Versatile, sensitive and extremely simple – this is the best description of the WSG series of servo-electric 2-Finger Parallel Grippers. Mechatronic grippers from SCHUNK, the competence leader for clamping technology and gripping systems are designed for handling and assembly processes, where high flexibility or sensitivity are required. A whole range of possibilities for achieving more efficiency in production automation is hidden under its simple appearance. SCHUNK significantly expanded the series with a long-stroke version and a compact small parts gripper.
The WSG is convincing in many aspects: there is a long, flexibly definable stroke which allows alternated and reliable handling of different components, and the gripping force can be precisely controlled via the power supply. Moreover, the gripper is the first one of its kind, which disposes of an integrated gripped part detection, and an integrated gripping force control system. Via standardized sensor interfaces in the base jaws (UART, SPI and analog), sensors are directly integrated into the gripping process without any additional cabling, or interfering contours. By using the optionally available force-measuring fingers type ABF WSG050-DV from SCHUNK, forces which occur at the gripped component, can be precisely recorded and controlled, and even allow the process-reliable handling of fragile components. But the WSG can also score in terms of dynamics and precision: A specially developed belt kinematics ensures high chuck jaw speeds, and therefore short cycle times at a long stroke, and the compact WSG 32 achieves gripping speeds of 400 mm/s. Since the detection of the gripped components is already integrated in the WSG, and is not monitored via attached end position switches, the gripper itself disposes of a high positioning accuracy. Gripping commands can be carried out cycle-time optimized, and the higher-level process control is considerably relieved. A standard integrated energy management ensures that the gripper is working energy-efficiently.
Intuitive operation – minimum programming effort
In view to the comprehensive possibilities offered by the WSG, it is more surprising how easy the talented gripper can be programmed via the intuitive configuration surface. Without having to install any software, it can be quickly and easily commissioned via Ethernet TCP/IP through a conventional web browser, which is integrated as standard in the gripper. Moreover, it can also be used for remote diagnosis, and for sending out status e-mails. Since many common operations are already deposited in the unit as intelligent gripping commands, the programming effort is reduced to a minimum. On request, the range of functions can be individually adjusted to the application by using the integrated, and easy to learn script language, and even complex tasks can be solved reliably and easily. The issued script can be stored on a MicroSD card, which can also be used for updates or replicating configuration data for other grippers.
Three variants are available
The WSG is available in three variants: As WSG 50, it can be controlled via Ethernet TCP/IP, Profibus, CAN-Bus, RS232 or via eight virtual digital I/Os. For simplifying commissioning via Profibus, an additional Profibus monitor is integrated. In addition to the basic version WSG 050-110 with a stroke of 55 mm per finger, a long-stroke version type WSG 050-210 with a stroke of 110 mm per finger is available. Both grippers achieve gripping forces between 5 N and 120 N. The WSG 32 however, is very compact, and has been particularly designed for handling small parts. Its guidances are completely covered, which allow for easy cleaning. Via an Ethernet connection, it is directly network-compatible, and on option, it can be equipped with a CAN-Bus interface. Its stroke per finger amounts to 34 mm, and the gripping force ranges between 5 N and 50 N.