SMC Unveils Manual and Automatic Tool Changers for Cobot Applications

SMC Corporation has introduced two new tool changer series, the RMTM and RMTA, designed to enhance the versatility and efficiency of collaborative robots. The latest solutions look to help with specific automation tool changing needs and include features for both manual and automatic tool exchanges.

The RMTM is a compact manual tool changer for collaborative robot applications. Image used courtesy of SMC Corporation

RMTM Series: Manual Tool Changers

Manual tool changes are often useful for applications requiring enhanced precision or increased payload capabilities. They also help to save costs for applications where manual tool changing is not a burden, like those requiring only occasional tool changes with part lineup alterations.

SMC’s RMTM series offers two types of manual tool changers, one-push and clamp, that reduce tool-switching complexity for collaborative robots. SMC designed the RMTM series to be compact and lightweight, minimizing space requirements while maintaining robust performance. These tool changers are designed to be straightforward to operate, requiring minimal training or setup. This ease of use makes manual tool changers like the RMTM series ideal for users who need occasional tool changes without investing in complex systems.

The RMTM tool changer is available in a one-push (left) and a clamp type. Image used courtesy of SMC Corporation

The RMTM one-push type of manual tool changer can be attached and removed with the push of a button, eliminating the need for additional tools. It features a workload of 10 kg and a repeatability of ±0.01 (position reproducibility).

The RMTM clamp type enables tools to be attached and removed using two clamper bolts, ensuring a secure connection. It features a workload of 20 kg and a repeatability of ±0.02 (position reproducibility). Both variants in the RMTM series comply with the ISO9409-1-50-4-M6 standard, ensuring compatibility with most major collaborative robot flanges.

The RMTA robot hand tool changer can automatically switch between tools, saving users time over manual tool changers. Image used courtesy of SMC Corporation

RMTA Series: Automatic Tool Changers

The RMTA series serves as an automatic tool change solution designed to streamline operations in collaborative robot applications. Key features of the RMTA series include the ability to automatically connect and release between the robot and the end tool for effortless operation and direct mounting capability on collaborative robots, eliminating the need for flanges and helping to reduce design complexity.

By removing the need for additional flanges, the RMTA series reduces design labor and enhances efficiency. This makes it an ideal choice for industries seeking to optimize their automation systems and collaborative robot tool-changing efficiency.

SMC has included a drop prevention mechanism that locks the actuator so parts remain locked in place even if air pressure is lost, enhancing worker safety. A built-in safety feature ensures the connection is not released even when an external force is applied.  I/O can also be directly linked to the tool via an M8 connector. The RMTA series is available with options for 5 kg, 10 kg, and 20 kg workloads and is compliant with ISO9409-1 standards for universal compatibility.

The RMTM and RMTA series of tool changers are designed to bring versatility and efficiency to cobot applications. Image used courtesy of Adobe Stock

Collaborative Robot Grippers

Both the RMTM and RMTA series are engineered to meet the growing demand for flexible, user-friendly solutions in collaborative robot tool-changing applications. Whether manual or automatic, SMC’s tool changers look to provide reliability, precision, and ease of use, supporting a wide range of industries and collaborative robot systems. Users can keep things simple and robust with the RMTM manual tool changing series or speed up operations with a more sophisticated RMTA automatic tool changer.