Schwäbische Werkzeugmaschinen GmbH (SW) will be presenting a new solution for modular automation at Automatica 2025 in Hall A5, Stand 321: the Mobile i-Cell robot cell. The scalable unit flexibly connects assembly, logistics and processing stations and supports manufacturing companies in the automated and efficient processing of a wide range of components and order volumes – without rigid interlinking or complex integration.
Schwäbische Werkzeugmaschinen GmbH (SW) and its subsidiary SW Automation GmbH will be presenting the Mobile i-Cell for the first time from June 24 to 27: a mobile robot cell. It takes over automated processes such as the handling of workpieces and operation at machining, washing or assembly stations, thus replacing manual processes in production.
“As a mobile unit for automated processing, the Mobile i-Cell opens up new possibilities – from small automations to easily expandable large-scale automations,” promises Roman Wolf, Team Leader Development Control Technology at SW Automation. With its combination of high productivity, modular design, flexible application options and end-to-end connectivity, the autonomous Mobile i-Cell fits seamlessly into modern manufacturing environments – especially where variant diversity and dynamic production requirements are part of everyday life.
Flexible positioning, targeted automation
The I-Cell is mounted on a mobile carrier system and can be moved through the production environment using a driverless transport system (Mobile i-Wagon). The cell docks in front of the desired station – for example a processing, washing, assembly or DMC laser station. An integrated robot with gripper system removes the raw material from upstream removal stations, the so-called Mobile i-Storages, loads the processing station and returns the workpieces once the process is complete. The Mobile i-Storages can also be moved automatically by the Mobile i-Wagon, and the workpieces are fed and removed independently of the cell.
“Flexible docking eliminates the need for complex and rigid coupling of the processing stations with the robot cells – our customers gain efficiency and design freedom,” explains Roman Wolf. This saves space, increases the availability of machines and makes production processes more adaptable. The system automatically recognizes the respective station type and adapts the processes – without time-consuming manual retooling or recommissioning.
The Mobile i-Cell presented at Automatica is designed for payloads of up to 120 kg. The cell can be flexibly networked with SW machines as well as with systems from other manufacturers. Power supply and control are provided directly via the respective station or via SW’s own automation platform, which orchestrates robots, transport systems and order data.
Another advantage: as the cell is only temporarily docked to a station, it remains freely accessible in the interim – for cleaning or maintenance, for example. This enables high system availability with minimal integration effort.
Modular production concept for greater flexibility and scalability
The strengths of the concept lie in its modularity and mobility. Companies can start with just a few modules and expand the system step by step as required – a clear advantage over permanently interlinked production lines. “This means that investments can be planned and adapted to changing requirements,” emphasizes Wolf.
The Mobile i-Cell is particularly advantageous for changing component types and quantities – such as engine blocks, oil pans or bushings in the automotive industry: By using several cells in parallel, consistently high capacity utilization can be achieved even with short cycle times of less than ten minutes. Companies continue to benefit from the modular concept – they can start with just a few units and flexibly expand the system as required.
The Mobile i-Cell is patent pending and will be demonstrated live for the first time at Automatica in combination with an AGV. An interactive display shows the possible applications and the flexible docking to different stations. The robotics used and the AMRs come from system partner Kuka, which is exhibiting at the neighboring stand. With the Mobile i-Cell, SW is following its own claim to continuously optimize production – piece by piece, “best per part”. The solution is part of the company’s Smart Manufacturing Solutions, which enable modern and adaptable manufacturing concepts for specific customer requirements. SW will be demonstrating what these can look like in a 3D miniature model at its stand.
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