thereby the entry process for the applicants is kept relatively low. With approximately 50 individual projects with a runtime between twelve and 18 months, future solutions should be implemented. The institutes and research institutions receive the possibility to carry out their developments and researches on the latest industry focused hardware.
The experiments can take place on one or three consecutive scenarios:

• cooperation between human and machine
• hyper flexible manufacturing cells
• cognitive manufacturing plants

The following research focuses on the results of:

• human-robot interfaces and safety
• robot hands and complexe manipulation
• mobile manipulators and cooperation
• networked robots

]]> http://www.schunk-usa.com/RSS/news/EN/overview/index.rss?13468 Mon, 01 Mar 2010 08:00:00 GMT http://www.schunk.com/schunk/schunk_websites/news/news_detail.html?article_id=13468&country=INT&lngCode=EN&lngCode2=EN
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On February 24 and 25, 2010, professionals from all over the world met at the third Expert Days on Service Robotics at SCHUNK in Lauffen, Germany, the technology leader in gripping and workholding. This world-wide symposium is considered to be the leading communication platform for applied service robotics. This is due to top-class attendees, which SCHUNK invites every year for this event, and the high dynamics involved by the topic itself. From a small group of thoughtleaders in robotics, an interdisciplinary global network developed, which is preparing the future for robots as a flexible aid in industrial and domestic environments .
This year, attendees from 22 international companies, research institutes and universities focused on the issues safety, standardization and European initiatives. Moreover, current research studies on "gripping", "mobile manipulation" and "modular robotics" were presented. An accompagnying exhibition showcased current projects, such as the service robot "FRIEND." This is from the research project "AMaRob", which will help disabled humans live independently. The mobile robot platform Scitos, which can freely move and interact with humans.

Communication platform with well-known experts
Among the attendees were the Italian specialist on service robotics, Prof. Bruno Siciliano of the University of Napels and Prof. Antonio Bicchi of the University of Pisa. Eric Berger of the United States service robotics company Willow Garage and Prof. Markus Schwarz of the University of Heidelberg, who uses service robotics in the orthopedic and traumasurgery also attended the conference. The symposium was moderated by Prof. Dr. Henrik I. Christensen, "KUKA Chair of Robotics" at the Georgia Institute of Technology in Atlanta, as well as Martin Hägele, the Head of the Department robot systems at the Frauenhofer Institute for Manufacturing Engineering and Automation (IPA) in Germany.
One observation from the forum was that service robotics are now entering the state of practical applications. This has become more noticeable by the increasing numbers of companies, who have discovered service robotics as a future fieldstudy. The intensive exchange of experience between the participants was obvious, but the lectures given all had top ranking. It is quite evident that all the participants pursue the same goal: They want to develop and market need-oriented applications in service robotics.

Global network
In the meantime, some international networks developed from the Expert Days, which exchange knowledge and experiences, and commonly initiate future-orientated projects. From this SCHUNK offers a unique platform. As a pioneer in modular robotics, SCHUNK, the competence leader accompanied the development of service robotics right from the beginning. With its industrial proven mechatronic modules and sophisticated multi-joint grippers, SCHUNK offers a unique molduar system for various applications in service robotics. For example, the LWA 3, is currently the modular light-weight arm with the highest power density on the global market. In almost 100 co-operations with universities, research institutes and highly specialized companies, SCHUNK also advances the development of this future technology.
For further information on the Expert Days, as well as the individual lectures of the third symposium for applied service robotics, please visit our website expertdays.schunk.com. The fourth Expert Days Service Robotics is planned for February 23 - 24 2011.

]]> http://www.schunk-usa.com/RSS/news/EN/overview/index.rss?13384 Mon, 08 Feb 2010 08:00:00 GMT http://www.schunk.com/schunk/schunk_websites/news/news_detail.html?article_id=13384&country=INT&lngCode=EN&lngCode2=EN
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The standardized palletizing gripping system type LEG from SCHUNK, flexibly handles pallets, intermediate layers and other products. The core of the multi-functional gripper is the LEG servo-parallel gripper from SCHUNK. This gripper can be equipped with various motors making it possible to acutate robot and gripper through a user interface. The gripper has a high positioning accuracy and flexibly works with strokes of up to 281 mm per jaw. By means of a powered control system, even sensitive products can be handled safely.
SCHUNK integrated the functions for handling pallets and intermediate layers to the inside of the gripper without requiring additional drives. Therefore the palletizing gripping system is a very compact and flexible all-in-one solution for various packing tasks. With a weight of 30 kg, the gripping system can safely grip up to 25 kg and form-fit even up to 50 kg. Larger sizes of the system are available on request.

]]> http://www.schunk-usa.com/RSS/news/EN/overview/index.rss?13382 Mon, 01 Feb 2010 11:00:00 GMT http://www.schunk.com/schunk/schunk_websites/news/news_detail.html?article_id=13382&country=INT&lngCode=EN&lngCode2=EN
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SCHUNK has enlarged its GEMOTEC modular system for modular assembly technology by a new pneumatically driven ring indexing table type RST-P, which can cycle either to the left or to the right or alternate without requiring any modifications. Switching is performed by pneumatic actuation. The RST-P from SCHUNK offers the possibility of changing the cycle type in any order and any number of times. If an error should occur, the working process can be stopped, a few working steps can be returned and repeated.
The ring indexing table is designed as a modular system, and is equipped with a fixed central section with a large through hole. As only the cycle ring turns, it is much easier to add components and assemblies, and no moveable air hoses for compressed air supply are necessary. The angular adjustment can be defined with spacers to 4, 6, 8 or 12 steps. Hydraulic shock absorbers dampen the end positions in both directions.

]]> http://www.schunk-usa.com/RSS/news/EN/overview/index.rss?13361 Mon, 01 Feb 2010 08:00:00 GMT http://www.schunk.com/schunk/schunk_websites/news/subject_of_the_month.html?article_id=13361&country=INT&lngCode=EN&lngCode2=EN Adaptive handling systems provide dynamics and profitability if comprehensive ranges and frequent changes in assortment are given.
Every week a new product generation replaces the previous one. These products, which provide new impulses in trade, are a real challenge for the packing process. Faster, process reliable, and flexible automated solutions are in constant demand. They help to keep the handling costs under control, even at an increasing product variety.

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Every week a new product generation replaces the previous one. These products, which provide new impulses in trade, are a real challenge for the packing process. Faster, process reliable, and flexible automated solutions are in constant demand. They help to keep the handling costs under control, even at an increasing product variety.

