Electromagnetic Clutches and Brakes for the Robotics Industry

Electromagnetic Clutches and Brakes for the Robotics Industry

Robotic technology relies on both electronic and mechanical components. While the electronic components provide the control signals that dictate when, where, and how a robotic system should move, the mechanical components actually perform the movements and operations.

That’s why investing in quality electromechanical parts—such as brakes and clutches—is essential. If the mechanical elements do not work properly, the robot will not perform as intended, even if the electronic components are working properly. This can lead to unsafe conditions for operators and passersby.

At SEPAC, we provide standard and custom clutch and brake solutions for customers in a wide range of industries. One of the core markets we serve is the robotics industry. We work closely with robotics companies to design and develop products that meet some of the most unique mechanical mounting configurations and/or specialized performance criteria, ensuring they are reliable and safe for use.

Customizing Performance with SEPAC

Electromagnetic clutches and brakes play an essential role in many robotic systems; clutches help move the robotic components, while brakes help stop the robotic components when needed. Since how a robotic system must move and stop can vary, these electromechanical components must be tailored to meet the necessary performance criteria.

When it comes to robotic equipment design, the experts at SEPAC can help save you time and money. Our application and engineering staff can tailor the size, torque, backlash, response time, and other performance parameters of your brakes and clutches to exacting specifications. Whether you need a standard, modified, or fully custom solution, this ensures you receive the best one for your robotic application.

Some examples of robotic applications for which we’ve designed and built brake and clutch solutions include:

• Subsea robotic arms: We created a spring-engaged tooth brake to serve as a backup brake for a robotic arm mechanical drive system. The arm was used to clean and inspect the cutting blades of a subsea tunnel boring machine.
• Agricultural robots: We built new holding brakes for an automated fruit picking machine that kept failing and damaging the plants.
• Surgical robots: We supplied a custom permanent magnet brake for a 6-axis surgical robot that could wield multiple instruments simultaneously.
• First responder robots: We designed and manufactured a spring-set, power-off brake that balanced weight and torque holding capacity to ensure dexterous performance in a humanoid first responder robot.
• Mining robotics: We engineered a specialized brake for a remotely operated mining robot that provided high torque density in a small package.
• ROVs: We made a custom power failure brake for the motor of a remotely operated robot designed to perform field inspections, surveillance, and material extractions.