SAS Automation launches Selective Laser Sintering (SLS) for EOAT and Hybrid End Effectors

KARLSRUHE - SAS Automation, the leader in superior robotic End-of-Arm Tooling (EOAT) and automation technology for the plastics industry, is unveiling two new products at the 2013 K-Show. The two new products being debuted include: Selective Laser Sintering (SLS) or 3-D Printed End-of-Arm Tooling solutions and the Hybrid 'HX' End Effectors.

SLS or 3-D Printed End-of-Arm Tooling Solutions:

SAS Automation now has the capability to design and install an end-of-arm tooling system using SLS or 3-D printed parts. This new process allows for a more precise match and tailored fit to the exact robot connection and a more secure sensitive grip. The parts consist of soft flocking material, which can carefully handle class 'A' surface parts. At K-Show, SAS will be demonstrating the SLS parts and the differences between EOAT's with rapid prototyping parts and traditional SAS parts.

Hybrid 'HX' End Effectors:

SAS Automation just introduced new Hybrid 'HX' End Effectors for 5+ Axis Robots, made exclusively with the newly developed SAS 'HX' hybrid frame profiles and modular off the shelf gripper components. This new 'HX' End Effector is specifically designed for increased flexibility, offering an optimal "hybrid" design that includes the benefits of tubular frame adjustability as well as extruded channel frame profile rigidity. Robotic production use includes long reach boom press tending applications or heavy-duty material handling. The new End Effector is ideal for high-speed, heavy weight, or press tending applications, especially when gripping from a flat steel stack to load the stamping die to a formed part removal mode.

"The HX's flexibility and adjustability allows for better routing of pneumatic hoses and electrical sensor wires to grippers and suction cups as well as many other necessary applications," said Trent Fisher, President of SAS Automation. "Its interchangeability with all of SAS's modular EOAT line of components makes this one of our premier profiles."

SAS Automation provides superior end-of-arm tooling and automation technology to customers and suppliers around the world in a variety of industries, including food, automotive, metal handling, palletizing, and plastics. SAS Automation is one of the world's largest suppliers of modular component-based robotic end-of-arm tooling and gripper systems.