In 2008, WEISS ROBOTICS manufactured its first grippers in a three-room flat in Pflugfelden, Ludwigsburg. “The living room became an office, the children’s room a workshop. The electronics were assembled in the bedroom,” recalls founder and managing director Dr Karsten Weiß. It wasn’t long before there was no longer enough space. Even the second flat they rented could only alleviate the space problem for a short time. A new solution was needed. After just over a year of construction, the then 37-year-old opened his new site with its own production facilities in Oßweil, Ludwigsburg.

From the very beginning, one idea was central to this: gripping technology should be able to adapt flexibly to different tasks, and not the other way round.

In 2009, the first WSG grippers were delivered. They helped shape the development of adaptive gripping for many years. Now a generational change is on the horizon: the WSG series is being phased out, whilst we continue its approach with the WPG series. The WPG series combines more than 15 years’ experience with new possibilities for modern robotic applications.

From the robotic hand to the two-finger gripper

The roots of the WSG series go back to Dr Karsten Weiß’s doctoral thesis at the Karlsruhe Institute of Technology (KIT). There, he worked on tactile sensor technology and a tactile multi-finger hand, which was later marketed under the name ‘SDH’ by a well-known clamping technology manufacturer. This gave rise to the question of how the principles of adaptive gripping could be applied to a two-finger gripper for practical automation tasks.

A key step was to make the gripping process digitally accessible. The WSG (Ethernet) could be controlled directly from PC-based applications via Ethernet. Sensory extensions provided additional information about contact with the workpiece: optional force-measuring fingers were able to measure the gripping force directly at the workpiece.

The architecture was deliberately designed to be open. This allowed the WSG to be integrated into various control concepts and provided scope for applications whose requirements could not even be foreseen at the time of its development.

How researchers utilised the WSG

The importance of this openness was particularly evident in robotics research. In 2023, Dr Karsten Weiß visited Columbia University in New York. There, the WSG 50 was used in the ‘DextAIRity’ research project. Direct control of the gripper from a PC via Ethernet was a key component of the experimental setup. On the visit to Columbia University

The project combined robot-assisted gripping and manipulation with strategically directed airflow, for example to unfold textiles or open bags. Such tasks are particularly challenging because the shape of the objects can change during movement.

This example illustrates just how intensively the research teams utilised the capabilities of the WSG. These experiences have sharpened our understanding of the freedoms developers will continue to require in the future.

The next step: WPG and Motion Stream Interface (MSI)

“We want to hold gripping technology adaptive,” says Dr Karsten Weiß, summarising the aim.

The WPG series takes this concept further. It offers Ethernet, sensorless gripping force control, integrated part detection and monitoring, and an IP54-rated control section. Via the integrated GRIPLINK protocol, it can be integrated into suitable robotic applications. About the WPG series.

The optional Motion Stream Interface (MSI) goes one step further: a higher-level controller can continuously specify movements and force limits to the WPG. The internal control loops implement these specifications as dynamic positioning. At the same time, the servo-electric gripper feeds back status data, including position, speed and estimated gripping force.

MSI thus opens up new possibilities for applications in the field of Physical AI. For example, an external system can analyse camera data and adjust the gripping movement whilst a process is underway. Perception, AI-based decisions and higher-level motion planning remain within the external system. MSI provides the interface to the gripping movement. More about MSI.

Which solution is right for the application?

For operators of existing WSG applications and for new systems, the question arises: which gripper is the right choice for the future?

For Ethernet-based robot and PC applications, the WPG series – a further development of the WSG – is ideal. Where integration via a traditional fieldbus is required, the IEG PLUS series with an integrated IO-Link interface is a suitable option. Via a suitable IO-Link master, it can be integrated into various automation networks and traditional PLC environments.

The specific gripping task determines which solution is actually suitable: stroke, force range, gripper fingers, mechanical connection, sensor technology and control integration must all be compatible. As always, we provide personalised support to our customers and partners during the selection and technical evaluation process. Please do get in touch.

