Desoutter has extended its cordless screwdrivers from the E-LIT range with WLAN-compatible models.
The new tools can be integrated into the manufacturer's innovative process control solution known as PivotWare. This means that users now have a simple and efficient variant to integrate and include ancillary screw joints in the process and thus digitally record them.
“With our new WLAN-compatible ELC-W screwdrivers, we offer users an entry-level solution for Industry 4.0-compatible assembly”, explains André Pöppe, Product Manager at Desoutter GmbH in Maintal. The tools can now be used to efficiently represent digital assembly with a zero-error strategy for simple screw joint applications for industrial use: “This is because the screwdrivers can be integrated into the PivotWare software”, says Pöppe. “With this process control, users can increase the quality of screw joints and facilitate variant management. The worker assistance in the form of digital work instructions also increases efficiency”.
The ELC-W tools are based on the previous cordless screwdrivers from the E-LIT range. The new range includes various pistol-grip and offset screwdrivers with WLAN radio interfaces. They can be connected to the PivotWare process control solution via WLAN without additional hardware. The tools each have three programmable speeds and speed settings. The available functions also include screw depth monitoring, a screw connection and parts counter, maintenance alarm and maintenance comments, re-hit monitoring and locking of the tool when the WLAN connection is terminated.
Two possible battery positions
The offset screwdrivers cover torques from 3 to 60 Newton metres (Nm) and speeds from 50 to 880 revolutions per minute (rpm). The pistol-grip screwdrivers operate in a range from 0.8 to 12 Nm or 120 to 1,000 rpm. All models can be operated comfortably with one hand and are suitable for both right-handed and left-handed users. The screw hole can be illuminated with an LED located near the drive. The tools can also be operated with closed and open geared offset heads. Two possible battery positions improve balance and accessibility to the screw hole. The pistol-grip screwdrivers are equipped with a large LED for status display, the results for the offset screwdrivers are displayed via two large LEDs in the operator's field of vision.
Implementation of tightening strategies via PivotWare
By connecting to PivotWare, different tightening strategies can be implemented with the ELC-W tools. For example, to monitor the insertion process, it is possible to define a minimum number of revolutions before the coupling releases. This means errors such as crooked attachment can be detected; this is because the programmed torque is already reached during insertion, which leads to the tool being switched off prematurely. With the new tool, the settling phenomena of screw connections and the associated loss of preload force can also be prevented. A third speed can be defined for this, which compensates for the setting processes during the screwing process.
With the PivotWare process control solution from Desoutter, extensive assembly processes can be easily controlled and protected. It helps to identify and remedy errors on the production line, enables simple variant management and provides comprehensive reporting and documentation functions. The system can be used as worker assistance at individual workplaces or can control and monitor the processes of a complete plant. It consists of a panel PC with touch screen and pre-installed software as well as various components for equipping the workplace. The user can integrate additional devices and connect PivotWare to an ERP system.
Simple maintenance management
Desoutter's new tools also make maintenance easier. The age of the tool can be estimated using the serial number and the screw-type meter. A maintenance alarm can be set depending on the date or the number of screw connections. The tools that are due for maintenance can be easily identified on the line by the orange LED flashing each time a battery is attached. Maintenance work can also be tracked by the maintenance engineer checking how many screw connections have been carried out since the last maintenance, and a comment regarding maintenance can be saved.
