New OVEH compact vacuum generator from Festo
Industrial automation specialist Festo introduces the OVEH compact vacuum generator, a versatile and innovative End of Arm Tooling (EOAT) solution designed to enhance human-robot collaboration (HRC) and other robotic applications. Featuring integrated sensors and precise valve control, the OVEH joins Festo’s growing portfolio of EOAT technologies, which are engineered to meet the evolving demands of modern manufacturing environments.
The OVEH vacuum generator combines a compact design with advanced functionality, making it an ideal choice for a wide range of applications, including handling printed circuit boards, machine loading and unloading, packaging assembly, and picking finished items from 3D printers. Its universal robot interface, compliant with ISO 9409-1-50-4-M6, ensures compatibility with a variety of cobots and robots, enabling seamless integration into existing systems.
Peter Potters, Festo's EOAT Product Manager, explains: "The OVEH vacuum generator represents a significant step forward in EOAT technology. Its compact size, lightweight design, and integrated sensors make it a highly dynamic and reliable solution. Offering both high vacuum and high suction volume options, the OVEH provides manufacturers with the flexibility to adapt to diverse applications while maintaining process reliability."
The OVEH can be configured with a single suction cup or with up to nine suction cups on an adapter plate, offering a wide range of possible gripping positions. This flexibility allows manufacturers to create customised gripper units that can be easily retooled, adapting processes to meet demand. The OVEH’s low height and weight further contribute to its high dynamic response, making it well-suited for applications that require speed and precision.
Safe and reliable operation is assured with an integrated pressure sensor that continuously monitors vacuum levels. This feature is particularly valuable in applications where precision and consistency are critical. The OVEH vacuum generator also includes a valve-controlled ejector pulse, which enhances the secure handling of workpieces and supports efficient operation. Air quality is maintained using integral process air filters and an open silencer to reduce contamination of the suction nozzle.
Another standout feature of the OVEH is its plug-and-work capability. A mechanical robot interface enables quick and easy integration with various cobots, while control can be managed via digital I/O (PNP/NPN) or IO-Link®. Clearly designed interfaces simplify the connection of pneumatic tubing and a single electrical connector, reducing setup time and streamlining deployment.
Festo’s OVEH vacuum generator is a testament to the company’s commitment to developing EOAT solutions that empower manufacturers to optimise efficiency, enhance safety, and embrace the possibilities of human-robot collaboration. By combining cutting-edge technology with user-friendly design, the OVEH is poised to become a valuable asset in industries ranging from electronics and packaging to additive manufacturing.
For more information about the OVEH vacuum generator and Festo’s full range of EOAT solutions, visit: www.festo.com/eoat
About Festo
Festo is a leading international supplier of automation technology with a turnover in 2024 of around €3.45 billion. Festo employs over 20,000 people worldwide and is a proven innovator and problem solver in pneumatic and electrical automation, where it is the performance leader. Festo offers around 36,000 pneumatic and electric products in hundreds of thousands of variants for factory and process automation technology, many of which can be tailored to specific customer needs. Sustainability, reducing its CO2 footprint, digital learning, innovation, performance and speed are the key drivers for the company's future. Festo GB operates as a carbon neutral organisation and uses the PAS 2060 standard externally audited by NQA to validate this claim to customers, employees and other stakeholders.
Festo Industrial Automation's innovative strength is demonstrated through the launch of around 100 new products every year. The company invests over 8.5% of its turnover in R&D, resulting in over 2,600 patents held worldwide. For more information about the company's products and UK / Irish services, please visit: www.festo.com/gb and www.festo.com/ie
Festo and Industry 4.0 - Festo has engaged with the Industry 4.0 initiative from its inception: as a user, manufacturer and trainer. As a member of the steering group, the company has taken an active role in defining the core standards such as the RAMI model and the Administration Shell. Festo Didactic has installed Industry 4.0 Cyber-Physical Factory training hardware systems in many leading universities and training centres. It also provides Industry 4.0 training courses for change managers and practical workshops for employees. Industry 4.0 technologies such as OPC-UA communications are embedded in the latest generation products. For more information, go to www.festo.com/digitalisation
Festo Didactic training delivers training for industry – by industry. Combining Festo's industrial heritage with its future-focused manufacturing and engineering expertise to deliver courses for greater productivity and competitiveness. Offering a wide range of open courses, structured development programmes and tailor-made, customer-specific projects on technology and Industry 4.0 and the industry-leading online training suite, Festo LX. Festo also provides state-of-the-art training equipment solutions for industrial companies and educational institutions around the world. Festo Didactic has around 56,000 education customers worldwide. More information on Festo training and consulting services can be found at: www.festo.com/didactic
Festo Bionic Learning Network encapsulates the innovative nature of Festo, raising awareness and attracting talent to the company. Exploring the links between nature and technology opens new areas of innovation and demonstrates complex ideas in a stimulating and enjoyable way. Festo works with an alliance of internal R&D, external educational establishments and specialist companies to advance bionic solutions for automation applications of the future. The objective is to benefit from bionics as a source of inspiration and to realise these in industrial automation. For more information about Festo's Bionic Learning Network, please visit: www.festo.com/bionics