Discontinuation of the WSG series: the next steps

We no longer recommend the WSG series for new systems and designs. The WPG and IEG PLUS series offer modern alternatives, the suitability of which should be assessed on a case-by-case basis. The following order deadlines apply to the WSG models:

• WSG 32-068, item number 5120007: Last chance to order by 31 March 2027. Service will continue until the end of 2028.
• WSG 50-110, item number 5120008: Last chance to order by 31 December 2027.

With the phasing out of the WSG series, a defining chapter in the product history of WEISS ROBOTICS comes to an end. We would like to express our special thanks to our customers and partners, who have repeatedly presented the WSG with new challenges through demanding applications; to the research teams who have explored its full potential; and to our staff who have designed, manufactured and supported it over many years.

Yet the pioneering spirit with which it all began lives on. With the WPG series, we are opening a new chapter in adaptive gripping. In doing so, we are relying on new technologies, new ideas and the same enthusiasm as on day one. Let’s continue writing this story together. Are you with us?

Palletizing operations increasingly need to handle a broad mix of cartons, crates, trays and load carriers – often with frequent format changes and different gripping requirements. Some of these items, such as storage bins and open-top corrugated trays used in food logistics, can be difficult to pick reliably with pneumatic vacuum systems: open or perforated containers cannot provide a reliable seal, structured surfaces may cause vacuum loss, and flexible packaging can be deformed or damaged by suction. Mechanical gripping can address these constraints, but conventional solutions may require manual adjustments or complete tool changes when product dimensions change.

End users and integrators therefore need a solution that can handle different formats reliably, apply only the required gripping force and adapt through software rather than mechanical retooling.
Our INTRAPAL servo-electric palletizing gripper is designed precisely for these applications, providing reliable, force-controlled handling across changing products and formats.

With our new URCapX integration, INTRAPAL can be configured, programmed and controlled directly in PolyScope X. On Universal Robots Gen 7 platform, Ethernet at the tool flange also enables a short, streamlined connection at the end of the arm, reducing external cabling and supporting flexible intralogistics applications.

Manufacturers benefit from direct gripper control in PolyScope X, high-power connectivity at the g-Series tool flange, and greater flexibility when handling demanding palletizing and intralogistics applications.

The Solution

INTRAPAL was developed for precisely this kind of flexibility. It combines servo-electric actuation with a 280 mm stroke, a freely pre-positionable moving finger and an adjustable gripping force of 150 to 1,200 N. This allows one gripper to handle a wide range of cartons, open-top corrugated trays, beverage crates and KLT containers without changing the gripper.

Integrated part detection and continuous grip monitoring provide feedback from pick to place. INTRAPAL is rated for workpieces weighing up to 60 kg with form-fit gripping or up to 30 kg with friction-fit gripping. The permissible payload in an application depends on the complete robot and tool configuration.

Our new URCapX Plugin makes INTRAPAL’s functions directly available in PolyScope X, allowing users to configure, program and control the gripper from the robot interface. INTRAPAL supports Ethernet TCP/IP as standard. On Gen 7, the short Ethernet connection and power supply at the new tool flange keeps cabling short and avoids routing a long communication cable along the robot arm. Alternatively, optional Modbus RTU enables operation through the robot’s Tool I/O.

The g-Series high-power tool flange allows INTRAPAL to operate at full gripping force directly from the robot, supporting secure handling of larger load carriers in palletizing workflows. Users also benefit from the new SP7 Smart Panel and its intuitive interface, which brings teaching and programming directly at the tool flange.

For applications requiring additional functionality at the gripping point, INTRAPAL’s integrated IO-Link interfaces allow compatible third-party sensors and actuators, such as distance sensors, to be connected directly to the gripper fingers. These are then controlled via the GRIPLINK® ecosystem in PolyScope X.

Results

For end users, the immediate benefit is a cleaner end-of-arm installation and a more direct commissioning workflow. Instead of mechanically exchanging the complete gripper for every new format, users can adjust the finger position, gripping force and process parameters in the robot program.

