Igus update for Universal Robots and Fanuc: Cost savings through plug-to-program concept

More Range of Action Seventh Igus Robot Axis Saves Programming Effort

2025-09-18 Source: Igus | Translated by AI 3 min Reading Time

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Igus now offers an update for robots from Universal Robots (UR) and Fanuc. It is a linear axis with a "plug-to-program" concept that can save up to $10,700 in development costs.

More affordably mobile! The image symbolizes the flexibility of use provided by a new seventh axis from Igus, which significantly extends the range of action for lightweight articulated robots. According to the Cologne-based company (Germany), the key feature is that the previously very costly programming effort is now a thing of the past.(Image: Igus) — More affordably mobile! The image symbolizes the flexibility of use provided by a new seventh axis from Igus, which significantly extends the range of action for lightweight articulated robots. According to the Cologne-based company (Germany), the key feature is that the previously very costly programming effort is now a thing of the past.
(Image: Igus)

Automation can be complex, Igus acknowledges upfront—especially when production conditions change. Many companies looking to expand the operating range of lightweight articulated robots are familiar with the challenge: finding a seventh axis for linear robot movement is relatively easy, but integrating it into the robot control system requires additional programming effort. Igus now offers an alternative: a seventh axis that significantly extends the operating range but can be integrated into the robot control system as easily and directly as an app. According to Igus, 500 systems are already in use worldwide. With a new update, it is now compatible with UR 20, UR 30, and the Fanuc CRX series, with more robot types to follow. The control system automatically recognizes the axis after installation. Users can program and operate it directly via the familiar robot control panel. The control is achieved via digital I/Os, UR Cap, or Igus Robot Control. Igus has already accounted for all safety-relevant components—such as emergency stop relays—eliminating the need for additional engineering work. Using the example of a precision engineering company operating two identical CNC milling machines, the benefits are further clarified below:

Clever Seventh Axis Quickly Connects With Robot Controllers

Due to the ongoing labor shortage, an articulated robot has already been handling the loading of one of the two machines for some time. However, to extend the robot's operating range to the second machine, a motorized axis for horizontal adjustment is to be added. While such an axis, as mentioned earlier, is easy to find, it cannot be directly connected to the robot control system. As a result, a programmer spends a full one and a half weeks creating a suitable interface. Alexander Mühlens, authorized signatory and head of the Low Cost Automation division at Igus, aims to reduce the complexity of automation through the online platform "RBTX," intending to relieve medium-sized businesses during times of increasing cost pressure and make them more productive. The latest enabler on the path to this goal is the linear axis, which, according to Igus, can connect to the robot control systems of leading manufacturers like Epson, Dobot, Igus, and Omron via "Plug to Program" in just seconds. By the way, the above-mentioned cost savings were specified by a user.

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