Linear technology Versatile handling systems for tight spaces

Related Vendors

Rollon GmbH

FAULHABER Drive Systems

dataTec AG

Wuxi InfiMotion Technology Co., Ltd.

At SPS 2024, the Rollon Group is presenting, among other things, the new H-Bot gantry system. It is characterized by its compact design and a special belt system.

Automation without linear technology? Unthinkable. 99 percent of all automation systems contain linear axes, linear guides, or telescopic rails. High-quality components, innovative solutions, and economical concepts are essential and increase competitiveness. A key provider in this sector is the Rollon Group. At the SPS trade fair, among other innovations, they are showcasing the new H-Bot portal system, which is particularly notable for its versatility.

Single belt concept and dual motor on the X-axis

The system is fundamentally structured as follows: The H-Bot has two parallel linear axes (X and Y axes), between which a movable carriage is mounted. Two motors are positioned at the corners of the system. A single belt runs over idler rollers throughout the entire system connecting both motors. This belt is tensioned in a special arrangement over the axes such that the combined movement of the motors controls the position of the carriage. Thus, the carriage does not move directly along the belt but is shifted in two dimensions through the tension and movement of the belt.

This system was specifically developed for applications that require precision and reliability in tight spaces. In traditional Cartesian systems, each axis (X, Y, and often Z) has separate motors, which require a lot of space. In contrast, the H-Bot controls movements in the X and Y axes with just two motors. This saves space because the motors are fixedly mounted at the ends of the structure, eliminating the need for additional wiring or space for moving motors.

The simplified construction with few mechanical components, fixed motors, and the compact belt system also reduce the need for additional guide rails, separate drives, and mechanical transmissions, making the H-Bot extremely compact both horizontally and vertically.

Handling of loads up to ten kilograms

By eliminating a motor on the Y-axis, the moving masses are significantly reduced, which decreases vibrations and allows for high dynamics. The linear axes with toothed belt drive and recirculating ball guides achieve a maximum stroke of 2,500 mm on the X-axis and 1,500 mm on the Y-axis. Speeds up to 5 m/s and accelerations up to 50 m/s² with a repeatability of ±0.1 mm are possible in both axis directions.

The H-Bot is particularly suitable for handling loads up to ten kilograms—for example, in the pharmaceutical industry, food industry, laboratory automation, 3D printing, and assembly, sorting, and transfer processes.

Telescoping system in aluminum

The corporate group is also showcasing the telescopic linear axis system TLS at the fair. This system includes two- and three-stage solutions for automation in confined spaces. 
By using cost-effective aluminum extrusion profiles in combination with recirculating ball guides and rack-and-pinion drives, the system achieves high performance while being economically efficient. 
The system is suitable for both vertical installation (limited ceiling height) and horizontal installation (limited lateral space available), achieving strokes up to 3,000 mm and handling loads up to 450 kg. 
Versions with bilateral stroke are also available.

The Telescopic System is designed for applications where the travel distance of the axis exceeds the space between the machine and the ceiling or wall. It is versatile and can be used for machine loading or assembly automation, and integrates seamlessly into configurations with multiple axes.