By introducing Piab's Kenos(R) KVGL gripper into the end-line automation system of a flour bagging factory, we achieved improved productivity in the handling of bags. Before adopting Piab's vacuum technology, we were picking bags one by one with a gripper equipped with suction cups. Frequent drops of the conveyed items occurred due to variations in bag dimensions, making it difficult to correct and time-consuming for the process. The adoption of the Kenos(R) KVGL foam gripper resolved all these issues. It maximized the flexibility of the gripping layout and reduced the cycle time by 20%. Additionally, compared to suction cups, which often damaged the bag paper, the larger gripping surface and lower required vacuum level made it less likely to damage the conveyed items. The Kenos KVGL gripper system can incorporate a COAX multi-stage ejector as a vacuum source, and it is also possible to use an external electric vacuum pump. For more details, visit: https://www.piab.com/ja-jp/success-stories/2/

Vacuum generation unit (piCOBOT) and three-finger gripper (piSOFT GRIP) compatible with UR robots' UR+: Made with food-grade silicone, capable of grasping irregularly shaped food items. The new suction cup (MX series) with a yellow LIP features an ultra-thin special LIP structure that allows it to adhere firmly to uneven surfaces, such as text on the suction surface. Here is the video (YouTube) https://youtu.be/IICcwixuxvE Here is the product lineup https://www.piab.com/ja-jp/robot-and-cobot-gripping-solutions/cobots-and-robot-grippers/picobot-vacuum-gripper-unit/picobot/ https://www.piab.com/ja-jp/suction-cups-and-soft-grippers/soft-grippers/pisoftgrip-/ https://www.piab.com/ja-jp/promotion-pages/mx-suction-cups/

"piSOFTGRIP" is a cost-effective clipping tool developed for automation in the food industry. It has a hollow interior and grips the workpiece with 2 to 3 fingers. Due to its vacuum drive, the gripping force can be easily adjusted and controlled based on the applied vacuum level. Additionally, it has the potential to be used for picking small and irregularly shaped workpieces, such as toys, beyond the food industry. ■ Cost-effective clipping tool ■ Hollow interior ■ Grips workpieces with 2 to 3 fingers ■ Simple and sturdy ■ Usable for picking small and irregularly shaped workpieces Watch the video (YouTube) here https://youtu.be/F5r9uDM59NQ See the product lineup here https://www.piab.com/ja-jp/suction-cups-and-soft-grippers/soft-grippers/pisoftgrip-/

The new product in the piGRIP(R) series, "FLIW (Foam Lip Wide)," allows for various combinations and is suitable for many picking applications. It offers selectable lips, bellows, and fittings to match a wide range of needs. It is ideal for workpieces with uneven surfaces or structures that are not uniform. ■ Four sizes of lips are available. * Ø40, Ø60, Ø80, Ø120 mm (made of EPDM foam) ■ The number of bellows can be changed to adjust to various heights. * Options include no bellows, 1 stage, 3 stages, and 6 stages. FLIW is secured with a special locking ring made of POM. This enhances the safety of the cup and keeps the lip in the designated position. This new lip is based on the piGRIP(R)FLI. The wider lip increases safety and flexibility during lifting. The piGRIP(R)FLIW can be easily configured using the piGRIP(R) configurator. For more details, visit here: https://www.piab.com/ja-jp/news/-piab-pigrip-foam-lip---fliw-/

The compact/stackable pump is a multi-stage ejector based on COAX technology, featuring integrated controls such as an on/off valve, blow-off valve, vacuum switch, and special functions like energy saving. ■ All-in-one model equipped with solenoid valves and vacuum sensors ■ Equipped with a new COAX(R) nozzle. Can accommodate 1-2 SX12 or SX42 nozzles ■ Additional silencer can be installed ■ Single-stage ejector increases exhaust speed by 30-50%! Additional features: Amplified Blow-Off (ABO), Automatic Timer Blow-Off (ATBO), Intelligent Blow-Off (IBO), and Automatic Suction Control (SAC) automatically remove "unwanted" vacuum suction with minimal blow. Video (YouTube) here https://youtu.be/voTdsF1YdzE Product lineup here https://www.piab.com/ja-jp/vacuum-pumps-and-ejectors/compact-and-stackable-vacuum-ejectors/picompact-23-smart/

