Linear robots for multidimensional movements
Cartesian robots are automated handling systems that perform linear movements along the X, Y and Z axes. This enables them to move and position objects with precision. They are among the most commonly used types of robots for industrial automation.
A Cartesian robot, sometimes also referred to as a linear, gantry or XYZ robot, can be adapted very well to the respective application conditions of modern factory automation due to its modularity. It has exactly the right functionalities for the respective application and is never oversized. As a result, it requires less space than an articulated arm robot.
Due to their rectangular structure, linear robots are very stable and resistant to bending. This is important for applications where vibrations or twisting should be avoided.
Cartesian 2- to 6-axis robots from IAI
IAI offers Cartesian 2- to 6-axis robots as standard or high-precision models with linear drives, slide axes, parallel kinematics and robot wrists. They move multidimensionally along the X, Y and Z axes and, thanks to their optional long strokes, can also be used in larger working areas. Their high speed and precision also make them suitable for production environments with short cycle times.
Due to their mechanical design, Cartesian robots from IAI are easy to program: for example, only one axis needs to be controlled for vertical movements. Functions such as energy shut-off in the rest position also make the handling systems very energy-efficient. They can be seamlessly integrated into existing production lines and combined with existing automation solutions.
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Cartesian robots are one of the most commonly used types of robots for industrial automation. They can be configured flexibly and offer the option of adjusting the speed, precision, stroke length and size of the robot.
Advantages of Cartesian robots at a glance
1. Simple kinematics & programming
- Movements along X, Y, Z – corresponding to the natural coordinate system.
- Intuitive programming, as no complex angle or joint calculations are necessary.
2. High precision
- By using linear guides and drives, Cartesian robots achieve a hight repeatability.
- Particularly suitable for precise assembly, dosing or measuring tasks.
3. Modularity & adaptability
- Easily adaptable to different working areas, payloads and requirements. Axis lengths, stroke lengths, motors and controllers are configurable.
- Can be integrated into existing systems or used as a stand-alone unit.
4. Low acquisition costs
- Often less expensive to purchase and maintain than more complex robots (e.g. 6-axis articulated arm robots).
- Fewer moving parts = less wear and tear.
5. High rigidity and stability
- Ideal for force-based processes (e.g. pressing, screwing, milling), as the structure is often based on a stable frame.
- Low vibration = better process quality.
6. Large working area possible
- Particularly suitable for long distances in X/Y – e.g. for palletising, sorting or milling large parts.
- Working range increases linearly with the axis length without the need for complex movements.
7. Easy maintenance
- Linear components are easily accessible and simple to replace.
- Lower maintenance requirements than robots with many joints or axes.
Cartesian robots with NSA linear actuators in combination with ball screw drives offer excellent machining capabilities. They are offered as standard as 6-axis robots with base mounted or slider mounted Z-axes.
NSA nut rotating axes are linear actuators with a servo motor integrated in the slider. Instead of moving a slider through a rotating ball screw, the integrated servo motor drives it through a rotating nut. The fixed spindle enables high-speed movements with long travels, resulting in shortened cycle times.
For more complex applications, double and multiple slider versions are available, with all slides being independently controllable.
With the robotic wrist (WU Wrist Unit), Cartesian systems have the same flexibility and degrees of freedom as articulated robots. IAI's unique design makes the components light and compact. Can also be used for an orthogonal axis system with interpolation function.
The wrist units are equipped with two joints: the tilting joint for inclination covers a working circle of ±100⁰, while the rotating joint for rotation can be rotated by ±360⁰. The two stepper motors used move these axes at speeds between 750⁰/s and 1,200⁰/s.
Cartesian RoboCylinders in 2-/3-/4-axis combinations
The latest Cartesian RoboCylinders are based on the RCP6 series with cost-effective stepper motors, which has resulted in a more streamlined design compared to previous versions and enables higher speeds to be achieved. All axis combinations are equipped with high-resolution, battery-free absolute encoders as standard. This eliminates the need for reference runs, home sensors, battery maintenance and much more.
All vertically mounted axes can be optionally equipped with a brake to prevent the slide from dropping in the event of a power failure.
Diverse combinations
The available combinations allow for an ideal selection of 516 options to meet your requirements. Additional configuration types are possible by using the Z-axis in table slide design (model type TA) and a model series with ZR unit (for vertical and rotary movements).
