A compact pick-and-place arm that lifts and transfers sheet metal/wood/acrylic using vacuum suction cups. A vacuum pump or Venturi ejector creates negative pressure; check valves + vacuum switch keep parts safe during moves. Great to demonstrate pneumatics, vacuum physics, gripping force maths, and industrial safety.

Parts Used:

1. Arm & Frame – Pivoting boom with linear guide or lift column; counterweight/assist spring.
2. End-Effector Plate – Aluminum manifold with 2–6 suction cups (Ø 60–150 mm) on level compensators.
3. Vacuum Source – Electric vacuum pump (−60 to −85 kPa) or Venturi ejector (compressed air).
4. Vacuum Circuit – Filter, gauge, check/non-return valve, vacuum reservoir, flow restrictors, silencer.
5. Valves & Control – 3/2 or 5/2 solenoid valve (ejector), vacuum switch for “part present”, manual pushbutton/foot pedal.
6. Motion Actuators – Lift: pneumatic/electric linear actuator; swivel/tilt (0–90°) cylinder (optional).
7. Safety – E-stop, mechanical stops, cable/air management, soft edge guards on plate.
8. Power/Air Prep – FRL (filter-regulator-lubricator) for compressed air; 12/24 V supply for valves/sensors.