Smart vacuum solutions for logistics processes

Vacuum automation is the key to efficient processes. Individual components such as suction cups and vacuum generators as well as ready-to-connect gripper systems are used in various industries and applications. They optimize order picking and packaging of goods, (de)palletizing and the loading and unloading of machines.

In addition to vacuum automation, Schmalz also offers vacuum technology for robotics. When using small and collaborating robots, the gripper must meet special requirements: It must be light, universally usable and quickly integrated. Our cobot and robot solutions are used for loading and unloading machines, order picking, (de)palletizing and bin picking. The program consists of standardized and configurable end-of-arm tools, gripper sets, vision & handling sets and electric and pneumatic vacuum generators.

Due to the shortage of human capacity, organizations within the logistics sector are forced to automate tasks that were previously performed manually. Various gripper systems can contribute to this.

Layer grippers for palletizing and de-palletizing

For warehouse and intralogistics, the SPZ layer gripper system was designed to be versatile. The SPZ layer gripper in combination with powerful palletizing robots or gantries increases capacity. In its basic version, the SPZ system consists of modular vacuum grippers with a large surface area so that the layer gripper can be adapted to the layer size to be palletized.

To enable handling of workpieces that are difficult to pick up with vacuum due to their surface, the system can be equipped with a pneumatic clamp, which provides additional stability and holding force. Due to the patented "curtain concept," the SPZ-M-C with its vacuum chamber offers additional holding force.

In addition to palletizing with robots and gantries, cobots are increasingly being used for this task. The lightweight ZLW layer gripper was developed for this purpose. 

Depending on the model and manufacturer, cobots have a payload of up to 35 kilograms. With its low weight, the ZLW gripper ensures that the cobot has sufficient power for its handling task. The gripper with flexible sealing elements; suction cups or foam, can handle a wide variety of workpieces.

Handling of bags

One solution for bag handling is the PSSG gripper. Designed specifically for handling paper, plastic and fabric bags, this gripper can also pick up other porous, bag-like workpieces. 

The lightweight housing made of fiberglass-reinforced plastic closes with a sealing element made of wear-resistant NBR or of FDA-compliant silicone so that this all-rounder can be used in many different industries. In addition to use in automated processes, the PSSG also proves its strength during manual handling on the Jumbo Hose Lifters.

Boxes labeling and stacking

FXCB grippers can be used for automated labeling and stacking of boxes. This solution relieves employees and optimizes the process. The FXCB grippers have no sharp corners and are perfect for human-robot interaction. The integrated pneumatic vacuum generation reduces energy consumption and enables accurate labeling of boxes.

Ergonomics and safety in the workplace

Both within the internal material flow and in the logistics process, goods are also moved and collected manually. This is very stressful for employees and carries a risk of accidents and injuries.

The vacuum lifters, slewing cranes and rail tracks help to make all processes in which goods must be picked up and moved as safe and efficient as possible, whether or not in combination with automated systems. All lifters and rail tracks are AGR (Aktion Gesunder Rücken e. V.) certified.

Unloading containers

Schmalz also offers a solution for unloading containers. The container unloading system relieves employees of this heavy task. Unloading times and man-hours can be reduced by more than 50%. Employees can back-friendly and fatigue-free unload a container or trailer, and depending on the system's design, load it. Especially in this day and age where staff retention is not easy - and there is a severe shortage of logistics personnel - this unloading system provides both physical support and economic added value by allowing fewer employees to be used.