New spot welding robot has improved accessibility

New spot welding robot has improved accessibility

Keywords Comau,Robots, Spot welding, Welding

Conventional robotic systems for spot welding, with their trailing hoses and cables, are restricted in their ability to access confined spaces such as car interiors. However, the new SMART H4 system from Comau UK, Telford, routes all air, water and electrical supplies entirely inside the robot from its base through the forearm right to the point of welding. In this respect the robot is believed, by the company, to be a world first.

Apart from improved dexterity, two further benefits of the design are noteworthy. First, the overall dimensions of the robot are reduced and more exactly defined, making it easier and quicker to prepare programs off-line. Second, as there is no risk during welding of the workpiece snagging the hoses and cables, they are guaranteed for three years working round-the-clock. For the same reason, downtime for maintenance is virtually eliminated.

The six-axis articulated SMART H4 has an installed weight of two tonnes and can support 200kg on the wrist to its maximum reach of 2,390 mm. Repeatability is ±0.3 mm despite the fast movements, which vary from 110 degrees per second for the first three axes to 205 degrees per second for the gun, the innovative hollow wrist having no external rotating devices. There is a choice of electric or pneumatic gun actuation.

 Comau's new SMART H4

For further information tel: +44 (0) 1952 670396; Fax: +44 (0) 1952 670398.