ATI Industrial Automation Inc. yesterday said it has developed the ultra-thin Mini43LP Force/Torque Sensor to provide high-precision force sensing in a rugged, yet compact transducer. At less than 8 mm (0.31 in.) tall, the newest member of ATI’s force/torque sensor product family is “uniquely suited for smaller automated applications,” said the company.
Apex, N.C.-based ATI claimed that it is the world’s leading developer of robotic accessories and robot arm tooling. The company said its end effectors can enhance the productivity and flexibility of automated systems through capabilities such as automatic tool changing, force-torque sensing, material removal, and more.
Founded in 1989, ATI said it serves a wide variety of industries. Industrial and medical equipment manufacturer Novanta Inc. acquired the company for $172 million in July.
ATI designs Mini43LP for streamlined accuracy
The Mini43LP's low-profile sensor body allows users to optimize their work envelope and preserve the robot’s lifting power for end-of-arm tools, said ATI. The streamlined design features a bolt-down mounting pattern to minimize stack height, an angled cable exit to eliminate interference with adjacent equipment, and a large through-hole for simplified utility management, it added.
The company said its new force/torque sensor can enhance the accuracy and repeatability of research and development, product validation, assembly, and other micro force sensing applications. It is suitable for small, delicate operations such as the assembly of electronic components or optics, product research and testing applications, laboratory automation, robotic surgery, and more, according to ATI.
The Mini43LP is the thinnest six-axis force/torque sensor available, said ATI, combining the accuracy and strength of its existing force/torque sensors in an ultra-thin package.
The Mini43LP is compatible with all of ATI’s existing communication interfaces and is designed to integrate with miniature robot models from Mecademic, Yaskawa, and others. More information about the sytsem can be found at www.ati-ia.com/Mini43LP.