Times have changed. Products can no longer be designed and packaged in the same way for long periods of time because consumers have so many selections to choose from. The packaging industry is constantly changing their designs, in order to present the buyer with a better product. Thereby efficient automation is getting more and more important. Whereas a person in an eight-hour shift, can pack up to nine tons of goods, automated plants move about 60 tons per hour, even with various packing materials and flexible layer patterns. A high performance plant with two so-called layer-forming and palletizing robots palletize about 266,000 tons a year!
The selection of the palletizing type depends on many features
Individual automation concepts differentiate, depending on the industry, packaging, quantity as well as the size, weight and quality of the article. If low quantities of ten to fifteen units per minute are handled, usually multi-functional grippers are used for handling pallets, intermediate layers and products. Pallet supply is provided by lift trucks and fork lifters, or by a pallet feeding system.
In case of medium-sized volumes between 15 and 40 units per minute, the multi-functional grippers can be upgraded in such a way that several units with different sizes can be mounted. Compared with a smaller plant, the travelling time remains the same. By using a "Multipick", a simultaneous mounting of several products, efficiency is increased without involving higher capital investments.
In case of larger quantities between 40 and 100 units per minute, two alternatives have proven themselves: The relationship of several robots, or of several axis systems. In most cases, the products are shifted and turned in a layer-forming process according to the "Tetris principle". Lines are formed as close as possible and with a very tight clearance. Subsequently they are retained at the end of the conveying belt and the complete layer is gripped. The beverage industry in particular, uses layer-forming applications.


In extreme cases every article differentiates from the other one
A particularly demanding is handling in distribution centers, where completely mixed pallets are commissioned. Instead of separating various parcels on pallets for hours, handling systems have to adapt themselves within seconds to the different formats. In extreme cases, every article differentiates from the other one. Flexible gripping systems combined with machine vision and sophisticated software solutions assure the best results for complex tasks.
Various gripping principles
The choice of the best gripping principle for such flexible solutions cannot be determined before the exact application and the targets are determined. With vacuum suction cups, the parcels can be gripped from the top and various layer patterns can be generated. Therefore suction cups, plates or bellows are widely used for handling of articles, which are packed in parcels, placed on intermediate layers, and can be used for articles with smooth surfaces as well. Depending on the weight and the surface of the article: type, quantity and storage of the suction cups and ejectors are selected. Unevenness or beveled surfaces can be balanced to some extent. In case of very thin intermediate layers of less than 0.5 mm, special vacuum systems have proven to work well.
Conventional vacuum suction cups have their limits, if porous or uneven articles or parcels with a special contour have to be handled. Even fast accelerations can reduce the process reliability of the suction cups considerably. In these cases, mechanical gripping solutions offer more advantages. At high speeds, the vacuum suction cups are superior since they easily absorb the occurring shearing forces. Products with porous surfaces or with clips which project at the top are better handled by mechanical grippers, since they grip the article laterally.
Modern mechanical gripping systems are equipped with very thin fingers made of chromium-plated metal sheet or from carbon fiber reinforced plastic materials. They allow minimum clearances of 3 to 10 millimeters, depending on the product’s weight. If these fingers are combined with a vacuum effect, the clearances can be further reduced, since the gripping force and the finger thickness can be reduced, too. Thin-film fingers are the remedy for flexible articles or sensitive products with smooth surfaces because they can grip laterally.


Mechatronic modules can be quickly adjusted
Over the past years, electrical drives have become very efficient and the sensors are getting smaller. Both make the handling systems flexible and versatile. Thus, new tasks can be quickly adjusted. Now the mechatronic components can be converted to intelligent subsystems, which can be easily scaled.
A gripper as much convertible as the tasks
The SCHUNK LEG servo-electric packaging gripper demonstrates how such a solution may look like. The expert for top-loading and palletizing tasks provide flexible and efficient concepts for packing and palletizing and can be easily integrated into existing plants. The modular system of the LEG can be equipped with various pneumatic or electric drives but can be also integrated as the seventh axis on a robot.
Due to its modular drive concept, it can be combined with all the common robot control units. In order to reduce cycle times, the gripper can pre-adjust its new position while the robot is about to approach its target position. Since robot and gripper are actuated via one single control unit or panel, new products or packaging units, and therefore changed gripping concepts and ways, can be stored in the robot software. This saves time and money at every change of assortment and product range and involves higher flexibility.
Conclusion:
For an optimum layout of packing processes it pays off to define the standards of the plant. Modern handling solutions offer a vast spectrum of variations and therefore also assure high cycle times. The plants become more process reliable and thus a good foundation for the future is set.

]]> http://www.schunk-usa.com/RSS/news/EN/overview/index.rss?13372 Mon, 25 Jan 2010 07:00:00 GMT http://www.schunk.com/schunk/schunk_websites/news/news_detail.html?article_id=13372&country=INT&lngCode=EN&lngCode2=EN
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SCHUNK presented its highly flexible laser welding machine for the partially automated deposition welding and repair welding of challenging materials and complex component geometries for the first time at Euromold in Frankfurt. The precision machine allows both small components and components weighing several tons to be machined quickly and conveniently. An intelligent teaching and programming function means that even free-form surfaces for which no geometric data exists can be detected quickly. The machine sets new standards in the efficient laser machining of single pieces as well as in small and medium-scale production.
Detecting free-form surfaces and complicated contours
The machine's unique teaching and programming function makes it extremely quick to set up and program. A user-friendly look-ahead controller and integrated teaching function for lines, curves, circles and splines significantly reduce the programming time. Even complex parts, parts with surface damage or worn parts are quickly detected in three dimensions without the need for time-consuming external programming. In spline mode, the taught points can be joined together to form a curve, as if they were joined by an elastic band. This shortens the teaching process and ensures that the path is extremely smooth.

High-precision axes guarantee maximum accuracy
Thanks to SCHUNK's high-precision linear and rotary axes, the machine is extremely precise and achieves a high degree of repeat accuracy. Adaptive closed-loop control guarantees that the lamp-pumped laser operates precisely and reliably. The laser parameters can be adapted to the specific characteristics of challenging materials using scalable pulse shaping. Particularly when machining cast-iron parts, steel with a high carbon content, and superalloys, users benefit from the overlong 100 ms laser pulse, which significantly improves the weldability of these materials.

