STOBER supplied a system consisting of synchronous servo geared motors, cables and suitable drive controllers optimally tailored to the requirements.

“Our robot system can pick up a raw egg so carefully that it is not even damaged,” says Peter Butz, Product Developer at Eisenmann. This underscores the sensitivity with which the system can be controlled. Instead of handling eggs, the robot actually grips rims of different sizes and weights and supplies them to a paint line. In addition to industrial painting and handling systems, this mechanical engineering company also develops driverless transport systems and technologies for pre-treatment and filtration.

“All our solutions are unique, because we tailor them to our customers’ specific requirements,” says Butz. “They vary in the complex interplay of process steps and the corresponding conveyor systems.” In its development work, the company focuses on solutions that are cost-efficient and save resources – always with the aim of creating clear, comprehensible added value for its customers.

From pneumatics to electronics

With this goal in mind, Eisenmann has also optimised the handling system. “It consists of industrial robots with one or more grippers. We had previously installed pneumatic drives,” explains Peter Butz. Initially, there was a lot to be said for them: they are simple, dynamic and comparatively inexpensive to buy. Yet they are considered inefficient and only allow limited control. In addition, compressed air generation is energy-intensive, and leaks cause additional losses and costs. For this reason, Eisenmann opted for electric drives. These are significantly more energy-efficient and economical to operate and allow direct integration of sensors.

After deciding on a servo-electric drive solution, the aim was to integrate this technology into the existing gripper concept in a practical way. As they examined the new project requirements, the Eisenmann developers began to focus on drive solutions from STOBER.

With Klaus Buschko as their contact person in Sales and Robert Boger in Application Development, STOBER worked with Eisenmann to develop a suitable solution. The starting point was a pilot system that showed that the competitor’s drive technology, initially used as a prototype, did not fully meet the requirements for controllability. In particular, the two-cable solution originally planned proved to be a disadvantage when during gripper movement.

High-precision drive technology

With the STOBER solution, the gripper attached to the robot first moves towards the component at high speed, then stops a millimetre before touching it and approaches the rim at creep speed in a controlled manner to pick it up. This allows a sensitive approach – even a raw egg can be safely gripped without damaging it.

“A high holding torque is particularly important to us,” explains product developer Peter Butz. This is because the robot arm can stop moving abruptly and start up again quickly, while the rim must be held securely at all times. Therefore, the drive solution had to be lightweight and compact, since it is installed directly in the gripper.

STOBER supplied KL series helical bevel gearboxes with a directly mounted EZ synchronous servo motor. This compact unit offers good installation dimensions and high power density. “Thanks to their robust bearings and high-quality gearing, STOBER helical bevel gearboxes are extremely resilient and tilt-resistant,” explains Buschko.

Another important feature of this series is its very smooth operation. Since the gripper moves along two axes, the compact SC6 stand-alone drive controller is used for control. If additional grippers need to be added, the SC6 can be combined with the SI6 drive controller, which is designed for multi-axis drive systems. This enables solutions with two to five grippers, allowing Eisenmann to respond to a wide range of customer requirements.

The geared motors and drive controllers are connected via STOBER’s One Cable Solution (OCS). The hybrid cable with the future-proof EnDat 3 protocol transmits both encoder data and power data via a single cable. The result is an integrated system consisting of a synchronous servo geared motor, cable and drive controller. This avoids the problem that would arise with the planned two-cable solution and significantly reduces the installation effort.

Independent of the robot type

STOBER has added additional PROFINET functions to the SC6 and SI6 drive controllers. In conjunction with the SU6 safety module, they support safety functions such as STO (Safe Torque Off) and SS1 (Safe Stop 1) via PROFIsafe. “The possibility of free programming allows Eisenmann’s developers to contribute their own know-how at specific points.” The result is a flexible, multifunctional system that can be integrated into different types of robots, regardless of the manufacturer.

During the project, potential for optimising operation was also uncovered. During longer downtimes, the motors remain energised and thus generate heat. To avoid this thermal load, the drives were retrofitted with a brake.

