Schmalz at EuroBLECH: Artificial intelligence and ergonomic lifting

A shortage of skilled workers and increasing cost pressure require clever systems such as the Solution Kit ivOS Sheet Metal from Schmalz. Metalworkers use artificial intelligence (AI) to automate machine loading flexibly and economically from batch size 1. This enables efficient production and ensures competitiveness despite high part variance and fluctuating batch sizes. The kit combines 3D camera technology, the vision operating system ivOS and a flexible matrix area gripper FMG that adapts to different workpieces. How does this work? The learning AI recognizes each part and controls the individual suction cups of the vacuum gripper. Schmalz has further developed the successful Solution Kit. For example, it is now possible to turn sheet metal or identify workpieces that are stuck together.

The tooling system SXT has proven its worth in the design of flexible gripper solutions on robots, for example for stacking, loading and unloading presses and for loading pallets or bins at the end of the line. Thanks to lightweight construction, the automotive industry is able to implement highly dynamic processes. The modular system can be quickly adapted to new requirements in the event of adaptations or retrofitting. The extensive modular system includes robot quick-change bayonets, clamping pieces, toothed connections and a wide range of suction cups for handling sheet metal. The new SAXB series will be followed this year by another innovation: the high-speed suction cup SAOXB in an oval shape. It is particularly suitable for workpieces with oiled surfaces or for machine loading and unloading.

In combination with the compact ejectors X-Pump SXPi/SXMPi, operators can implement pick-and-place applications with short cycle times. If several independent vacuum circuits are required, the compact terminal SCTSi can be combined for tooling. It is also possible to connect the magnetic gripper SGM, which moves ferromagnetic workpieces with very high holding forces. At the trade show, Schmalz will be exhibiting the magnetic gripper SGM-HPm, which is specially designed for stacking thin sheet metal.

Schmalz will be presenting several solutions for manual handling at EuroBLECH: for example, the Binar Handling Quick-Lift Rail QLR for workpieces weighing up to 600 kilograms. The rail-mounted lifting device can be moved manually in the X and Y directions. Skilled workers lift loads ergonomically using the precise control handle. The patented rotary joint enables workpieces to be rotated continuously in both directions. The QLR can be integrated into most rail solutions. Schmalz crane systems are also ideally suited for this.

With the VacuMaster Comfort, one person can handle air-tight components weighing up to 750 kilograms and measuring up to eight by two meters in size ergonomically and with ease. The lifting aid has a regulated vacuum generator and an operator handle that combines all of the device's controls. With the JumboErgo, heavy and large loads can be moved sensitively and precisely for loading and unloading machines. The maximum component size is four by two meters. The JumboFlex is suitable for lighter workpieces weighing up to 50 kilograms. Its control handle enables lengthy and fatigue-free working. Thanks to the extensive range of equipment options, it is a universal talent among lifting aids and is particularly impressive for high cycle frequencies.

Schmalz at EuroBLECH: Hall 11, Booth D74