]]> http://www.schunk-usa.com/RSS/news/EN/overview/index.rss?13369 Mon, 18 Jan 2010 09:00:00 GMT http://www.schunk.com/schunk/schunk_websites/news/news_detail.html?article_id=13369&country=INT&lngCode=EN&lngCode2=EN
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The first two Expert Days in 2008 and 2009 were a great success for all the participants. Now SCHUNK, the specialist in toolholding, workholding and automation in Lauffen, Germany, has organized the third Expert Days for service robotics on February 24 and 25, 2010. Experts from all over the world will assemble at this summit. In numerous lectures, which are held in English, the participiants will recieve information on present research projects, trends, and chances for service robotics.
The lectures of international referees particularly focus on current topics of service robotics: safety, standardization, and European initiatives. Moreover, current research projects in the fileld of gripping, mobile manipulation, and modular robotics will be presented. The forum should be a contribution to identify marketable applications of service robotics.

Beside an intensive exchange of experience, the Expert Days are an ideal platform for generating international networks all around the globe and to jointly tackle projects for the future. As in years before, two moderators will present the event: Professor Dr. Henrik I. Christensen, holder of the KUKA Chair of Robotics at the Georgia Institute of Technology in Atlanta, as well as Martin Hägele, Head of Department of Robotic Systems at the Fraunhofer Institute for Manufacturing Engineering und Automation (IPA) in Stuttgart. For further information as well as for registration please complete the form online under

]]> http://www.schunk-usa.com/RSS/news/EN/overview/index.rss?13228 Tue, 12 Jan 2010 12:00:00 GMT http://www.schunk.com/schunk/schunk_websites/news/subject_of_the_month.html?article_id=13228&country=INT&lngCode=EN&lngCode2=EN
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The integrated base jaw and the chuck body are the components of the lathe chuck, which are mainly exposed to wear. The higher the clamping jaws, the higher the transmissible torques at the chuck’s base jaws. Therefore for safe turning operations, the height of the jaws play an important role. Depending on the chuck type (size and length of the base jaw guidance) every lathe chuck is marked with the maximum admissible payload of the guideway.
Generally speaking, the top jaws should be as low as possible. However, if high chuck jaws should be required, the clamping force and speed have to be individually adjusted to the application. Similar to the calculation of the centrifugal force, the actual payload of the guideway can be determined or controlled for every application. If due to an overload, or wear, a base jaw should break, the integrated safety mechanism of the modern lathe chucks prevents the base jaw from being thrown from the chuck.

If a workpiece loosens from the chuck on a lathe, it can be dangerous to those working in the manufacturing hall. Because of this, the Employer’s Liability Insurance Associations, Standards and Safety Commitees, do everything in their power, to avoid accidents. But it is also up to the operator to ensure his own safety at the lathe.
Maximum safety is the common goal of the manufacturers of machines and workholding solutions. Even though many safety systems on modern machines work automatically, the operator, shift supervisor, and production manager still take the responsibility for regular maintenance and systems controls. It can be compared with a car: The best ABS brake is useless, if the brake pads are worn out or the brake fluid is old.
Regular greasing maintains the clamping force
In order to assure proper function of the lathe chuck, it must be greased regularly. If not, the risk is high that friction inside the chuck will increase and will result in a loss of clamping force. One glance at the curve of the clamping force shows how the clamping force of a new lathe chuck (continuous curve) changes, depending on the RPM. On the other hand, the lathe chuck, which was greased insufficiently, shows a considerably reduced clamping force (dashed curve). Depending on the type of lathe chuck, the weight of the top jaws and the operating condition, the clamping force drops down to about 50 percent of the nominal clamping force! As a result, a clamped workpiece that was thought to be safe may fall out of the lathe chuck during machining. To avoid this, the manufacturer of the clamping equipment provides maintenance and lubrication intervals, which have to be observed. In addition to the maintenance and lubrication manual, they also define the lapse of time, after which the static clamping force of the lathe chuck has to be controlled.


It makes sense to travel through the whole stroke several times after 500 jaw cycles of the clamping piston. This helps to convey the lubricant to the pressure faces and maintain the clamping force longer.
For lubricating the lathe chucks, SCHUNK recommends a special heavy duty grease. It assures optimum lubrication even in case of high wear, e.g. at high clamping forces, short cycle times or an intensive use of coolants. Improper lubricants however, may negatively influence the proper function of the lathe chuck, reduces clamping force, and increases the coefficient of friction which in turn causes premature wear.
Normally a lathe chuck is equipped with several lubrication nipples. In order to avoid an extreme unbalance, all the lubrication nipples should be greased evenly. For assuring an even distribution of the grease inside the chuck, open and close the jaws several times after the first greasing.
Independent from the maintenance and lubrication intervals, in extremely contaminated environments a chuck can lose clamping force. In this case, the complete chuck has to be disassembled, cleaned and the chuck components have to be inspected for damage. Details for complete cleaning of the chuck and chuck disassembly can be found in the operation manual of the manufacturer.


Only a regular inspection assures optimum safety. Therefore SCHUNK generally recommend that before starting a production run, and also between individual maintenance intervals, the clamping force should be inspected with a clamping force tester. Here the clamping force should be always measured in the same chuck condition, which comes up to the latest clamping application. If stepped top jaws are used for example, it has to be measured at the steps, where the workpiece will be clamped. If high RPM’s are planned, (due to the centrifugal force a loss of the clamping force has to be expected), the nominal clamping force should be tested with a dynamic gauging.
Checklist for maximum safety
Those who consider the following six points daily, can be sure of maximum safety on the lathe:

• Never actuate the power chuck, if the safety equipment is not installed and functioning properly.
• Inspect the power chuck at least once per shift for visible externally damages and defects.
• Grease the lathe chuck at least once a day with an appropriate grease.
• Try to use light and low profile jaws, which are not welded.
• Report every change of the operating behavior immediately to the responsible department/ person and switch off the machine in the meantime. Do not start the machine again, until the malfunction is cleared.
• After a crash, please return the lathe chuck to the manufacturer for complete inspection.

