Page 53 - MACHINE TOOLS WORLD MARCH 2022 Digital Magazine

#GRIPPING SYSTEMS TECH INNOVATION

comprehensive transparency. This allows or equipped with bellows suction cups, lightweight gripper SLG, we are satisfying
for functions such as condition monitoring the device can safely hold cardboard, the demand for flexibility and rapid
and predictive maintenance. “This boxes and structured components or availability,” says Dr. Kurt Schmalz.
considerably increases the reliability of components with recesses and three- This allows the user to implement
the system for the user,” emphasizes Dr. dimensional outer shapes weighing up to automation solutions more quickly. With
Kurt Schmalz. eight kilograms. The innovative system the lightweight gripper SLG, Schmalz
The “little brother” – CobotPump is available with or without integrated is breaking new ground in a number
ECBPM – has recently been launched. It vacuum generation. Thanks to its of respects: Users can assemble the
was designed for use with lightweight communication technology with IO-Link, right gripper for their needs using a
robots with less than four kilograms of the FXCB/FMCB is easy to install in any digital platform and without any expert
lift capacity and features a particularly automation environment. Moreover, with knowledge. In addition to this web-based
compact, lightweight construction. This the “Schmalz ControlRoom” app, users configuration, Schmalz also relies on
vacuum generator is ideal for automated can access all device data and quickly and additive manufacturing processes. The
small-parts handling with individual easily parameterize the gripping system result: Extremely lightweight, safe and
suction pads. It can demonstrate its full via smartphone. durable grippers that are tailored to the
strength even in tight spaces. Like the The modular system VEE is ideal respective application and are available at
vacuum pump ECBPi, the ECBPM is easy for creating individual vacuum end short notice.
to integrate into existing systems and effectors. It is comprised of a range of Schmalz offers individual complete
does not require a separate compressed single components that can be combined packages suitable for different robotic
air supply. using configuration software to form models from a range of manufacturers
an individual gripper. The key is for the – optionally available with the electrical
Expertise for the right gripper user to be able to configure and modify vacuum generator ECBPi, the area
solutions their solution immediately themselves. gripper FXCB, or the end effector VEE.
Schmalz developed the area gripper Schmalz is happy to help customers The sets contain all of the required
FXCB/FMCB specifically for handling determine the optimal configuration for components to build a complete gripper,
workpieces with cobots regardless of size their needs, and will even ship pre- including a flange for simple mounting
and geometry. Thanks to its large contact assembled units upon request. on your robot. This means the pre-
surface and low impact forces, the gripper configured gripping solution is ready for
fulfills the requirements of ISO TS 15066. Digital platform and 3D printing use in an extremely short period of time.
Using flexible foam as a gripping surface “With our latest innovation, the “The right gripping system is what
is needed to turn a bare robot arm into
a functioning system that can move or
process components and workpieces,”
explains Dr. Kurt Schmalz. And with its
custom-made gripping solutions, the
company is enabling users to quickly
put their robotic systems into operation
and operate them intuitively. The simpler
and more efficient the use of lightweight
robots is for a variety of tasks, the
more attractive they will be for SMEs,
for which the purchase of a traditional
industrial robot has not been a profitable
investment up to now.

Modular and variable: robot grippers like the vacuum end effector For more information,
VEE can be configured and adapted based on your application. Website: www.schmalz.com

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