Manual, Robotic Tool Changer, QC‑24Z1
Document #9610‑20‑3727‑03
Pinnacle Park • 1041 Goodworth Drive • Apex, NC 27539 • Tel: 919.772.0115 • Fax: 919.772.8259 •
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4.5 Tool Storage Considerations
NOTICE:
Tool stand design is critical to operation of the Tool Changer. Improperly designed tool
stands can cause jamming and excessive wear of the Tool Changer components.
Tool plates with customer tooling attached may be stored in a tool stand. ATI provides compatible tool
stands designed for durability, longevity, and maximum adaptability to fit most customers’ applications. The
ATI TSS (Tool Stand Small) system is compatible with ATI Tool Changer sizes QC‑001 to QC‑41. The TSS
systems can be equipped with horizontal modules, clamp modules, and different types of tool sensing. Two
mounting styles are available: a pin and bushing style and a pin and rack style. Visit the ATI Web Site
http://
www.ati‑ia.com/products/toolchanger/toolstand/small/SmallStand.aspx
for products available or contact ATI
for assistance.
If the customer is supplying the tool stand, they must provide a fixed, repeatable, level, and stable position
for tool pick‑up and drop‑off. The tool stand must support the weight of the Tool Changer Tool plate,
interface plate, optional modules, cables, hoses, and customer tooling without allowing deflection in the
excess of the offsets.
The tool should be hanging vertically in the tool stand so that gravity assists to uncouple the Tool
plate from the Master plate during unlocking. It is possible to design tool stands that hold tools in the
horizontal position, but the necessary compliance must be provided during coupling and uncoupling.
“Horizontal‑Position” tool stands cause more wear on the locking mechanism and locating features of both
the Tool and tool stand.
A variety of the methods may be used to position Tool in the tool stand. A common method is to use
tapered alignment pins and bushings. Robot programming and positional repeatability are vital in the Tool
pick‑up and drop‑off.
A sensor that detects the presence of a Tool in the tool stand is recommended. The sensor may be used prior
to coupling to ensure there is a Tool properly seated in the stand. Sensors may also be used as the robot starts
to move away after uncoupling. Sensors provide an added safety measure If the Tool becomes jammed in the
stand or if the Tool fails to release from the robot.
Proximity sensors should be positioned so that the sensing face is vertical to prevent metal shavings, weld
spatter, or other debris from the falling on the sensor and creating false readings.
Tool stand debris shields can cover Tools and modules to protect them in the dirty environments, such as
grinding or welding. Alternatively, positioning tool stands in the areas shielded from the weld spatter, fluids,
adhesives, or other debris would eliminate the need for debris shields.
