Thomson Introduces Collaborative 7th Axis with Collision Detection
Thomson Industries, Inc. has released a true collaborative extension of cobots. The new Movotrak CTU 7th axis features collision detection settings for programming and control benefits. An industrial robot transfer unit (RTU) has also launched, which can be easily integrated with a user’s preferred motor and drive. Adding a horizontal operating range up to 10 meters, the Movotrak cobot transfer unit (CTU) sets itself apart with collision detection that stops the cobot when it encounters an obstacle, facilitating collaboration and increasing productivity.
“With the extension of the collaborative functionality along the 7th axis, manufacturers can deploy cobots to work more closely and flexibly with humans. Using the same cobot for more than one workstation boosts productivity and extracts maximum value from the initial cobot investment. We are thrilled to bring this game-changing addition to the world of collaborative robotics,” said Kyle Thompson, product innovation manager at Thomson.
Redefining Collaborative Robotics
Also known as a range extender, the Thomson Movotrak CTU 7th axis features a Kollmorgen servomotor and linear-unit-driven guide rails that move a cobot assembly from one task location to another. However, unlike all other 7th axes, the Movotrak CTU has collision detection functionality similar to a cobot joint. Users adjust collision sensitivity settings on a control tablet during setup, and the Movotrak CTU motor drive and digital I/O manage the collision monitoring and shutdown.
The collision detection system also monitors current continuously, detecting position errors in the motor, and providing comprehensive anti-collision capabilities along the entire 7th axis. The system includes a small reverse-move feature that eliminates pinch points following a stop.
The Movotrak CTU 7th axis integrates seamlessly with many cobot sizes and brands, including Universal Robots (UR), which allows all programming to be done directly through a URCap interface on their UR Teach Pendant. All collision monitoring and safeguard logic runs in the Thomson drive, so bandwidth competition with the UR controls is minimal.