Vacuum Type End Effector

The vacuum type of end-effector uses a series of vacuum cups either fixed of adjustable mounted, these cups are piped to a vacuum pump or also referred to as a venturi.

The advantage of this type of end effector is the ability to transfer and install the product without damaging delicate surfaces. A back-up safety clamp (or clamps) may be used in this type of application to prevent operator injury or damage to product and equipment due to vacuum failure.

This type of end effector like the clamp type is commonly used in material handling applications to address a specific task and part or parts, such as a metal stamping or glass handling application. Instances of this would be picking to and from a dunnage, conveyor, machine or other material apparatus.

This type of tool would be suspended from most forms of lift assist (arms, cable balancers, vertical balancers), this tool could also be outfitted with tilts, rotates, and pivots for part manipulation. In most instances this would include a controls system with operator buttons and a series of valves and logic components for the clamping, tilting, or rotating of the load to be manipulated.