In many high-throughput applications, the automation system itself creates the bottleneck. Conventional single-robot or gantry systems are often limited by the cycle time of their long, empty return paths, forcing the entire production line to wait.
The dual kinematic principle is a game-changer for any task demanding maximum throughput. Whether it’s rapid machine tending, complex case packing, or as detailed in this example high-speed palletizing, the core benefit is the elimination of wasted motion.
This solution leverages 2 synchronized compact module CKR-280 with dual belt drives as the main transfer axis. Each of its two independent carriages carries a 2-axis kinematic system. The vertical Z-axis is typically a compact module driven by a high-pitch Rexroth ball screw, ensuring rapid, powerful lifting capabilities, while the other axes handle the horizontal movements. The entire system is powered by the modular automation platform ctrlX AUTOMATION allowing for a performance-optimized drive configuration.
Key Features & Benefits
Dramatically Increased Throughput
The dual kinematics operate in a pendulum mode: one kinematic picks the next part while the other is placing one. This nearly eliminates the empty return travel from the cycle, potentially doubling the performance of a conventional system.Reduced Footprint & System Cost
Achieve the output of two robots within the space of one. This not only saves valuable floor space but also significantly reduces mechanical costs and complexity. Both kinematics are mounted to a single linear axis, requiring only one common support structureEngineered for Industrial Automation
The system's stability is founded on our industry-proven Rexroth high-performance ball rail systems. Integrated into the compact modules, these robust components ensure precise and repeatable placement even under high-dynamic, 24/7 production conditions.Performance-Optimized Cabinet Design
The DriveX platform allows a tailored, hybrid drive configuration. This 8-axis system is powered by a common DC bus with:Two dedicated single-axis drives for the heavy-lifting Z1 and Z2 axes, ensuring maximum power is available for the most critical task
Three compact double-axis drives to efficiently control the remaining six gantry and transfer axes (X1-1/X1-2, X2-1/X2-2, and Y1/Y2).
This intelligent mix provides dedicated power where it counts while significantly reducing overall cabinet size and component cost.
Simplified & Fast Engineering
Rexroth delivers a fully validated mechatronic system. Using our LinSelect engineering software, we size the complete drive train based on your core parameters (payload, cycle time, workspace) to guarantee performance.
A Note on Drive Technology: While this high-speed application is ideal for a belt-driven gantry, Rexroth can also engineer this system with ball screw-driven modules. This is a perfect alternative for applications with shorter travel distances. In such cases, synchronized gantry motors may not be required, simplifying the system to a 6-axis configuration (one X, Y, and Z per kinematic). Consequently, the drive system can be simplified to just six drives (e.g., three double-axis drives), offering another path to system optimization.
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Build your Application with Bosch Rexroth Products
Integrating reliable components is crucial for an optimal palletizing process. Rexroth’s components, including multi-axis systems, linear axes (compact modules), linear guides, screw drives, and ctrlX controllers, work together seamlessly. This combination eliminates the bottlenecks of conventional systems caused by long, empty return paths, which drastically increases throughput while simultaneously reducing footprint and system costs.