
In production scenarios, tasks such as drilling holes or screwing parts together often have to be carried out at various points along a line. Industrial applications often involve moving heavy loads and weights, moving robust tools, and executing precise assembly processes. The search then lies in finding efficient ways to automate this type of process.
Automation enables a wide selection of drive technologies as well as software capable of rapidly designing processes. Such is the case with linear technologies. Lineartechnik technology, like Dr. TRETTER, can provide you the best high-quality parts.
What Is a Linear Unit?
The linear unit is a device that can move a part, a product, or a machine. It is designed to support a load in any direction. It protects mechanical building blocks from dust, dirt, and sometimes also water. When it comes to selecting linear units and the right drive components in automation processes, there are numerous key issues to consider. These range from properties such as:
- Speed
- Load
- The length of the stroke
- Factors such as the area of application and the duty cycle.
Therefore, choosing a correct linear unit with suitable drive components is a complicated, time-consuming task for engineers. The configuration of these often very complex systems also requires in-depth knowledge. The right online tools make the entire process easy, offering targeted support with everything from initial screening to commissioning. As a result, robust automation solutions can be applied quickly and easily for multi-axis gantries and pick-and-place operations, etc.
Applications of Linear Technology in Production Systems
Positioning Tools
Automated linear units are the ideal solution to move the tool in question, such as a drill or driver, from one point to another and ensure that it is perfectly positioned.
Two-Dimensional Processes
2D gantries are used for printing or inspecting a surface and for other two-dimensional processes. In these scenarios, gantries guide the heads of the printers, nozzle, scanners, or sensors to the right place.
Tool Guide on XY Axes
XY tables of this type are ideal for powerful choose and place activities. Operators always direct the tool into place using a cantilever. They use the X-axis to change its positions. You can also direct heavy equipment through an expansive work area in this way, thanks to the low deflection and the exceptional load capacity of the linear axes.
Cantilever Axles
They utilize the support qualities of the linear unit to pump force on the task or position a tool accurately. They are best for many production and logistics applications, as well as material and load testing.
Three-Dimensional Processes
Three-dimensional gantries are used primarily for pick-and-place tasks, as well as three-dimensional transport tasks. Typical applications for 3D gantries include stacking, palletizing, and sorting operations. Grippers or suction cups are attached to cantilever shafts for this purpose.
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