Planning Custom Tool Mounts
While we offer a wide array of off the Shelf Assembly Solutions, we know that not every application is so cut and dry that a standard arm will do.
That's where these handsome men come in...
Our top-notch team of engineers have built customized arms for everything from autopsy saws to monitor stands and everything in between, with the help of our resident ergonomic specialist: Jeff.
Together, this team is excellent at targeting issues you didn't know you even had. Here's a guide to everything our guys need from you to create the solution your looking for.
1) What's the Tool?
Which tool you are looking to counterbalance or torque react is the MOST important aspect to choosing the correct arm. Specifically, the weight of the tool and torque output determines which arm is appropriate for your application. Typically your tool manual or tool catalog will have that information for you, but if you supply us with the model number we can usually track that information down.
The bulk of our mounted tools are nut runners, but many of our applications are much more unique one-off's that come with additional requirements. For example: Where does the operator have to be to comfortably operate this too? What movement requirements does this tool have? Do we need to react torque, or just counterbalance the weight? How can we design a mount that also gives access to the whole part? These are just a few of the many requirements. For a perfect fitting mount, we recommend that you send us the tool.
2) What's the Work Cell?
In everyone's dream plant, the shop floor goes on for miles and there is more than enough space to maneuver materials, place machinery, work around conveyors, and create a positive work flow.
Unfortunately, that's not how most shops function. Space is tight and any new additions need to be meticulously planned. This is another area where our engineers have excelled. From 1-2 videos of your current process, they can design a torque reaction arm to perfectly fit in your allowed space.
3) What's The Part?
What unique characteristics about the part warrant consideration? Is it awkwardly shaped, or sized? Take this application for example. Typically we would mount a stud welder with a ring around the outside of the tool, but the extra bulk at the front of the tool would mean that the customer couldn't access the corners of the steel box they were welding. Taking this into consideration, we adjusted the design, and made a two sided collar that would allow the tool to tuck neatly into the desired location.
I know this all seems daunting.. but that's why we keep a team of experts on hand. We have a fantastic staff ready to customize a solution for you, and we have Jeff to help you navigate from problem to soultion.
