Firestone AirPicker and AirGripper end effectors

Sometimes mechanical, robotic or automated materials handling systems used in the food, beverage, electronics and plastics industries, for example, may lack a degree of sensitivity needed to manipulate delicate products or packaging containers.

The Firestone AirPicker and AirGripper ranges comprise precision-engineered rubber product handling devices that inflate gently and evenly to manipulate delicate products or containers, giving that degree of touch or sensitivity required.

The end effectors combine pneumatic pressure control with the physical attributes of rubber. The result is a gripper that can give robotics or mechanical handling systems an important degree of touch and allow products to be handled securely and gently.

AirPicker end effectors are inserted into a product while deflated, then inflate outwardly to grip the product’s interior walls. The AirGripper end effector collars around the product, then the sleeve inflates inwardly to form a grip around the product’s exterior.

Models are available with various inflation pressures to handle light to heavy loads, typically from 50 g to more than 20 kg. This cushioned transporting can help eliminate damage, breakage and other processing problems. 

The end effectors are suitable for use in many types of assembly, loading, shifting, conveying and other manufacturing operations.