Schunk Strengthens the EV Production Line for a Second Year

Powered by Partnership — Thank you, Schunk, for fueling the EV Production Line.

The Smart Factory Institute EV Production Line continues to grow, and this year we are proud to once again partner with Schunk as they support the line through the donation of a robotic gripper. This marks the second straight year Schunk has contributed to the EV Production Line, and we truly value the relationship and ongoing collaboration.

Our Mini EV Production Line is designed to replicate real-world electric vehicle manufacturing processes, giving manufacturers, students, and technology partners a hands-on view of how automation, robotics, and tooling come together on the factory floor. Each component added to the line plays a critical role in telling that story, and Schunk’s end-of-arm tooling is a key piece in demonstrating accurate, repeatable, and reliable part handling.

Schunk’s donated gripper will be integrated directly into EV production workflows, supporting assembly and material handling tasks that reflect modern manufacturing environments. Having this technology in place allows us to demonstrate how gripping systems impact cycle time, part quality, flexibility, and overall system performance. The gripper featured on the EV Production Line reflects Schunk’s focus on performance density, precision, and reliability. Designed for small- to medium-sized components, it supports high cycle rates, consistent gripping force, and precise positioning. These capabilities are especially important in EV manufacturing, where components often require careful handling, repeatability, and tight tolerances.

Schunk has been a global leader in gripping systems and automation technology for decades, serving industries such as automotive, electronics, aerospace, medical, and general industrial manufacturing. Their broad portfolio and deep application knowledge make them a strong partner for the Smart Factory Institute and a natural fit for our EV Production Line.

Beyond the gripper featured on our EV Production Line, Schunk offers a comprehensive range of gripping, clamping, and tool management solutions that support modern manufacturing environments. Their systems are designed to securely hold parts during machining, position components accurately during assembly, and enable fast, repeatable tool changes in automated cells. From precision workholding solutions that stabilize components during high-performance machining, to advanced toolholder systems that improve accuracy and repeatability, Schunk’s technologies are built to enhance consistency and reduce variability on the production floor. Their automation modules support reliable part handling and motion control in robotic applications, while quick-change tool systems help manufacturers reduce downtime and increase flexibility when switching between operations.

We are grateful for Schunk’s continued partnership and support of the Smart Factory Institute, as well as their commitment to education and innovation. By contributing to the Mini EV Production Line for a second year, Schunk helps us bridge the gap between theory and application, giving visitors the opportunity to see, touch, and understand how advanced gripping and automation solutions are used in real manufacturing environments.

Their involvement strengthens the Mini EV Production Line and helps us deliver meaningful, hands-on learning experiences for the manufacturing community. If you are interested in seeing Schunk’s technology in action or learning more about how gripping systems play a role in EV manufacturing, we invite you to visit the Smart Factory and experience it firsthand.