Robotics applications require drive systems that deliver high performance along with flexibility and ease of integration. Schaeffler Technologies AG & Co. KG, a global leader in the development of innovative motion solutions, has come up with a modular precision-drive system designed for robotics.
The modular precision-drive-system allows for the design and configuration of drives without the significant design, development, and validation efforts typically required, thus enabling engineers to focus on their core areas of expertise.
Schaeffler precision drive systems for robotics are available through Pacific International Bearing Sales inc .
Modular Precision-Drive Systems Overview
The modular precision-drive system by Schaeffler Technologies represents a significant advancement in industrial automation, particularly in robotics. Precision drives for industrial automation are typically configured from catalog products such as gearboxes, motors, encoders, brakes, and controllers. Integrating these components into a suitable housing or machine requires considerable customized design work. Pacific International Bearing Sales Inc offers Schaeffler modular precision drives, which can be designed and configured flexibly without the need for in-house development, culminating in an individually configured drive system.
The primary components of the modular precision-drive system include the high torque RT1 and Standard Torque RT2 precision strain wave gear series. These are available in various designs and are complemented by frameless motors tailored perfectly to the application, offering high power density. Additional options such as brakes, Hall sensors, encoders, temperature sensors, and controllers can be selected as required. The system also includes an integrated torque sensor for the RT1 precision strain wave gears, capable of handling demanding control tasks in automation.
The High Torque RT1 and Standard Torque RT2 precision strain wave gears have comparable sizes, but the RT1 variants offer 30% more torque and 40% longer life on average compared to the RT2. The Standard Torque RT2 series features a particularly extensive range of variants.
Technical specifications
Variant | Sizes | Transmission rations | Maximum torque (Nm) | Hollow shaft (mm) |
Standard Torque RT2 | 14, 17, 20, 25, 32 | 50, 80, 100, 120, 160 | 18 to 372 | 36 |
High Torque RT1 | 14, 17, 20, 25, 32 | 50, 80, 100, 120, 160 | 36 to 484 | 14 to 36 |
High Torque RT1-T | 14, 17, 25, 32 | 100, 160 | 36 to 484 | 14 to 36 |
Machines with high power density serve as the drive motor, making optimal use of the design envelope, reducing system weight, and minimizing the mass moment of inertia. The motors operate with a supply voltage of 48 V.
Configuration Options
Basic configuration
The Basic configuration provides a solid foundation with essential components for reliable and efficient operation. This setup includes High Torque RT1 or Standard Torque RT2 precision strain wave gears and a motor optimized for the transmission performance. This configuration is ideal for general industrial automation tasks that require dependable performance without extensive customization.
Classic configuration
Building upon the Basic configuration, the Classic configuration introduces more advanced components for enhanced precision and control. This level includes a ready-to-fit drive with an absolute encoder, providing precise position feedback essential for accurate positioning and control in various applications. Users can choose between a single-sided encoder setup, with the encoder at the gear input, or a double-sided setup, with encoders at both the gear input and output.
Mounting position | Interface | Resolution | Accuracy | Voltage supply | |
Single-sided | Motor shaft atgear input | EnDat 2.2 | 19 bit | ± 90” | 5 V |
Double-sided | Motor shaft atgear input; gear output | EnDat 2.2 | 19 bit (motor)and 20 bit(output) | ± 120” (motor) /± 40” (gearoutput) | 5 V |
The single-sided encoder offers a 19-bit resolution with ±90” accuracy, while the double-sided encoder setup provides a 19-bit resolution at the motor and 20-bit resolution at the output, with accuracies of ±120” and ±40” respectively.
This configuration is particularly suitable for applications that demand high precision and reliable control.
Premium configuration
This configuration comes preconfigured with the appropriate parameter set, allowing for immediate operation upon connection to the power supply and controller. The integrated drive controller simplifies setup and ensures optimal performance right out of the box. This makes the Premium configuration ideal for applications requiring high performance and ease of use, as it minimizes the time and effort needed for setup and calibration.
Premium+ configuration
The Premium+ configuration represents the highest level of sophistication and functionality offered by PIB Sales Schaeffler’s modular precision-drive systems. This configuration includes all the features of the Premium level, with the addition of digital services and advanced sensors such as vibration transducers.
The Premium+ configuration is ideal for applications that require advanced diagnostics, continuous monitoring, and data-driven insights to ensure optimal performance and longevity of the drive system.
Key Features of Schaeffler’s Precision-Drive Systems
Schaeffler’s modular precision-drive systems, which are unique in their design to meet the demands of robotics and industrial automation, are available at PIB Sales. The following are the primary features that set these systems apart:
Modular design
The modular precision-drive systems are designed to be highly customizable. This flexibility allows users to design and configure drives according to their specific requirements without extensive design, development, and validation efforts. Schaeffler takes care of the customization process, providing a ready-to-use, individually configured drive system.
Integrated torque sensor
A standout feature of the High Torque RT1 gears is the option to include an integrated torque sensor using Sensotect thin-layer technology. This sensor provides accurate, stable measurements without affecting system rigidity, making it ideal for force-controlled processes such as grinding, polishing, and force feedback.
Tilt-resistant output bearings
Schaeffler exclusively uses tilt-resistant double-row angular contact ball bearings (XZU) in their precision strain wave gears. These bearings outperform crossed roller bearings of the same size by approximately 30% in terms of tilting rigidity, ensuring greater stability and reliability in various applications
Conclusion
For more information or to discuss how Schaeffler’s modular precision-drive systems can benefit your specific application, please contact PIB Sales. Visit our website at www.pibsales.com or you can contact use by email at [email protected].
Our team is ready to assist you with any questions or customization requirements you may have.