STOBER also fitted torque arm brackets to the gearboxes. These absorb reaction torques or differential torques and transfer them to the surrounding support structure. This prevents the motor or housing from twisting. To achieve an even more compact design, the geometry of the supports was adapted accordingly.

Eisenmann now benefits from a drive system that is specially tailored to its requirements, as well as from responsive technical support. “With STOBER, we have chosen a future-proof, energy-efficient drive solution – one that is sensitive down to the last detail,” says Butz with satisfaction.

A robotic mandrel gripper, integrated by KOCH Robot Systems, ensures the precise and controlled transfer of rolls to the RoRo StretchPack packaging machine for the wrapping process. This combination of robotics and horizontal stretch hood wrapping technology provides stable and precise control, for wrapping rolls with significant variations in diameter (up to ø850 mm) and length (up to 700 mm).

Designed for controlled and accurate roll wrapping

The robotic mandrel gripper transfers each roll from a conveyor and positions it inside a five-sided stretch hood film prepared in the RoRo StretchPack packaging machine, and carries the roll through the packaging machine, placing it on the output conveyor. The mandrel is released and returned before the final welding of the film end for complete sealing of the roll packaging.

This solution is especially beneficial in cases where conventional belt conveyors are unsuitable or when products type require precise positioning.

Flexible packaging solution for sealed packaging

A key feature of RoRo StretchPack is the delivery of fully sealed packaging, with welded film ends providing reliable protection against external contamination. This capability is crucial for sensitive products such as paper, hygiene materials, and nonwoven rolls, ensuring product integrity during storage and transport.

The flexible design of the RoRo StretchPack packaging machine integrates seamlessly with a wide range of input and output systems, including robotic mandrel grippers. This adaptability allows for tailored packaging lines that meet specific customer requirements.

Combining robust design, food-safe materials and adaptive silicone fingers, the HPSX directly addresses long-standing automation challenges where rapid, precise and gentle product handling is essential.

“In developing the HPSX, we refined the gripper’s shape, dimensions and internal geometry to maximise gripping force while minimising air volume,” says Peter Potters, Product Manager at Festo. “This enables faster cycle times and multiple picks per second. At the same time, we selected a silicone material that is soft enough to prevent product damage but firm enough to securely grip objects and withstand high acceleration.”

The new gripper’s design reduces air consumption while maintaining high gripping force, enabling quicker actuation and faster picking cycles. The HPSX has been designed and tested to withstand acceleration forces of up to 15G while handling loads of up to 0.5 kg, ensuring reliable performance even in high-speed applications. This combination of low air volume, strong grip and acceleration resistance delivers both speed and consistency on fast-moving production lines.

Gripper fingers are manufactured from a soft, silicone-based material specifically chosen for its controlled flexibility. This allows the HPSX to conform to delicate, irregularly shaped or hygienically sensitive products without damaging them. The adaptive design eliminates the need for rigid, application-specific tooling, making the HPSX ideal for handling fragile food items, pharmaceutical products and cosmetics.

To meet stringent hygiene requirements, the HPSX features a corrosion-resistant, sanitary design that is easy to clean and maintain. The gripper has an IP69k high-pressure washdown rating and is built to withstand aggressive cleaning processes common in food and pharmaceutical environments. It complies with EC 1935/2004 requirements and uses FDA-compliant, food-grade and metal-detectable materials, ensuring safe operation in regulated production environments.

The HPSX can handle a wide range of product shapes and sizes without requiring a tool change, significantly reducing mechanical changeover time. This flexibility is particularly valuable in applications such as cosmetics kitting, where a single gripper may need to pick and place multiple product types within the same production run. By eliminating the need for frequent gripper swaps, manufacturers benefit from reduced downtime and increased overall equipment effectiveness.