Invisible but always present is the centrifugal force. The jaw weight, shape and position, centrifugal force and RPM’s influence the clamping force and the safety during the turning operation. This effect can be tremendous and the maximum speed of the lathe chuck can no longer be achieved. According to DIN, a newly greased lathe chuck with standard stepped jaws operating at nominal speed, has to achieve more than a third of the residual clamping force.
Since the top jaws can be located in various positions on the chuck, every application has to be checked individually. By recalculating every individual set-up, for every clamping situation, the maximum nominal speed can be determined. For detailed information of how to calculate the centrifugal forces of the jaws, please see the individual operation manuals of the lathe chucks, or the latest lathe chuck catalog from SCHUNK. For a rough determination of the maximum speeds, the clamping force - speed curves of various top jaws and power chucks are illustrated there.
]]> http://www.schunk-usa.com/RSS/news/EN/overview/index.rss?13319 Mon, 14 Dec 2009 10:00:00 GMT http://www.schunk.com/schunk/schunk_websites/news/news_detail.html?article_id=13319&country=INT&lngCode=EN&lngCode2=EN
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For automated systems used in areas presenting a danger of explosion, SCHUNK offers standardized gripping modules and rotary actuators of the premium series which are tested and certified according to Guideline 94/9/EG. The modules are powerful and reliable, and the users, system integrators, and machine builders can do without expensive special solutions and time-consuming and expensive ATEX certifications of the complete system.
The components can be used everywhere, where gas or dust present a danger of explosion. This includes metal cutting of solid materials, painting systems, processes of the surface treatment, casting, mining, and even mills and industrial bakeries, where flour sacks are handled.Because of the special finish on the certified gripping modules and rotary actuators, the surface will not heat due to friction, which may be a source of ignition for an explosion. The ATEX modules from SCHUNK are as powerful as their original components and therefore open completely new potentional in automation for the field of explosive environments.
The 2- or 3-Finger-Universal-Grippers PGN-plus and PZN-plus as well as the universal Rotary Actuator SRU-plus fulfill the requirements of category 2G, and are therefore suitable for explosive gas atmospheres. The sealed 2- or 3-Finger-Grippers DPG-plus and DPZ-plus are even suitable for category 2GD. They can be used safely for explosive gas and dust atmospheres.

]]> http://www.schunk-usa.com/RSS/news/EN/overview/index.rss?11143 Mon, 07 Dec 2009 08:30:00 GMT http://www.schunk.com/schunk/schunk_websites/news/news_detail.html?article_id=11143&country=INT&lngCode=EN&lngCode2=EN
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The extremely flat precision wedge hook power chuck ROTA NCK-S plus from SCHUNK is an attractively priced clamping solution for stationary applications. High clamping forces and high precision make the chuck an ideal clamping equipment for daily use.
ROTA NCK-S plus has an integrated hydraulic cylinder, a one-piece hardened chuck body, long jaw guidances and long and precise piston guides. Due to integrated piston lubrication and wear-resistant components, the robust and versatile chuck is also very easy to service.

For the sizes 165 and 210, the ROTA NCK-S can additionally be equipped with an interface of the SCHUNK UNILOCK quick change pallet system. The ROTA NCK-S plus is available starting immediately in sizes 165, 210, 250 and 315 with two base jaw guidances.

]]> http://www.schunk-usa.com/RSS/news/EN/overview/index.rss?13293 Tue, 01 Dec 2009 11:00:00 GMT http://www.schunk.com/schunk/schunk_websites/news/news_detail.html?article_id=13293&country=INT&lngCode=EN&lngCode2=EN
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With the education offensive "Mechatronics in Automation" SCHUNK releases a pulse for the technical apprentices. At the opening of the new Robotics Demo and Research Center at the Technology Center in Bavaria, SCHUNK participated in equipping it. The students of the University of Augsburg may now acquire practical knowledge in handling mechatronic automated components.
"It is the goal to support the technical education and training at schools, universities, and other educational institutions with our comprehensive modular system of electric drives, grippers with integrated electronic control system, and components for industrial machine vision", said Ralf Steinmann, Director of the Business Unit Automation at SCHUNK. The first training material of vision sensors, tripod, and software gives practical ideas in how to handle modern machine vision components. The multi-purpose vision sensor from SCHUNK can be connected via USB or RS232 with a laptop or PC. The supplied software for parameterization and operation is working via Microsoft Windows. Moreover, detailed information on the software as well as a description of the first application example were delivered, too. For more information on the education offensive from SCHUNK, please call +49-7131-103-2696.

]]> http://www.schunk-usa.com/RSS/news/EN/overview/index.rss?13297 Mon, 30 Nov 2009 10:00:00 GMT http://www.schunk.com/schunk/schunk_websites/news/news_detail.html?article_id=13297&country=INT&lngCode=EN&lngCode2=EN
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The Linear Module Beta 120-C from the HSB line from SCHUNK, utilizes a stable square cross-section. Regarding payload, moment load, rigidity and actuation force the module is categorized between the single rail linear axis Beta 110 for light weights and the massive Beta 165 for very high loads. With a load capacity of 12,000 N in Fz direction, and a drive force of up to 4,800 N, the axis covers a broad range of applications of the average load spectrum. Size 30 ball rail guidance makes the linear module especially stable and able to withstand high moment loads. The Beta 120-C can be used as a slim and stable guiding module for gantry systems with an axis of up to four meters.
The Beta 120-C is available with a toothed belt or spindle drive. The spindle drive accepts ball screw spindles of 32 mm diameter and spindle pitches of 5 - 40 mm. The spindle driven axis modules is also optionally available with a spindle support. For applications with large strokes this greatly increases the critical speed of the axis system.
Short description:

• Linear axis with precise profiled rail guidance
• Optional with spindle or toothed belt drive
• Ideal for the range of medium payloads
• Long service life

]]> http://www.schunk-usa.com/RSS/news/EN/overview/index.rss?13273 Tue, 24 Nov 2009 08:00:00 GMT http://www.schunk.com/schunk/schunk_websites/news/news_detail.html?article_id=13273&country=INT&lngCode=EN&lngCode2=EN
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The customized hydraulic expansion toolholders from SCHUNK are an effective way to minimize set-up times and additional costs while still achieving maximum precision. For this purpose, the extremely large hydraulic expansion toolholders and arbors are often adjusted to the users’ special requirements. This ensures that high precision and process reliability can be maintained in the long run. The latest example is an arbor for components with a bore-diameter of 500 mm.
Stators for large electric motors, gearbox parts for wind power plants, large components for power plants, or the petroleum industry - all of these are clamped quickly and precisely with the micron-precision special solutions from SCHUNK. The experts in toolholding and workholding accompany special orders from the first enquiry to engineering design, through assembly and follow through with subsequent maintenance.

