Schmalz at glasstec: Crystal clear, clever, and efficient

By quickly and ergonomically handling workpieces with the VacuMaster Window 200/300, glass processing companies increase their productivity. (Image: J. Schmalz GmbH)

The vacuum chamber gripping system FEL is suitable for external vacuum generation with flow resistances. (Image: J. Schmalz GmbH)

JumboFlex Weight-Control has a load cell in the lifting unit that measures the weight of the attached load during the lifting process and displays it on a display at the control handle. (Image: J. Schmalz GmbH)

The numerous suction variants from the Schmalz portfolio are suitable for many applications and optimally fix the various workpieces. (Image: J. Schmalz GmbH)

The new VCBL-GL block vacuum cleaners are available in various diameters, heights, and shapes. (Image: J. Schmalz GmbH)

New ideas for handling glass are presented by Schmalz at the world-leading trade fair glasstec (October 22 to 25, Düsseldorf). The well-thought-out systems make work easier for employees and make automated manufacturing more productive.

Glass provides function and form to many applications as a true high-tech material – from architecture to automotive to food and pharmaceutical industries. However, handling the fragile material requires a lot of finesse.

Schmalz has developed the new flat gripper system FEL as a universal solution for handling workpieces regardless of their size, geometry, material, and surface in confined spaces. Reaching into shelves or transport boxes is also no problem – products can be picked up from various positions. Thanks to its low weight, the FEL impresses on lightweight robots in fully automated applications, for example in cleanroom and ESD (Electrostatic Discharge) environments. Its low construction height of only 16.5 millimeters allows use in areas with interference contours. The high-performance sealing foam maintains the vacuum optimally and ensures long service life. The quick-change adhesive film can be easily replaced when needed without extensive cleaning work.

Effortless Handling

With the lifting aid VacuMaster Window 200/300, employees handle windows, glass panes, and components quickly and ergonomically in a vertical position. The workpieces can be rotated 90 degrees, and special suction plates ensure maximum holding forces on glass surfaces. The narrow base body guarantees good visibility of the component. The VacuMaster is mounted, for example, on the aluminum hanging crane SRA at the modular crane portal KBG-G, which consists of only twelve components and can be adapted to any installation situation.

The JumboErgo also moves glass panes and other workpieces with formats up to four by two meters and weighing up to 300 kilograms accurately and ergonomically. The length of the control arm can be adjusted to the load, providing the operator with sufficient safety distance. A pneumatic swivel unit supports manual handling tasks.

Flexible Use

The Binar Handling Quick-Lift Arm QLA with the Ergo Glass end effector lifts goods up to 250 kilograms. To move workpieces with the patented handle, users only need a small initial force. Releasing the handle immediately stops the movement. In combination with the high-quality Ergo-Glass end effectors, companies receive a universal solution that can be used for pick-and-place tasks as well as more complex operations.

The JumboFlex handles lightweight goods up to 50 kilograms at high cycle rates. It not only relieves employees from heavy physical work but also allows for long and fatigue-free operation thanks to its ergonomic control unit. The optional Weight-Control feature allows goods to be weighed during the handling process.

Gentle Grip

Schmalz offers a variety of different suction cups as end effectors for handling glass. For example, the SGF suction plates securely fix flat and smooth workpieces when high transverse forces occur – for instance, due to strong accelerations or vertical handling. The SFF/SFB1 suction grippers move sensitive and fragile workpieces like wafers, as well as uneven products like capsules.

For flat table systems, Schmalz presents the new VCBL-GL redesign block suction cups at glasstec. This clamping solution allows CNC machining centers to be quickly and easily retrofitted. Its new suction plate significantly increases performance because it can be easily exchanged, and the vacuum cup does not need to be replaced entirely. A bumper protects the worktable in case the block suction cup should fall. The new clamping devices are available in various diameters, heights, and shapes. This provides Schmalz with a broad portfolio of clamping solutions.