Automate 2022 Highlights Advancements in Automation Technology

• MP1000R Autonomous Mobile Robot (AMR): Using the RoKIT Locator Software, the MP1000R is able to navigate autonomously in highly dynamic environments without additional infrastructure. The MP1000R is a flexible and scalable solution that can replace manual forklifts and tuggers in manufacturing spaces, leading to improved efficiency and helping to protect workers from potential injury.
• Flexible Transport System (FTS): This working system demonstrates a magnetically propelled pallet transport system for high transfer speeds and precise pallet positioning that allows for independent and synchronized pallet movement, as well as integration into a traditional conveyor system.
• Smart Function Kit for Handling: The kiosk includes a presentation that highlights the features and benefits of the Smart Function Kit for Handling, combined with a working Cartesian multi-axis system, whose configuration output can be created by booth visitors using adjacent Bosch Rexroth eTools software demonstration. The exhibit will present how predefined multi-axis combinations can be easily sized, configured and ordered as one part number. In addition, the Smart Function Kit for Handling software app running on ctrlX allows fast commissioning through auto parameterization of the servo drive.
• ctrlX AUTOMATION Cube: This unique four-sided demonstration exhibit showcases the key capabilities of the ctrlX CORE automation controller. The exhibit uses a working ctrlX CORE controller to highlight the system’s connectivity through various automation and IT networks. Along with details about new ctrlX AUTOMATION apps from third-party suppliers, booth visitors will be able to see how the ctrlX CORE communicates with other demos in the booth and be able to program motion sequences for the Smart Function Kit for Handling demo system.

Kollmorgen Introducing New Frameless Servo Motors for Robots

Kollmorgen will exhibit its newly launched TBM2G series of frameless servo motors for robots. The motors can be used in various types of robots including collaborative, surgical, aerospace and defense, and more. According to the company, the new motors help to simplify the design of robots while providing the performance necessary in a lightweight and compact package. 

The TBM2G series motors offer: 

• high-performance torque 
• higher load-carrying capacity
• improved energy efficiency, 
• lower thermal rise, 
• faster and smoother movements. 

Inclusion of advanced windings and materials enable the motors to provide the torque and efficiency necessary for various battery applications across a wide range of speeds. The motors can work at high speeds while not exceeding 80°C to ensure safety of those working around the robots. 

Seven frame sizes with three stack lengths each are available for a total of 21 standard motor options. 

Per the company's press release, the following technologies will be exhibited: 

• MOTORIZED BALL SCREW ACTUATOR, MBSA: The MBSA-Series Motorized Ball Screw actuator directly integrates a precision-ground ball screw with a high-accuracy stepper motor into a remarkably compact and space-saving form factor. It's high positioning accuracy and low noise performance is ideal for a range of life-critical medical and lab equipment applications.
• MOTORIZED LINEAR ACTUATOR, MONOCARRIER™ MCE: The MCE – Electrified Monocarrier integrates ball screws, linear guides, support bearings and stepper motors into a turnkey mechatronic solution: a preassembled and pretested single-axis actuator that delivers outstanding precision and accuracy in a lightweight, compact form factor.
• ENCLOSED LINEAR ACTUATOR, ROBOT MODULE: NSK Robot Module is a linear actuator that utilizes high precision NSK linear guides, ball screws and Monocarriers, fully integrated into a machined extruded aluminum housing. They are available in a variety of standard sizes and lengths and can be combined to create custom multi-axis systems. Ideal for industrial and pick-and-place applications, the modules include NSK's K1 integrated lubrication unit for years of maintenance-free operation.
• LINEAR STAGES: NSK combines a range of proprietary machine components including linear guides, actuators, ball screws, motors, and mounting interfaces to create multi-axis stages customized for a broad range of application types and payload capacities.
• LINEAR GUIDES: With the capability of moving multiple-ton industrial loads with millimetric accuracy, the NH/NS series linear guide combines NSK expertise in materials engineering with decades of advances in tribology and precision machining. They can be combined with high-performance seals and lubrication units for long-lasting performance in contaminant-prone environments. Miniature guide series PU and PE are ideal for smaller automation applications. Exhibiting very low dynamic friction resulting in smoother motion with reduced noise, the new design supports a wide variety of applications. Martensite stainless steel is the standard material providing excellent corrosion resistance, and K1™ Lubrication units extend product life.
• BALL SCREWS: Widely acknowledged as the world leader in ball screw technology, NSK offers precision-ground units in standard and custom configurations for a vast array of applications. From heavy industrial manufacturing to life-critical surgical robotics, these units deliver superior positioning accuracy, repeatability, and durability.
• A popular choice for automation is the Compact FA series ball screw. It is a cutting-edge component that delivers high-speed positioning with extreme rigidity and low noise performance from one of the most compact designs in the world. With a dramatically reduced ball nut diameter and the availability of low-profile support units, it is a compelling solution for space-saving design of equipment and devices.
• DIRECT DRIVE MEGATORQUE™ MOTORS: Featuring remarkable positioning resolution of over 2.6 million pulses/revolution, the NSK Megatorque Motor Series is ideal for a range of indexing, automation, and robotic applications where speed, compact size, and accuracy are paramount. They feature precision-machined crossed roller bearings for outstanding dependability and maintenance-free running.

Epson Robots Introducing New SCARA Robots

Epson Robots has introduced a new line of SCARA robots, the GX Series. They will be shown for the first time during Automate 2022. 

The new GX4 and GX8 robots feature smooth motion control and can be used for heavy payloads through use of Epson GYROPLUS technology. They also feature: 

• multiple arm configurations
• 250-350 mm reach (GX4) and 450-650 mm reach (GX8)
• ultra-high precision
• higher throughput
• battery-less encoders
• built-in Ethernet cables

Larger motors are included integrated into the robots to better enable them to handle heavy loads at faster speeds. The GX4 has a payload capacity of 4 kg and the GX8 of 8 kg. 

The robots are small in size, aiding use in space-constrained environments. They can also be used in various applications including Cleanroom (ISO3).