Schmalz Jumbo series vacuum tube lifters are boosting efficiency and employee health in internal logistics.

The relentless pace of internal logistics in India – from busy manufacturing hubs to expansive distribution centres – often conceals a silent struggle. Operators continuously contend with the repetitive and physically demanding task of manually handling a wide variety of goods: heavy sacks of raw materials, bulky cardboard boxes, slippery barrels, and awkward buckets and jugs. This ongoing strain is more than just an operational inefficiency; it's a serious concern for worker health and safety. The impact is far-reaching, from chronic back pain and increased injury rates to a fatigued workforce operating below capacity. These issues disrupt workflows, create bottlenecks and ultimately affect the bottom line.

Fortunately, a powerful solution is emerging to break this back-breaking cycle: the Schmalz Jumbo series of vacuum tube lifters. These intelligent, ergonomically designed lifting devices are transforming internal logistics processes across India and worldwide, offering a safer, faster, and more efficient method to handle a wide range of goods. Using advanced vacuum technology, Schmalz Jumbo lifters eliminate the physical strain of manual lifting, leading to improved operator safety and a noticeable boost in productivity.

Schmalz, fully aware of the challenges and growing demands of the Indian logistics sector, plays a key role in delivering these innovative solutions nationwide. With a strong focus on understanding local needs, the team provides expert consultation, professional installation, and responsive after-sales service – ensuring smooth integration of Jumbo lifters into existing workflows. By partnering with Indian businesses, Schmalz India is contributing to a safer and more efficient material-handling environment, helping companies enhance their internal logistics while prioritising worker well-being. This strong local presence ensures Indian industries can easily access and benefit from Schmalz’s cutting-edge technology.

The Schmalz Jumbo series includes several models, each designed to meet specific lifting needs. Among the most widely used are the JumboFlex, the JumboSprint, and its specialised variant, the JumboSprintEX for hazardous areas.

Jumboflex – lightweight and ergonomic

The JumboFlex is a versatile, ergonomic solution for frequent handling of lighter items up to 50 kg. Its standout feature is its one-hand operation, using an intuitive two-button control that allows the operator to lift, lower, and release loads with precision – even suspending them at any desired height. The comfortable handle design reduces strain and allows for extended use without fatigue. Businesses benefit from faster handling and improved ergonomics, especially in operations like order picking and machine loading. The quick-change system allows different vacuum grippers to be used, making the JumboFlex highly adaptable. Optional features like a swivel mechanism for horizontal rotation further enhance its flexibility and help reduce product damage during handling.

JumboSprint – heavy-duty performance

For heavier, more demanding tasks, the JumboSprint stands out. It is ideal for frequent handling of compact loads up to 300 kg. The bow-shaped operator handle surrounds the unit, offering excellent force transfer and control when lifting items such as bags, barrels, or rubber bales. Lifting and lowering are controlled by simply pulling up or pushing down on the handle lever, making it easy for a single operator to manage large loads. The modular system includes a wide range of grippers and accessories, along with an optional rotation unit for precise positioning. The JumboSprint also carries the AGR (Aktion Gesunder Rücken e.V.) seal of approval, recognising its role in reducing work-related musculoskeletal issues and improving operator motivation.

JumbosprintEx – safety in hazardous environments

Addressing safety in potentially explosive settings, the JumboSprintEX is a specialised model designed for use in ATEX zones 1/21 and 2/22. It can handle up to 250 kg in zone 2/22 and 85 kg in zone 1/21, offering safe lifting for industries like chemical processing or paint manufacturing. Like the standard JumboSprint, it features a fully enclosed operator handle for precise control. The system is available as a complete unit, including a vacuum tube lifter and an explosion-protected steel jib crane – making it easier to implement and fully compliant with stringent safety standards. It helps ensure operator protection and uninterrupted, safe operations in sensitive areas.

By adopting Schmalz Jumbo vacuum tube lifters, supported by the expertise of Schmalz India, businesses can directly address the challenges of manual lifting. Workers experience a significant reduction in physical strain, leading to better comfort, fewer injuries, and higher job satisfaction. For companies, this results in faster cycle times, improved material flow, and a healthier, more productive workforce. The investment in Schmalz Jumbo is not just about equipment – it's about securing the long-term health of employees and driving sustainable efficiency across operations, in India and beyond.

Schmalz India Private Limited, Pune. Tel: 020-69115500. Email: [email protected] 

Vention announces commercial availability of AI-ready automation controller

Vention, creator of the world's only full-stack software and hardware automation platform, has announced the commercial availability of its powerful third-generation controller, MachineMotion AI.

Featuring NVIDIA-accelerated computing technology and independent Bell LTE connectivity, the new industrial automation controller empowers manufacturers to deploy intelligent automation systems faster and more securely than ever before.

MachineMotion AI consolidates the work of multiple PLCs, seamlessly running up to 30 daisy-chained motors and coordinating robots, conveyors, and vision systems — all from a single, cabinet-free unit. This next-generation automation control system not only replaces PLCs but goes beyond their capabilities, such as powering autonomous robots, which require intensive, rapid computing capabilities.

MachineMotion AI is compatible with leading robot brands, including ABB, FANUC, and Universal Robots. It delivers up to 3,000W of power and drives up to 30 servo motors via EtherCAT.

"MachineMotion AI is truly a breakthrough automation control system," said Etienne Lacroix, Founder and CEO at Vention. "With built-in AI computing and independent cellular connectivity, manufacturers can deploy smarter systems faster — and keep them supported and secure without adding complexity to their internal networks. Our control system was built for modern AI-driven automation and robotics systems."

"Bell is pleased to collaborate with Vention on MachineMotion AI," said Michel Richer, SVP, Enterprise Solutions, Bell Canada. "The low latency, robust strength and security of Bell's network ensures reliable and seamless connectivity for Vention's innovative automation solutions, empowering manufacturers to achieve their goals."

MachineMotion AI is powered by NVIDIA Jetson and the NVIDIA Isaac CUDA-accelerated libraries and models, such as FoundationPose, which deliver the processing power necessary for compute-intensive AI tasks like real-time vision processing, bin-picking, and autonomous decision-making.