Tool Multitalent: Series RMH supplies cobots with pneumatic grippers in three variants in no time

The new pneumatic grippers of the RMH series (pictured are the 2-finger grippers of the RMHZ2 series) are available in three variants for twelve Cobot manufacturers, can be quickly and easily exchanged, and reduce air consumption by up to 80 percent thanks to an integrated solenoid valve. (Photo: SMC Deutschland GmbH)

For a wide range of handling tasks, collaborative robots (cobots) are now the first choice. To fully leverage their advantages in terms of precision, reliability, and flexibility, the right tool is also required. With the RMH series, SMC now offers a pneumatic gripper in three variants that is compatible with cobots from a total of twelve companies. Users have access to two 2-finger grippers – one in standard and one in long-stroke design – and a 3-finger gripper, which not only impress with high clamping force and rigidity. Thanks to an integrated 3/2-way solenoid valve, air consumption is reduced by up to 80 percent, quick tool changes are facilitated by two clamping screws, and the optional protective cover allows use in challenging environments.

For pick-and-place, packaging, or palletizing applications, cobots are frequently used. The workpieces can vary greatly depending on the application: whether in shape, size, or sensitivity. Therefore, collaborative robots must be equipped with suitable tools – ideally enabling quick tool changes to cover a broad range of applications. To facilitate not only the transfer of different workpieces but also the outfitting of cobots from various manufacturers, SMC developed the RMH series. For a total of twelve cobot providers (Universal Robots, OMRON/TECHMAN Robot, Fanuc, YASKAWA Electric, Mitsubishi Electric, HAN’S Robot, KUKA, DOOSAN ROBOTICS, SIASUN, JAKA, AUBO, ABB), three variants are available: 2-finger grippers in standard and long-stroke designs, and a 3-finger gripper. The pneumatic grippers impress with precision and process reliability thanks to high clamping force and rigidity, are quick and easy to change, and help reduce air consumption by up to 80 percent.

Variety of options – quickly implemented

The standard version RMHZ2 is particularly suitable as a 2-finger gripper with an effective holding force per finger of up to 54.2 N (outer) and up to 72.2 N (inner), and an opening and closing stroke (both sides) of 14 mm, making it ideal for transferring test tubes. When transferring workpieces of different sizes, users are best served by the long-stroke version RMHF2, with an opening and closing stroke of 64 mm and an effective holding force per finger of up to 90 N. The 3-finger gripper RMHS3, with an active holding force of up to 118 N (outer) and 130 N (inner), and an opening and closing stroke of 8 mm, is the first choice for round or cylindrical workpieces. The maximum holding force is based on a pressure of 0.5 MPa.

The manual tool change is surprisingly simple: in addition to the electrical connection and compressed air supply, only two clamping screws need to be loosened and retightened after the exchange. While users can cover a broad application range with the RMH series, they can also save time and costs through the reduced assembly and maintenance effort.

Manufacturer-independent, precise, and energy-efficient

Thanks to compatibility with ISO 9409-1-50-4-M6 for the mechanical connection of tools to robot arms, the RMH series is suitable for cobots from twelve manufacturers. For four of them (Universal Robots, OMRON/TECHMAN Robot, Fanuc, YASKAWA Electric), a plug-and-play configuration is also available, further reducing installation and setup time. With a repeat accuracy of ±0.01 mm (series RMHZ2 and RMHS3) and ±0.05 mm (series RMHF2), users achieve precise handling of workpieces. The long-stroke version, which is 35 percent shorter in height compared to the standard version (48.7 mm), can additionally be equipped with a position sensor for the drive. For example, by measuring the workpiece length with a repeat accuracy of 0.1 mm, different objects can be distinguished.

Thanks to the integrated 3/2-way solenoid valve, no long hoses are necessary. This allows air consumption per stroke to be reduced by up to 80 percent (RMHZ2), 60 percent (RMHS3), or 20 percent (RMHF2) – a positive contribution to costs and CO2 emissions. The maximum operating frequency is 120 cycles per minute (RMHZ2) and 60 cycles per minute (RMHS3 and RMHF2). The exhaust muffler with silencer is easily accessible from the side. To ensure reliable operation even in challenging environments, all three variants can optionally be equipped with a protective cover. With the RMH series, users have an ideal solution for use on cobots across various fields – whether in general automation, material handling, or the medical/pharmaceutical sector.