A conventional industrial robot is a programmable, relatively flexible tool that – if equipped with special grasping components – allows the handling of parts out of virtually any position. The complete system of an industrial robot with its multi-axes kinematics and necessary control unit is basically seen as a handling device by design engineers.

Modular robots are a new approach to designing robot systems. The complete manipulator with its linked design is no longer the individual module but the actual joints. This way of thinking is the basis for the definition of the notion of “Modular Robotics.”

The fundamental idea of Modular Robotics is based on joints as main components of a robot. Instead of traditional linked design, joint modules are combined into a motion system. A module is defined as the smallest autonomously working unit of a robot. These units are not necessarily only joint modules but can also be other functional units like force-torque-sensors or visual sensors. These modules can be configured in to any robot system because they have common interfaces.



Our philosophy “from individual module to complex robot structure” forms the basis for economical concepts of service robot applications suitable for daily use.

As one of the most innovative market leaders in tool/work holding and automation we possess unique solutions. Since the 1990s we have engaged intensively with mechatronic components and solutions where mechanics, electronics and software are integrated in to a user-friendly functional actor unit.

Our extensive catalogue of modular mechatronic products mirrors our competencies in Modular Robotics. From servo-electrical grippers and linear axis via driven robot joints and special light-weight robot arms to sensory and vision equipment we offer trendsetting approaches of modularly assembled customer applications.

In bilateral cooperation with research institutes and partners like the DLR (German Aerospace Center) we con front the challenge to decisively influenced necessary technological developments.

Die future of industrial and service robots lies in flexible robot structures made from building blocks.

Crucial for the success of Modular Robotics are quality, price and availability of its components. Simultaneously standardization plays a vital role for establishing this technology in industry and everyday life.

That is why SCHUNK has focused on the development of robot modules as independent functional units for years. These units can be joined to complex systems via compatible and standardized interfaces.

We provide necessary technological advanced modules for building systems to be used in unstructured, complex and dynamic environments.

Having these competencies we consider ourselves to be a systems provider for Modular Robotics and Service Robotics. We enable our customers to set up their required solutions out of relatively unspecific components. Due to the versatile usage of these components in relative high quantity they can be produced at lower cost.