SCHUNK has enlarged its vast modular system of grippers again. As the first ever standardized gripper, the PGN-plus universal gripper, and the MPG-plus gripper for small components from SCHUNK are now equipped with an integrated distance and presence sensor. With the new OAS, both modules quickly transform into “seeing” grippers without needing an expensive vision system. The optical system can be directly integrated into the gripping center. Here it continuously supplies the control unit with information, such as how far away the component is located, or if a part is being securely gripped. Moreover, the sensor measures the distance of the gripper to the component. This is done during the process without any loss of time. 

With the OAS, the grippers PGN-plus and MPG-plus can differentiate components, recognize its position, pick it from the running belt, unstack them, detect wrongly gripped components, and increase the reliability of the gripper during operation. The optical sensor works with infrared light at a wavelength of 850 nm. It functions at environmental temperatures between 14° F and 131° F, and fulfills the standards for protection class IP65. The sensor module is multi-functional, and can be combined with other grippers and automation modules. For example, it can be used for analog position monitoring of long-stroke grippers by integrating it in one of the two base jaws.