Regardless of size and shape

With the new FQE-V, Schmalz has developed a modular, freely scalable gripper system for robotics. This allows workpieces of different sizes and shapes to be handled safely. Users benefit from particularly fast project planning.

Vacuum expert Schmalz has further developed the FQE series and expanded it with the FQE-V. With sizes ranging from 230 × 120 millimeters to 400 × 280 millimeters, the new area gripper is even more flexible in its dimensions and geometry. This enables precise and safe handling of completely individually shaped workpieces, regardless of their format. The suction plate dimensions and suction hole pattern can be freely scaled. Users can adapt the FQE-V to different workpieces quickly and easily using smart design tools. Batch size 1 thus becomes the standard.

Schmalz offers this new development in two versions. The FQE-V-M is equipped with an external vacuum generator, while the FQE-V-X features an integrated, particularly energy-efficient vacuum generator. This allows users to benefit from economical operation with high process reliability. The control valves are also integrated. With its modular, lightweight design, the new area gripper significantly reduces weight and thus increases the effective payload. Suction cups in various shapes and materials, as well as foam, are available as sealing elements. Sound insulation minimizes noise pollution for nearby employees.

Users can choose from a wide range of suction cups in different shapes. These are rectangular, round, or oval as standard. However, any free-form shape can also be scaled – for example, a T-shape. The innovative design of the FQE-V meets the requirements of ISO TS 15066 and is therefore ideally suited for stationary handling tasks in human-robot collaboration (HRC). The area gripper also excels in automated handling – for end-of-line packaging in intralogistics or for the sensitive gripping of products in the automotive, glass, and electronics sectors. The FQE-V enables handling of objects from various pick-up positions. For example, it can precisely insert into layers of workpieces in outer packaging or palletize flexible cartons. Because the gripper dimensions can be freely scaled, users can also fill goods in outer packaging layer by layer with the FQE-V.