High precise clamping even of heavyweights
That even large components can be clamped safely and precisely, proves the present hydraulic expansion arbor in XXXL-size from SCHUNK. The diameter of this arbor amounts to more than 500 millimeters. Instead of clamping claws or large lathe chucks, the arbor assures that the large and heavy workpieces, weighing more than a ton, are precisely held within seconds. It clamps deformation-free and gently with an excellent repeat accuracy of < 0.01 mm - a value which cannot be achieved at this workpiece dimension with other clamping devices. Locating pins additionally assure exact alignment. Mounted on a rotary table, the heavy duty arbor from SCHUNK allows machining with one single set-up.
Manifold field of applications: Milling, turning, controlling, grinding
The fields of application for special solutions are very manifold and the spectrum comprises quick-change chucks for machining large gears, applications on lathes, or grinding machines up to sophisticated inspection devices. They are designed specifically for the individual workpieces, machines, and requirements. This makes the willingness possible to find solutions for all the requirements: O.D.- or I.D. clamping, manual or automatic actuation - almost anything is possible.
]]> http://www.schunk-usa.com/RSS/news/EN/overview/index.rss?13236 Thu, 19 Nov 2009 09:00:00 GMT http://www.schunk.com/schunk/schunk_websites/news/news_detail.html?article_id=13236&country=INT&lngCode=EN&lngCode2=EN
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In January 2009 the Japanese specialist in automation, Takano Bearing Co. Ltd., located in Tokyo, changed its legal name to SCHUNK Intec K.K. The new location in Japan is the 23rd SCHUNK subsidiary worldwide.
Twenty-five experienced employees work in the "Land of the rising Sun" for SCHUNK. With comprehensive competence in development, engineering design, CAD-system, mechanics, electro technology and control systems, the Japanese team offers well-founded advice, but also numerous types of services.
With SCHUNK Intec K.K. in Tokyo, the family business from Baden-Württemberg, Germany, reinforces its presence in a country that has a worldwide reputation in the industries of machine building, automotive and robotics. With this step, SCHUNK opens its direct market access to a strong economy and strengthens its activities as well as service possibilities in Asia.
At the iREX show in November 2009, the new subsidiary will present itself for the first time officially under the name of SCHUNK.


]]> http://www.schunk-usa.com/RSS/news/EN/overview/index.rss?13257 Wed, 18 Nov 2009 09:00:00 GMT http://www.schunk.com/schunk/schunk_websites/news/news_detail.html?article_id=13257&country=INT&lngCode=EN&lngCode2=EN
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The tool extension TENDO-SVL with slim profile contours is an excellent solution for precise machining of difficult to access areas. It works at its best wherever there is restricted access to the workpiece. In this way, it is setting new standards in regard to set-up time and costs.
Reliable tool clamping ensures a safe hold during boring, reaming, chamfering and milling. In no time at all, the tool can be safely changed with the radial actuated clamping screw and clamps. Instead of expensive customized actuation devices, the operator just needs one single tool extension type TENDO-SVL. Depending on the application, it can be combined with existing standard toolholders. Thanks to its precise concentricity, excellent vibration damping and the internal coolant supply, the innovative and highly flexible tool extension also guarantees outstanding workpiece machining results and a long service life.

]]> http://www.schunk-usa.com/RSS/news/EN/overview/index.rss?13209 Mon, 09 Nov 2009 10:25:00 GMT http://www.schunk.com/schunk/schunk_websites/news/news_detail.html?article_id=13209&country=INT&lngCode=EN&lngCode2=EN
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Modern robot applications offer an enormous potential for the economy and society. For this reason the European Union decided, to subsidize the transfer of know-how between research institutions and industry and thus to strengthen it. As a leading expert in automation, SCHUNK already participated in setting up the EU project ECHORD (European Clearing House for Open Robotics Development). Subsidized project groups also receive innovative automation components from SCHUNK at very affordable prices.

ECHORD is an EU-funded project in the field of robotics, which should strengthen the European-wide cooperation between science and industry. The volume of financial subsidies amounts to a total of 24 million Euros. By the end of 2012, there will be altogether three invitations for proposals, for which European industrial enterprises and research groups may participate and the entry process is relatively easy.
Ideally one to three partners should participate at an individual project and the maximum volume amounts to 300,000 Euro. Up to one third of the subsidy amount can be spent for hardware from the so-called ECHORD fund. With its long lasting research experiences in the main sectors of priority of the funded project, SCHUNK supports the project groups with know-how, but also with hardware. Those who want to profit from ECHORD, may participate at the first invitation of tender beginning December 1, 2009.

]]> http://www.schunk-usa.com/RSS/news/EN/overview/index.rss?13219 Tue, 03 Nov 2009 13:00:00 GMT http://www.schunk.com/schunk/schunk_websites/news/news_detail.html?article_id=13219&country=INT&lngCode=EN&lngCode2=EN
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The new ROTA NCF plus power chuck from SCHUNK is designed for the highest demands on modern lathes. The multi-tooth guidance of the base jaws together with the hardened chuck body assure an optimum guidance ratio and make the lathe extremely rigid and precise. A modular sealed center sleeve system increases flexibility for the most diverse applications in everyday life. Furthermore, a special greasing system assures a permanently high repeat accuracy and clamping force of the powerhouse.
The especially large through hole of the ROTA NCF plus assures that all current bar materials can be machined on the lathe chuck. With the integrated centrifugal force compensation, a safe hold of the powerhouse is guaranteed - even at the highest RPM. The integrated lubrication pump system automatically provides the chuck with grease at every clamping stroke. Therefore the ROTA NCF plus is superior to conventional wedge-hook chucks: The intervals of maintenance prolong the life of the chuck and the high clamping force can be maintained for a longer period of time.

Particularly efficient
In addition to efficiency in force and precision, the ROTA NCF plus is also one step ahead when energy and cycle times are concerned: Its weight-optimized chuck body can be efficiently accelerated to high speeds and decelerated quickly as well. On modern lathes and milling centers as well as for applications with driven tools, the chuck design facilitates the access to the workpiece. Depending on the application, the power chuck can be equipped with various center sleeves, which can be exchanged from the front for operations with adjustable stop, central coolant feeding, or ejectors.
All functional parts of the ROTA NCF plus are hardened and ground. The piston area of the chuck is additionally sealed against coolants. The base jaw’s interface is available in two designs with fine serration 1/16" x 90° or 1.5 mm x 60°. Therefore the operator can continue to use his existing jaws. The standard version of the power chuck is available in the sizes 185, 215, 260, 315, 400, und 500 mm. Larger diameters of up to 1000 mm are available on request.
Brief description:

• Powerhouse with multi-tooth guided base jaws and large through-hole
• Integrated grease pump system for constant performance
• Energy-efficient and interfering contour-optimized chuck design
• Fully flexible thanks to the modular center sleeves.

]]> http://www.schunk-usa.com/RSS/news/EN/overview/index.rss?13203 Mon, 02 Nov 2009 08:00:00 GMT http://www.schunk.com/schunk/schunk_websites/news/news_detail.html?article_id=13203&country=INT&lngCode=EN&lngCode2=EN
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Efficiency in manufacturing - this was a main topic at the EMO show in Milan. Regardless if automatic loading of machine tools and precise tool clamping are required, or if fast clamping of workpieces is needed: SCHUNK has a solution! SCHUNK showed customers how to lower costs while simultaneously increasing quality at the world’s leading tradeshow for metal machining. As the leading expert in toolholding, workholding and automation, SCHUNK bundled all three business units into "SCHUNK synergy".
At the booth visitors had the opportunity to watch the SCHUNK synergy machine in action. By means of the machine spindle and the axes of the machine, a spindle gripper from SCHUNK assured the fully-automatic loading of workpieces. For logistics and palletizing SCHUNK utilized a light but powerful servo-gripping system.

