Soft Gripper

The Soft Gripper brings a new level of flexibility to collaborative automation. It is designed for delicate handling tasks where traditional grippers struggle. Because of this, it is widely used in food and beverage, cosmetics, pharmaceuticals, and packaging environments. It supports manufacturers who need gentle, consistent, and hygienic product handling.

It allows automation of products with irregular shapes. These include eggs, fruit, bottles, and cans. As a result, production lines become more adaptable and efficient. Businesses can reduce manual handling while improving output quality.

Designed for food, clean and sensitive environments

The OnRobot Soft Gripper is a certified food grade solution. It is suitable for direct or indirect food handling applications. It is also widely used in clean production settings. For example, cosmetics and pharmaceutical packaging benefit from its hygienic design.

The gripper uses interchangeable silicon moulded cups. These cups allow it to adapt to different product shapes. As a result, one system can handle multiple product types. Consequently, production changeovers become faster and easier.

The system operates without external air supply. This is a major advantage. There is no need for compressors or vacuum systems. Dust levels are reduced, and noise is eliminated. At the same time, maintenance costs are significantly lower.

Why choose the Soft Gripper for automation

The Soft Gripper is built for versatility. It can handle a wide range of irregular and fragile items. It is ideal for pick and place applications in dynamic production environments.

It integrates seamlessly with collaborative robots. This includes leading Universal Robots platforms used across Irish manufacturing. As a result, businesses can upgrade existing systems without complex reconfiguration.

The gripper improves production consistency. It reduces product damage and waste and supports higher efficiency and better quality control.

Another key advantage is flexibility. Because it can handle multiple product shapes, fewer tool changes are required. Consequently, downtime is reduced and productivity increases.

Key advantages of the Soft Gripper

The Soft Gripper offers several important operational benefits. First, it simplifies automation in sensitive environments. Second, it reduces complexity in system design. Third, it improves handling accuracy for fragile products.

It includes three interchangeable silicon cups. These allow adaptation for different grip sizes and shapes. This means the same gripper can handle small, soft, or rigid products.

The system includes OnRobot Quick Changer compatibility. This allows fast tool changes when required. As a result, production lines become more flexible and responsive.

Silicon cups are dishwasher safe. They also comply with FDA 21 CFR standards for non-fatty food items. In addition, they meet EC 1935/2004 regulations. They are suitable for regulated industries.

Finally, the system supports a payload of up to 2.2 kg. However, this depends on product shape and surface friction. It is important to match configuration to application needs.

Soft Gripper technical features

The Soft Gripper is engineered for simplicity and performance. It is designed to reduce complexity while improving handling quality.

• Certified food grade handling
  It supports food and beverage automation with certified materials. It is safe for sensitive applications.
• Flexible silicon cups
  Interchangeable cups support different product shapes. As a result, one gripper covers many use cases.
• No external air supply
  There is no need for compressed air. Systems are simpler and more cost efficient.
• Payload capability
  It handles up to 2.2 kg depending on product characteristics. It suits light to medium applications.
• Wide grip range
  It supports grip sizes from 11 mm to 118 mm. It can handle both small and large items.
• Integrated software
  Setup is fast and simple. In fact, it can be installed without technical expertise. Deployment time is significantly reduced.
• Gentle product handling
  It is designed for delicate gripping. As a result, product damage and waste are reduced.

Applications across industries

The Soft Gripper is used in many sectors. In food production, it handles eggs, fruit, and packaged goods. In cosmetics, it manages bottles, jars, and delicate packaging. Meanwhile, in pharmaceuticals, it supports clean and controlled handling processes.

It is widely used in packaging and logistics. Because of its flexibility, it adapts easily to changing product lines. It supports seasonal demand and high-mix production.

Manufacturers benefit from reduced labour strain. Since repetitive handling is automated, workers can focus on higher value tasks. Consequently, workplace safety and efficiency both improve.

Easy integration and deployment

The Soft Gripper is designed for quick setup. It integrates smoothly with collaborative robots reducing installation time.

Programming is simple and intuitive. Even users without technical backgrounds can configure it. As a result, businesses can deploy automation faster.

It supports rapid changeovers. Production lines can adapt quickly to new products. This is especially useful in fast moving industries.

A smarter approach to delicate automation

Overall, the Soft Gripper provides a reliable and flexible automation solution. It combines gentle handling with strong performance. It is ideal for industries that require precision and care.

For businesses looking to improve automation in delicate applications, the Soft Gripper is a practical and scalable solution.

Download the Soft Gripper Tech Specs

Pneumatics & Sensors Ireland are official distributors in Ireland for all OnRobot products and components. We have in-depth knowledge of all OnRobot products and their applications, and can advise on any installation or replacement. To learn more, contact us today.