Robot EOAT Structures
End of arm tooling (EOAT) is a crucial aspect of robotic technology. It refers to the equipment that interacts with parts and components, typically at the end of a robotic arm. For example, the welding torch on a robotic welding system, Pick and place application, Insert application, IML & IMD application or 2 colours molding application..
The EOAT gives a robot a specific functionality and can be changed to fit different applications or even be built to accommodate several processes at once. Either way, advancements in EOAT capabilities are parallel to advancements in robotic capabilities.
There are many different types of EOAT for robots: grippers, Suction, cutting, parts removing,tool changers and more. They’re powered electrically, mechanically or pneumatically. The application dictates which type of EOAT is needed.
Currently, and in the near future, pneumatic EOATs have proven to be the most popular, since they’re easy to integrate and pack a lot of power in a small package. Grippers are also a popular EOAT for robots, as pick and place applications are prime targets for automation and the gripping capabilities of robots has advanced significantly in recent years.
EOAT is an important part of a robotic system. It’s what gives a robot its functionality, and as EOAT advances, so does robotics.