New rectangular guidance solution means a smart conveyor can now handle payloads of up to 40 kg

HepcoMotion has expanded its range of guidance solutions for Beckhoff’s XTS with the new GFX-r; a flexible and precise option for higher payloads. It was unveiled at a special Mechatronics Showcase event held at the Red Bull Racing HQ in November.

This new GFX-r has been developed in response to the strong growth in smart transportation systems, especially in higher load applications by providing movement in rectangular paths.  Based on the existing GFX design and incorporating the inherent flexibility and precision of GFX/XTS technology, the curved segments have been removed, enabling transportation of payloads up to 40 kg.

GFX-r is the integration of Beckhoff and Hepco’s TMS (Track Management System) and the increased drive capacity of XTS 7 & 10 pole magnet arrays. By removing the curved sections, a larger mover, powered by Beckhoff's longer magnet arrays can be used. TMS completes the rectangular path, transitioning movers between tracks.

With an impressive load-bearing capability, GFX-r is ready to make a significant impact across many industries including automotive and EV, aerospace, and logistics, says Hepco. GFX-r is ideally suited for machine cells incorporating robots, power tools and sensors, as well as for automated assembly and inspection systems. The possibilities are endless; indeed, any application with loads up to 40 kg, significant moment loads, and heightened in-process stresses, stand to gain.

The absence of curved motor sections allows movers to be stronger, more powerful and with a larger mounting platform, while maintaining accuracy, durability, and agility.  Mover speeds of 4m/s, payloads up to 40 kg and press loads up to 1500N are possible. Additionally, movers with longer magnet arrays also reduce heating losses by up to 60%.

GFX-r is available in both 4 & 6 bearing versions for increased strength and stability. GFX-r utilises the existing parts and technology that have made GFX/XTS a leading solution including GFX-PRT2 straight slide hardware, base plates, and motor brackets, as well as Beckhoff’s XTS motors and TwinCAT system. GFX-r offers repeatability of 10µm, even when carrying a 30 kg payload at a speed of 3m/s. 

In the past decade, HepcoMotion and Beckhoff have forged a strong relationship, yielding this linear SCT (Smart Conveyor Technology) product in the form of GFX/XTS. In that time, there has been a major uptake of SCT, as early adopters have seen significant benefits in performance, service life, capabilities, and flexibility. Many industries including pharmaceutical, food handling & processing, mid-line and end-of-line packaging, EV battery assembly and handling, inspection, and product sorting operations have benefited from the technology.

In operation, the Beckhoff XTS drive uses linear motor technology to independently drive and control movers around a track, enabling the seamless combination of work processes of varying durations, on the fly product changes, and the addition or removal of workstations as needed.  Hepco’s GFX serves as the transport path, mechanically guiding the movers along the motor modules. It absorbs the substantial forces acting on the movers, ensuring precise alignment and resistance to deflection with great precision.

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