Fewer external components and shorter cable paths simplify the installation, while integrated part detection and continuous grip monitoring make the gripping process more transparent. The result is an adaptable palletizing solution designed for frequent format changes, reliable operation and future expansion.

“With Gen 7, Universal Robots has created the connectivity and payload headroom to support demanding intralogistics applications. Together with our new URCapX integration, INTRAPAL can be connected directly at the tool flange and operated in PolyScope X, making powerful palletizing solutions easier to integrate and adapt.”

- Dr. Karsten Weiss, Founder and CEO, WEISS ROBOTICS

Universal Robots Gen 7

Universal Robots (UR), the original collaborative industrial robot manufacturer and part of Teradyne Robotics, introduced Gen 7, its seventh-generation robotics platform anchored by the PolyScope X robot operating system. Built for the next generation of automation, Gen 7 expands connectivity between robots, software, sensors, vision systems and end effectors, helping manufacturers deploy more capable applications with less integration effort.

Redesigned from tool flange to controller, the new Gen 7 robot platform is AI-ready by design, giving manufacturers unrivaled compute, connectivity and open architecture to deploy AI models directly on production robots without a performance trade-off.

What's new in Gen 7?

• New g-Series robot arms: UR10g-1750, UR17g-1300, and UR18g-950, joining the e-Series and UR Series lineup.
• AI-ready tool flange: Delivers data, high-power and safety directly to the tool flange, making it easier to connect cameras, sensors, grippers and other peripherals while reducing cabling complexity.
• New SP7 Smart Panel, for teaching and programming directly at the tool flange.
• CB7 Core controller: 40% more compute in a 30% smaller footprint, enabling multi-network communication with PLCs, HMIs, MES platforms, IPCs, and vision systems while reducing the need for external switches.
• PolyScope X software platform: Brings modern programming tools with open APIs for building and deploying edge-AI applications using IPCs and external AI processing, along with ISO 10218-1:2025 safety functionality and cybersecurity compliance.
• Redesigned TP7 Core teach pendant for improved ergonomics and faster programming.
• Built-in safety and cybersecurity: All g-Series robots are TÜV certified to ISO 10218-1 and UL1740, while Teradyne Robotics is certified to IEC 62443-4-1 ML3 for secure software development practices

Ecosystem

Gen 7 is backed by the UR+ ecosystem, a curated, rigorously tested portfolio of automation products, each validated by UR before reaching market.

“What our partners are doing is exactly the kind of proof point that demonstrates the formative power of UR´s open platform and quality ecosystem. They are taking advantage of the advanced connectivity features on our Gen 7's platform and build on it to provide easy-to-integrate products that run on the floor today.”

- Susanne Nördinger, Head of Ecosystem Success EMEA

Why This Matters

For manufacturers in food and beverage, production logistics, warehousing and other high-mix environments, product formats and material-flow requirements can change quickly. Combining INTRAPAL with Universal Robots Gen 7 provides a flexible, software-configurable approach to palletizing and material handling—without requiring a separate gripper for every format.

Customers gain an integrated gripping process that is easier to deploy, easier to monitor and ready to grow with future automation requirements.

Explore INTRAPAL’s technical specifications, applications and available downloads on the INTRAPAL product page and download the INTRAPAL leaflet here.

Planning a palletizing or intralogistics application with Universal Robots Gen 7? Contact WEISS ROBOTICS to discuss your workpieces, payload requirements and the right finger configuration for your application.

ABOUT WEISS ROBOTICS

WEISS ROBOTICS develops and manufactures smart servo-electric grippers for demanding automation tasks. The owner-managed family business based in Ludwigsburg, Germany, serves customers and partners worldwide. Its solutions are used in electronics manufacturing, assembly automation, pharmaceutical and life science applications and intralogistics.

Its grippers combine precision and flexibility with finely adjustable gripping force. The GRIPLINK® ecosystem enables Plug & Produce through tested robot plug-ins, standardised interfaces and unified commands, reducing integration and commissioning effort.

