Benefits of Adding a Seventh Axis

TL;DR:

Adding a seventh axis to robotic systems enhances efficiency, flexibility, and cost savings. This innovation expands operational areas, increases output, and supports various tasks with improved precision.

Main Points:

Extended operating area for multiple robots or heavy loads.
Increased robotic output with an expanded work envelope.
Greater flexibility accommodating different loads at high speeds.
Efficiency gains by servicing more machines and processes with one robot.
Reduced capital costs with smaller, economical robots servicing more workstations.
Rollon’s Seventh Axis shuttle system supports robots up to 2000 Kg and offers up to 46m stroke length.
Easy integration, available in seven sizes, and suitable for various tasks like palletizing and gluing.

There’s no disputing that automation technology has changed the face of industrial operations. Nowhere is this more evident than spot welding, assembly, and material handling. In such areas, six-axis articulated arm robots perform complex tasks with high precision.

It’s true that these and other industries rely on six-axis robots to reduce redundant manual tasks. They are key to making workflows more efficient.

Still, there are areas where efficiencies can be improved and capital expenditures lowered. Adding a seventh linear axis to a robotic system provides all the benefits of six-axes. Plus, you’ll benefit from another degree of freedom for maneuverability during complex tasks.

This flexibility lets designers of a pick-and-place system. For instance, “shuttle” one or more robots back and forth along a rail. Continue reading to learn more about the benefits of adding a 7^th axis to your multi axis robot operation.

Advantages of a 7 Axis Robot Arm

Here are some discrete advantages of using seven axis robots over 6 axis robots.

Extended operating area. Multiple robots or heavy loads can travel over long distances and to several workstations.
Greater robotic output. An additional linear axis expands the work envelope. As a result, companies can use smaller, less-expensive robots to perform the same amount of work as larger robots.
Flexibility. Seventh-axis robot systems can accommodate lightweight or heavy loads, even at high speeds.
Efficiency gains. More machines and processes can be serviced with one robot.
Reduced capital costs. A seventh axis leads to increased range of motion and greater output from smaller, more economical robots. As a result, companies gain the ability to service more workstations. That means greater cost savings for automated operations.

Seventh Axis: A Versatile, Multi-Axis Shuttle System

Rollon’s Seventh Axis shuttle system can move any type of robot weighing up to 2000 Kg. It offers a stroke length of up to 46m.

The actuator’s drive system uses rack and pinion gears to ensure accuracy. It also comes with adjustable ties to reach alignment even on irregular surfaces.

The seventh Axis robotic system is:

Easy to integrate
Available in seven different sizes
Available with recirculating ball guides or rollers for motion

Rollon’s Seventh Axis actuators can perform tasks such as palletizing, gluing, and folding sheet metal.

Manufacturers who already rely on automation for efficiency and cost savings can extend these benefits further. Seventh Axis systems makes this possible.

Learn more about all the benefits you can get from adding a seventh axis to your anthropomorphic robots. Download the white paper below to get started.

Download the White Paper