What is the SAM platform and how does it differ from third-party robots?

SAM (Sumitomo. Automation. Machine.) is Sumitomo (SHI) Demag's in-house automation platform, purpose-built to integrate with their IntElect injection molding machines. Unlike third-party robots that require a separate controller, communication gateway, and cross-vendor programming effort, SAM robots plug directly into the IntElect control architecture. A single HMI runs the IMM, robot, and peripherals. This single-source approach reduces commissioning time, eliminates multi-vendor support headaches, and ensures coordinated motion between clamp opening and part removal.

SAM-C vs. SAM-S: which robot type for which application?

The SAM-C is a Cartesian (linear) robot series spanning 3 kg, 5 kg, 10 kg, and 20 kg payload classes for IMMs from 50 to 500 tons. It handles straightforward pick-and-place, part removal, and stacking with cycle times down to 10 seconds. The SAM-S is a 6-axis hybrid combining Scara kinematics with a linear base, offered in 12 kg and 25 kg payloads for IMMs from 130 to 1,000 tons. It targets complex demolding paths, insert loading, and multi-axis reorientation that exceed what a Cartesian beam robot can do—but without the complexity and footprint of a full industrial 6-axis arm.

What programming and service tools are included?

SAM robots ship with a drag-and-drop icon-based programming library—no text coding required. IO-Link communication connects sensors, grippers, and actuators across the cell. The myConnect web-based platform provides remote diagnostics, troubleshooting, and OEE monitoring.