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Tbot Linear Robot systems with fixed motor mounting are perfect for pick and place

Macron Dynamics' belt-driven X/Z T-Bot systems (TBG line) are perfect for pick-and-place processes. The simple design, where a single belt drives both axes, means there is no need for costly cable carriers. This type of motion can be used for anything pick-and-place oriented, and the extruded construction means it can scale to virtually any application. The architecture of the line allows for smaller travel heights for the Z axis, providing a more compact structure that is easier to integrate into existing designs. Models available to handle max loads from 10 to 100 lb.
Learn more.

Get your cobots on track ... literally

Thomson Industries has released what it is calling "the first-ever true collaborative extension of cobots." Adding a horizontal operating range up to 10 m, the MovoTrak CTU (cobot transfer unit) 7th axis sets itself apart with collision detection that stops the cobot when it encounters an obstacle, facilitating collaboration and increasing productivity. An industrial robot transfer unit (RTU) has also launched, which can be easily integrated with a user's preferred motor and drive. Compatible with even the largest cobots, such as the UR20 and UR30.
Learn more.

Versatile linear actuator with high load capacity

The GL-N is a versatile actuator from THK that boasts a durable design and high movement load capacity thanks to dual linear guide rails. It is ideal for automation and packaging applications, delivering high precision, durability, and efficiency. GL-N-B features a lightweight, high-rigidity aluminum base with Caged Ball LM guides. GL-N-BS adds a QZ Lubricator for the ball screw for long-term, maintenance-free operation.
Learn more.

Next-gen motor for pump and fan applications

The next evolution of the award-winning Aircore EC motor from Infinitum is a high-efficiency system designed to power commercial and industrial applications such as HVAC fans, pumps, and data centers with less energy consumption, reduced emissions, and reduced waste. It features an integrated variable frequency drive and delivers upward of 93% system efficiency, as well as class-leading power and torque density in a low-footprint package that is 20% lighter than the previous version. Four sizes available.
Learn more.

What is a low-waving linear motion guide?

If you are having a problem with your linear guides not always staying perfectly straight during use, it may be due to a phenomenon called waving -- a problem that is particularly critical in high-precision markets such as semiconductor and LCD equipment-related applications or machine tools. Thankfully, THK has an answer.
Read the full article.

OnRobot Sander: Ultimate solution for precision finishing tasks

Sanding is now more versatile and precise. Save time and enhance efficiency while maintaining consistent quality. With easy integration, remote monitoring, and dust-free operation, OnRobot Sander is a valuable addition to any workflow. This tool offers precise control over sanding parameters and is suitable for various materials, making it a must-have for professionals in the finishing industry.
Learn how to build your sanding application.
Learn more about OnRobot Sander.

Drive gearboxes for mobile robots

Different automated guided vehicles (AGVs) and autonomous mobile robots (AMRs) can require different types of wheel drives. GAM has all your needs covered from standard GML inline planetary gearboxes to integrated strain wave (harmonic) robotic gearboxes to modified and fully custom solutions. Check out all the offerings.
Learn more.

Universal Robots unveils cobot AI Accelerator

Universal Robots' new UR AI Accelerator is a ready-to-use hardware and software toolkit created to further enable the development of AI-powered cobot applications. Designed for commercial and research applications, the UR AI Accelerator provides developers with an extensible platform to build applications, accelerate research, and reduce time to market of AI products -- ready to use straight out of the box.
Learn more.

Z-Tip-Tilt nanopositioning stage: High-speed ultra precision

PI offers an ultra-low-profile Z-Tip-Tilt stage designed for demanding alignment applications in optics, semicon-ductors, precision assembly, and photonics. Based on air bearings and linear motors, the stage is wear-free, maintenance-free, and cleanroom compatible. High speed is ensured by 3-phase linear motors, while high resolution and precision are provided by closed-loop operation with linear encoders with 1-nm resolution. Comes in 5- and 6-axis combinations.
Learn more.

Curtiss-Wright unveils new Exlar GTF food-grade actuator

Curtiss-Wright's Actuation Division has expanded its popular Exlar electric actuator product offerings to include hygienic actuators with FDA-approved materials and finishes. Designed for automation systems in the food and beverage, packaging, and pharmaceutical industries, the GTF with inverted roller screw technology helps customers achieve hygienic certifications more economically. Ideal for builders of hygienic machinery to easily incorporate into their designs.
Learn more.

