In the CoLabs, a team of application engineers supports SCHUNK customers in maximizing the implementation of their planned automation tasks. This allows them to test demanding applications risk-free before buying. Together with SCHUNK experts, the requirements are analyzed, the most suitable combination of handling, toolholding and workholding, and machining components is selected, and the optimal parameters are validated in a practical test. Any possible risks are minimized before the solution is implemented in the real process.
There are a lot of options. Users can test the advantages and disadvantages of different gripping techniques on different types of robots. Feasibility studies and video documentation also provide support on how to achieve the optimal automation solution. "Our CoLab is a multifunctional space that also makes it possible to hold joint events with partners," explained Janick Caillot, SCHUNK Project Engineer, at the opening of the French CoLab. For the inauguration, the French SCHUNK subsidiary prepared five different demonstrations to best illustrate the potential of its CoLab: from simple, flexible machine loading to the sensitive handling of medical samples or syringes.
With its CoLabs, however, SCHUNK is not only focusing on customers, but also on the youth, as Tomas Berg, CEO of SCHUNK Intec Sweden, explained at the opening. "We feel it is our responsibility to involve schools and universities in order to train young people and incorporate their ideas early on. The CoLab plays an important role in this." In its robot application centers, SCHUNK cooperates with leading industry players such as FANUC, Universal Robots, Stäubli, KUKA, YASKAWA and others. Mikael Jigbäck from FANUC stated at the opening of the CoLab in Sweden, "We see this as an opportunity for Swedish industry to very effectively test applications that are difficult to achieve in normal operations." Niklas Richardsson, YASKAWA, added, "CoLab exudes the expertise and quality of SCHUNK, our longstanding and reliable partner. The manner of working at CoLab suits us well – it's a lab for those who want more."