The topics of integration, digitalization and networking continue to be technology drivers. Schmalz is presenting its new developments in vacuum automation and handling at the leading trade fair Integrated Automation, Motion & Drives (IAMD). These include the new SCPM compact ejector family, which is small yet powerful. Schmalz is thus offering another vacuum component in a modular system: a basic body is available in three versions. Depending on the requirements, the user can choose between a basic, controlled or intelligent version: they offer various functions, for example for saving compressed air or monitoring the process, or interfaces such as IO-Link and NFC (Near Field Communication) for reading out and parameterizing the devices. In addition, up to 16 ejectors can be linked to one terminal with one connection.

Another new addition to the compact ejectors: Schmalz now has a vacuum terminal in its range that is the first smart field device to have an optional Ethernet interface instead of an IO-Link interface. Thanks to the real-time capability of industrial Ethernet standards such as EtherCat, EtherNet/IP and ProfiNet, the ejector is designed for complex processes that require synchronously running systems. The terminal is modular so that different vacuum circuits can be set up and individually controlled for easy handling of different parts. Equipped with Eco nozzle technology, the compact terminal develops a greatly increased pumping speed with minimized compressed air consumption and enables energy-efficient vacuum generation.

Solutions for collaborative systems
In addition to automation, the topic of collaboration is an important market driver. Schmalz has now developed the ECBPM vacuum generator specifically for collaborative robots with payloads of less than four kilograms. The little brother of the CobotPump ECBPi generates the vacuum required for the fully automatic handling of small parts and for stationary handling tasks - purely electrically.

The FXCB area gripper is also designed for use with collaborative robots. With flexible foam as a gripping surface, it can safely hold cardboard boxes or boxes weighing up to eight kilograms. The design of the FXCB meets the safety requirements of ISO TS 15066 - a standard for cooperation between humans and collaborative industrial robots. Equipped with the latest communication technology, the gripper can also be easily integrated into automation environments. In addition to the FXCB cobot gripper, the vacuum expert will also be showcasing other solutions for handling sensitive electronic components, glass, packaging and for use in the automotive industry.

Intelligent handling
The topic of collaboration is also increasingly finding its way into manual handling. Schmalz is showcasing the smart SRBC rope balancer at the Hannover Messe. In the spirit of Industry 4.0, it makes manual lifting tasks smart and digital. The collaborative handling system enables dynamic tasks as well as precise placement, for example in joining or assembly processes. Loads of up to 80 kilograms can be moved safely and with little effort - without the risk of the load overshooting.

To avoid collisions with permanently installed obstacles, for example, working areas can be defined via software, as can pick-up and drop-off points and travel speeds. The intelligent vacuum lifter evaluates process data and supports the user with a diagnostic function. Safety queries prevent incorrect lifts, collisions and false drops, thereby increasing work safety. as

Hall 17, Stand E26