Available in three sizes (40 mm, 70 mm and 100 mm) and in two-, three- and four-finger configurations, the HPSX offers nine variants to suit diverse applications. A universal ISO50 fitting enables straightforward attachment to existing robotic end-of-arm tooling.

In addition, the HPSX integrates seamlessly with Festo’s broader automation portfolio, including controllers, valves and pneumatic systems. Using single source reduces installation and programming complexity by eliminating interface and compatibility issues between components from different suppliers. For OEMs and end users, this translates into faster commissioning, simplified troubleshooting and a single point of contact for service and support – further increasing uptime.

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The centrepiece of the FANUC UK stand at this year’s MACH exhibition is a robotic drilling system built by Airbus with the support of FANUC. The cell employs an M-800iA/60 six-axis robot, as well as a drilling effector controlled by a FANUC CNC and a mobile platform, both designed and built by Airbus.

Designed for aerospace components, it has improved drilling accuracy and increased productivity for Airbus, while freeing up human employees to work on more creative and value-added tasks.

“There are numerous benefits to aerospace manufacturers of automating their drilling applications with the M800iA/60, including improved accuracy and repeatability, increased output and better use of personnel,” states Oliver Selby, FANUC UK’s Head of Sales.

“The success of the Airbus drilling system demonstrates how important it is to collaborate with a robotics partner that will provide the right experience, knowledge, training and technology to support companies to achieve their commercial aims. We look forward to demonstrating the benefits of this system to MACH visitors.”

Superior control to aid innovation

Alongside the Airbus drilling cell, the FANUC stand will also showcase the next level of numerical control. The new generation FS500-A CNC is more powerful and faster than any other control system, and is poised to play a major role in automating complex manufacturing processes. Thanks to its very high computing power and new architecture, it enables increasingly complex movements to be controlled with ultra-precision and perfect synchronisation, while also supporting seamless AI integration.

In-house robot system expertise

Finally, the experienced FANUC team will be on hand to outline the importance of working with the right partner when it comes to futureproofing your manufacturing business. As well as collaborating with machine builders, system integrators and other solution providers, FANUC UK also supports end-users directly, through its flagship automation headquarters in Coventry. The company is well equipped to offer manufacturers the entire range of automation support to support the transition to digitalisation – from initial feasibility studies and cell design, through to system building, testing and full commissioning.

“As our history of collaboration proves, the right automation partner can take your manufacturing business to the next level in terms of increasing production output, improving accuracy, ensuring quality and mitigating labour challenges. We are excited to showcase to MACH visitors the range of system building services and level of expertise we have on offer to support them.”

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In this context, the Tekniker technology centre, member of the Basque Research and Technology Alliance (BRTA) partnership, with extensive expertise in this set of technologies, will present a solution that brings together automation, high-precision measurement and digitalisation in industrial environments at the next edition of the Biennial International Machine Tool Exhibition (BIEMH).

The demonstrator, developed in collaboration with ZEISS, KUKA and SCHUNK, will consist of a robotic system capable of automatically identifying, collecting, positioning and measuring parts with almost identical geometries. This robotic measurement allows for quality control of the parts and classification according to their reference and conformity.

“The main differential element is the combination of a flexible component feed with advances in digital metrology that allow fully automated quality control, integrating visualisation, handling, measurement and classification into a single system. This approach is not common in industrial environments and is an innovative and advanced solution,” highlights Gorka Kortaberria, director of Industrial Metrology at Tekniker.

The solution is mainly aimed at advanced manufacturing applications in sectors such as automotive, aeronautics, energy or precision component manufacturing.

Consolidated technologies

The prototype developed by Tekniker combines consolidated commercial technologies with in-house developments in integration, robotics, control and machine vision.

To the solution, ZEISS adds its DuraMax measuring system, which is specifically designed for demanding production environments and offers high precision, even in changeable conditions. For its part, KUKA brings a 7-axis collaborative robotic arm designed for precise and safe handling in environments shared with people. And SCHUNK includes a series of systems that allow parts to be secured and handled reliably during the measurement process.

