First Automated Tool Changer Certified in Americas for UR+ Program

Big things come in small packages, and the QC-11 Automatic Tool Changer from ATI Industrial Automation (Apex, NC) is no exception. It is a vital component of many robotic applications and is now certified to work seamlessly with collaborative robots from Universal Robots USA, Inc. (Ann Arbor, MI), joining more than 150 products in the UR+ portfolio featuring plug-and-play systems for UR cobots that help users get up and running quickly.

The QC-11 enables automatic exchange of robotic end-effectors without any manual intervention so that a robot can utilize multiple end-effectors in a single process. It is the first automated tool changer developed in the Americas to obtain UR+ certification. When coupled, the Master and Tool weigh less than 0.25 kg (0.55 lb), with a combined stack height of 52.4 mm (2.06 in). The small footprint of this robust tool changer helps to optimize the robot payload and work envelope while supporting the maximum UR payload of 10 kg (22 lb). Its patented, pneumatically-actuated, fail-safe locking mechanism provides strong, repeatable coupling under the rigors of industrial use and also ensures that the tooling remains securely attached to the robot, even during a loss of air pressure.

The QC-11 features six integrated M5 pneumatic pass-through ports. It allows for an optional accessory-mounted M8 connector for up to eight pass-thru electrical pin connections. Users can incorporate a compatible pin-and-bushing tool stand for storage of the additional end-of-arm tools as well. Preceding the QC-11 in the UR+ program are the Axia80 Force/Torque Sensor and MC-10 Manual Tool Changer from ATI, whose chief executive officer, Robert Little, believes strongly in the power of partnerships: “Thanks to this exceptional certification program, our tooling can reach new users in the collaborative market,” he said. “It is a great opportunity for us as a business, but the real winners are our users. Through this stringent product qualification process, our products rise to a new standard of excellence. The collaboration between these two companies is genuinely more than the sum of its parts.”

The UR+ program debuted in 2016 and has since grown rapidly to include 155 products from 400 companies active in the UR+ developer program. “We are thrilled to welcome this continued expansion of UR+ certified products from ATI with the QC-11,” said Stuart Shepherd, the regional sales director for Universal Robots’ Americas division. “Their commitment to product quality and customer experience is in perfect alignment with the vision of the UR+ program. We look forward to collaborating on future projects.”

www.universal-robots.com