Manipulator Arm With a Refrigeration Panel Vacuum Gripper

The client approached us with a need for an ergonomic solution for handling refrigeration panels used in an assembly process.

We designed and delivered a custom industrial manipulator arm tailored to the client’s specific needs. The system features a lightweight carbon fiber arm with a 20-foot horizontal reach. It includes powered pitch manipulation and a small degree of roll to maneuver the parts into position. Prioritizing operator comfort and control, the arm includes an adjustable handle and an integrated video monitor to enhance visibility—especially valuable when working with large, awkward components. At the end of the arm, vacuum cups secure the part during the handling process. These cups are adjustable to ensure it can handle multiple part sizes.

To help access the parts rack, the end tooling features a low profile and is mounted at a slight angle to place panels within a large fixture.

This custom solution greatly improved ergonomics, increased safety, and minimized the risk of operator strain and product damage, showcasing the value of tailored material handling systems in solving manufacturing challenges.