August 2021

Rittal & Eplan: Your partners for sustainable panel building and switchgear manufacturing. Rittal & Eplan: FUTURE FORUM future-forum.co.uk Join Rittal & Eplan 6th October 2021 for a virtual event where we’ll discuss the futur e of automation an d the latest digital trends n TECHNOLOGY A CANADIAN FIRM has developed a series of direct- drive actuators that eliminate gears and belts, thus simplifying drivetrains, reducing the need for maintenance, minimising the risk of lubricant leaks, improving performance and cutting costs. Genesis Robotics & Motion Technologies’ LiveDrive LDD 1800 actuators are aimed at applications in robots and other machinery – particularly in the food, packaging, pharmaceutical and electronics industries – where contamination by lubricants needs to be avoided. The high torque-density actuators, based on brushless, permanent magnet, three- phase synchronous motors, are less than half the length of typical servo-gearhead drivetrains, making better use of space in machines and on factory floors. The actuators’ IP67-protected enclosures have smooth surfaces and can handle washdowns. The direct-drive technology eliminates backlash and improves system stiffness. Coupled with a high torque-to-weight ratio, it will allow robot and machine designers to improve performance in dynamic applications. The actuators have built-in holding brakes. Avoiding the need for a gearbox removes the risk of oil leakages or contamination. Genesis says it will also reduce downtime, and the need for inspection and maintenance. The LiveDrive actuators will be available in various configurations and performance options. A 177mm-diameter, 124mm-long version weighing 11.5kg can deliver a peak torque of 100Nm (26Nm continuous). Models with peak ratings up to 210Nm (52Nm continuous) are planned for later this year. There are four feedback options using absolute encoders that support the Hiperface, Hiperface DSL, Endat 2.2 and BiSS-C protocols. With Hiperface DSL, single-cable connections are possible. The actuator’s low inertia and fast stopping times makes it easier for to comply with ISO/TS 15066 which covers cobot control system safety, making human-machine collaboration possible. “We are thrilled to launch this leading-edge actuation technology, making it available to manufacturers and system integrators globally,” says Genesis’ CEO, Chris Di Lello. “A simpler drivetrain empowers a better robot: faster to assemble, and easier to maintain. This creates value for our customers and end-users and represents a true breakthrough for the robotics and automation industries.” One of the first users of the LiveDrive actuators is the Swiss robot-maker Wyzo – a subsidiary of the packaging specialist Demaurex – which has used them in a new delta robot with the safety capabilities of a cobot (see page 20). Genesis was founded in 2014 and in 2017 showed an early version of its technology at the Hannover Fair. In 2018, US-based Koch Industries took a controlling interest in the business. https://genesisrobotics.com Gear-free direct-drive actuators cut costs and lubricants, and save space With no gears, belts or lubrication, LiveDrive actuators are designed to simplify drivetrains, boost performance and cut costs