SCHUNK’s Powerball concept is the G5 lightweight arm. This compact and flexible design ensures efficient mobile and stationary use in industrial handling and service robotics.
Powerball arm: Maneuverable, powerful and precise
This novel module consists of a 2:1 weight/payload ratio and has been considered as a lightweight yet powerful arm. Capable of handling up to 12 kg and with a gripping radius of over 700 mm, this dynamic arm can hold or lift loads weighing up to 6 kg. Easy maneuver in tight spaces can be achieved due to the arm’s compactly-designed wrist joint. With 0.06 mm repeat accuracy, it ensures high process stability with intricate testing and measuring tasks. Furthermore, its intelligent design ensures safety.
The lightweight arm is made up of three major compact ERB Powerball modules that integrate the movements of two axes. The joint drives have been in-built with the overall regulation circuitry and electronic control. Flexible streamlining of torque, position, and speed can be facilitated. Also, rapid and simplified commissioning of Plug & Performance gripping system can be facilitated through a quick-change system with integrated signal feed-through. The peripheral devices do not require any interfering cables.
The arm is highly compatible with existing control concepts, as it is made up of cable technology for data transfer and power supply, integrated intelligence, and universal communication interfaces. An industrial robot controller with an incorporated CoDeSys PLC has been added to the manipulator. Hand-held control panel with a touch-screen display enables efficient teaching.
Furthermore, the dynamic robotic arm minimizes energy costs, extends operation-hours with the help of rechargeable batteries, and improves the working capability of small-format batteries. Being both affordable and lightweight, the arm serves a broad range of applications.