CFW Projects offers a wide range of robots. The robots are bought-out and CFW custom-designs and builds gripper assemblies to suit any automated application. Our programming team is responsible for integrating the robot into the control system.

Robot automation offers greater flexibility than XYZ automation. Despite the perception that the simplicity of XYZ systems makes them more affordable, robot systems are now the less expensive choice.

CFW has experience in all the design choices necessary to complete the robot system. The positioning requirements include repeatability and accuracy, as well as timing for certain applications. Either a product/part or a tool may be handled. There are many styles and sizes for most applications. To access the objects being manipulated, robots may be mounted on the floor, on a gantry or a pedestal.

The gripper design, controllers and communication interface also have a significant effect on product quality.

The fixture and tooling can greatly affect automation precision. Linear indexing or manual loading/unloading may be used to give the robot access to the product.

Whichever system is used, the fixture requires safety devices to prevent limbs from being in the path of moving machinery.(CFW also supplies the necessary guarding – see “Safety Guarding” for more information.)

Best practice also demands that the system be equipped with part-in-place sensors so that it will operate only when the robot has access to the product.

As a cost-saving measure, tooling may be designed for greater versatility and to meet expected future requirements. Taking various production demands into account can extend the operating life of the robot system considerably.

For example, the same gripper assembly may be used for different part configurations or sizes provided that the programming is modified accordingly. Sensors may be used to identify the part and select the correct program.