This technological combination is completed with Tekniker’s Smart Picking asset, which makes it possible to locate and manipulate parts in unstructured environments.

“Our application allows the system to determine the position and orientation of parts from information obtained through machine vision, and then guide the robot towards the parts it needs to handle,” adds Eneko Ugalde, director of Intelligent Autonomous Systems at Tekniker.

Finally, the centre also incorporates its capabilities in plant and process digitisation through its Smart Factory Hub software, highlighting the management of critical data from production operations and being able to learn from them for subsequent decision-making.

The solution will be on display from the 2-6 March at the BIEMH 2026 Tekniker stand, located in pavilion 1, aisle E24.

Palletising is a repetitive and strenuous task that poses risk of injury to workers. For manufacturers looking to increase efficiency, palletising is an easy choice in terms of tasks to automate. Implementing a robotic solution to take the strain of repetitive palletising tasks increases safety for workers and allows staff to be re-allocated to more rewarding, higher-value tasks.

Robotiq offers a choice of two different approaches to easy, simple palletising automation: PAL Ready and PAL Series. PAL Ready is a production-ready palletiser which utilises the UR20 model from Universal Robots. The solution includes everything manufacturers need to get started and is designed for rapid installs. A vacuum gripper, a mobility kit (which allows the cell to be moved to different lines), a safety package and a smart infeed roller conveyor are all included in the PAL Ready package.

PAL Series, on the other hand, is a modular approach based on standard Robotiq components. This option offers a choice of five different palletiser models, along with optional extras such as grippers, safety packages, mobility kits, interlayer racks and more. Users can choose to add or remove these components to suit their application needs.

RARUK Automation is a Robotiq Expert Partner and was named Universal Robots’ Top Global Distributor in 2024. With previous deployments, Robotiq Palletising Solutions have proven popular due to their small footprint, making it easy to fit them into existing production lines. The PE10 has a payload capacity of 11.5 kg (25 lb) and a stacking height of 1,550 mm (60 in). The solution offers a cycle time of 13 cycles/ min.

Designed to enhance efficiency, Robotiq’s easy-to-use software makes it quick and simple to get a robotic palletising solution up and running. Staff can effortlessly adapt production through an intuitive interface. With Robotiq’s Multi-recipe feature, it is easy to accommodate product changeovers.

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RARUK Automation is the exclusive UK representative for Robotiq, a Canadian manufacturer of end-of-arm tooling and application solutions designed specifically for Universal Robots. Delivering a new approach to simple, fast end-of-line automation, Robotiq has launched PAL Ready and PAL Series which offer two new options for customers.

PAL Ready is a production-ready palletiser, which is fully assembled, tested and ready to run on arrival. The solution includes everything manufacturers need to get started and is designed for rapid installs. PAL Ready offers a palletising solution complete with a vacuum gripper, a mobility kit (which allows the cell to be moved to different lines), a safety package and a smart infeed roller conveyor.

Andrew Mason, Automation Product Manager at RARUK Automation comments: “PAL Ready offers the end user the capacity for flexible redeployment between lines, with its complete hardware and easy-to-use software solution. It is designed exclusively to work with proven, industry-leading Universal Robots.”

On the other hand, PAL Series offers a more modular approach for businesses with custom requirements. This option offers a choice of five different palletiser models, along with optional standard components such as grippers, safety packages, mobility kits, interlayer racks and more. Users can choose to add or remove these components to suit their application needs.

Both of these options are designed to allow businesses to scale with ease, as each solution is based on the same software, building blocks and design logic. For manufacturers looking to determine the right solution for their factory floor, there is even a Palletising Fit Tool which will generate a custom report based on a series of questions about the potential application.

RAR UK says this new step marks a breakthrough in palletising automation, offering shorter timelines, rapid deployment and predictable ROI for businesses. All of this makes palletising automation more accessible to businesses – both large manufacturers and SMEs – and guarantees a safer, more productive facility.