Show-Highlights:

]]> http://www.schunk-usa.com/RSS/news/EN/overview/index.rss?13079 Sun, 01 Nov 2009 12:00:00 GMT http://www.schunk.com/schunk/schunk_websites/news/subject_of_the_month.html?article_id=13079&country=INT&lngCode=EN&lngCode2=EN
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By means of laser measuring an extremely high precision during the complete motion process is ensured. This is the precondition for precise machining and controlling processes and has further benefits:

• The precise alignment of the system’s components minimizes wear and assures a long service lifetime of the whole system.
• Laser measuring provides the basis for documentation and quality management and it strengthens the competence of plant constructors and system integrators.
• It simplifies trouble-shooting and saves time in case of problems with an existing plant after a crash.

In addition to a high repeat accuracy, in modern machine tools, positioning-, measuring- and handling the accuracy of the axial movement is now playing an important role. In this way, precise parts for the production or electronic industry, can be designed with a micron-precise guidance along the complete axis. Laser measuring can be used for assembly and control of such systems, and also for trouble-shooting after a crash. Laser measuring recognizes smallest errors in movement and supplies the decisive background for their corrections.
Laser measuring is used everywhere, whether a user has to rely on a high process accuracy of linear motions or on a high absolute accuracy during manufacturing and control processes. Normally, tolerances below 0.005 mm during the complete motion are focus. Modern precision measuring systems, so-called laser interferometers, determine the data.
As a leading expert in automation, SCHUNK offers a vast program of standard modules and individual assembly groups, along with the new service of laser measuring. This enables plant constructors and system integrators to ensure and document that their supplied systems measure up to all the requirements.

• Based on the measuring results you can optimize your system, improving process reliability and an increased lifetime.
• You are receiving informative protocols on the accuracies of your systems which can be integrated in the documentation.
• In case of complaints the measuring results can be used as a practical assistance.

With mobile laser interferometers, SCHUNK measures the systems directly on-site. The experts of the service team determine among other things the position, the tilt angle as well as the straightness of the linear system. Moreover, dynamic measurements of the plant are carried out. After measurement SCHUNK then evaluates together with the user, the system integrator or plant constructor the results. Laser measurement can be used for SCHUNK products, and also for existing plants with components of other users.
Achieving the goal with precise modules and modern measuring technology

Laser measuring technology is packed with know-how: Bundled light is directed via beam splitters and mirrors onto separated optical paths. At the end of the measuring path it is reflected via mirrors and then it is merged again in the measuring unit [compare the chart of the laser principle]. The difference of the light ray results in a specific pattern, the so-called interference fringe or -ring, from which the distances, angular deviations and refraction index are determined. Laser interferometers are used for research- and laboratory applications. They are also used for quality management and are even used directly from the users on site.
In order to determine the positioning and process accuracy of linear systems, the laser interferometer is adjusted parallel to the controlled axis. The optical paths are separated into a measuring ray and a reference ray. A measuring unit superimposes the reflected in-phase and wave fronts with the same frequency and issues them as a measuring size. Software finally prepares the reversal error, range, guidance, or position deviation graphically.
The basis for determining the positioning accuracy generally are the criterions of approval according to VDI/DGQ 3441, for straightness measurement the criterions according to VDI/DGQ 2617. New directives are also defined in the DIN ISO 230-2. Since the data received of the measurement are often compared with other data, the evaluation according to the VDI rules are considered to be the most important ones.


This new measuring service is currently only available in Europe.
Deviations are corrected mechanically, or in the control unit

Concerning the guidance accuracy of linear systems, particularly the angular error, pitch and yawing angle and the resulting rotation of a guidance are of interest. Latest laser interferometers also provide dynamic values such as path-time, speed-time and acceleration-time graphics. If the systems are used in highly dynamic applications, these values play an important role.
Based on the deviations, measured systems can be easily corrected. This is done mechanically by aligning the assembly groups and components to each other. Moreover, in a so-called mapping, systematic deviations such as reversal error or deviations in position are compensated via an error chart in the machine’s control unit.


]]> http://www.schunk-usa.com/RSS/news/EN/overview/index.rss?13200 Wed, 28 Oct 2009 01:00:00 GMT http://www.schunk.com/schunk/schunk_websites/news/news_detail.html?article_id=13200&country=INT&lngCode=EN&lngCode2=EN
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The Managing Director of SCHUNK GmbH & Co. KG, Henrik A. Schunk, was elected to the Board of Directors of the VDMA-Fachverbands Robotik + Automation (the German Association of Machine Builders - Trade Association Robotics and Automation). The newly-elected Board of Directors consists of eleven members altogether. They intend to ambitiously continue work and innovation for the robotics industry.
This includes the recently launched campaign "Green Automation" campaign. The motto "Engineering Sustainability" points out how robotics, assembly and handling technology, as well as machine vision, helps a product to get accepted while pro-tecting our resources.

]]> http://www.schunk-usa.com/RSS/news/EN/overview/index.rss?13206 Mon, 26 Oct 2009 10:00:00 GMT http://www.schunk.com/schunk/schunk_websites/news/news_detail.html?article_id=13206&country=INT&lngCode=EN&lngCode2=EN
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While the machine building industry is still in the deepest recession of the postwar period, in Lauffen/ Neckar, Germany, the future is being here. Last Friday, after a six-month construction time, SCHUNK inaugurated its new training center.
With a total area of 1,200 square meters, everything is consolidated in one building. This is an important feature for being able to assure a thorough training. "Our new training center represents the SCHUNK company of tomorrow", said the CEO, Heinz-Dieter Schunk at the opening ceremony to the architect, who planned the building. With modern machines, a structure similar to a real manufacturing hall, an electronics lab and training rooms the building allows for an optimum interlocking of theoretical and practical training. "Here we are using state-of-the-art study techniques", emphasized Mr. Schunk.
With a proportion of apprentice between twelve and fourteen percent, SCHUNK is a leader in the German industry. Altogether 176 apprentices are doing their apprenticeship at SCHUNK, including 20 females in technical professions. Cutting machine operators, specialists for warehousing, electronic technicians, design draftsmen and IT administrators, as well as students of the Corporate State University, studying International Business, machine building, mechatronics and industrial engineering and management will all profit from the training center.

