SCHUNK AGE-U Universal Compensation Unit Review: Specs, Price and Applications
The SCHUNK AGE-U is a universal compensation unit that compensates angle and rotation deviations, so a gripper can adapt to the actual position of a component instead of requiring perfectly positioned parts.
A spring-supported centric reset, adjustable via compressed air, returns the unit to a defined position. At maximum pressure it locks centrally and rigidly, and lock monitoring confirms the state for process reliability. An ISO pattern connects it directly to conventional robots, and a protective boot is optional.
Quick Verdict
A useful module when parts arrive tilted or rotated. It lets the gripper conform to the part and then place it in a defined position.
SCHUNK AGE-U Universal Compensation Unit at a Glance
Specification | Details |
Function | Angle and rotation compensation |
Reset | Spring-supported centric reset, adjustable via compressed air |
Locking | Central rigid locking at maximum pressure |
Monitoring | Locking monitoring |
Mounting | ISO mounting pattern for conventional robots |
Option | Protective boot |
Price | Request a quote |
Design and Operating Principle
Angular and rotational compliance addresses misalignment that X-Y units cannot: a part leaning in a bin, a component seated at an angle, or a bore whose axis is slightly tilted. The AGE-U lets the gripper tilt and rotate to match.
Air pressure tunes the reset spring stiffness. Low pressure gives soft compliance; maximum pressure locks the unit rigidly for travel. Lock monitoring tells the controller when the unit is rigid, preventing fast moves while compliant.
Centric reset returns the tool to a known orientation after each cycle so placement is repeatable.
Integration and Selection
Plan the pressure levels for compliant and locked states, and integrate lock monitoring in the robot logic. Check the tool mass and moments for the unit size.
Use the protective boot in dusty environments.
Industry Applications
Industry | Typical use |
Assembly | Inserting parts into tilted bores |
Machine tending | Picking parts lying at angles |
Automotive | Joining components with angular tolerance |
Logistics | Gripping items in imprecise positions |
Functional Uses
Angular and rotational compliance
Rigid locking for travel
Defined placement after compliance
Lock-state monitoring
Pros and Cons
Advantages
Compensates angle and rotation
Adjustable stiffness
Lock monitoring
ISO mounting
Limitations
Requires pressure control
Adds length at the flange
Needs careful program sequencing
Who Should Consider the SCHUNK AGE-U Universal Compensation Unit?
The AGE-U suits cells where parts arrive with angular or rotational misalignment.
Price and Availability
Price: Request a quote. SCHUNK prices the AGE-U by size, options and quantity, so the final figure depends on the exact configuration. Budget for the complete tooling package, including fingers or adapters, mounting, air or electrical connections and commissioning time, rather than the module alone.
Further Reading
SCHUNK AGE-U Universal Compensation Unit FAQ
What does the AGE-U compensate?
Angle and rotation deviations of the component position.
How is stiffness adjusted?
The spring-supported reset is adjustable via compressed air.
Can it be locked?
Yes, centrally and rigidly at maximum pressure.
Is the lock monitored?
Yes, locking monitoring ensures process reliability.
How is it mounted?
Via an ISO pattern on conventional robots.
How much does it cost?
Request a quote from SCHUNK.
