Manual,Robotic Tool Changer, QC‑310
Document #9620‑20‑B‑310 Series Base Tool Changer‑27
Pinnacle Park • 1031 Goodworth Drive • Apex, NC 27539 • Tel: 919.772.0115 • Fax: 919.772.8259 •
B-19
3.5 Tool Storage Considerations
NOTICE:
Tool stand design is critical to the 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 TSL (Tool Stand Large) system is compatible with ATI Tool Changer sizes QC‑150 and larger. The TSL
systems can be equipped with horizontal modules, clamp modules, and different types of tool sensing. Visit
the ATI Web Site
http://www.ati‑ia.com/products/toolchanger/toolstand/large/LargeStand.aspx
for products
available or contact ATI for assistance.
If the customer is supplying the tool stand, it 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, tool
interface plate, optional modules, cables, hoses, and customer tooling without allowing deflection in excess
of the offsets specified
.
Ideally, 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. In
general, “horizontal‑position” tool stands cause more wear on the locking mechanism and locating features
of the Tool Changer and tool stand.
A variety of methods may be used to position the Tool in the tool stand. A common method is to use tapered
alignment pins and bushings. Robot programming and positional repeatability are vital in Tool pick‑up and
drop‑off.
A sensor that detects the presence of the Tool in the tool stand is recommended. The sensor may be used
prior to coupling to ensure the Tool is seated in the stand. Sensors may also be used as the robot starts to
move away after uncoupling. Sensors provide a safety measure if a 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 falling on the sensor and creating false readings.
Tool stands debris shields can cover Tools and modules to protect them in dirty environments, such as
grinding or welding. Alternatively, positioning tool stands in areas shielded from weld spatter, fluids,
adhesives, or other debris would eliminate the need for debris shields.