[Tsubakimoto Chain Co., Ltd.] Contributing to the miniaturization and higher precision of power transmission mechanisms such as medical equipment and robot hands
New release of the world’s smallest roller chain “Epsilon Chain (TM) stainless steel specification”
*Tsubakimoto Chain Co., Ltd.*
Press release: September 17, 2024
**
New release of the world’s smallest roller chain “Epsilon Chain (TM) stainless steel specification,” which contributes to the
miniaturization and higher precision of power transmission mechanisms for medical equipment, robot hands, etc.
Tsubakimoto Chain Co., Ltd. (Headquarters: Kita-ku, Osaka, President: Takatoshi Kimura, hereinafter referred to as Tsubakimoto Chain) has the same component structure as a JIS standard-compliant roller chain, and has the world’s smallest *¹ (pitch*²)
After developing a 1.905mm) roller chain and selling it as a special product, we will officially start selling it as “Epsilon Chain (TM) stainless steel specification (model number: RS6)” from October 1, 2024.
Compared to our previous smallest roller chain (RS11), which had a pitch of 3.7465 mm, Epsilon Chain has a pitch of 1.905 mm, which is about half that length. This makes it possible to transmit power in narrow spaces, which was previously difficult.
For example, in the end effectors*³ of industrial robots, which are becoming increasingly smaller and lighter, and in medical and welfare equipment, power transmission using belts and wires is the mainstream, but the reliability of power transmission is not guaranteed due to wires slipping during driving. There was a problem. By adopting Epsilon Chain for this power transmission mechanism, it is possible to “transmit larger force over a longer distance,” which was difficult with belts or wires, contributing to higher precision and smaller size of equipment. Furthermore, by contributing to the further spread of industrial robots and equipment, it is expected to contribute to labor and labor savings at manufacturing sites.
Epsilon chain (front) and our conventional smallest roller chain RS11 * *1: According to our research *
* *2: Distance between pins of 1 link *
* *3: Equipment that is attached to the tip of the robot arm and performs operations such as processing and tightening screws*
1. Features
(1) Reliable power transmission in the world’s smallest size With a chain pitch of 1.905mm, the world’s smallest size, it achieves reliable power transmission in mechanisms and layouts where space is limited.
(2) Long lifespan
Small-sized roller chains usually have a component configuration that does not include rollers. Epsilon Chain incorporates rollers and is composed of the same five parts (see diagram on the right) as JIS standard-compliant roller chains. Despite its extremely small size, it achieves long life due to smooth engagement with the sprocket and reduced wear.
5 parts structure of roller chain
(3) High strength
Using the parts processing technology and assembly technology that we have cultivated over the years, we have achieved a minimum tensile strength of 0.36kN despite its extremely small size. It weighs about 1/3 of our previous smallest chain, the RS11, but has sufficient strength with a maximum allowable tension of about 1.4 times.
(4) Adaptable to corrosive environments
All five parts that make up the chain are made of stainless steel. Can be used in environments where water is present, such as during cleaning.
*2. specification*
3. deadline
Negotiable (Made to order)
4. Sales price
Estimate each time
*5. release date*
October 1, 2024
*6. Sales plan*
FY2025 10 million yen, FY2026 50 million yen
■Customer inquiries
Chain Product Planning Department Wakikake Transmission Product Planning Section TEL 0774-64-5268