SCHUNK CMS Manual Robotic Tool Change System Review: Specs, Price and Applications
The SCHUNK CMS is a manual tool change system for robots. It consists of a change head (CMS-K) on the robot and a change adapter (CMS-A) on each tool. A hand lever closes a pin-based, form-fit lock without play and without any additional tools.
All sizes integrate locking and tool-presence monitoring, with sensors available as an option. Radial and axial pneumatic and vacuum feed-throughs pass media to the tool, and electrical, pneumatic or fluid modules can be screwed on directly. A basic CMS-B variant omits the feed-throughs and monitoring for the simplest applications.
Quick Verdict
A fast, precise way to swap grippers by hand on robots that change tools a few times per shift. It delivers repeatable positioning and media transfer without the cost of an automatic changer.
SCHUNK CMS Manual Robotic Tool Change System at a Glance
Specification | Details |
System type | Manual robotic tool change system |
Components | Change head CMS-K and change adapter CMS-A |
Locking | Hand lever, pin-based form-fit lock without play, no tools required |
Monitoring | Integrated locking and tool-presence monitoring in all sizes (sensors optional) |
Media | Radial and axial pneumatic and vacuum feed-throughs |
Modules | Direct screw mounting of electrical, pneumatic and fluid modules |
Basic variant | CMS-B without feed-throughs and monitoring |
Price | Request a quote |
Design and Operating Principle
Manual changers sit between a fixed tool and an automatic changer. The CMS uses a form-fit pin lock actuated by a lever: when closed, pins engage the adapter and pull it against the head without play. The result is repeatable tool positioning, so the robot's tool center point stays valid after every change.
Integrated feed-throughs mean the operator does not need to reconnect hoses when swapping tools. Radial and axial ports cover different routing preferences, and add-on modules handle electrical signals or fluids.
Locking and presence monitoring are what make a manual changer safe in automation. The robot program can check that a tool is present and locked before moving, preventing a half-latched tool from being swung at speed.
Integration and Selection
Choose the size from the tool mass, the moments at the flange and the media channels required. Each tool needs its own CMS-A adapter, while the CMS-K stays on the robot.
Wire the optional lock and presence sensors into the robot's safety logic and define a tool-change procedure for operators, including verifying the TCP and tool data after each swap.
Industry Applications
Industry | Typical use |
Machine tending | Switching grippers between product batches |
Contract manufacturing | Quick tool swaps for frequent changeovers |
Plastics | Changing sprue and part grippers at molding machines |
Education and labs | Sharing one robot among several tools |
Functional Uses
Tool-free gripper changeovers
Repeatable tool positioning
Passing air and vacuum to the tool
Monitoring that the tool is locked
Pros and Cons
Advantages
Play-free form-fit locking
No tools needed for changes
Pneumatic and vacuum feed-throughs
Lock and presence monitoring
Limitations
Requires an operator for each change
Not suitable for automatic tool changing
One adapter needed per tool
Who Should Consider the SCHUNK CMS Manual Robotic Tool Change System?
The CMS suits plants that change robot tools manually between batches and want quick, repeatable and monitored changes without the expense of an automatic system.
Price and Availability
Price: Request a quote. SCHUNK prices the CMS 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 CMS Manual Robotic Tool Change System FAQ
What is the SCHUNK CMS?
A manual robotic tool change system consisting of a change head (CMS-K) and change adapter (CMS-A), locked by a hand lever.
Are tools needed to change the gripper?
No. The hand lever closes the form-fit lock without additional tools.
Can air and vacuum pass through the CMS?
Yes. Radial and axial pneumatic and vacuum feed-throughs are available, except on the CMS-B basic variant.
Does the CMS monitor the lock?
All sizes integrate locking and tool-presence monitoring; sensors are optional.
What is the CMS-B?
A basic variant without pneumatic feed-throughs and monitoring.
How much does the CMS cost?
Request a quote from SCHUNK for the size and options required.
