Precision meets flexibility

Zimmer Group components automate measuring tasks

October 13, 2025

In-process measurement is an indispensable part of modern production processes—especially for small and medium-sized series and in contract manufacturing. But how can you ensure that internal and external diameters or groove geometries are measured accurately and efficiently, even with varying components?

This was the question facing Kroeplin GmbH, a specialist in measurement technology. “The biggest challenge is to avoid measurement errors caused by inaccuracies in the robot,” explains Benno Schmidt, Technical Sales at Kroeplin. “If the positioning is not cleanly decoupled, the deviation is transferred directly to the workpiece.”

The measuring robot as a solution

Kroeplin meets this challenge with an integrative platform: the Kroeplin measuring robot (KMR), which was developed to integrate fully automated quality controls into production.

The KMR enables automatic measurements with tactile measuring tools, the creation of traceable measurement reports, and the communication of measurement results to production, so that, for example, machines are automatically stopped in the event of tolerance deviations. To achieve this, various measuring devices, grippers, and holders must be flexibly integrated—this is exactly where the components from Zimmer Group come into play.

Modular approach for maximum precision

At the heart of the KMR is a flexible exchange system that allows different measuring tools to be exchanged in a matter of seconds. This is made possible by Zimmer Group FWR series tool changer, which can be operated purely mechanically and without additional energy sources. The changeover is intuitive, safe, and can even be done with just one hand - a decisive advantage in an environment where flexibility counts.

Gripper solutions from Zimmer Group have been integrated for handling the components. The HRC gripper from the HRC-03 series ensures that pick-and-place tasks are not only precise but also particularly efficient. Its absolute encoder eliminates the need for a reference run, saving time, especially when tools are changed frequently. It is supplemented by a GPD5000 series three-jaw gripper, which is specially designed for round components and thus ensures the necessary repeat accuracy during clamping.

A zero-point clamping system is also used to ensure that the measuring equipment can be positioned accurately and with repeatable precision at all times. It enables flexible clamping of the holders and thus contributes significantly to the overall precision of the system.

How Zimmer Group components strengthen the KMR

The integration of these components makes the KMR a solution that not only measures, but also embeds quality assurance in the manufacturing process.

Reducing sources of error: The mechanical changes and precise clamping systems decouple inaccuracies in the robot from the measuring tasks, which reduces systematic measurement deviations.

Flexibility & time savings: A tool change with FWR50, combined with grippers and clamping technology, reduces setup times and allows quick changes between measuring tasks or component variants.

Automation & traceability: Measurement protocols and automatic communication interfaces in the KMR allow for documented quality and intervene directly in the production flow (e.g., stopping when tolerances are exceeded).

Scalability & cost-effectiveness: The modular solution can be expanded with additional stations, changeover stations, and tools, enabling even heterogeneous quantities and varying component geometries to be tested automatically in a cost-effective manner.

Why Zimmer Group?

“Above all, we were impressed by the simple, intuitive operation and compatibility with the robot,” emphasizes Schmidt. Other suppliers were unable to meet these requirements with comparable quality. The price-performance ratio was also a decisive factor – in a market often characterized by high costs, this was a strong argument.

Throughout the project phase, Schmidt particularly emphasizes the support provided by Zimmer Group: “The collaboration was consistently fast, competent, and exemplary. The work was solution-oriented and a solution was always found. Response times were fast and always effective.”

Looking ahead

With the modular combination of exchange system, grippers, and clamping technology, Kroeplin has developed a system that meets the high requirements for precision, flexibility, and user-friendliness.

Conclusion: The partnership between Kroeplin and Zimmer Group impressively demonstrates how well-designed components and practical cooperation contribute to setting new standards in production measurement technology.

For more information on Precision meets flexibility talk to Zimmer Group UK Ltd