7. Axis made of aluminum

Indunorm Bewegungstechnik GmbH is strategically expanding its portfolio in linear motion technology: The 7th axis, proven for many years in its own handling systems, is now available as a stand-alone product in a newly developed aluminum version in four sizes. It is specifically designed for cobots as well as small and medium-sized robot systems. Users benefit from high flexibility: The 7th axis is compatible with all common robot brands and can be retrofitted. Existing axes can be extended with additional segments without replacing existing systems.

"With the new aluminum 7th axis, we are specifically meeting customer demands for more compact and economical solutions for cobots and lightweight robot systems," says Klaus-Dieter Matthes, Managing Director of Indunorm Bewegungstechnik GmbH. 7th axes extend the working range of articulated robots or cobots along a linear travel axis. This allows a single robot to operate multiple stations.

Proven principle, new product

At Indunorm, this technology has been an integral part of customer-specific automation solutions for more than two decades. The impetus for the new development came from specific customer requests. "We realized that our established steel structures were simply over-engineered for many cobot applications – too large, too heavy, too expensive," explains Matthes. "So we designed a more compact, lighter, and more economical solution."

The response has confirmed this move: In recent months, the company has seen increasing demand for the aluminum versions. At the same time, the solutions provider is maintaining its portfolio of proven steel structures in three sizes. These are designed for high payloads and large robot systems weighing up to several tons.

Economic Advantages in Automation Projects

The use of a 7th axis can replace or supplement the installation of additional robot systems. Individual robots can operate multiple workstations, thereby making production processes more efficient. "In many projects, the cost of a 7th axis is only about 20 to 25 percent of that of an additional robot system," says Matthes. In addition to reduced investment costs, energy consumption is also lower. The control system is significantly less complex due to the reduced drive and control technology required.

Design with High Load Capacities

Indunorm's design relies on ball-recirculating linear guides from THK. Compared to roller guides, these enable higher load capacities in a compact installation space. "We achieve higher load capacities than many competitors on a smaller cross-section," explains Matthes. "This gives our customers more performance with a simultaneously reduced overall size."

The systems are designed to be manufacturer-independent and compatible with common robot brands such as KUKA, FANUC, Yaskawa, Universal Robots, and ABB, as well as with various cobot solutions. "This openness is important to us. Our 7th axis is designed to work with all common robot systems," explains Matthes.

Modularity and Validated Quality

A key feature is long-term expandability. Existing axes can be extended with additional segments without replacing existing systems. This ensures that production systems remain adaptable to future requirements. "If a customer installs ten meters today, they can easily add further segments in five years," says Matthes. In addition to classic floor mounting, wall and ceiling installations are also possible.

All sizes are tested in internal test rigs under realistic load conditions. Load capacity, speed, acceleration, and positioning accuracy are verified over extended periods. The goal is not only short-term performance but, in particular, the long-term stability of positioning accuracy in continuous industrial operation. "An axis must deliver the same precision after years of use as it did on day one," emphasizes Matthes.