FEATURE Robotics


Feature sponsored by


ALIO Industries responds to demand for highly-precise cartesian gantries


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artesian gantries are robotic and motion-control systems that operate within a defi ned three-dimensional space based


on the orthogonal X, Y and Z axes of the Cartesian coordinate system. Through linear motors, precision bearings and state- of-the-art geometric error compensation techniques these gantries enable precise movement along each axis, allowing for straight-line paths in any direction within the system’s defi ned workspace. As industries evolve, there’s a push


towards miniaturisation, increased product complexity and higher quality standards. In today’s industrial environment, highly- precise Cartesian gantries are crucial, due to the ever-increasing demand for accuracy, repeatability and speed in production and manufacturing processes. Their simplistic and modular design allows for easy scaling, adaptability and high repeatability, making them a popular choice for ultra-precise motion control. These precise gantries allow for tight tolerances to be achieved in applications ranging from semiconductor manufacturing, 3D printing and automated assembly lines, to scientifi c research equipment and medical devices. Additionally, in an era of automation and Industry 4.0, the integration of these accurate systems facilitates more effi cient and fl exible production lines, enabling quicker adjustments and responses to market demands. Thus, their importance can’t be understated as they directly contribute to increased productivity, reduced waste and enhanced product quality, solidifying their role in the competitive industrial landscape.


By ALIO


ALIO Industries’s Cartesian gantries off er large work areas and superior positioning, ideal for a range of pick- and-place applications. The company’s Cartesian robots are built with precision linear guide rails or air bearings for movement across a horizontal plane, programming is simple, and they are adaptable to limited fl oor space constraints.


14 February 2024 | Automation


Cartesian gantry by ALIO Industries


“In pick-and-place applications, the


large work areas off ered by ALIO’s Cartesian gantries off ers a signifi cant advantage by enhancing operational fl exibility and effi ciency. Such an expansive workspace allows the system to access and manipulate a broader array of components simultaneously, streamlining batch processes and enabling faster production cycles,” said Bill Hennessey, President of ALIO Industry. “Moreover, it accommodates the handling of larger products or the simultaneous processing of multiple smaller items, eff ectively increasing throughput. This spatial fl exibility also means that the system can be easily reconfi gured or adapted to handle diverse product sizes and types without substantial modifi cations, catering to the ever-changing demands of modern production lines.” “In essence, a larger work area not only boosts productivity but also ensures that the gantry remains versatile and adaptable to various pick and place requirements,” added Hennessey. ALIO’s combination of components and motion know-how is the key to its production of Cartesian gantries that fulfi l complex customer requirements. These include high-performance motors


delivering precision movement even with high payloads and mechanisms that avoid crashes (like having the z stage moving upwards/away from the product instead of falling down in cases of power loss). The structure of the machined parts of such a system must off er outstanding stiff ness and be rigid to reduce vibrations and guarantee short settling times – again, important for precision and overall throughput improving system effi ciency.


Design philosophy “ALIO’s Cartesian gantries are also ingeniously engineered to overcome traditional fl oor space constraints, ensuring optimal performance even in limited areas,” said Hennessey. “A signifi cant attribute of our design philosophy is modularity and effi cient use of space. Furthermore, our commitment to precision ensures that every component and subsystem is optimised for compactness whilst retaining unparalleled accuracy. This means that even in constrained spaces our Cartesian systems can deliver the expected precision and repeatability. This makes them a preferred choice for industries where fl oor space is at a premium but high-performance motion control is non-negotiable.”


automationmagazine.co.uk


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