Prevent workpiece drop during suction transport! Reduce compressed air usage by over 90% compared to conventional systems! piSECURE is a vacuum generator equipped with a powerful check valve. It maintains vacuum pressure for over 30 minutes, contributing to improved safety during the transport of heavy objects. ■ Suitable for handling heavy objects such as glass and steel. ■ Prevents workpiece drop during power outages or other troubles. ■ The blow-off release valve allows for quick release of workpieces. ■ Comes with a connection port for a vacuum sensor. * By adopting the optional "Energy Saving Mechanism (piSECURE ES)," you can achieve 99% energy savings. Watch the video (YouTube) here https://youtu.be/PYUdETeZ1MY Check out the product lineup here https://www.piab.com/ja-jp/vacuum-pumps-and-ejectors/decentralized-vacuum-ejectors-with-safety-check-valve/0200984/

This is a valve that quickly performs vacuum destruction using atmospheric pressure instead of compressed air. It equalizes the pressure of the suction cup to allow for quick release of the workpiece. ■ It is an excellent product that works well with the Piab VGS(TM) series. ■ Suitable for handling cardboard and similar materials in applications such as case packing and palletizing. ■ Operates ON/OFF simultaneously with the ejector. ■ No other control devices are needed. * The operation of piSAVE(R) release is linked to the on/off of the ejector. Here is the video (YouTube) https://youtu.be/_lRJ_qt0NEo Here is the product lineup https://www.piab.com/ja-jp/vacuum-pumps-and-ejectors/accessories-for-vacuum-ejectors-and-pumps/valves/pisave-release/

This is a regulator that controls the supply pressure of compressed air in conjunction with vacuum pressure. It adjusts the supply air pressure to an appropriate level without sacrificing speed or performance. It controls the pressure supplied to the vacuum ejector pump to ensure it does not exceed the set vacuum pressure. The piSAVE(R) optimize adjusts to minimize air usage (optimization of usage). ■ It is an energy-saving device for vacuum pumps that operate with compressed air. ■ A swivel connection is adopted for the compressed air connection port. ■ There is a port for a vacuum gauge. ■ It comes with a filter. * The mounting kit is sold separately. * There is an upgrade kit available for installation on piCLASSIC models and previous Classic pumps. Watch the video (YouTube) here: https://youtu.be/rboDK5DwyUA See the product lineup here: https://www.piab.com/ja-jp/inriverassociations-5e1bfb41/pisave-optimize/

When the set vacuum pressure is reached, the flow rate of compressed air flowing to the ejector is adjusted by the automatic energy-saving function valve "piSAVE(R) onoff." This leads to a reduction in the consumption of compressed air. ■ It is an independent air-saving device for vacuum pumps. ■ It comes with a control 2/2 NO valve that allows for adjustable vacuum levels. ■ There are options with large and small hysteresis. ■ It is recommended as an energy-saving device for systems without leaks. ■ A check valve must be installed on the vacuum pump. Here is the video (YouTube): https://youtu.be/ljgGM1vANuI Here is the product lineup: https://www.piab.com/ja-jp/inriverassociations-5e1bfb41/0118100/

