Pneumatic modules for automatic applications

摘要

Purpose - The purpose of this paper is to explore pneumatic components and the applications they address.rnDesign/methodology/approach - The extensive range of pneumatic grippers and actuators from various manufacturers is presented. An example of anrnend-user pneumatic handling solution is given. Applications are then examined in plastics, mortise lock manufacture and food and pharmaceutical industries.rnFindings - Pneumatic components are long lasting and reliable, giving tens of millions of operational cycles. Gimatic makes modular components thatrnare particularly attractive for direct use by end-users. Festo is already introducing a range of pneumatic products complying with the European Unionrnsafety directive to be introduced in December 2009.rnOriginality/value - This paper illustrates the versatility and reliability of pneumatic elements in automatic assembly operations.