Firestone's AirPicker™ offers users a wide range of advantages over the more traditional pick and place work holding devices. With a simple variation of the air pressure in the gripper, you are able to conform the end effector to the diameter that is being handled and the force being applied to the application. This practice is most effective with applications that have sensitive, thin-walled, or fragile objects. The object being picked up does not require a circular configuration. Due to the elastomer bladder construction, it will conform to any shape.
Conform to Any Shape
AirPicker™ end-effectors rubber construction allows a multiple number of shapes to be handled with one model.
One Gripper - Many Sizes
Firestone's end-effectors allows for a wide range of part sizes to be handled using just one size model. The AirPicker™ end-effector can row by as much as 1.86 times the deflated diameter.
Fragile Handling
By controlling the amount of pressure within the bladder, Firestone end-effectors can handle delicate objects with the soft touch of rubber and air. The holding force is distributed over a greater surface area than a mechanical gripper, resulting in a soft and secure touch even with heavy loads.
High Load Capacity
The wide contact area associated with an AirPicker™ end-effector results in a greater load capacity. A mechanical gripper only touches the small area with its "fingers". Using more contact area results in a steady grip and greater load carrying ability.
Non-Wearing Contact
Rubber and air's soft touch allows glass and plastic objects to be handled without wearing the object surface. This is key for applications handling freshly molded test tubes, glass bottles, and photosensitive copier drums.
Wide Size Range
The standard Firestone AirPicker™ end-effector line can handle objects with an inside diameter as small as 0.33 inches (8.5mm), and as large as 4.13 inches (105mm).
No Lubrication Required
With no bearings or moving parts, the AirPicker™ requires no lubrication during its long durable life.
Low Cost
Firestone AirPicker™ end-effectors typically cost less than comparable mechanical grippers.
Long Life in a Dusty Environment
AirPicker™ end-effectors don't use seals or bearings, resulting in a durable gripper for long exposure to dusty environments