This is a suitable option for applications with multiple suction pads for a single vacuum pump. The design that incorporates a vacuum check valve miniaturizes the vacuum pump required for the application, achieving energy savings for the device. It is ideal for applications where the number of workpieces to be suctioned varies each time or where workpieces of different sizes are flowing through. It is also effective for workpieces with high leakage, such as fiberboard and cardboard. It is effective against workpieces with high leakage from the lip part of the suction pad. You can choose from three types of valves according to the vacuum pressure and the leakage flow rate. The valves are built into aluminum fittings with male and female threads, making installation easy. Watch the video (YouTube) here: https://youtu.be/pcfpJkUtnO8 See the product lineup here: https://www.piab.com/ja-jp/vacuum-pumps-and-ejectors/accessories-for-vacuum-ejectors-and-pumps/valves/0129339/

In cases where all suction cups do not make contact with the workpiece, vacuum leakage occurs, requiring a larger ejector than normally necessary. By using piSAVE sense, when the suction cups do not contact the workpiece, the valve of piSAVE sense closes, minimizing vacuum leakage. Only the valves of the suction cups that are in contact with the workpiece open, allowing for suction. Here is the video (YouTube): https://youtu.be/juO0nerW5T4 Here is the product lineup: https://www.piab.com/ja-jp/vacuum-pumps-and-ejectors/accessories-for-vacuum-ejectors-and-pumps/valves/0202396/

New sizes of Ø100mm and Ø125mm have been added to the PAF (Piab Automotive Flat) and PAB (Piab Automotive Bellow) series. These automotive suction cups are designed to conform to industry standard dimensions and interfaces for easy installation. They can also be used in applications outside the automotive industry. The addition of the new cups further expands the range of applications. Made of silicone-free nitrile PVC with a rubber hardness of 60 (Shore A), they are highly durable and offer excellent cost performance. All models feature aluminum inserts that are molded, allowing for the use of Piab fittings, including dedicated fittings and a T-slot quick connection system. The automotive suction cups are designed to withstand shear forces even at low vacuum levels, preventing slippage and ensuring safe transport. (The cups come with cleats for anti-slip.) For more details, visit here: https://www.piab.com/ja-jp/news/piab-4/

This soft gripper is easy to control and install. It is also possible to use multiple piSOFTGRIPs with a single vacuum source. (Recommended work size: diameter 10 to 50 mm) The optional stainless steel fittings are washable. The sealed vacuum chamber is designed to minimize the entry of debris, making it easy to clean and maintaining performance even in less than ideal conditions. Its intuitive and user-friendly design allows for easy integration into automation processes, contributing to product quality assurance and increased productivity. It is made of metal-detectable silicone approved for direct contact with food. A certificate of compliance with Japan's Food Sanitation Act can also be issued. It can handle delicate food items. Suitable for applications in logistics, warehousing, food, pharmaceuticals, and medical fields. Watch the video (YouTube) here: https://youtu.be/F5r9uDM59NQ For product information, visit: https://www.piab.com/ja-jp/suction-cups-and-soft-grippers/soft-grippers/pisoftgrip-/

The automation process in the packaging and food industry requires performance that can handle not only entire layers of conveyed items but also individual conveyed items. The "Kenos MiniGrip (KMG)" is a highly versatile, compact, and easy-to-install small foam vacuum gripper. It can be arranged and mounted on end-of-arm tooling (EOAT). It can accommodate workpieces with irregular surfaces and uneven shapes. The KMG provides reliable gripping force. <Rectangular Type> By providing multiple suction holes, it prevents positional displacement of individual parts and can handle multiple workpieces simultaneously. Sizes range from 20mm to 40mm in width and 60mm to 120mm in length. <Circular Type> It can be equipped with flow control or check valves. Sizes range from 25mm to 70mm in diameter. ★Ideal for the following scenarios★ ■Production and packaging of FMCG ■Packaging of food items such as inflated bagged cookies, bottles, and cans ■Handling in the production of small and uneven parts For more details, visit https://www.piab.com/ja-jp/news/----kenos-minigrip/

