SMC Releases the LEHR Gripper Specialized for Collaborative Robots
SMC has recently announced the addition of a series of new electric grippers, specifically intended to be used along with UR collaborative robot applications.
SMC, one of the leading providers of pneumatic and automation technology, has recently added a new series of electric grippers for use in collaborative robots. The new LEHR Series Electric Gripper is set to easily integrate with Universal Robots (UR) models and promises to reshape robotic automation with its impressive features.
The new basic type of gripper is the LEHR Series Electric Gripper. Image used courtesy of SMC
Key Features of the LEHR Series
Available in basic and longitudinal types, the LEHR series can be easily adapted to different industrial environments like narrow spaces. Designed to complement collaborative robots from UR, the new series of electric grippers have M8, 8-pin plug-and-play connectors that make wiring simple. Equipped with an internal batteryless absolute encoder and a motor type rated 24VDC, the control is optimized to reduce the annual CO2 emissions by up to 52% (when compared to previous generation SMC models) thereby contributing to the betterment of the environment.
The new electric gripper series by SMC has a durable and flexible design with IP20-rated housing with a rounded protective cover and simplified tool changing that can be manually done by securing the tools and tightening two clamp bolts. This flexibility reduces the work hours during installation and tool-changing process. The durable design makes the gripper resist vibration and impacts and is also able to work in relatively harsh environments of temperatures between 5 and 40 °C. When it comes to performance, the new LEHR Series electric gripper offers a gripping force ranging from 60 to 140 N and an opening and closing stroke of 50 mm.
Using a URCap, a specialized ‘ecosystem’ program that assures easy compatibility with Universal Robots, the teach pendant can perform various SMC gripper operations straightforwardly, making it simple to incorporate sensor signals. To install the URCap software quickly and easily, a USB flash drive with a saved copy of the program is placed inside a teach pendant. The compatible plug-in software makes programming the LEHR series electric gripper easy.
Two layouts, longitudinal (left side) and basic (right side), allow for design in various situations. Image used courtesy of SMC
Grippers for Collaborative Robots
The technology in grippers used for collaborative robots is changing constantly to meet the current standards of the growing robotics industry. In this case, most engineers are seeking solutions that are flexible and best fit their industrial robotics needs.
The new LEHR series of electric grippers is one of these innovative gripping solutions, optimized for collaborative robots and offering flexibility, scalability, ease of integration, and reduced overall carbon footprints. These well-crafted features give the new gripper the potential to quickly infiltrate the global market.
