Grip Handhabungstechnik currently employs 40 people at its Dortmund site. The company specializes in components for robot peripherals. In addition to the development of products such as special grippers and quick-change systems for robots, Grip is also active in fixture and special machine construction. In this area, the specialist takes on the project planning and production of individual complete solutions according to customer requirements. Grip has been an Item Plus partner since 2013 and contributes its expertise in the field of robot and handling technology to the network. "We use Item profile technology for the design of all testing and assembly devices," says Hasan Canti, Managing Director of Grip. "As the modular system is very versatile, we also use it for special fixtures, enclosures, shelving, railings and work tables. Our new cobot table is also based on the system components from Item."

The table was specially designed for the use of lightweight robots that support people in their work. The design had to be visually appealing and multifunctional. The cobot table is made of aluminum profiles from the XMS series. The base area of 1,200×800 mm was deliberately adapted to the size of a Euro pallet to facilitate transportation. The cobot can be quickly and easily mounted on the existing grooved plate. Various adapter plates and the Base Connector from Grip are available for this purpose. This quick-change system makes it easy to connect the robot arm to the table. The robot can be fixed in position with a single movement. A special device made of aluminum profiles can be attached next to the cobot. This serves as a holder for several grippers, for example. Thanks to the Grip Auto Connector, the robot can quickly switch between different grippers for different applications. The result is a work table that integrates the components perfectly and can be optimally adapted to the respective requirements thanks to its modular design.

Clever details and an appealing design

"We wanted to integrate all the robot technology and peripherals into the table in such a way that the overall impression was not disturbed," says Canti. "In close collaboration with the customer consultant Giuliano Longo and other Item employees, we developed an aesthetically pleasing and high-quality solution." For example, the control cabinet is not mounted so that it is visible from the outside, as is usually the case, but is integrated into a drawer. This can be pulled out for operation and the cover of the switch cabinet can be opened from above. This allows work on the terminals inside the control cabinet to be carried out ergonomically and conveniently. The manual control unit for programming the cobot is also stored in a drawer in the table and is therefore well protected. A separate outlet enables optimum cable routing. Tools, assembly sets and other components can also be stored in a drawer. Additional technology and electronics, for example for the WLAN connection, can be stored in the lower section of the table. The table is open at the bottom, allowing good heat exchange. Lockable flaps protect the important equipment from unwanted access. "In addition to the functional aspects, I was particularly impressed by the design of the Cobot table," emphasizes Canti. "The design is elegant and gives a straightforward, clean impression, similar to a laboratory bench."

Flexible adjustments possible

Comprehensive usage options at a glance. © Item

The cobot table is equipped with lifting castors. Depending on requirements, it can stand firmly on stable feet or be pushed to the installation location. In addition to the electrical connection, there is also an air connection for pneumatic operation of the grippers and other end effectors. The standard version of the table already offers many functions and can be modified and extended as required. Item's modular system offers numerous design options. The operating unit can also be installed in a fixed position on the table. The superstructures can also be flexibly designed for the respective task. It is also possible to extend the cobot table with components such as enclosures, additional drawers, safety technology or lighting devices. Grip is aiming for UR+ certification for the cobot table and would therefore supply a further peripheral product for Universal Robots' collaborative robots. "Item is constantly developing new components and impresses with its high delivery capability. Regardless of whether I order ten or 1,000 components, I receive the ordered goods within 48 hours," emphasizes Hasan Canti.

Ordering via the online store is easy and convenient. Above all, however, Grip appreciates the technical support provided by Item and the technical support and high level of professionalism in the planning and implementation of projects as part of the Item Plus Partnership. "When Item presented the Plus Partnership concept to us, we were thrilled," says Canti. "We are delighted to be part of the network of experts and specialists in industrial technology." The idea of bringing together different companies from similar specialist areas has led to the success of many projects. The exchange with partners at eye level is very beneficial. The entrepreneurs can support each other in the development of new products and the implementation of complex tasks.