Cengiz Özemli
Akademisyen
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## Igus Linear Robot Axes Expand Reach in Automation Cells
Igus has introduced a new linear motion axis to facilitate robot integration and expand the working area in CNC machining and flexible manufacturing systems.
Expanding the working area of industrial robots is a common need, especially in flexible manufacturing and machine tending applications. Igus's newly developed seventh-axis linear system not only extends robots' working areas but also simplifies their integration into existing automation environments.
### Increasing Robot Reach in Machine Tending
The seventh axis allows articulated robots to move along a linear rail. This enables a single robot to serve multiple workstations, such as CNC machines or assembly stations. This method increases robot utilization in factory automation, reducing the need for new robot systems.
The Igus linear axis is designed for robots weighing up to 55 kg and can increase the working area up to fourfold. The system is built on an aluminum linear profile with a maximum length of 6,000 mm. The carriage, running on lubrication-free polymer plain bearings, allows movement along the axis.
The carriage is propelled by an electric motor and a belt mechanism, reaching speeds of 0.6 m/s. The positioning accuracy is stated as ±0.3 mm. Adapter kits are available for direct mounting of robots onto the carriage.
### Cable Management and Industrial Durability
For managing moving cables, the system integrates Igus e-chains® cable carriers, which protect power and data connections. This cable management is crucial in robot systems where cable failures can impact operational reliability.
### Easy Integration with Robot Control Systems
A primary goal in the system's design was to reduce the effort required to integrate the linear axis with robot control systems. The axis can connect to robot controllers via pre-configured software interfaces and offers automatic recognition after loading.
Compatibility includes Universal Robots UR20 and UR30 models, as well as the FANUC CRX series. Integration with Epson, Dobot, Igus, and Omron controllers is also supported.
Users can configure and control the axis through the robot's existing control interface. Control options include digital I/O interfaces, URCap environments, and Igus Robot Control software.
### Configuration and Ease of Use
The system includes safety features such as emergency stop integration as standard, reducing the need for additional engineering.
Through an online configuration tool, parameters such as robot type, mounting style, axis length, and operating speed can be selected to create application-specific configurations. These tools simplify the technical specification and cost estimation processes in automation projects.
### The Rise of Modular Automation in Industry
The seventh-axis solution has already been used in over 500 applications, reflecting the trend of modular automation components aimed at rapidly and flexibly deploying robots in dynamic production environments.