World's fastest level integrated control ejector! An integrated system of COAX vacuum ejector and MAC high-speed solenoid valve! Enables high-speed handling of fine work! 【Industry】 Electronics, semiconductors, plastics, metals, small packaging, pick and place, robotic integration, wood industry A variety of options, including vacuum filters and pressure sensors, are available for selection. The lightweight manifold with a resin body can flexibly accommodate use in heads such as transfer machines and mountings. Innovation video (YouTube) here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fV0dnfgAvFY

The piCOMPACT(R)10X SMART is an easy-to-handle, compact, and efficient ejector. Based on COAX(R) technology and IO-Link technology, it enhances flexibility, reduces installation time, and improves customization to meet customer needs. Built on the pneumatic multi-stage ejector piCOMPACT(R)10X, it can be equipped with control functions including on/off valves, blow-off valves, vacuum switches, and energy-saving features. Since it is based on a configurable platform, customization can be easily performed. The upgraded "SMART version" includes special preventive features such as "leak warning," "performance monitoring timer," and "vacuum cycle counter," along with smart functions that enable predictive maintenance. It is ideal for advanced packaging applications in the pharmaceutical and electronics industries, helping to quickly implement complex yet compact and smart systems. For more details, visit https://www.piab.com/ja-jp/news/picompact10x-smart-piab/

In many industries, the adaptability of robotic grippers is key to the success of automation. The Kenos(R) FlexiGrip (KFG) offers versatility to handle diverse workpieces through foam pads. Its modular design allows for quick and easy setup during product changes and facilitates easy integration into existing equipment. It can be used as a single gripper for industrial robots and collaborative robots, or in combination with industrial robots as a "robot arm end tool (EOAT)." The new Kenos(R) KFG vacuum foam gripper brings many advantages in environments that mass-produce products with rough, uneven surfaces. The foam conforms to the surface irregularities, making it an ideal solution for securely handling medium-sized workpieces without causing damage. It is available in circular grippers with diameters of 80mm and 100mm, or square grippers in sizes of 80mm and 120mm. For more details, visit https://www.piab.com/ja-jp/news/kenosflexigrip/

In recent years, technological innovation has become an essential element for success in the bakery market. The most notable change in trends is the decrease in demand for traditional bread, with smaller sizes and different types of bread becoming mainstream. To respond to this trend, Tradicional Panadera has employed Piab's vacuum technology in its production line, enabling the rapid, easy, and safe handling of various types of boxes. The vacuum gripping system used by Tradipan consists of DURAFLEX BX suction cups with different hardness in the lip and body, and a COAX ejector. Both the cups and the ejector are provided by Piab. The gripper is attached to a joint robot located at the final point of the bread and pastry production line, responsible for the final palletizing of the bread after packaging, sending it to the shipping preparation stage. Piab's COAX vacuum generation technology achieves a high initial flow rate for safe and fast gripping while minimizing energy consumption. For more details, visit https://www.piab.com/ja-jp/news/piab3/

Piab continues to evolve by adding a large version to the piCOBOT(R) program. The large version, developed with the needs of customers handling small industrial robots and collaborative robots in mind, balances high lifting capacity with a low installation height, maximizing its capabilities. The piCOBOT(R)L, with a lifting capacity of up to 16 kg, is particularly suitable for applications in e-commerce, logistics, and warehouses, as well as for assisting in lifting heavy objects in manufacturing environments. Like the original version, it is built on a technology platform that includes a vacuum pump unit and an optional gripper unit. The vacuum pump unit is scalable and can accommodate a variety of the latest powerful COAX(R) cartridges. This significantly enhances vacuum performance, enables quick movements when lifting heavy objects, and achieves high productivity in packaging, palletizing, and assembly. For more details, visit: https://www.piab.com/ja-jp/news/-picobotl-/

