The Robot Automatic Tool Changer (ATC) is a core component of industrial robots, allowing the robot to quickly switch end effectors (such as welding guns, grippers, sanders, etc.) without human intervention, achieving multi-functionality and greatly improving the flexibility of production lines. The core technology lies in mechanical locking + seamless switching of electrical/fluid signals.
In the Robot Automatic Tool Changer (ATC) system, various types of connectors are used to achieve fast and reliable transmission of power, signals, data and gas/fluid. The following are the main types of connectors that will be used:
Electrical connectors (Power & Signal)
1. Circular connectors
- Common brands: Harting, Amphenol, Binder, LAPP EPIC, HIROSE
- Commonly used for: transmission of control signals, power, etc.
- Typical specifications: M8, M12, M23, 7/8", Push-Pull type
2. Rectangular Industrial Connectors
- Such as: Harting Han series, TE Heavy Duty Connectors
- Suitable for high current, complex combination (electricity + gas + light + data) interface
3. Hybrid Modules
- Can integrate power, signal, Ethernet, optical fiber, etc. in the same module, often used in high-speed tool change systems
Data connector (Data Communication)
1. RJ45 Industrial Ethernet connector
- Cat5e/Cat6A/Cat7
- Metal shell, shielding, shockproof design (such as TE, Harting ix Industrial)
2. M12 X-coded connector
- Used for 10G Ethernet communication, protection level IP67, commonly used in industrial automation and robot communication interface
3. Fiber Optic connector (Fiber Optic)
- SC, LC, ST, etc., used for high-speed video/data transmission, especially suitable for robot vision system
- Mostly used in high-end automatic gun change systems (such as collaborative robots used for visual guidance)
Pneumatic/Hydraulic connector (Pneumatic & Hydraulic)
Quick couplers (Quick Couplers)
- Commonly used for compressed air, vacuum or coolant
- Brands such as: Festo, SMC, Parker, Staubli
- Usually integrated with electrical connectors on the gun change board
Special connectors and integrated modules
1. Tool Changer dedicated multifunctional module
- For example: ATI, Schunk, Zimmer provide automatic gun change modules, support electrical, pneumatic, signal integration
- The connector part is usually customized or uses standard modules (such as ATI's MC series, Schunk's EWS/EZS, etc.)
2. Signal/power spring pin (Spring Probe) interface
- Used for wireless or automatic docking, plug-in and wear-free design
- Mainly used for short-distance high-frequency contact interface (between the robot arm end and the tool)
