The XPlanar system is based on planar tiles that can be arranged in any desired and therefore precisely application-oriented geometries. These contain the electronics and EtherCAT communication. A freely selectable number of planar movers float above them using integrated permanent magnets. The movers can be used not only horizontally, but also vertically and even upside down. Only a Beckhoff Industrial PC with the corresponding software (TwinCAT) is required for operation. TwinCAT defines the movements of the movers and prevents collisions between them.

© Beckhoff

The XPlanar offers the user a number of unique advantages. This enables efficient batch size 1 production in all industries. The movers transport each product through the machine on individually defined routes, and the outstanding dynamics and robotic precision qualify XPlanar as an efficient positioning system for processing different batch sizes and product variants.

The machine layout can be designed individually and application-specifically. There are hardly any restrictions when selecting the appropriate geometry. The design fully follows the function required by the user and can be easily extended if production requirements change.

The XPlanar is also characterized by minimal cleaning and maintenance requirements. The floating effect replaces any mechanical guide components, reducing the time required for regular maintenance intervals to a fraction. All surfaces of the tiles and movers are smooth and easy to reach, which simplifies cleaning.

In addition, the completely decoupled movement of products on the surface enables identical processing steps to be carried out simultaneously, replacing sequential processing. This leads to increased system output, as this is significantly influenced by the number of parallel processing stations.

As a highly flexible transport system, the XPlanar is suitable for a wide range of applications across all industries, particularly for the automation of packaging, assembly, sorting and picking processes. The free choice of surfaces - easy-to-clean glass, stainless steel in hygienic design or plastic film - also supports use in open spaces, in the pharmaceutical and food industries and under vacuum conditions.