Handling systems are all devices that move an object towards a specific position and rotate it until it is in the correct position. They carry out functions similar to those of the human hand and have visual perception. Handling systems are therefore used for precise workpiece and tool positioning and are intended to relieve people of monotonous and physically heavy work. Handling technology replaces hands with tools, grippers, levers, holders and the like.

Handling technology plays an important part in manufacturing and assembly tasks, and its application is distinctly different from other applications. Handling is about more than just transporting a workpiece; it's about automatically moving or manipulating it. For example, when a workpiece needs to be turned, tilted or positioned.

Nowadays many manufacturing companies are forced to further optimise and automate their production processes because of growing competitive pressures and the ever increasing trend to automate production processes. That is why handling systems are used since they reduce error rates and increase production speed and efficiency. This primarily affects sectors such as machine building and the automotive industry, but also medical technology, the pharmaceutical industry and the electronics industry. The keys to greater efficiency, profitability, competitiveness and especially higher profits are maximum utilisation of machine running times, reduction of error rates and minimisation of unproductive downtime.