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Gripping technology May 2025

GERMAN INNOVATION AWARD 2025: Smart automation with the EZU centric gripper

The EZU mechatronic centric gripper from SCHUNK simplifies the flexible loading and unloading of cylindrical workpieces - reliable, efficient and future-proof. That also impressed the judging panel at the German Innovation Awards 2023.
The EZU Mechatronic Centric Gripper The EZU mechatronic centric gripper opens up new possibilities in flexible automation. It impressed the judging panel at the German Innovation Award with its innovative functional concept.

"Our mechatronic grippers are based on a uniform functional concept and enable our customers to consistently map their gripping processes - even with varying requirements," emphasizes Oliver Herbrik, Head of Product Sales Mechatronic at SCHUNK. "Not only can the EZU centric gripper be put to flexible use, it is also particularly easy to integrate into existing systems thanks to its large number of interfaces and plug-and-play functionality."

Smart and quickly integrated

The EZU is ideal for handling cylindrical and eccentrically positioned workpieces - even with large part variance. Its robust design makes it a reliable partner in demanding production environments and for use in flexible machine loading. Thanks to the numerous adjustment options, e.g. variable stroke and adjustable gripping force, it adapts easily to different requirements. With the "StrongGrip" function, it also offers a powerful option for particularly challenging gripping tasks. Commissioning, monitoring and adjustment are conveniently carried out via the digital SCHUNK Control Center. In addition, the EZU can be updated and new functions can be added to its range of applications. "Winning the German Innovation Award makes us proud and shows that we are on the right track with our smart concepts," says Herbrik. Thanks to the simple integration, high energy efficiency of the electric drive and its process reliability, it contributes to increasing productivity potential.

About the German Innovation Award

The German Innovation Award is presented annually by the German Design Council. It recognizes products, technologies and services that break new, innovative ground and offer solutions that stand out due to their added value. The German Innovation Award 2025 is backed by an independent jury of experts from the fields of technology, science and business. It evaluates all submissions according to degree of innovation, benefits, economic relevance and sustainability - as well as market maturity, technical quality and future potential. SCHUNK received the award in the "Excellence in Business to Business - Machines & Engineering" category.