]]> http://www.schunk-usa.com/RSS/news/EN/overview/index.rss?13183 Mon, 19 Oct 2009 15:00:00 GMT http://www.schunk.com/schunk/schunk_websites/news/news_detail.html?article_id=13183&country=INT&lngCode=EN&lngCode2=EN
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When every inch of your machine room matters, TENDO-ES is the best choice. The extremely short hydraulic expansion toolholder from SCHUNK frees up additional space between the machine spindle and workpiece. In this way, even large workpieces can be precisely machined. Tool clamping of the TENDO-ES is done directly in the mounting shank. As a result a higher radial rigidity at high torques is achieved.
TENDO-ES is excellently suitable for high volume cutting, HPC/HSC, for drilling, reaming, thread milling and thread forming. Without any interfering contours, the innovative precision toolholder is the ideal solution in areas where working space is limited.
One of its additional advantages is the easy, micron precise tool change in seconds without peripheral equipment, even directly in the machine! Extraordinary flexibility, precise concentricity, excellent vibration damping, internal coolant supply are all provided with the TENDO-ES. With these ideal characteristics outstanding results are guaranteed.

Benefit from the leading expert in toolholding and workholding:

• Simple and fast handling without peripheral equipment
• Micron precise tool change in seconds and improved precision in no time at all
• Comfortable change of tool or extension even directly in the machine
• Excellent vibration damping for brilliant workpiece surfaces and long tool life
• Highest dimension accuracy of the workpiece

TENDO-ES - The Expert for tight machine rooms

• Can be ideally combined with the slim extensions TENDO-SVL and TRIBOS-SVL
• Flexible clamping range due to intermediate sleeves
• Available for SK 40 and BT 40 with clamping diameter 20 mm and - brand-new - for SK 50 with clamping diameter 32 mm.

For more information please call +49-7133-103-2746

]]> http://www.schunk-usa.com/RSS/news/EN/overview/index.rss?12803 Fri, 02 Oct 2009 15:00:00 GMT http://www.schunk.com/schunk/schunk_websites/news/subject_of_the_month.html?article_id=12803&country=INT&lngCode=EN&lngCode2=EN
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Since some years applications with stereoscopic pictures and stereo cameras are becoming more and more important in the industrial environment. New technologies such as highly integrated laser distance sensors at small semi conductor sensors open new fields of application in future, e.g. the control of robot systems. Heat images in the production process using machine vision algorithms will allow online quality controls in future.
A second segment is the intelligent camera systems: The so-called "smart camera systems", which were already designed in the mid 80’s as intelligent cameras and are continuously improving. In the camera housing of these systems optical systems and evaluation electronics are integrated. Picture recording and evaluation are carried out immediately; this means without the need of an additional PC. After adjustment, the systems are working automatically and issue the results. Even here, a minimum of expert knowledge is necessary, which can be acquired during trainings.
The third branch is composed by vision sensors. These efficient and small machine vision systems provide a higher functionality than conventional sensors, such as laser sensing devices. Vision sensors are functional machine vision systems with integrated illumination and pre-adjusted optics. Hereby the complexity, which steadily increases inside the system, is further reduced for the operator. The simple system eliminates complexity at the same efficiency. From a market for exotic special applications a mass market develops, which in the meantime reaches different industries.

Whether in the supermarket, on the highway, at the airport, or in the factory; pictures are being taken by a camera system and are evaluated with a computer, in order to make a fully-automatic, quick and safe decision. What is the price for a pound of butter? Did the truck pay its toll? Does the suitcase contain dangerous objects? Did the robot install the right component in the correct place of the car? No other industry advanced so quickly in the last few years as machine vision. The aptitude of modern computers to process information within the shortest possible time opens up possibilities, which even today cannot be judged completely. Today the trend goes to more compact, efficient, and easy to handle components. In the future, they will provide quality and efficiency in many branches of industry.
In 1979, a German manufacturer presented a first industry-standard machine vision system called "Intellect". With a weight of ten kilograms it belonged to the first generation of machine vision systems, used in the manufacturing industry for controlling the product quality. At a converted price of 87,000 Euros, the "Intellect" cost a bit much.
Vision systems are the eyes in automation. Where optical controls were carried out by humans in the past, vision systems will increasingly carry out these tasks - faster, precise, safe, and available around the clock. The trend for standard tasks increasingly goes to vision sensors. The low-priced and nevertheless efficient units are suitable for numerous applications and disposes of an excellent cost/performance ratio.
All-in-one sensors belong to the future
All necessary system components are integrated inside the compact units. By pressing the teach button or at a low parameterization they can be operated easily and intuitively. Installation and initial operation is possible in a short period of time. Simple integration possibilities into the controller equipment are important. Standardized protocols thereby simplify the exchange of information between the actuator and sensor. High efficiency is the result of a streamlined, intuitive and operable self-learning parameterization software as well as the reliability of the system which is achieved by integrated and effective illumination.
Operation of compact modules is pretty simple: With the object size the user adjusts the camera of the vision sensor. By simple parameterization, the program is adjusted and generates the desired result.
Generally the functionality of the sensors is adapted to special applications. They are suitable for simple tasks, which have to be carried out completely and at low cost. Where complex vision systems are too big and expensive, vision sensors are the first choice. Basically they are used where mass-produced goods are produced at high cycle times - from electronics to automotive industry up to packaging, food processing industry, pharmaceuticals and medical industry. The control of components and the determination of the rotational position of objects on the assembly belt as well as their alignment are typical applications.

Highest aim: Perfect Quality
In the 90’s, progress in the field of quality management supported the demand of the industry for systems used for automatic quality control. Here the precursors were the automobile manufacturers and their suppliers. No matter of qualification and motivation of the worker at the assembly belt, the quality of each production step needed to be controlled and documented. A second incitement was the booming semi conductor industry. For being able to control smaller structures faster and faster, the development of efficient hardware and software was necessary. At that time the "grip of the robot to pick items from a box" symbolized the imagination of leading managers, of how industry should look in the future: humans would be relieved from monotonous and dangerous jobs. The robot will take over all of these jobs.