Robot has longest reach in Mitsubishi's low-cost series

The MELFA RV-12CRL vertically articulated robot has the longest reach of any robot in Mitsubishi Electric's low-cost robot series: 1,504 mm (59.2 in.). With a 12-kg (26.4-lb) payload capacity, this unit is an ideal candidate for machine tending, case packing, and pick-and-place applications. Built-in features provide enhanced safety, streamlined implementation, and an overall reduction in downtime. Features internal cables and air hoses for end-of-arm tooling.
Learn more.

Servomotors for food, beverage, pharma, more

Siemens' new stainless steel SIMOTICS S-1FS2 line of servomotors has been designed for the clean condition requirements of the food, beverage, sterile packaging, pharma, and other process industries. These motors are highly resistant to corrosion and acidic chemicals and are offered in a variety of power ratings, from 0.45 to 2 kW (0.60 to 2.68 hp) with torque from 3.1 to 14 Nm (2.28 to 10.32 ft-lb). Features include high dynamics due to low inherent inertia, high overload capacity for pick-and-place, and precise movement of heavy loads. Easy installation and cleaning. Compatible with the SINAMICS S210 drive system.
Learn more.

What is Sensorless Closed Loop? Precise motor control without an encoder

Matt Sherman, eMobility Sales and Application Engineer at KEB America, runs through different options to drive an AC motor, including one called "Sensorless Closed Loop" that does not require additional hardware such as encoder, resolver, or cables on the motor.
Read this informative KEB America blog.

All about magnetic rotary encoder

The precision and reliability offered by modern rotary encoders are essential in many product categories. These include robotics, machine tools, printing presses, motion control systems, medical equipment, aerospace, gaming and entertainment, and automotive. Learn all about magnetic rotary encoders -- and important developments in the technology's future.
Read the full Avnet article.

High-force actuator line expanded with new models

Tolomatic has introduced five new products in its RSX line of high-force actuators to meet a wider range of industrial applications. These five sizes expand the RSX's capabilities to include forces up to 66,000 lbf (294 kN). RSX actuators, which feature high-precision planetary roller or ball screws for longer life in harsh environments, enable the easy replacement of traditional hydraulics to eliminate leaks and improve system performance.
Learn more.

BMW to road-test revolutionary in-wheel drive motor

[Credit: Image by DeepDrive/Courtesy of BMW Group.]

 

 

The BMW Startup Garage, a development spinoff of BMW Group, and Munich-based motor developer DeepDrive are set to road-test a revolutionary electric motor. The concept features dual-rotor technology and is expected to enable super-efficient, powerful drives that offer plenty of range.

After a successful pilot project with promising results on the test rig, the BMW Group and DeepDrive are now planning their first field test. Various versions of the new drive will be installed into BMW Group models and their handling tested on different road conditions.

DeepDrive RM1500 integrated wheel hub motor unit. [Credit: Image courtesy of DeepDrive]

 

 

DeepDrive is a startup whose founders met while studying at TU Munich and participating in the technical university's student motorsport team. The company's innovative concept melds two electric motors into a single unit, creating an extremely compact drive that is energy efficient and has a high torque density.

In a conventional electric motor, the stator moves either an internal or an external rotor. With DeepDrive's dual-rotor concept, the stator drives both rotors simultaneously. The compact design and light weight of the unit allows for each wheel hub of an electric vehicle (EV) to have its own electric motor. The technology can also be used in a traditional, centralized drive system, where a central motor block powers the vehicle.

DeepDrive is currently developing three main in-wheel motor units for their line:

• RM1500 suitable for compact and mid-size EVs (peak power 150 kW/1,500 Nm peak torque/96.6% peak efficiency/weight 32 kg);
• RM1800 suitable for mid-size and large EVs (peak power 160 kW/1,800 Nm peak torque/97% peak efficiency/weight 35 kg); and
• RM2400 suitable for performance-focused EVs (peak power 250 kW/2,400 Nm peak torque/97% peak efficiency/weight 37 kg).

Key to the motor's operation is a revolutionary winding concept called distributed bar winding that uses 50% less magnet material, 80% less iron, and requires only simple manufacturing. Production-wise, a DeepDrive motor boasts less than 30% cost per Nm in comparison to the state-of-the-art EV motors available.

