TOOL TRAY TRANSFER UNIT

CUSTOMIZED IT TO FIT YOUR APPLICATION

LazerArc was approached by a leading automotive manufacturer with a specific request: to develop and produce a Tool Tray Shuttle capable of handling heavy loads while maintaining a minimal profile. These shuttles are crucial for precisely shifting tooling or parts linearly at predetermined distances with remarkable accuracy—DIN 6 on gear rack, with a variance of only +/-0.0003”/ft.

The challenge was to customize our compact standard shuttle without employing a ballscrew or belt drive for propulsion, and to ensure the cable carrier remained within the tool tray’s dimensions.

Our solution was the design and manufacture of a Tool Tray Shuttle utilizing a Rack and Pinion system for movement. This Rack and Pinion mechanism is specially treated to enhance hardness and reduce friction to a level where lubrication is unnecessary. Moreover, self-lubricating blocks were integrated into the linear rails, rendering the entire unit essentially maintenance-free.

To achieve precise positioning and repeatability, we incorporated a reduced backlash helical bevel reducer and an AC motor equipped with an absolute encoder. Additionally, our Tool Tray Shuttles feature highly flexible cable carriers with keyed end plates, facilitating easy adjustments to accommodate application changes. The interchangeable top allows for different tooling, while customized controls ensure seamless integration into specific programming requirements.