User report compact cable carriers in 7th axis in robots for press automation

The KUKA Cobra works with an E6 energy chain and increases the output rate

The system manufacturer KUKA Systems develops concepts for connecting presses. A 7th axis is mounted on the robot arm of the KUKA Cobra, which loads and unloads the presses. This increases the output rate and reduces the distance between the presses. A variant of the E6 energy chain with new connectors travels on the axis in order to make the structure of the KUKA Cobra as compact as possible.

Profile

What was needed: E6 energy chains
Requirements: Optics, durability, quiet and smooth gliding and maintenance-free movement
Industry: Automotive production
Success for the customer: The low overall height and high weight saving of the E6 energy chain enables high flexibility and output. The smooth running of the e-chain is also guaranteed at high speeds and accelerations.

Problem

When robots come into play, maximum productivity, reliability and efficiency are required. Automation in the field of press automation is no exception. Typical areas of application for presses include the automotive and aerospace industries. Several presses are lined up one behind the other. The blank is moulded piece by piece into the desired shape. However, there must be a transfer between the individual stations, which is always performed by a robot such as the KUKA Cobra. A 7th axis was implemented on the robot so that the output rate can be increased even further. This linear axis moves the last piece towards the press and takes over the loading and unloading. The robot arm itself has to move less and the output rate increases.
An energy supply system was to be found for the linear axis that keeps the overall weight of the construction low, has a compact design and runs with low vibration. High speeds and accelerations should also not be a problem.

Solution

Faster, lighter, more compact: The additional seventh axis helps to increase productivity in press automation. A concept for a reliable energy supply system was developed in close co-operation. Today, E6 energy chains are used in the linear axis of the robot.
Thanks to the low overall height, it was possible to achieve a compact energy supply system that also saves weight. Overall, the robot therefore has to carry less weight, which increases flexibility and output. It was also possible to increase the smooth running, which is maintained even at high speeds and accelerations.

Find out more about E6 energy chains