Epson Launches IF-A Flexible Feeding Solution to Simplify Robotic Assembly Automation
Epson announces its new IF-A series flexible parts feeding solution, designed to simplify automation projects by delivering reliable, cost-efficient part singulation and feeding for robotic pick-and-place and assembly applications. Fully integrated with Epson RC+, the new IF-A series enables manufacturers to build complete parts assembly systems combining Epson robots, vision systems and flexible feeders with unified setup, programming and operation.
The IF-A series is in stock and available now. It has been developed in response to increasing demand for automation in assembly and machine tending environments, driven by labour shortages, rising throughput expectations, and higher quality and repeatability requirements.
The new IF-A series extends Epson’s existing flexible feeder portfolio by delivering improved cost performance without compromising feeding performance, enabling wider adoption of flexible feeding in both high-mix and high-volume production environments.
Unlike traditional bowl feeders, Epson’s flexible feeding technology is designed to support a wide range of part geometries and delicate components, while reducing tooling time and increasing production flexibility.
Two models launching first to cover the majority of demand
In the first phase of the IF-A series launch, Epson is introducing two high-demand feeder sizes. The initial IF-A range includes:
- IF-A1520 (recommended part sizes from 5 – 40 mm)
- IF-A2330 (recommended part sizes from 15 – 60 mm)
Both models feature Epson’s proven movement control and smart feeder integration, including automatic calibration functions within Epson RC+.
Smart integration with Epson RC+ for unified system development
A key advantage of the IF-A series is its seamless integration into the Epson automation ecosystem. All configuration, programming and operation is managed within Epson RC+, enabling streamlined equipment development with a single platform.
Two-colour backlight for improved recognition and productivity
Both IF-A models include a two-colour backlight as standard (white and red), which can be selectable via the software, saving additional cost and installation time for the system integrator and end user. The backlight allows users to optimise contrast and improve part recognition depending on material and shape. Additional benefits include improved brightness uniformity across the picking area, including the periphery, supporting higher recognition rates and improved productivity.
Flexible configuration options
The IF-A series supports multiple configuration options to suit different part types and automation needs, including:
- Choice of Flat plate or Anti-rolling plate
- Optional purge mechanism
- Optional hopper configurations
Main specifications:
IF-A1520
- Recommended part size: 5 – 40 mm
- Picking area: 195 × 150 mm
- Product size: 330 × 172 × 129 mm
- Backlight power supply: DC24V, 2A
- Hopper option: 1, 2, 3, 7 litre
IF-A2330
- Recommended part size: 15 – 60 mm
- Picking area: 300 × 230 mm
- Product size: 480 × 292 × 249 mm
- Backlight power supply: DC24V, 3A
- Hopper option: 1, 2, 3, 7, 14 litre
Both models operate on a mains power supply of DC24V, 6A, and are compatible with Epson robots and Epson vision systems including PV1, CV2-SA, CV2-HA, CV2-LB, CV2-SB and CV2-HB.
Volker Spanier, Epson Europe, commented: “With the new IF-A series, we are making flexible part feeding more accessible and more competitive than ever. The new IF-A feeder delivers a dramatically improved price/performance ratio — combining higher performance and advanced features with a significantly lower initial investment. Customers gain more capability at a lower cost of entry, without any compromise on performance or quality. Fully integrated with Epson RC+, the IF-A series provides a powerful, ready-to-use solution for both high-mix and high-volume production environments.”
In stock and available now!
The Epson IF-A series flexible parts feeding solution is available now in Europe through Epson’s authorised distributors and automation partners.
For more information, visit www.epson.eu/robots
