Pneumatic feeder FlexFeeder™

bulkpartsindustrial

The FlexFeeder, in combination with ABB’s Integrated Vision, allows you to sort an array of components, ranging from 3 mm to 30 mm, without having to change the feeder each time a different component is fed into automation system. The automation of electronics in manufacturing demands flexibility, reliability and speed. To meet the ever expanding requirement for small parts feeding, ABB has developed the FlexFeeder, a functional module for industrial robots to pick up parts and implement applications like sorting and assembly. The FlexFeeder can interface with either the IRC5 robot controller or any PLC controller. Efficient and flexible The FlexFeeder is available in two variants, the single and the double. The larger unit increases the working time between refills. Small internal gap design and integrated backlight options increase the flexibility in feeding various small parts. Compact design for time, space and cost saving Both variants are designed to be compact to save on installation space and shorten cycle times. Additionally, two or more feeders can work side-by-side, eliminating the need for separate vision systems. Driven by pneumatic cylinders, the FlexFeeder takes parts from an unordered bulk supply and dispenses them in small quantities onto the flat pick surface in the field of view of the vision system. The maintenance-free friction plates guide the cylinders. Ground and rack mounting methods simplify the installation procedure. Handles make the moving and lifting much easier. The GUI makes it possible to test the FlexFeeder with one click and to monitor the production status.