Combined solution packages

As a simple assembly kit for robotics, the parallel arm kinematics kit is particularly appealing to small and medium-sized mechanical engineering companies. © SEW-Eurodrive

At SEW-Eurodrive, the various robot packages are strategically embedded in the newly established "Maxolution Machine Automation" business unit. In future, the company also wants to emphasize its expertise in complete solutions in the field of robotics. The Bruchsal-based specialists combine software with reliable drive technology to create complete, easy-to-integrate solution packages. These are prepared and leave the classic added value in the form of design, integration, installation and commissioning to the machine manufacturer.

The software is designed to be so simple that commissioning engineers can work with it without in-depth robotics knowledge and time-consuming reading. The primary aim is to parameterize and program as little as possible - especially not in robot languages such as G-code or IEC languages for sequence control. Further convenience results from the integrated visualization of Movikit Robotics, which also enables 3D simulation.

With the Movi-C controller, there is more scope for parameterization and less programming effort is required. © SEW-Eurodrive

In this context, the commissioning engineer can teach the travel profiles of the robot kinematics directly on the panel on site. The travel path can be easily navigated and saved visually or using route coordinates. The program then calculates the drive data required for the multi-axis drive system completely automatically - press "Start" and off you go. This is ideal for simple picking tasks. SEW-Eurodrive wants to harness the power of robot kinematics with simple software for precisely this purpose. Customers should be able to write their own programs without any specialist knowledge.

Benefits for OEMs

The combination of CM3C servo motor and PxG servo planetary gearbox enables maximum drive performance. © SEW-Eurodrive

Maxolution Machine Automation is about more than just drive technology and the SEW product portfolio in the narrower sense. The focus is on the complete automation network. One example of this is functional safety, which is becoming increasingly important in collaborative production. Here, SEW-Eurodrive pursues a strategy of best-in-class integration. This means that components from other manufacturers are also validated as part of the overall solution and described or already integrated with all interfaces.

Small and medium-sized mechanical engineering companies (OEMs) in particular benefit from this because they do not have to build up their own resources, especially in specialist disciplines such as safety technology. In the specific robotics example, this way of working enables OEMs to build their own robots with simple means, which work more precisely than universal robots off the shelf. Ultimately, it is about being able to implement your own machine ideas yourself.

Heiko Füller, Head of Market Management, SEW-Eurodrive / am