Robotics Collision Sensor Self-Resets After Crashes

The SR-48 robotic collision sensor from ATI Industrial Automation accommodates smaller payloads with a lower operating range. It is designed to absorb crashes and reset itself, virtually eliminating tool damage, downtime and the need for human intervention, the company says. The sensor is suitable for a range of applications, including arc welding.

The SR-48 is adjusted to support typical loads experienced by the robot arm in all directions, including angular, compression and torsional. During a collision, the sensor can respond to displacement force, providing ample time to take corrective action. Breakaway points are set at a given pressure, independent of angular, compressive axial or torsional load, and an optional spring provides two trip points. Following a crash, the sensor uses locating components to reset within 0.001" of its original position, the company says.

The sensor is said to increase repeatability and absorb energy while its rugged design enables axial compliance. It offers large moment and torsional rotation, a generous range of motion, consistent break-away response and adjustable sensitivity, the company says. The sensor also features flexible mounting surfaces with threaded or through-hole patterns to reduce the stack height of the tooling and sensor assembly. A three-wire PNP proximity switch set to actuate within 0.020" of axial motion ensures reliable switch performance, even in highly humid environments, the company says.