The Deprag portfolio includes ergonomic handheld screwdrivers for manual use as well as stationary screwdriving tools for easy integration into automated PLC-controlled systems. Tools with EC servo technology are used for maximum flexibility. Integrated sensor-controlled torque and rotation angle measurement enables precise control and regulation of screw tightening. The free programmability of the applications enables flexibility at a consistently high level. In addition, comprehensive documentation and evaluation options for process parameters guarantee maximum accuracy and safety in the process sequence.

The brushless EC motors are a prerequisite for maintenance-free operation. Depending on the application, EC motors with torque measurement based on current consumption and pneumatically operated screwdrivers are also available. All screwdrivers are available in a straight design, angled design for confined spaces or with a pistol grip for horizontal use. Depending on the tool and requirements, torques from 0.008 to 500 Newton meters can be applied.

Feeding technology depending on part type
Choosing the right screwdriving technology is the first step on the way to optimized screwdriving assembly. However, smoothly functioning feed systems are also essential for high system availability, productivity and efficiency of assembly systems and the productivity and efficiency of manual workstations. Various feeding technologies are available depending on the requirements for technical cleanliness or noise levels. High conveying speeds and high output rates can be achieved with vibratory bowl feeders (also known as vibratory conveyors). The material to be conveyed is set in motion in a vibrating bowl by means of targeted vibrations so that one fastener after the other moves up a spiral and is conveyed into the separating system. Elements that are not in the correct position fall back into the bowl. With the "eacy feed" vibratory bowl feeder, Deprag has developed a next-generation feeding system. Thanks to the 24-volt vibratory magnets, a significantly reduced power consumption is achieved, resulting in energy savings of around 80 percent. In addition, "eacy feed" is Industry 4.0-capable and, with the 24-volt technology of the drives, ensures smooth operation worldwide, even with a poor mains supply. The vibrating bowls are available in filling sizes of 0.15, 0.75, 1.2 and 2.5 liters and can be filled with various materials such as screws, nuts, O-rings and other fasteners.

Lifting rail conveyor that is gentle on components. © Deprag

A segment or lifting rail conveyor is used when low-wear, low-noise conveying is required that is gentle on components. The parts to be conveyed in the storage container are threaded by the swivel movement of a segment-shaped lifting rail and slide by gravity into the separator. This feeding system is particularly suitable for applications with high demands on technical cleanliness. Screw sizes from M2 to M6 can be processed with the standard devices. Lifting rail conveyors are ideal for screws up to a length of 25 millimetres and balls with a diameter of one to twelve millimetres.

Screws are picked off
Linear feeders are possible links between the feeder and the screwdriving tool. Like vibratory bowl feeders, they work according to the micro-throw principle and are used when larger distances need to be bridged in the assembly system, part buffers need to be provided or the flow of parts needs to be pulled apart. As the linear feeder conveys the parts faster than the feeder provides them, the components can be removed easily and safely by grippers, for example. There is no risk of parts jamming back to the conveyor bowl, and the parts are sorted in the conveyor bowl without jamming pressure. Preferably, the fasteners are fed directly from the feed system into the screwdriving unit via a feed hose and processed. However, for screws with a very short shank, rivets with a large collar diameter or parts with complex external geometries, hose feeding is often not possible. In this case, the pick-and-place process is ideal, with which the screws are "picked" using a vacuum, gripper system or magnetism. After removal, the next part is automatically provided.

Tape roll feeder for adhesive components. © Deprag

Single-sided or double-sided adhesive components, such as sealing rings, can be provided for processing via tape roll feed. They are fed onto a carrier film and removed using the knife edge of a peel-off carriage. Thanks to the combination of sensors and fast tape fusing, the tape roll feeders achieve exact positioning of the parts with high repeat accuracy. pb

Intec, Hall 2, Stand F32