Officina Meccanica Sestese Co., Ltd. has successfully designed and manufactured an end-of-line packaging machine using Piab's Kenos(R) KVG gripper. This machine has been implemented by a leading furniture parts manufacturer in Southeast Europe. The vertical strapping system from Officina Meccanica Sestese, model "08L," is a machine developed to compress, compact, and stabilize packages of melamine-faced boards. This machine binds packages in several stages with polyester bands that are 16mm wide and 0.8 to 1.0mm thick, enabling automatic packaging. The sizes of the packages handled vary, with heights over 60mm, widths up to 2180mm, and lengths up to 5700mm. For more details, visit https://www.piab.com/ja-jp/news/piab-kenos-kvg/

Cob-Solution has designed and developed a system for Rao Farmaceutici, a Sicilian animal pharmacy investing in e-commerce and conducting sales activities across Europe, to handle the picking and opening of cardboard boxes using Piab's B52XP suction cups and piCOMPACT23 SMART pumps. This system features a double bay design that accommodates various box shapes. Each bay can hold up to 40 sheets of 5mm thick cardboard. It retrieves folded cartons directly from the warehouse, assembles 4 boxes per minute, and performs taping. The gripper, utilizing Piab products, is used in the assembly cycle. The Cob-Solution factory is equipped with remote assistance to reduce on-site interventions and optimize time and resources. For more details, visit: https://www.piab.com/ja-jp/news/piab-vacuum-gripping-solutions-increase-productivity-at-cob-solution-italy/

The "MX Cup" is a suction cup that can support the picking of items made from various materials. For example, it is possible to pick soft and heavy items such as bags containing fresh noodles or shirataki using Piab Japan's suction cup. This series is suitable not only for food factories but also primarily for applications in logistics, warehousing, e-commerce, and the recycling industry. 【Features】 ■ Compatible with a variety of workpieces ■ Excellent grip on diverse surfaces ■ Superior elastic memory, preventing suction marks ■ Significantly reduces the amount of compressed air used *Introducing the "MX Cup" φ25! The best solution for picking In addition to the existing sizes of φ35, φ41, and φ50, we have added the new φ25!

The Wyzo sidebot is designed precisely for the quick and easy handling of small and lightweight tasks, such as those involving food, through collaboration between humans and machines. With a maximum payload of 1 kg, the weight of the gripper used in combination becomes important. Therefore, the extremely lightweight Piab MCG, weighing only 270 g, is the optimal product for this combination. Additionally, it excels in versatility and energy efficiency. Automation is advancing in industries such as food, packaging, cosmetics, pharmaceuticals, and electronics. Many workers in these industries work close to machines, and due to safety reasons, industrial robots cannot be used, while collaborative robots may lack the performance needed for repetitive high-speed pick-and-place tasks. To bridge this gap, a Swiss company has developed the Wyzo sidebot, which combines the advantages of traditional delta robots with those of collaborative robots. This sidebot is ideal for applications that require extremely clean environments, like those mentioned above, thanks to its gearless and oil-free motor. For more details, visit: https://www.piab.com/ja-jp/news/wyzo/

Safe&Light is a foam vacuum gripper that incorporates a Venturi generator. Designed around a foam body, it allows for safe operation around people and is extremely lightweight thanks to its carbon fiber skeleton. Two standard sizes and three types of technology are available to handle products that completely cover the gripper, products smaller than the gripper, multiple products, and even open-top containers. All versions of Safe&Light integrate the new EasyFoam technology without the use of adhesives, streamlining maintenance and foam replacement.

Regarding the gripper for collaborative robots, being compact is one of its advantages. Weighing only 270g, the MCG is an extremely lightweight gripper for collaborative robots. This gripper can lift parts weighing up to 5kg and can flexibly accommodate a wide variety of suction units. Thanks to its high flexibility and performance, the MCG can handle a diverse range of workpieces, whether they are in boxes made of paper or plastic, in bags, or loose, from boxes of tablets to tubes of toothpaste. Customer Benefits: - The lightweight design of the gripper maximizes the payload capacity of collaborative robots, allowing for the use of smaller-sized collaborative robots. - The variety of gripper plates provides flexibility for use in diverse applications. - The plug-and-play design of the Quick-Click tool changer enables rapid switching of grippers, contributing to reduced downtime. For more information, visit: https://www.piab.com/ja-jp/news/mini-cobotmcg-/

