7th axis
Reach really expanded
For the first time, Thomson is offering a true collaborative reach extension for cobots. The new MovoTrak CTU (Cobot Transfer Unit), also known as the "7th axis", has configurable collision detection, which offers decisive advantages in both programming and controlling the robot. In parallel, a Robot Transfer Unit (RTU) for industrial applications was launched, which can be flexibly combined with the desired motor and frequency converter.
"With this extension of the collaborative functionality along the 7th axis, manufacturing companies can use so-called cobots to enable closer and more flexible cooperation between humans and machines. Using the same robot for several workstations also increases productivity and, last but not least, maximizes the robot's return on investment. We are therefore extremely proud to be able to bring this real game changer to the world of collaborative robotics," explains Hans Dahlen, Product Line Manager for Linear Systems at Thomson.
Collaborative robotics redefined
Also known as a reach extender, the Thomson MovoTrak CTU features a Kollmorgen servo motor and guide rails with linear units to move a cobot assembly between multiple processing stations. However, unlike all other 7th axes, the MovoTrak CTU includes collision detection similar to that of a cobot joint. During setup, users only need to adjust the sensitivity of the collision detection on a control tablet - the motor frequency converter then takes over collision monitoring and stopping the cobot together with the digital I/O.
In addition, the collision detection system continuously monitors the current consumption to immediately detect position errors in the motor and thus provide effective collision protection along the entire 7th axis. In addition, the system retracts a few millimeters after stopping to prevent pinching.
The Movotrak CTU can be seamlessly combined with robots of different sizes and brands, such as Universal Robots (UR). With this brand, all programming can be done directly via a URCap interface on the associated UR teach-in device. And since all collision monitoring and safety logic runs in the Thomson frequency converter, the bandwidth for the UR control remains almost untouched.
Easy to teach
Similar to the freedrive of cobot joints, the freewheel functionality of the MovoTrak CTU allows manual setting of linear waypoints during programming. Users manually push the robot along the 7th axis to the desired points in a sequence, which they then simply save with the push of a button. A practical example of this function is the task of an aircraft quality inspector who repeatedly needs images of the same area. Another would be a welder who wants to perform predefined welding operations in several places.
Robust and versatile
The MovoTrak CTU is an innovative solution based on two linear units that provide exceptional moment load capacity and rigidity of the system. This concept offers consistently high performance even when the robot arm is fully extended, setting new standards in reliability. In addition, there is unmatched flexibility: since the 7th axis can be integrated horizontally, overhead or in a wall configuration, it offers a highly flexible solution for a wide variety of application scenarios. In addition, thanks to its technical features, the MovoTrak CTU is compatible with even the largest cobots such as the UR20 and UR30, which meets the specific requirements of Thomson customers and also meets the high demand for such configurations.
An alternative for rapid integration of industrial robots
For users who prefer a servo/auxiliary axis motor with a frequency converter, Thomson is also launching a new industrial RTU. This makes it quick and easy to equip robot systems with a 7th axis. A Thomson RediMount™ motor adapter kit is included, so users can mount their motor in less than a minute and use their own robot controller to take advantage of the RTU. The industrial RTU is also compatible with numerous robot brands and sizes. It uses the same design with two linear units and carriages including a screw-on mounting plate as the Movotrak CTU. This means it offers the same optimal precision for a wide range of applications.
The Thomson Movotrak CTU, which is available now, is supplied as a complete kit including linear units, gearbox, motor, frequency converters, control unit, software, limit switches and cable management. The Thomson Industrial RTU includes two linear units, a gearbox, a motor mounting adapter kit, a mounting plate, limit switches and cable management.