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Featuring integrated sensors and precise valve control, the OVEH joins Festo’s growing portfolio of EOAT technologies, which are engineered to meet the evolving demands of modern manufacturing environments.

The OVEH vacuum generator combines a compact design with advanced functionality, making it an ideal choice for a wide range of applications, including handling printed circuit boards, machine loading and unloading, packaging assembly and picking finished items from 3D printers. Its universal robot interface, compliant with ISO 9409-1-50-4-M6, ensures compatibility with a variety of cobots and robots, enabling seamless integration into existing systems.

Peter Potters, Festo’s EOAT Product Manager, explains: “The OVEH vacuum generator represents a significant step forward in EOAT technology. Its compact size, lightweight design and integrated sensors make it a highly dynamic and reliable solution. Offering both high vacuum and high suction volume options, the OVEH provides manufacturers with the flexibility to adapt to diverse applications while maintaining process reliability.”

The OVEH can be configured with a single suction cup or with up to nine suction cups on an adapter plate, offering a wide range of possible gripping positions. This flexibility allows manufacturers to create customised gripper units that can be easily retooled, adapting processes to meet demand. The OVEH’s low height and weight further contribute to its high dynamic response, making it well-suited for applications that require speed and precision.

Safe and reliable operation is assured with an integrated pressure sensor that continuously monitors vacuum levels. This feature is particularly valuable in applications where precision and consistency are critical. The OVEH vacuum generator also includes a valve-controlled ejector pulse, which enhances the secure handling of workpieces and supports efficient operation. Air quality is maintained using integral process air filters and an open silencer to reduce contamination of the suction nozzle.

Another standout feature of the OVEH is its plug-and-work capability. A mechanical robot interface enables quick and easy integration with various cobots, while control can be managed via digital I/O (PNP/NPN) or IO-Link. Clearly designed interfaces simplify the connection of pneumatic tubing and a single electrical connector, reducing setup time and streamlining deployment.

Festo’s OVEH vacuum generator is a testament to the company’s commitment to developing EOAT solutions that empower manufacturers to optimise efficiency, enhance safety, and embrace the possibilities of human-robot collaboration. By combining cutting-edge technology with user-friendly design, the OVEH is poised to become a valuable asset in industries ranging from electronics and packaging to additive manufacturing.

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On stand 123, Routeco’s demonstration cell is based around a high-speed Comau SCARA robot. This Comau cell provides a unique experience showcasing how robots and cobots can be controlled using Rockwell Automation’s Studio 5000 PLC programming software. By utilising the EtherNet/IP protocol, the demo highlights how to seamlessly network Guardmaster safety systems, Cognex vision solutions, and fast-moving independent conveyor systems working in conjunction with a Comau robot.

This powerful combination exemplifies the future of manufacturing, delivering unmatched performance and reliability. Routeco will also be sharing some exciting news on the day linked to its expanding range of mechatronics supply partners.

On stand 80, The LG Motion will be showcasing a live precision pick-and-place demonstration in an industrial automation setting. Visitors will see a Techman Robot collaborative arm integrated with OnRobot grippers and tooling, all controlled and engineered by LG Motion. The demo replicates a realistic production process, highlighting accuracy, speed and flexibility in handling components for manufacturing environments.

Unlike static displays, this demo combines camera vision, AI capabilities and adaptive gripper technology to perform highly precise automated movements. Techman’s built-in vision system, paired with OnRobot’s advanced tooling, allows for seamless detection, handling, and placement of objects with repeatable accuracy. It demonstrates how plug-and-play robotics can be deployed quickly for diverse applications from education and R&D through to production environments.

On stand 183, Bosch Rexroth is bringing its Arkite demo to the Action Area at MachineBuilding.Live, showing how this innovative operator guidance platform transforms manual workstations into digital and interactive environments.

Using augmented reality projection technology, Arkite guides operators step-by-step through complex assembly tasks directly at the workstation. Key benefits of Arkite include real-time guidance: projected light instructions reduce errors and speed up training for new staff.

