The new multifunctional end-of-arm platform from the two handling specialists Zimmer Group and Schmalz "MATCH" is the first joint cooperation project. Equipped with an extensive portfolio of functions and universal communication interfaces, it is compatible with every common lightweight robot on the market - whether cobot or conventional 6-axis robot. The Match platform brings together the best of two gripping worlds: a modular system with which customers can flexibly solve a wide range of requirements and applications in robotics. In addition to the combined solution expertise, both companies offer a global sales network for support and service.

With just one flexible system, the user has access to an almost unlimited range of applications from production and assembly to warehouse logistics, shipping and laboratory automation. Typical tasks include pick & place, order picking, packaging and palletizing as well as inspection and testing. Various mechanical and vacuum grippers are available to adapt the system to the workpiece and the handling task.

The installation of Match is uncomplicated. The system can be mounted and set up on the robot flange in just a few simple steps. Parameterization is intuitive thanks to support from the digital services and the shared ecosystem. The basis for this is the SCM communication module as a master gateway with guideZ setup software for further configuration of the gripper, expertZ, monitorZ and the Schmalz Connect Suite for the diagnosis of IO-Link devices in the cloud. "Every robot, every gripper and every end effector" is the specification for the Match platform, meaning that the components are compatible with all common lightweight robots as well as conventional 6-axis robots worldwide.

In addition to a compatible mechanical interface, the quick-change system also offers a pneumatic/vacuum connection. Here, four internal and two lateral fluid channels supply connected gripping systems with compressed air or vacuum. The generous dimensioning enables the operation of powerful pneumatic vacuum generators, for example to handle cardboard boxes that suck through. Electrical interfaces are also available. The quick-change system is hot-plug-capable and can be changed under voltage during operation. The integrated pin field transmits both load and signal current. This technological openness makes it possible to develop many different types of robots with a wide variety of end effectors.

Quick-change function with finesse

Components can be replaced in two ways thanks to the compact quick-change module. In addition to automated replacement in a storage station or the so-called gripper station, manual replacement is also possible within seconds. Thanks to the ergonomic click system - integrated into the end effector to be replaced - manual replacement is possible with just one hand and also prevents the replacement module from falling down. An anti-twist device ensures a clearly defined position of the end effector in the storage station. In addition, it is also ensured that the end effector itself is connected to the robot in the same orientation during manual replacement. In set-up mode, pins and optical markings in the deposit station allow the end effector to be positioned easily and clearly. In continuous operation, the pin disappears in the deposit station, allowing more degrees of freedom during the changeover process. The deposit station can be attached in three different ways. In addition, the deposit station has an optional sensor query and there is also an optical LED display on the fixed part. Together with the standard Connect signal, a 100% secure system is guaranteed. The high processing quality of the entire module guarantees a service life of more than 100,000 cycles.