At AMB 2026 in Stuttgart, SCHUNK will demonstrate an automated production setup in which an autonomous mobile robot equipped with a robotic arm handles parts between a setup station and a machine tool. The demonstration shows how robotics can be integrated with workpiece clamping to automate machine loading and unloading with less manual intervention.
In the setup, the AMR, or Autonomous Mobile Robot, transports workpieces and clamping equipment between different process steps. Pneumatic and electric VERO-S zero-point clamping modules are used in combination. The pneumatic modules are designed for applications in and around the machine tool, where high forces and direct integration are required. Electric modules can be used on mobile parts of the process where no compressed-air supply is available.
With this combination, SCHUNK is targeting a continuously automated process from preparation through to machining. The robotic solution connects the individual steps involved in machine loading and unloading, with the aim of reducing setup times and manual handling.
The application also includes VERO-S zero-point clamping modules and clamping towers. For automated handling, SCHUNK is introducing the VERO-S taper aligning hook. This retrofit component is designed to improve the safety of loading and unloading clamping towers and increase process reliability in robotic applications.
SCHUNK is combining the automation solution with various workpiece and tool clamping systems. The company is therefore focusing not only on the robot itself, but on the integration of handling, clamping and machining within a single production process.