Other advantages include quality assurance through the automatic recognition and validation of each production step to ensure ‘right-first-time’ assembly with a reduction in rework. Arkite also aids productivity with shorter cycle times, faster onboarding and fewer mistakes help improve overall efficiency. Finally, there are connectivity advantages too: the system easily integrates with MES/ERP platforms for data exchange and process monitoring.

The EUCHNER Action Area on stand 201 features a fully-working warehouse storage and retrieval system, built using LEGO Technic. It uses the unique EUCHNER MGB2 and CKS2 key entry system and there is a fully working gate system with safety over PROFISAFE/PROFINet.

The MGB2 and CKS2 solution is said to be one of the fastest growing safety solutions with adaptation across multiple industries and segments – it gives a high level of safety protection as well as increasing productivity through easier access and control of personnel.

On stand 163 in the Action Area, Visicon will highlight the magic that happens when you combine the latest in machine vision systems with Dobot collaborative robots, and how this enables you to unlock the potential of automation with an affordable and accessible solution. Visicon is an integration partner in the UK for Dobot Robotics, which itself is on a mission to make robot solutions affordable for the masses.

Visitors to MachineBuilding.Live will be able to talk to industry leaders about a whole range of automation technologies. Click here to register to attend.

There are many reasons for the tremendous growth in demand for industrial robots, including labour shortages, rising energy costs and the need for higher flexibility and productivity. These commercial pressures are creating exciting opportunities to push the boundaries of end-of-arm tooling (EOAT) design, taking into account critical factors such as moving mass and surface form and texture, while improving accuracy and safety.

EOAT evolution

Traditionally, a vacuum generated by pumps or venturi nozzles and applied via flexible cups or porous plates has been used for most pick-and-place applications, with specialist Bernoulli non-contact grippers being specified for very delicate substrates. Mechanical grippers have emerged as an alternative. Usually two- or three-fingered, these devices move in a parallel or angled motion with the fingers and mechanically squeeze or engage with the profile of the component to be moved.

Vacuum-based EOAT has evolved to offer vacuum generators that are weight and cost optimised, and which can be mounted on highly dynamic robotic arms close to the vacuum cups, enabling faster evacuation times and increased operating cycles. Improvements in pneumatic valve technology, such as Festo’s VTUX valve terminal, are part of this evolution. The VTUX valve terminal addresses both the mechanics/pneumatics and the electrical connectivity requirements within a single platform. It enables a mix of standard valves and vacuum slices, or 100% vacuum, for reduced installation space and costs.

Developments in mechanical grippers have driven the technology in two directions. Design reviews have removed material, not only reducing cost but, more importantly, reducing moving mass. Higher technology grippers offer more flexible control over position and force using fieldbus protocols. One example is the Festo HEPP electric gripper, which features an integrated motor controller for easy integration into control architecture (Profinet, Ethernet/IP, Ethercat). This powerful electric gripper is also highly flexible, offering precise control of positioning stroke, speed, acceleration and gripping force.

Another development in robotic end-effectors is the evolution of soft grippers or fingers. Festo has demonstrated several solutions for flexible grippers inspired by nature that wrap around the product more dextrously. These range from flexible gripper fingers that mount onto standard mechanical grippers or wholly soft devices more akin to a gecko’s tongue or an octopus’s tentacle. Compliant materials allow these grippers to adapt to non-uniform and differing work pieces, enabling reliable handling of complex components using automated systems.

A major influence on EOAT development is the desire for greater human-robot collaboration. ISO/TS 15066 provides guidelines for designing and implementing collaborative workspaces, focusing on risk assessment and control. It includes advice on limiting robot power and force, monitoring speed and separation, and implementing safety measures to protect workers from potential hazards.

