In today's environment, high-availability production relies on efficient, fast and easy-to-implement automation solutions. Bosch Rexroth shows how this can be achieved in practice using single-axis and multi-axis
applications as examples.
Whether it is reducing CO2 emissions, optimizing the supply chain, addressing the shortage of skilled workers or developing new business areas, the challenges facing mechanical engineering are diverse. These
challenges not only affect the design process, but also the choice of suppliers. To conquer the linear drive technology market, it is necessary to be able to provide targeted solutions to the pressing problems in the
field of automation. The most important question is: How can typical motion tasks be performed as quickly and efficiently as possible?
Perform various tasks with ease
In the field of automation, linear drive technology can be easily used for a variety of different tasks. Their application ranges from picking, placing, feeding, dispensing, positioning, separating, stacking to even tasks
such as assembly, tightening and testing. However, it is not easy for machine or system manufacturers to select individual components from a catalog and then configure and coordinate them. Therefore, we need an
intelligently connected product portfolio that can select, design and fully configure single axes, actuators and multi-axis systems digitally. If necessary, these portfolios should also include motors and drive controllers, or even complete intelligent subsystems with software.
The fast path to high-availability production lines
Bosch Rexroth offers a modular building system consisting of linear axes, drive systems, and software solutions. Automation processes in the industry will be faster and simpler than before. Whether feeding, transfe
rring, palletizing, or loading and unloading, all these process steps can be performed in a very economical way with the help of various linear axes.
Economical linear modules for handling small parts
Given the wide range of motion requirements, a different linear axis can be used for each process step. For example, in the SMS portfolio (compact screw drive modules) from Bosch Rexroth, a small and compact
handling axis is sufficient for feeding, transferring or clamping a pallet of small parts at relatively slow cycle times. Designed for handling small parts, the small modules with ball screw assemblies are particularly
space-saving with lightweight aluminum as part of the linear guide. Available in five sizes (30, 40, 50, 80 and 120), typical loads of less than 1 to 22 kg can be moved efficiently and cost-effectively over a distance
of 1200 mm. As an ideal alternative to pneumatic devices, the ultra-compact linear axes also save energy and reduce maintenance costs.
Precise linear axes for core processes
As the complexity and requirements of motion increase, linear modules must be even more precise, dynamic and durable. Bosch Rexroth has developed the MKK/MKR linear module series for applications that require
short cycle times and higher process forces. In this series, a classic ball rail system is installed in the aluminum body. The slide design with modular bracket can carry loads of 5 to 200 kg and can reach a maximum
length of 12 m with belt drive and a maximum length of 4 m with ball screw assembly.
Comprehensive multi-axis system and linear robot solutions
Due to their high rigidity, linear axes are also suitable for unsupported installation of Cartesian linear robots. As a particularly space-saving solution, the CKK/CKR compact module combines two guides on one axis.
In this way, goods weighing up to 220 kg can be transported over a length of up to 10 m, even with high lateral forces or moment loads.
When palletizing, various linear systems are often combined to create a multi-axis system that is both cost-effective and powerful and durable. The Smart Function Kit — Handling from Bosch Rexroth offers a
modular system that can be quickly and flexibly combined to create a variety of complete solutions and quickly put into use with pre-installed operating software. For scenarios with short cycle times and precise
positioning, two synchronized MKR linear modules in the X direction can be combined with compact modules for the Y and Z axes to form a three-axis system. Actuators and servo presses
Linear drive technology has made a significant contribution to electric cylinders for factory automation. Electromechanical solutions offer an alternative to pneumatic or fluid-driven actuators, which convert motor
torque directly and precisely into motion, saving energy and resources. Electric cylinders, which mainly consist of direct drives and built-in ball or planetary screw assemblies, are widely used in the fields of electronics
and battery production or fast-moving consumer goods (FMCG). A significant advantage of electromechanical actuators is that they are very easy to control and program.
The EMC and EMC-HP electric cylinder series from Bosch Rexroth cover a wide range of applications, from dynamic positioning tasks with a force of 0.1 kN to stamping and connection applications with a force of
100 kN. The complete range of functions includes about 3,000 different configurations, which can be easily defined and ordered using electronic tools. The combination of force sensors, servomotors, drive controller
s and industrial PCs with operating software enables ready-to-use servo presses to also be applied as smart mechatronics products (Smart Function Kit) and ordered directly under the material number. The mechatr
onic subsystem is preassembled and can be commissioned and graphically programmed in just a few minutes using the preinstalled browser-based operating software. The package also allows monitoring and trans
mission of process and quality data, including pass/fail evaluation. In addition, function blocks are available for quick and easy connection to higher-level control systems.
Solutions for customer-specific needs
Based on its standard linear transmission and drive technology solutions, Bosch Rexroth can quickly and efficiently meet requirements of any complexity and provide solutions based on customer-specific needs. This
includes, for example, custom modifications to accommodate special environmental conditions such as humidity, dust or even clean rooms. In addition, applications with specific dynamic operating requirements such
as gearbox reduction ratios and customized motor mountings are included.
Whether single-axis systems, multi-axis systems or electric cylinders, standard or customized, our modular linear systems and actuators meet every need, making automation tasks easy, fast and cost-effective. This is
particularly advantageous when linear drive technology components can be used not only individually but also as mechatronic subsystems for typical applications such as handling, punching and distribution. With
the Smart MechantronicX modular system, Bosch Rexroth has significantly shortened the time from design to implementation.
With smart software and electronic tools, coordinated drive and automation packages, and intuitive operating software, Bosch Rexroth is also working to alleviate the shortage of skilled workers. This enables compe
titive machines and systems to be brought to market faster.