RM1500 motor unit data sheet. [Credit: Charts courtesy of DeepDrive]

 

 

For the overall DeepDrive system, the company says, "the integrated SiC MOSFET inverter, the automotive standard wheel hub unit, and the easy-to-use CAN interface make it plug & play for most electric mobility applications." An integrated drum brake is available. The units run on up to a 420-V battery supply, but 800-V versions are available. Lightweighting is also achieved because the DeepDrive units do not require a gearbox.

VIDEO: DeepDrive: Company technology breakthroughs.

VIDEO: DeepDrive: The In-Wheel Drive.

The RM1500 with integrated brake, a project realized with the help of automotive specialist Continental, was awarded "Innovation of the Year 2023" by Vehicle Dynamics International Magazine for the development of the Drive-Brake unit. The first stage of the collaboration was aimed at seeing a hydraulic brake integrated into the Drive-Brake unit. The second stage is planned to integrate the long-term dry braking system without hydraulic components into DeepDrive's innovative wheel hub drive.

According to the company, their overall motor technology boasts many technological benefits, including:

• Up to 20% efficiency increase;
• Plug-and-play with integrated inverter;
• Lowest noise emissions; and
• Lowest Total Cost of Ownership.

Alex Rosen, Deep Drive's co-founder and systems engineer, says in the company's technology video series: "Our dual-rotor, radial flux machine offers numerous advantages that set it apart from traditional electric motors. With minimal iron losses, it delivers exceptional partial load efficiency, achieving industry-leading torque density and power density while keeping material costs low.

"Our groundbreaking solution incorporates a dual-rotor, radial flux topology, integrating the benefits of an inner runner and an outer runner into a single electric machine. While the concept of a dual-rotor machine is not entirely new, our patented technology has overcome the manufacturing challenges associated with large-scale production, making it a significant breakthrough."

BMW was the first major manufacturer to get wind of DeepDrive and sign them up as technology partners. The carmaker has been intensifying collaborations with them since 2021. The startup's technology is already remarkably mature. "DeepDrive's prototype parts largely exceeded our specifications," says Karol Virsik, head of Research Vehicle Concepts and Technologies at the BMW Group. "That's really unusual at such an early stage and with a completely new technology."

"Our in-wheel motors deliver impressive performance figures, capable of generating up to 2,400 Nm of torque and 200 kW of power per wheel. This versatility enables their application across a wide range of electric vehicles, from small and compact models to large SUVs and luxury cars," says Rosen in the DeepDrive technology video series. Rosen adds that the issue of unsprung masses has been a topic of concern when it comes to in-wheel motors, but DeepDrive's lightweight units minimize unsprung masses. "The high power density of our machines allows us to reduce the size of the mechanical brake at the rear axle, or even eliminate it altogether. This ensures that the overall increase in unsprung masses when using our in-wheel motors remains negligible compared to traditional front axle-driven systems," he says.

After stints on test rigs, the proof of concept was deemed successful, delivering top results. The next step is to perform a real-world validation out on the road. The in-wheel motors will require less space and be more energy efficient, lighter, and less costly, making them an attractive option for a wide range of vehicle models -- and potentially highly scalable.

"It's alarming to realize that from plug to wheel, more than 40% of electric energy is wasted in the current state of EV technology," says Rosen. "While electric motors boast high efficiency of over 95% at high output power, the story changes when operating at lower power levels. Friction losses, iron losses, and splashing losses in the gearbox lead to a drastic reduction in efficiency during low-power operation."

"As a result, state-of-the-art drive systems struggle to maintain efficiency above 75% in everyday driving situations," says Rosen. DeepDrive believes their motor solutions can do better.

"DeepDrive has developed an exciting vision for the electric drive of the future," said Virsik. "The Startup Garage allows us to experiment with DeepDrive and work out what drives might look like in the generation after next."

You can read DeepDrive's whitepaper, "A Comprehensive Study on Different Motor Topologies Used in Passenger Car EV Segment," that has a lot more technology details, including on the special winding tech for their dual-rotor radial flux permanent magnet machine here.

Learn more at deepdrive.tech/technology.

Sources: BMW Group, BMW Startup Garage, DeepDrive

Published November 2024

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