In context
In late 2023, manufacturers were increasingly adopting flexible automation to handle product diversity and shorter life cycles. Electric grippers were gaining traction for their programmability and precision compared to pneumatic alternatives, especially in electronics and small parts assembly.
What was reported
Festo unveiled the HEPP electric parallel gripper, designed for compact, simple, and precise handling. It integrates the motor, encoder, and controller into a single unit, eliminating the need for an external controller in the panel—a key advantage for end-of-arm tooling on Cartesian and six-axis robots, where only power and communication cables need routing through the energy chain.
The gripper is available in three sizes, offering gripping forces up to 400 N and strokes up to 56 mm. A precise counter-rotating spindle enables high forces within a compact footprint and maintains positioning repeatability of less than 0.02 mm during endurance testing. An integrated holding brake secures the workpiece during power failures or e-stop conditions.
Connectivity is simplified with support for EtherCAT, PROFINET, EtherNet/IP, and Modbus protocols. Function blocks are provided free for integration with Festo, Siemens, Beckhoff, Rockwell, and Omron PLC environments. Setup involves parameter input for position, stroke, speed, acceleration, and gripping force, aligning with Festo's CMMT servo controller programming approach to reduce commissioning time.
Why it mattered
The HEPP represented a step toward more flexible and connected end-of-arm tooling, enabling manufacturers to adapt quickly to changing product requirements without mechanical adjustments. Its integrated design and standardized programming could lower integration costs and speed up deployment in high-mix automation environments.
“The motor, encoder and controller are integrated into a single component, making the HEPP a very compact solution by removing the need for an external controller in the panel.”
Source: Robotics & Automation News (roboticsandautomationnews.com) · Published 2023-12-11 · “Festo unveils new ‘compact, simple and precise’ electric parallel gripper”