© Bosch Rexroth

What potential do you see in the technology?

Hansjörg Sannwald: Thanks to their modular design and easy adaptability, planar motion systems can be used in a wide range of industrial applications, for example in the semiconductor industry, in the food, packaging and pharmaceutical sectors or in assembly systems. With 'ctrlX Flow6D', free-floating transport platforms, so-called movers, are moved on a horizontal, vertical or overhead work surface. Each mover operates in six degrees of freedom at high speed and precision, without friction or contamination. The movers can be networked. Users can equip them with sensors to measure the temperature of a product, for example, or install active grippers. This opens up an enormously wide range of applications in the field of planar robotics.

Integration into 'ctrlX Automation' results in an overall solution with the compact 'ctrlX Core' control system with apps for controlling the planar system. This provides a holistic, open system that allows the potential of industrial levitation to be fully exploited.

How does your system differ from those of the competition?

The X-Y-Z movement, tilting and rotation of the movers can be combined as required. For example, the movers can also be rotated and tilted while moving, and the system can also be safely operated vertically or overhead. We also offer large movement ranges - for example 20 mm hover height, 10° tilt angle and endless rotation at any location. All movers can also be networked and provide an interface for power and data.

The movers are easy and safe to handle. The tile surface does not heat up even during operation and - regardless of the payload - 'ctrlX Flow6D' requires very little power.

Why did you opt for round movers instead of a rectangular version?

Round movers have several advantages: they can move right up to the edges and rotate there without exceeding the tile limit. Movers that float past each other also require less space or surface area. The desired tilt angle can be realized in any spatial direction. Once a base plate of any shape has been constructed, the shape of the movers can be adapted to the respective application. Adapter plates can also be used to create other mounting surfaces if required.

Can your system be easily integrated into an existing system or should the processes and production layout be redesigned?

'ctrlX Flow6D' is easy to integrate and, as an open system, can interact seamlessly with different plants and systems. Software-controlled production enables rapid adaptation to changed products and processes.

Bosch Rexroth at the SPS 2023: Hall 7, Stand 450