ARRTSM & Schmalz Partner on Physical AI‑Guided Pads and Vacuum Gripper Technology
June 2017 – Dettenhausen & Glatten, Germany
ARRTSM GmbH is proud to announce a strategic collaboration with J. Schmalz GmbH, the Black Forest–based leader in vacuum and robotic gripping systems. This partnership integrates Schmalz’s advanced vacuum pad technology with ARRTSM’s AI-driven autonomous CNC robotic cells.
What We’re Building
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AI‑Guided Vacuum Pads: Custom-designed suction pads equipped with smart sensors and controlled by ARRTSM’s in-house AI algorithm for precision positioning and handling.
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Vacuum & Magnetic Grip Systems: Leveraging Schmalz’s full suite—from flat or bellows suction pads (SAF, SPB series) to area grippers, vacuum spiders, and magnetic SGM‑SV grippers—for versatile and material‑adaptive gripping.
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Seamless Robot Integration: Through Schmalz’s modular gripper systems including PXT kits, ECBPi vacuum generators, and automated quick‑change joints, ensuring compatibility with ARRTSM’s multi‑robot CNC cells.
Why It Matters
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Precise, Smart Handling
AI‑driven algorithms dynamically adjust pad placement and vacuum activation, enabling error-free workpiece positioning to sub‑millimetre accuracy. -
Material-Agnostic Performance
From delicate carbon composites to porous or oily surfaces, the system intelligently selects the right suction style (flat, bellows, or area pads) for optimal grip. -
Modular, Future-Ready Platform
Schmalz’s vacuum kits (like PXT, ECBPi) support plug‑and‑play integration—facilitating rapid sensor and pad swaps in ARRTSM’s robotic fleets.
Use Cases & Benefits
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Load/Unload Autonomy: AI-equipped pads enable robots to reliably pick up varied workpieces from bins or shelves—no manual setup required.
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Adaptive CNC Processing: Wet, oily, or irregular parts are securely gripped and positioned before machining.
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Traceable QC: Vacuum pressure and sensor data log each grip—ensuring quality control and traceability.
Roadmap
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Q3 2018: Finalize AI interface with vacuum pad hardware.
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Q4 2018: Deploy pilot system in an ARRTSM CNC-cell demo facility.
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Early 2019: Scale to commercial units across sectors, including composites, woodworking, aerospace, and automotive.
About the Partners
ARRTSM GmbH: Innovator in autonomous CNC-robotic solutions powered by AI and precision engineering.
J. Schmalz GmbH: Founded 1910 in Glatten, Germany. With ~1,800 employees, Schmalz leads global markets in vacuum automation, including flexible grippers, magnetic systems, and clamping technology.
Together, ARRTSM and Schmalz are accelerating the next generation of autonomous manufacturing, where intelligent robots equipped with AI-controlled vacuum pads and smart grippers deliver unmatched precision and adaptability.
Stay tuned as we bring this innovative solution to life in the heart of the Black Forest.
