goudsmit robotic end-effectors enable robotic arms to interact with the surrounding world. As robotic arms are used in more diverse industries, the demand for end-effectors capable of adapting to multiple use cases has risen.

The goudsmit TPGC series of intelligent magnetic grippers can be used in various applications, including bin picking, fixture tools, ergonomic lifting aids, and machine tending.

Festo, which has been a distribution partner for the goudsmit TPGC series since 2019, reports growing interest in the goudsmit TPGC series of magnetic grippers.

The goudsmit TPGC series of intelligent magnetic grippers are neither electromagnets nor permanent magnets (EPM). The goudsmit TPGC series devices incorporate proprietary switching technology that reduces energy consumption, enables faster actuation, provides intelligent magnetic gripping, offers partial correct/partial incorrect feedback, and delivers two to three times the holding force of any similarly sized electromagnet or permanent magnet. Pole shoes that shape the magnetic field are available in standard and custom configurations to ensure proper gripping for the application.

The goudsmit TPGC series intelligent grippers are smaller than electromagnets, thereby reducing the size of end-of-arm tooling. Due to their lower weight and smaller size, designers are often able to use smaller robots, which lowers capital costs and reduces the footprint.

The goudsmit TPGC series magnetic grippers are sought after in stamping applications, including progressive dies. In stamping operations, the intelligent variable field output can separate a single blank from a stack and then verify whether the blank thickness is correct. These devices can identify and grip individual blanks with thicknesses as low as 0.6 mm.

In resistance spot welding applications, goudsmit TPGC series devices provide single-sided clamping technology, eliminating the need for fixtures. With fixtures removed, the spot welding gun can access the product more easily. With a fast on/off actuation time of 250 ms, the E series reduces cycle times compared to fixtures.

The goudsmit TPGC series intelligent magnetic grippers can be used in many other applications, including automotive assembly, white goods manufacturing, heavy industrial manufacturing, electronics assembly, bin picking, measurement, inspection, ergonomic lifting aids, and collaborative cells.

"We are just beginning to envision the various possibilities of intelligent magnetic gripping," said Josh Bond, an automotive industry sector expert at Festo.

Bond cited two examples of new uses for intelligent magnetic gripping. In one unexpected application, E series devices detect the presence of weld studs inside automotive B pillars and alert when studs are missing. This solution is low-cost and can save manufacturers significant rework costs by detecting missing studs early.

E series devices with non-marring polymer offsets are used to safely, quickly, and effectively clamp A class surfaces without damaging them. The magnets gently attach to the surface using minimal force rather than impacting it, thereby preserving the integrity of the finish. Once the part is clamped and separated from adjacent parts, the tool automatically switches to full power for optimal performance. With the E series proprietary switch, the magnetic field can be reduced to zero in the off state, causing iron particles to fall off the gripper and ensuring a clean surface.

goudsmit TPGC series devices feature a world-class weight-to-force ratio and provide separation forces ranging from ounces to tons. They operate on 24 V DC using serial communication protocols. Options are available for control via any Ethernet protocol.