Intelligent control, integrated sensing and real-time process data enable efficient, reliable gripping processes, consistent quality and continuous monitoring, diagnostics and optimisation – key capabilities for Physical AI. WEISS ROBOTICS combines pioneering innovation with reliable “Made in Germany” quality, long-term thinking and personal service.

Celine Weiß, Marketing Manager Partner & Events, c.weiss@weiss-robotics.com

ABOUT UNIVERSAL ROBOTS

Universal Robots is a global leader incollaborative industrial robots (cobots). With over 100,000 cobots sold worldwide, the company's user-friendly platform is supported by intuitive PolyScope software, award-winning training, comprehensive services, and the world's best cobot ecosystem, delivering innovation and choice to customers across a wide range of industries. With the most advanced robots in their class and a growing catalogue of ready-to-deploy AI applications, UR's latest technology is built for the physical AI revolution.

Universal Robots is part of Teradyne Robotics, a division of Teradyne Inc. (NASDAQ:TER), a leading supplier of automated test equipment and advanced robotics systems.

Nilufar Moosavi, Product Marketing Manager for Physical AI & Ecosystem, nims@universal-robots.com

How can robots independently perform complex tasks in real-world environments? This is the question being explored by the AICOR Institute for Artificial Intelligence (IAI) at the University of Bremen, headed by Prof. Dr. h.c. Michael Beetz.The research focuses on robotic systems that can perceive their environment, plan actions and make decisions autonomously. Instead of simply executing pre-programmed motion sequences, these systems are designed to respond flexibly to different situations – both in household and industrial environments.

A key prerequisite for this is reliable interaction with the physical world. This is exactly where gripping technology comes into play. Malte Huerkamp, Research Associate at the IAI, describes its importance as follows: “Without a reliable gripping system, neither tools can be operated nor objects handled, which blocks any further research progress.”

Flexible gripping technology for demanding research scenarios

For the experimental setups at the IAI, a gripping system was required that is precise, durable and flexible to use. The decision was made in favor of gripping modules from WEISS Robotics.
The grippers are currently being used in experiments for cutting fruit and vegetables – a subtask of automated meal preparation. Tasks like these clearly demonstrate how demanding robotic manipulation is in real-world scenarios: different objects, tools and materials require flexible solutions at the robot arm.
One important advantage is the ability to individually design and replace the gripper fingers. The team around Prof. Dr. h.c. Michael Beetz explains: “This allows us to use the same gripper for different tools and objects without having to change the entire system every time.”

Easy integration into existing robot platforms

In addition to mechanical flexibility, integration into the existing laboratory environment also played an important role. At the IAI, the gripping systems are used in combination with UR5 robots.
The software integration was also straightforward. The researchers report: “Thanks to the supplied ROS2 and Python interfaces, the gripping system could be quickly integrated into our existing system landscape without major integration effort.”
This enabled the grippers to be integrated quickly into the existing research environment and used for various experiments.

Professional gripping technology for research, teaching and student projects

The gripping systems have now become an integral part of the robot platforms at the IAI. As a result, they are used not only in research projects, but also in courses, project work, and bachelor’s and master’s theses.
For students, this provides direct access to professional gripping technology and realistic application scenarios. Working with the systems connects theoretical knowledge with practical robotics experience and supports the development of technical skills for their future careers.

Precise gripping systems as a key component for robots as everyday assistants

One central research focus in the coming years will be on manipulation tasks that enable robots to become reliable and largely autonomous assistants in everyday life. These include applications such as meal preparation or loading and unloading dishwashers.
For such scenarios to be not only planned but actually carried out, gripping systems are needed that are precise, reliable and flexible to integrate. This is exactly where the gripping systems from WEISS Robotics make a decisive contribution: they combine mechanical precision with adaptable gripper fingers and suitable interfaces for integration into modern robot platforms.

Looking to the future, the team at the AICOR Institute writes: “In the coming years, the trend will continue toward robots increasingly working together with humans and performing complex tasks based on natural-language instructions.”

We are pleased that gripping systems from WEISS Robotics are supporting the research work at the AICOR Institute for Artificial Intelligence at the University of Bremen and that we are contributing to the next generation of cognitive robotic systems.