CPT is a smart and compact gripper for collaborative robots that enables the handling of more work. Its multi-zone gripper surface allows for multiple pickings of boxes with different shapes within the same cycle. Additionally, the lightweight body improves throughput per picking. Furthermore, by incorporating the piSMART(R) valve unit, it maximizes the necessary operational speed. By picking and transporting multiple cartons at once, and due to the lightweight nature of the gripper, the burden on the collaborative robot arm is significantly reduced, which contributes to extending the lifespan of the collaborative robot. Customer Benefits: ■ A flexible picking zone that can handle multiple cartons increases the number of pallets transported per day. ■ Reducing the number of pickings and using a lightweight gripper can extend the lifespan of the collaborative robot. ■ Saving on tool costs by using a single type of EOAT. For more details, visit: https://www.piab.com/ja-jp/news/piabcpt1/

Handling eggs requires securely gripping them to prevent dropping, which has made it difficult to speed up automated transport. However, Piab's new product, the Egg Cup, addresses this challenge by enabling faster processes while saving energy. Piab's new ECX36 Egg Suction Cup features a design that balances body stability with low vacuum transport, allowing for easy control of workpiece release. As a result, the risk of damaging eggs during the process is significantly reduced, enabling faster egg handling. Key benefits for customers: ■ The design offers excellent stability, accommodating high-speed applications. ■ It requires a low vacuum level for workpiece transport, achieving an energy-efficient process. ■ It is easy to clean on-site and remains durable even with detergent and ultrasonic cleaning. For more information, visit: https://www.piab.com/ja-jp/news/piab-ecx36-/

With three new attachment options, Piab offers further possibilities for EOAT design aimed at building optimal handling system solutions. These options include an angle adapter, a locking ball joint, and an extension kit. Using the stainless steel angle adapter, multiple suction cups can be connected in series. The integrated M8 3/8” male thread makes it easy to install suction cups onto metal rails or profiles, facilitating their connection to the vacuum system. The locking ball joint (also made of stainless steel) allows for angle adjustments of the suction cup on the fixture. By adjusting the angle of the suction cup to be parallel to the work surface, lifting performance is improved. Two sizes of locking ball joints are available. For more details, visit here: https://www.piab.com/ja-jp/news/piab2/

Piab is constantly optimizing its product lineup by adding new products to provide vacuum technology for niche applications. Recently, Piab developed a suction cup that can handle surfaces with rough textures. The new P series suction cups are particularly suitable for handling workpieces with strong structures and uneven surfaces, such as stone tiles, wood, and checker plates. The fittings are made of aluminum, and an elongated sealing rubber made of EPDM is installed to conform to the contour of the fitting. The rubber can be easily replaced even after wear. This expands the possibilities for adapting to work surfaces that were previously not considered for vacuum suction handling. The "P series" suction cups are available in three sizes: 35 mm, 60 mm, and 100 mm, with one type of fitting provided for each size. For more details, visit https://www.piab.com/ja-jp/news/piabp/

The Bellows Polyurethane Suction Cup Series has newly added sizes of 150 mm and 200 mm in diameter, further expanding its range of applications. The short bellows type Bellows Polyurethane (BP) suction cup is suitable for handling workpieces of varying heights with a single lifting device. This is an important feature when handling wooden components for furniture manufacturing. You can choose between a version where the entire suction cup is made of rubber hardness 60, and a version where the bellows part is hardness 60 and the lip part is hardness 30. The version with a hardness 60 bellows and a hardness 30 lip is ideal for handling rough surfaces of unprocessed wood or structured surfaces. On the other hand, the hardness 60/60 version is best suited for handling smooth, leak-free flat surfaces such as glass, metal sheets, or wooden panels of painted or coated furniture.