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. 

Easy learning

Similar to the freedrive of cobot joints, the Movotrak CTU 7th axis freedrive functionality enables hand-driven setting of linear waypoints during programming. Users manually slide the cobot where they would like it to be in a sequence along the 7th axis and register that with a simple push button. A good use case example of this feature is an aircraft quality inspector who needs repeated images of the same area over time. Another might be a welder who wants to carry out welding sequences at multiple locations. 

Robust and versatile

The Movotrak CTU 7th axis distinguishes itself through its innovative dual-linear unit solution, delivering exceptional moment load capacity and stiffness. This design ensures peak performance, even when fully extending the cobot arm, setting a new standard for reliability. Moreover, it offers unparalleled flexibility. The 7th axis can be seamlessly mounted in a horizontal, inverted or wall-mounted configuration, making it an adaptable choice for diverse applications. Notably, the Movotrak CTU 7th axis is well-equipped for compatibility with even the largest cobots, such as the UR20 and UR30, meeting the specific needs of Thomson customers and responding to the high demand for such configurations.

A quick integration alternative for industrial robots

For those with a preferred servo/auxiliary axis motor and drive, Thomson is also releasing a new industrial RTU, which allows users to quickly and easily equip their robotic applications with a 7th axis. With a Thomson RediMount motor mounting adapter kit included, users can integrate their motor in less than a minute and use their own robotic controller to take advantage of the RTU. Compatible with many robot brands and sizes, the industrial RTU features the same dual-linear-unit design and carriage-mounted mounting plate as the Movotrak CTU to ensure optimal precision for your application.

Available immediately, the Thomson Movotrak CTU 7th axis ships as a kit, including the linear units, gearhead, motor, drives, control box, software, end-of-stroke limit switches and cable management. The Thomson industrial RTU is also available and includes dual linear units, gearhead, motor mounting adapter kit, mounting plate, end-of-stroke limit switches and cable management.