It uses four levels to define the human-robot relationship. Level 1 (Coexistence) sees humans and robots operating in the same workspace, but without direct interaction. For example, a human might be working on one part of an assembly line while a robot works on another, without physical contact. Level 2 enables humans and robots to share a workspace, but not at the same time. Level 3 sees some cooperation, with humans and robots working on different tasks with some degree of interaction. Level 4 defines requirements for full collaboration, where humans and robots work together on the same task or product simultaneously, with a high degree of interaction and communication.

Level 4 requires sophisticated robot systems with advanced sensing, control and communication capabilities to ensure safety and coordination. In addition, grippers must limit the gripping force per jaw as well as meet compatible gripper and finger design.

Ease of deployment

While EOAT design is becoming increasingly sophisticated, automation manufacturers are working hard to ensure that the technology remains quick and simple to specify and deploy.

For example, the ability to optimise the sizing of mechanical or vacuum-based grippers is critical to energy-efficient operations. Over-sizing end-of-arm components not only costs more but results in considerably higher lifetime operating costs, which outweigh the purchase price many times over. Software that guides selection and considers all the key application criteria provides system designers and machine builders with assurance that the correct parts have been calculated and the right safety factor applied without waste.

For end-users, flexibility and responsiveness to fluctuations in demand are key considerations. But when the objects to be picked vary, it is challenging to provide a ‘one-size-fits-all’ gripper. Festo has developed a standalone software package called GripperAI that works with a vision system and deep learning algorithms to support blind bin picking operations. It determines the best gripper to use on a multi-headed tool, enabling fast, reliable, object-dependent gripper selection.

Gripped and sorted

The Würth Group, the global market leader in the development, manufacture and sale of assembly and fastening materials, was among the first to put Festo’s GripperAI software to the test. Würth wanted to comprehensively test the software at the Reinhold Würth Innovation Centre Curio, discuss it with employees and, if everything proved successful, implement it in its logistics centres worldwide.

The logistics centre at Würth’s headquarters in Künzelsau, Germany, includes final packaging stations where a wide variety of products arrive in trays on sorter conveyors. Employees remove the objects from the trays and pack them into shipping cartons. Würth has around 1,000,000 products in its portfolio – from small and light products to very heavy parts. Working with heavy parts is particularly demanding for the employees. As the proposed alternative to manual handling, the GripperAI needed to instruct a robot to handle parts weighing up to 20 kilograms.

Over two years, Festo built a copy of Würth’s sorter conveyors in its own research and development laboratory to develop the various capabilities of the robot: object-dependent gripper selection, gripping any objects from the trays, packing shipping cartons, and handling the cartons and trays. The robot cell is equipped with a special tool station, allowing the robot to use various suction cups and grippers. GripperAI determines which tool is most suitable depending on the type of object, its shape and surface finish. An integrated camera in the robot recognises the various objects, enabling precise selection. The Festo GripperAI solution can grip almost anything that is presented to it, for which the gripper and robot are designed. The grippers specially developed for this project set new standards in robot technology, while the suction cups come from Festo’s existing portfolio.

The customised AI robot solution enables Würth to handle heavy parts and other objects efficiently, which significantly reduces the workload for employees and increases operational efficiency. Importantly, it requires no teaching or training before deployment. It also works with any robot and vision system.

The robot cell has been in use at Würth since spring 2023 and can serve all the intended lanes. Further development work and optimisation steps have already been defined, such as higher speed, better packing, and optimisation of the overall process. Würth is convinced that this project will significantly improve their logistics processes, facilitate further growth, and support their employees.

Whether your application demands higher precision, faster cycle times, more flexibility, gentler touch, or lower costs, continuing new developments in EOAT mean there is likely to be a tool to meet your needs.

As the range of mechanical and vacuum EOAT options expands, correct selection will be even more important in delivering safe, efficient and optimised robotic solutions. Festo’s team of Grip-It application engineers supports customers by providing practical application advice and guidance, backed by powerful software tools and the well-equipped Customer Application Centre for proof-of-concept trials and backup to theoretical calculations. Online software sizing tools are also invaluable, allowing specifiers to simulate different gripping solutions before they buy.

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