LINEAR MOTION FEATURE
the automation of downstream packaging applications has been the development of co-bots. These are robots designed with built-in safety features that allow them to work alongside human colleagues in mixed environments such as warehouses and fulfilment centres. Co-bots are now taking on a wide range of packaging tasks, including box filling, labelling and pallet stacking. Most co-bots operate from a fixed base,
which restricts the space over which they can operate. That limits their ability to take on certain tasks, such as transporting objects across longer distances, or handling at height. To overcome this, users are now installing their co-bots on moving platforms, powered by electromechanical actuators. Vertical pillars using a telescopic design can
be floor or ceiling mounted to allow a co-bot to work at any required height. That capability is particularly useful in pallet-stacking applications, which may require the robot to work anywhere from floor level to a height of 2m or more. Horizontal linear modules, meanwhile, allow co-bots to move along a
Sources: 1
packaging line to work at different stations, or to move automatically between machines. In either case, the precision inherent and rigidity of electromechanical actuators is a critical part of the system, ensuring the robot is stable and properly positioned for every task. In addition to its range of general purpose and
customised linear modules, Ewellix has worked with co-bot maker Universal Robotics (UR) to develop a set of plug-and-play solutions. The LIFTKIT telescopic vertical column and SLIDEKIT horizontal module are both supplied with a mechanical interface plate to allow quick secure mounting of a UR co-bot, along with a dedicated software interface that allows users to incorporate the new motion capabilities into their robot applications in as little as 30 minutes. The global packaging industry is
under pressure to control costs, improve productivity and reduce its environmental impact. Modern high- precision electromechanical actuators are
https://www.mckinsey.com/~/media/McKinsey/Industries/Advanced%20Electronics/Our%20Insights/Packaging%20solutions%20Poised%20to%20take%20off/
Packaging-solutions-Poised-to-take-off.pdf 2
https://cdn.ymaws.com/
www.ameripen.org/resource/resmgr/PDFs/White-Paper-Optimizing-Packa.pdf
3
https://www.ellenmacarthurfoundation.org/publications/the-new-plastics-economy-rethinking-the-future-of-plastics-catalysing-action 4
https://www.researchnester.com/reports/packaging-automation-market-global-demand-analysis-opportunity-outlook-2024/388 5
https://www.smithers.com/en-gb/resources/2019/jun/global-packaging-market-to-reach-$269-b-by-2024
INDUSTRY 4.0: LINEAR MOTION TECHNOLOGY
New from Schaeffler are the new
P.ACT series of electromechanical linear actuators. With potential applications ranging from production machinery, drive technology and industrial automation, to logistics, raw materials and mobile machinery,
P.ACT linear actuators offer high power density and significantly improved energy efficiency compared to hydraulic and pneumatic systems.
P.ACT linear actuators are protected by a rigid, robust, hexagonal-shaped, aluminium housing (up to class IP65S). They can be flexibly configured via a modular design platform, which enables them to be individually optimised for specific applications together with other
Schaeffler components.
Integrated T-slots along the entire length of the actuator enable flexible fixing options for the actuator and its accessories. The actuators can be used as both ‘force’ actuators and precise
positioning systems. A basic actuator version or a driven version are available in two sizes (ACT15 and ACT25). Options include an integrated high performance linear measuring system, additional position switches for flexibly setting the switching point, servo motors, and controller with Ethernet and/or digital I/O. Their combination of high performance and high energy efficiency in
such a compact design envelope, allow the
P.ACT series to be used in new application areas such as commercial and off-road vehicles. The high performance PWG planetary screw drive and ZKLF spindle bearing supports from Schaeffler ensure reliable operation even in the most challenging conditions.
Schaeffler
www.schaeffler.co.uk DESIGN SOLUTIONS | FEBRUARY 2021 31
a key ingredient in an emerging generation of smarter, more flexible, automation solutions that are helping the industry to achieve its goals.
Ewellix
https://www.ewellix.com/en/global/
Manufacturers can improve precision and speed with Ewellix electromechanical actuators
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