With the help of handling systems and industrial robots, workpiece handling - for example gripping, positioning, stacking, grouping or synchronization - can be largely automated. Handling systems therefore ensure a smooth and efficient material flow in a fully automated process. Manufacturing companies can save costs and significantly increase productivity by investing in a handling system. Automation technology, which covers the programming and control required for handling workpieces, is closely linked to robotics and handling. Festo is the world leader in automation. From project engineering to production and integration, we guide the entire process with our know-how.
We provide you with industrial robots for a huge range of applications in handling and assembly: from standard solutions for all common automation technology applications through to collaborative engineering for your own very specific requirements. In addition to the digital networking of entire plants, self-learning systems and robot-based automation solutions are also playing an increasingly important role in production. Our total product range therefore includes both pneumatic handling systems with the corresponding control systems as well as Cartesian robots and parallel kinematic system robots .
Our pneumatic systems are ready-to-install handling modules for moving, feeding and removing small parts in the smallest of spaces. The movement is positively guided in a link and enables very short cycle times. Depending on the handling system, a C- or L-shaped movement is carried out. The movements in the Y and Z direction are variable in the range up to 40 mm. Handling modules are designed for use with electric, servo-pneumatic or pneumatic actuators. Pre-assembled modules with an attached actuator are also available. The interface to the workpiece allows different gripper types from Festo to be adapted.
Ready-to-install Cartesian robots are based on Festo linear and sliding drives or parallel kinematics and allow for multidimensional movements. From compact to robust and highly dynamic handling systems, the right solution is available for every application. Linear-, area- and three-dimensional gantries allow free positioning within the linear range up to the three-dimensional space. With coordinated stepper and servo motors, motor controllers and an integrated energy supply concept, a reliable, ready-to-install solution is provided. Supported by innovative software solutions for engineering and configuration, the handling systems can be designed online and put into operation efficiently in just a few minutes based on your application data.
Our delta robots with parallel kinematics are also ready-to-install systems. They are used for free positioning in the three-dimensional workspace. The industrial robots stand for precision in movement and positioning as well as for extraordinarily high dynamics. The kinematics are based on a parallel kinematic drive concept with three fixed motors that are coupled via a pyramidal mechanical structure of linear axes and carbon fiber-reinforced bars. Due to the high rigidity of the mechanical construction and the low moving mass, the parallel kinematic system is up to three times faster than comparable Cartesian robots. The ceiling-mounted robot enables maximum accessibility and utilization of the working area and at the same time contributes to a reduction in the required mounting surface.
From a single source, we offer ready-to-connect and tested control systems that correspond to our handling systems and robots. These systems can be used to significantly reduce the effort involved in commissioning and integration – regardless of whether it relates to systems for simple control tasks or complex controls of a highly dynamic movement. Festo control systems in a user- and maintenance-friendly design complete the ready-to-connect solution packages for all handling systems. Using safety-related electric and control technology from Festo provides you with the security of implementing safety measures in compliance with the EC Machinery Directive.
Our accessories for handling systems and industrial robots are extensive: In addition to front units, adapter plates, profile columns, support profiles and adjustment units, we offer basic elements, adapters, multi-axis elements and drive-specific accessories for our handling units.
Handling systems are devices that move an object to a specific position and turn it until it is in the right position. This is how they are able to take over the functions of the human hand as well as visual perception. Handling systems are therefore used for the exact positioning of workpieces and tools and are intended to relieve people of monotonous and physically demanding work. Custom handling systems replace hands with tools, grippers, levers, holders and other tools.
Within production and assembly, handling systems are an important component, whereby this activity is clearly differentiated from other activities. Handling is when a workpiece is moved or manipulated automatically beyond pure transport. This can be the case during rotating, tilting or positioning movements.
Due to growing competitive pressures and advancements in the automation of production processes, many manufacturing companies nowadays are forced to further optimize and automate their production processes. Handling systems that reduce error rates and increase production speed and efficiency are used here. This applies predominantly to sectors such as mechanical engineering and the automotive industry, but also to medical technology, the pharmaceutical sector and the electronics industry. The maximum utilization of machine runtimes, the reduction of error rates and the minimization of non-productive idle times are the keys to more efficiency, profitability, competitiveness and especially to higher profits.