Desoutter

New energy vehicles

General Industries

Automotive

Aerospace

End of Arm Tooling (EOAT) for Automated Tightening Production Lines

May 7, 2024

Collaborative robots, also known as cobots, can operate without safety barriers and can be seamlessly integrated in a human workspace. By combining screwdrivers or nutrunners with a cobot (with end of arm tooling), the tightening process becomes easily automated, even in confined spaces.

How can you connect your tightening unit effortlessly to ensure complete traceability? Desoutter provides an end of arm tooling solution tailored to both low-torque and high-torque applications. 

In this article, we will explore the various aspects of cobot integration and how it can revolutionize your production line. Additionally, we will introduce our solutions for cobots specifically tailored to your tightening assembly lines.

 

Choosing the Right Cobot for Your Tightening Unit: 3 factors to Consider 

When selecting a cobot for your production line, it is crucial to consider all factors including: 

  1. Payload capacity and reach requirements: Begin by assessing the payload capacity and reach needed for your production processes. It is essential to keep the weight and size of the objects handled by the cobot in mind. 

  2. End of Arm Tooling compatibility: The end of arm tool, which is attached to the cobot’s arm, plays a critical role in performing specific tasks. When choosing a cobot, ensure that it has a compatible end of arm tool or can be easily fitted with the required tool. We offer dedicated solutions designed to adapt to your existing tightening tools. Choosing a compatible end of arm tool can reduce costs while maintaining complete traceability.  

  3. Ease of programming and user-friendliness: Evaluate how intuitively the cobot is to program. A user-friendly interface simplifies the setup and configuration process, allowing for quick adjustments and efficient asset rebalancing.  

 
By carefully considering these factors, you can select the correct cobot for your production line, ultimately leading to maximized productivity. 

 

Dedicated Solutions for Cobot Integration within Tightening Assembly Units 

Deciding between an integrator and a dedicated cobot integration solution requires you to consider the complexity of your production line

As an industrial assembly expert, we are committed to addressing customer needs. Our project team develops solutions that seamlessly integrate your screwdrivers to cobots. Original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) and integrators can utilize these solutions to ensure productivity and thorough traceability of the entire production line.

The best part? No additional software is needed!   

  1. Simplified accessibility and ownership: Desoutter’s cobot integration solutions empower your team without the need for particular skills.  

  2. Agile scalability: In a rapidly evolving market, Desoutter ensures that your cobot integration remains adaptable.  

  3. Precise control over tightening processes: From bolt selection to quality control, Desoutter’s diversity of solutions puts you in command.  

Need some help to integrate a cobot to your Tighening unit?

 

3 examples of cobot integration

N°1 End of arm tooling: Tightening tools, robots, and cobots make the perfect match 

We ensure that all our tools can be easily integrated into stations with robots and cobots for all configurations.
Whether in fixed single, multiple, or with the use of a tool changer, our customized tool holders make it as simple as clamping and plugging within minutes. 

   

 

A perfect example is the new EFBC, which is specifically dedicated to light automation!  

This innovative spindle tool was specially designed to be seamlessly integrated with robots and cobots, revolutionizing the way manufacturers approach screw tightening. EFBC is made for:  

  1. Perfect integration: With a standard easy clamping system added to its thin charging cable, the EFBC harmoniously aligns with both robots and cobots, eliminating compatibility challenges. No more headaches—just efficient collaboration. 

  2. Safety first: The same cable that charges the battery also delivers emergency stop information. Safety is paramount, and the EFBC ensures all operations remain secure. All other information travels through WIFI between the tool and the hub.​  

  3.  Being part of Desoutter ECOSYSTEM:Like any other battery powered asset, the EFBC benefits from the CONNECT hub, the DEMETER data driven solution and the PIVOTWARE process control software.

EFBC : End of arm tooling

Want to know more about the EFBC?

 

N°2 Screw feeding: Automate your screw-handling process effortlessly 

Introducing RAPID, Desoutter's advanced automated screw-feeding system. Integrate RAPID into your assembly line to streamline operations, ensure precise screw delivery, and boost productivity. 

Discover the RAPID screwfeeder solution now

 

N°3 Socket & bit tray: Taking on multiple applications with one only tool 

The socket and bit tray allows picking and releasing sockets and bits with no actuators. The supporting stands will always remain aligned with the tool once the station is set, with limited risks of dropping. The presence of the sockets and bits in the sensor-equipped stands can be monitored by the orchestrator. 

   

In Conclusion: Embracing the Future of Manufacturing
 

To fully embrace the future of manufacturing, it is crucial to understand the benefits of  robots and cobots, evaluate their compatibility with existing infrastructure, and follow a systematic approach to seamless integration.

By selecting the right robot or cobot and tightening solution, providing comprehensive training, and continuously monitoring performance, businesses can harness the full potential of robot and cobot integration. 

So, take the first step towards revolutionizing your production line by exploring the possibilities of industrial automated robot integration. Contact our team today to learn more about how we can assist you in implementing robot integration solutions and transforming your tightening processes. Together, let’s embrace the future of tightening. 

You have a specific project idea ?

Contact us to discuss your options