Bosch Rexroth Expands Linear Robot Portfolio
October 26, 2022
Bosch Rexroth has announced expanding its portfolio of linear robots with new axis combinations and sizes to support factory automation applications. The much wider range of working areas and loads makes the Cartesian subsystems also suitable for applications such as battery handling or intralogistics.
Bosch Rexroth said the robots can be selected and sized quickly through predefined axis combinations, and then be configured and finalized online and ordered as preassembled subsystems – optionally with controllers for the new ctrlX AUTOMATION platform. Each multi-axis system is also available as a Smart Function Kit for handling or dispensing.
The expanded range includes eight different axis combinations with 68 sizes, and can be used in sectors such as automotive (including battery production), pharmaceuticals, and fast moving consumer goods (FMCG). Applications include pick and place, positioning and palletizing, as well as feeding, shifting and loading or even dispensing tasks.
For use in intralogistics, including order picking and packaging, the new multi-axis systems cover large working ranges with stroke lengths of up to three meters in the X and Y directions, and up to 1.5 meters in the Z direction, Bosch Rexroth said. The new load spectrum extends up to 160 kg with three axes, and up to 200 kg with two axes. This makes the Cartesian robots suitable for several tasks, including handling individual parts, containers and boxes.
A new single-axis solution aims to benefit robot integrators by enabling a simple, additional linear axis for easy mounting of robots. The company said this configuration lets the robot move in a linear motion, rather than remain affixed in a stationary position.
The standardized procedure for selecting and sizing a suitable subsystem can be carried out quickly and easily using predefined reference processes with LinSelect, Bosch Rexroth added. While the design is finalized in the online configurator, the 3D CAD data can be retrieved, an inquiry started or the system ordered via the e-shop. In order to minimize installation times, Bosch Rexroth supplies the selected robot system in preassembled form. If required, it can be supplied with a complete energy chain and cable management. To make commissioning easier, the relevant axis parameters are stored in the motor encoder memory and can be read out automatically. Various attachment parts and interfaces also aim to make assembly easier.
The software add-on for the Smart Function Kits for handling or dispensing can save users even more time, the company said. As part of the preinstalled software package, a wizard guides users intuitively through the commissioning process. The system is parameterized and the axes referenced automatically. Sequencing is carried out on a visual basis with the help of ready-to-use functional modules and can be completed in just a few minutes. A combination of hardware and software allows for complex line movements to be reproduced using simple graphic programming. Line integration can also be carried out easily with the help of suitable function modules.
For more information on the new robots, visit the Bosch Rexroth website here.