Compact, autarkic and intuitive operation
An example for modern solutions in the field of machine vision is the SVS-VC. The intelligent sensor of SCHUNK, the leading expert in automation, is able to fulfill a multitude of image processing tasks without the need of peripheral equipment. It can inspect mechanic components such as pencils, rings, nuts, and screws on completeness and presence and carries out controls on assembly and characteristics. It recognizes edge disruptions, registers position of locks and etiquettes, separates wrong parts or makes sure in pick & place applications, that the components with different rotational positions and even flexible objects such as cables and hoses can be gripped safely.
The compact housing of the vision system SVS-VC combines beside the camera and object lens, also the LED illumination and the evaluation unit including software and interfaces. In the simplest case it is enough to connect the sensor with the power supply and to teach it in via two keys. After the teach-in, the sensor puts out a signal via the signaling line and shows, if a part is present or missing. It is not necessary for the operator to program an application on a computer first and then transfer it onto the sensor. He can start working immediately. This way, even unpracticed operators intuitively achieve a machine vision solution quickly. For demanding tasks, an adjusted software is available for object and position recognition, which is designed for highest ease of use.

For every application the suitable system
The times where machine vision systems were considered to be complicated and expensive now belong to the past. In the meantime, technically sophisticated and user-friendly components open new fields of application for automation. Since the millennium change three main tendencies with different strengths have been established in the field of machine vision. For choosing the matching system a detailed analysis is helpful. What will be the task? What are the inspection characteristics? How are the lightning conditions? Do the objects move? And if this should be the case, how fast does it move? These and many other questions are keys for successfully, safely and efficiently solving problems such as the aforementioned "gripping from the box" for our colleague the robot.
The most efficient systems are still the computer-based systems. Optimized for the unique tasks, experts select and program the individual components. Anything that can be programmed and displayed efficiently is possible. However even today, the maintenance costs for such a system are rather high. For example, a vision system determines position and orientation of miniature salamis on an assembly belt and this information is transferred to the robot controller. The robot finally grips with a special gripper and places the delicate food into the correct position.


]]> http://www.schunk-usa.com/RSS/news/EN/overview/index.rss?13071 Wed, 30 Sep 2009 15:00:00 GMT http://www.schunk.com/schunk/schunk_websites/news/news_detail.html?article_id=13071&country=INT&lngCode=EN&lngCode2=EN
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All conventional clamping devices have the potential to become more efficient, and this is being proven at Schunk’s lathe chuck factory in Mengen, Germany. Here, SCHUNK developed a jaw box, with jaw actuation that is protected against chips and coolant from all sides. The maintenance-free design and the integrated lubrication system minimize wear and assure long service life of the actuation spindle.
The SPK jaw boxes from SCHUNK are available in sizes 180, 220 and 260 mm, which cover about 90 percent of all applications on large horizontal lathes and vertical boring and turning mills. The large jaw stroke of up to 100 mm and the enormous clamping force of up to 75 kN assure safe I.D. and O.D. clamping at low tightening torques. An additional jaw interface at the front makes the unit flexible and allows very low, stable set-ups.
The base jaws of the SPK are equipped with tongue and groove and a standardized jaw connection. Therefore, low-cost standard chuck jaws from the world’s largest program of standard chuck jaws from SCHUNK can be used. For a higher operation and clamping safety, the operator can read off the individual jaw stroke from the scale. With a low height, the SPK provides for space in the machining area. The base body is made of steel and the functional parts are hardened from all sides and assure high precision and a long service life.
For more information please call +49-7572-7614-1034

]]> http://www.schunk-usa.com/RSS/news/EN/overview/index.rss?12592 Mon, 03 Aug 2009 11:00:00 GMT http://www.schunk.com/schunk/schunk_websites/news/news_detail.html?article_id=12592&country=INT&lngCode=EN&lngCode2=EN
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Do you still waste time for removing chips from your machining area manually? Increase your productivity by using the new RGG Cleaning Unit from SCHUNK.
With a clamping diameter of 20 mm it can be used for every common tool mounting. Thereby it is possible to fully integrate the SCHUNK RGG into the machining processes. The eight nozzles of the ball head can spray both air and coolant. By turning or moving your machine spindle every angle of your machining area can be cleaned. The sprayed material is supplied by an integrated feeding in the shank. The use of the RGG unit eliminates cleaning down time and the hazard to the machine operator by flying chips. The combination of the RGG cleaning unit and a gripper on a taper allow for the complete handling, machining and cleaning process to be done automatically without any external assistance from an operator.

]]> http://www.schunk-usa.com/RSS/news/EN/overview/index.rss?12521 Thu, 18 Jun 2009 12:30:00 GMT http://www.schunk.com/schunk/schunk_websites/news/news_detail.html?article_id=12521&country=INT&lngCode=EN&lngCode2=EN
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On May 27, 2009 SCHUNK welcomed 50 participants to the "4th Industrial Working Committee Automation" of the massive forming industry association in order to exchange information on the present developments and research projects of their industry.
Funded as a publically promoted research project, the committee meets on a regular basis to further promote the massive forming industry. Industries which depend on the inherent reliability of massive forming are the automotive industry, the machine building industry, as well as the aerospace industry, the energy sector, the pharmaceutical technology, and the ship building industry.
A total of seven speakers from well-known companies, research institutes, and universities introduced their present projects and delivered an insight into their research and development works at the end of May. Among others Mr. Thomas Ledermann from the Fraunhofer Institute in Stuttgart, presented new robot solutions for small and medium-sized factories from the European research project SMErobot. Mr. Stefan Kerpe, Manager of the SCHUNK Engineering Department in Germany, introduced development-accompanying simulations, which considerably facilitates the problem-solving for high-dynamic systems and processes in forges.
The top-class event showed, how the cooperation of research institutions and innovative companies from the robot and handling technology develop economic solutions for this especially rough environment.

]]> http://www.schunk-usa.com/RSS/news/EN/overview/index.rss?12468 Mon, 08 Jun 2009 08:00:00 GMT http://www.schunk.com/schunk/schunk_websites/news/news_detail.html?article_id=12468&country=INT&lngCode=EN&lngCode2=EN
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For the first time at ACHEMA - the world’s largest show for chemical technology, environmental protection and biotechnology - the trade magazines Process, PharmaTEC and LaborPraxis conferred about the Innovation Award. The most innovative products and processes were sought at ACHEMA for this award.
A total of 11 awards were given in the following categories:

• Pumps/ compressors
• Armatures/ sealings/ tubes/ hoses/ fittings
• Thermic processes
• Mechanical processes
• Plant engineering and processes
• Pharmaceutical technology/ biotechnology
• Process measuring and control technology/ process automation
• Laboratory and analysis techniques

The winners were judged on the following criteria: the degree of innovation, the economic viability, the availability and the submitted presentation.
SCHUNK hereby achieved the first place on the shortlist for the category "Laboratory - and Analysis Technology" with the multiple axes system type UNIPLACE, suitable for applications in the laboratory automation, pharmaceutical technology or as a Pick & Place unit with optional optical inspection.

The online article and more on the awarding can be found at:
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