Bosch Rexroth presents a disruptive package of solutions for Cartesian handling systems which combines a price-optimized motion control system with an innovative operating concept. A standard tablet is used for safe teaching and graphics-supported programming. If required, the complete package can also include a high-quality Rexroth mechanical system, an IT security solution and the IoT Gateway for i4.0 applications. Manufacturers and users benefit not only from low costs and extensive functions but also from maximum economy and flexibility over the entire life cycle.
The market for kinematic handling systems for loading and unloading is fiercely competitive and price-driven. Providers must optimize their costs while meeting strict requirements as regards robustness, accuracy and productivity. Users on the other hand want minimal delivery times, proven technologies and easy-to-use solutions which can quickly be adapted in response to format or process changes.
Safe teaching with a “bring your own” approach
Bosch Rexroth meets all of these requirements with an innovative package of solutions that combines an economical motion control system with modern web technologies and innovative value-added functions. What makes the solutions so special is the fact that they can be operated via a standard consumer tablet and include safe teaching, visualization and programming. Bosch Rexroth has developed an adaptive bracket with a combined enabling and emergency off button for this purpose.
Modular package of solutions, optionally available with a mechanical system and a firewall
In addition to a motion control system with comprehensive software functions, the basic package also includes a safety control system for connecting the tablet bracket as well as compact servo motors and drives for moving the kinematic system. As an option, Bosch Rexroth also supplies the complete mechanical system for the handling system including a grabber and linear modules with a belt or ball-screw drive. An additional option for the package of solutions: the IoT Gateway which makes it easy to collect data for continual process improvement during operation, e.g. through Condition Monitoring and predictive maintenance. If necessary, communication standards such as OPC UA allow easier integration into customer-specific IoT systems. The package is complemented by the secure router whose firewall monitors data traffic between the tablet, control system and company network while preventing unauthorized access in all directions.
Rapid commissioning, greater flexibility during operation
Commissioning drives without parameterization is one of a number of innovative ideas which speed up the time to market. Once the servo motor is connected to the drive, the drive automatically reads the feedback memory containing the kinematic parameters. The handling system processes can be defined without programming knowledge with the help of the visual code editor Google Blockly. The user’s tablet which visualizes all steps in the web browser on the basis of HTML5 serves as the HMI – just as it does during safe teaching. This avoids additional hardware costs and training outlay while eliminating sources of error both during the initial set-up and in the event of subsequent changes to processes and formats.
Software functions for greater productivity and quality
The motion control system provides numerous software functions which help to increase availability and product quality. For example, the “Active Vibration Absorption” function initiates exact countermovements for the linear module in order to avoid unwanted vibrations or to move delicate products carefully. It does this either through an open-loop process or in combination with a sensor. As a result, the grabber achieves an extremely high level of accuracy when loading and unloading, and the mechanical system is protected, thus extending its operating life.
