Gripping Technology for Mobile Robotics
From vacuum pumps to complete gripping systems: Schmalz turns mobile robots into efficient autonomous handling systems.
The future of logistics is mobile and autonomous
The demands on logistics and production are constantly growing. Companies must manage increasing order volumes, meet ever-shorter delivery times, and adapt quickly to fluctuations in demand - often with limited personnel resources. Autonomous mobile robots (AMRs) and automated guided vehicles (AGVs) play a key role in this. They navigate autonomously through production and logistics facilities and transport materials to wherever they are needed. This creates flexible and scalable material flows that can adapt to changing requirements.
Robots-to-Goods: When AMRs learn to grip
The next step in automation begins when mobile robots no longer merely transport items but perform autonomous handling tasks.
Combining mobile platforms with robotic arms creates autonomous handling systems that independently grasp, transport, and position workpieces. This principle, often referred to as “robots-to-goods,” opens up entirely new possibilities for automating storage, production, and logistics processes.
The decisive factor: the gripping system
The gripping system forms the interface between the robot and the workpiece. Only when products can be safely picked up, reliably transported, and precisely placed can a continuous material flow be achieved without manual intervention.
Vacuum technology offers a particularly versatile solution for this. Different workpiece geometries, materials, and surfaces can be reliably handled using a single gripping principle across a wide range of applications.
Four success factors for gripping technology on mobile robots
Compact design
Every gram counts on mobile robots. Lightweight and space-saving gripping systems maximize reach, payload, and dynamics.
Energy-efficient vacuum generation
Vacuum to go: Mobile robot systems require a compact vacuum generation system that operates independently of compressed air.
Maximum process reliability
Gripping processes must function reliably even when workpieces and process conditions vary.
Easy integration
Modern interfaces ensure quick and easy integration into existing robotics systems.
Mobile robots only become truly autonomous handling systems when combined with intelligent gripping technology. Our solutions provide the foundation for safe, flexible, and efficient material flows.∼ Michael Pojtinger, Head of Business Development Process, Vacuum Automation
Vacuum solutions for AMR and AGV: From components to complete systems
A high-performance gripping system consists of much more than just a suction cup. It is the interaction of all components that ensures a stable and cost-effective process.
Schmalz offers a coordinated portfolio for this purpose - ranging from intelligent suction cups and electric vacuum generators to sensor technology and matching accessories. This results in solutions that are easy to integrate and operate reliably in mobile robotic applications.
Flexible gripper solutions for bin picking or modular gripping systems for cardboard boxes or packaging of various sizes.
High-performance, intelligent, and energy-efficient vacuum generation for mobile handling processes.
Sensors, valves, and tubing complete the system, creating a seamless, plug-and-play solution for reliable handling processes.
Transparent, real-time process data lays the foundation for intelligent monitoring, greater process reliability, and continuous system optimization.
Schmalz sets the standard
The new vacuum pump GSP: Designed for mobile robotics
Vacuum generation is at the heart of every gripping process. It affects cycle times, process stability, and the energy efficiency of the entire application. With the intelligent vacuum pump GSP, Schmalz has developed a unique solution for electric vacuum generation and is setting new standards in energy efficiency, integration, and performance.
Typical applications of mobile handling systems
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72293 Glatten
Germany
+49 7443 2403-0
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