When Industrial Automation LLC conducted an extensive evaluation of tool changer options in 2011, they were pleasantly surprised with their discovery of IPR Robotics and its flexible, robust line of tool changers.

"Our first application was for a sunroof assembly system that was to run various product sizes," explains Andy Popchock, Program Manager. "This required the robots to change tools for each model."

Industrial Automation's team found that IPR tool changers offered the flexibility to right-size the tool changer to the application. "Right-sizing was especially important on this project, due to robot weight and moment constraints," Popchock continues, "We have also proven that the repeatability of IPR's tool changer is excellent, and that the safety features to hold the tool even when compressed air is lost are there." Popchock notes that, with other tool changers, the tool tends to sag with loss of air.

In addition to product superiority, Popchock and his team at Industrial Automation appreciate the assistance IPR provides with selection of the right tool changer for the application. "IPR reviewed our application and helped us to select the right tool changer for our application," says Popchock. "And, to make the IPR product and service package a total win, the price is very competitive, and delivery met our schedule requirements."

Industrial Automation has utilized IPR tool changers in multiple systems for materials handling and assembly. "All are performing well," Popchock asserts.

Based in Rochester Hills, Michigan, Industrial Automation was founded in 1992 and has since been providing automated turnkey solutions to industries that include aerospace/defense, medical, computer/electronics, telecommunications, consumer goods, and others. From single-station work cell or a complete, integrated multi-function assembly line, Industrial Automation's mission is to provide cost-effective automated solutions that give customers a competitive advantage through increased productivity, lower costs, greater flexibility and better quality.

IPR Robotics, LLC is a wholly-owned subsidiary of IPR - Intelligente Peripherien fuer Roboter GmbH, located in Schwaigern, Germany, which has been in business since 1989. IPR's global product offering includes a broad range of standard end-of-arm components including grippers, compliance wrists, alignment devices, tool changers, load limiters, force/torque sensors and linear rails. IPR Robotics, LLC has been in the US since 2003 and excels at combining these components into complete EOAT solutions to meet the needs of each application. IPR provides the Hands and Feet of robots!