Heavy-duty system manipulates parts up to 100kg

Edited by the Engineeringtalk editorial team Mar 25, 2004

A new, heavy-duty version of its RoboFlex parts handling and manipulation system has been introduced by Gudel Lineartec.

A new, heavy-duty version of its RoboFlex parts handling and manipulation system has been introduced by Gudel Lineartec.

With four times the load carrying capacity of standard RoboFlex units, the latest model enables workpiece grippers and operating heads weighing up to 100kg to be located and oriented precisely in any axis.

RoboFlex units offer the ultimate in component handling flexibility by combining the versatility of a five-axis industrial robot with the precision of an advanced, single axis gantry module.

When used as an overhead mounted system, RoboFlex requires minimal floor space and ceiling clearance, making it the ideal choice for automatic loading and unloading of machining cells, multistage production processes and press work handling - particularly in restricted access locations.

It is equally suitable for welding operations, the precise application of adhesives and sealants or further in-process assembly processes.

Unlike other linear-based systems, RoboFlex eliminates the need for precise alignment of machine tools, process stations or component feed units.

Installation time and costs can therefore be minimised, and the subsequent addition or replacement of equipment simplified.

The system also enables guarding to be rationalised at each workstation and individual machines within assembly lines to be isolated for repair or routine maintenance, without disrupting production.

It also provides the flexibility to allow parallel operation of designated machines within the installation, for prototyping work or to prove out new products and processes.

Rapid component transfer is achieved through the system's low mass and inertia.

Both 100 and 25kg payload versions provide traverse speeds of more than 2m/s over extended linear runs and incorporate servomotor control for smooth acceleration and deceleration.

In addition, high precision rack and pinion drives and worm gearboxes - along with hardened and ground guideways - ensure pinpoint accuracy and repeatability of better than +/-0.1mm.

RoboFlex features industry-standard ABB S4C Plus or Kuka KR C2 controls, which provide fast and intuitive programming, as well as operator-guided "self-teach" cycles.

The system can be easily programmed to allow parts to be tracked and placed on moving conveyors, or automatically stacked in workpiece pallets.

Furthermore, RoboFlex can be configured to create and manage interoperational buffer stocks, if required.

Multiple robot carriages can be mounted on the single linear beam to provide fully integrated complex work-handling solutions, and the system's modular design permits installations to be revised or extended at any time to meet changing operational requirements.

RoboFlex is manufactured in-house to rigorous ISO9001 quality standards and can be supplied in a wide variety of materials and protective coatings to combat the most aggressive operating environments.

Systems can also incorporate automatic lubrication of rails, rollers, drive pinions and racks to ensure trouble-free operation and low-maintenance at ambient temperatures down to -20C.