Precision in Motion: Drive Technologies Powering Automation and Robotics
The global robotics and automation industry is growing at an unprecedented pace and at the heart of every cobot, robot, AGV, and automated production line lies a critical need for precise, reliable motion control. Sumitomo Drive Technologies is meeting that demand head-on with a comprehensive portfolio of gears, motors, drives, and fully integrated drive solutions which are trusted by leading automation OEMs worldwide.
“The pace of change in the automation and robotics industry means it demands drive technologies that can keep up,” comments Marcomms Manager Nigel Evans. “From articulated industrial robots and collaborative cobots, to autonomous guided vehicles (AGVs), autonomous mobile robots (AMRs), machine tools, and automated packaging lines - the requirement for robust, precise, and compact motion control has never been greater.
“Our broad portfolio includes products designed specifically for automation and robotics applications – delivering the zero-backlash performance, smooth continuous operation, and compact, quiet engineering demanded by this industry.”
Industrial robots operate in some extremely demanding conditions executing repeatable movements and rapid changes of direction at high speeds, often within extremely confined spaces. This requires exceptionally high torque density, low inertia, and absolute positional accuracy.
Sumitomo Drive Technologies’ FINE CYCLO® high-precision reducers are purpose-built for exactly these conditions. Delivering true zero-backlash operation and shock-load capacity of up to five times rated torque, the FINE CYCLO® series is the preferred choice for robot joint applications where repeatable positioning and long service life are non-negotiable. The unique cycloidal architecture distributes load across multiple contact points simultaneously, resulting in a more compact, durable, and precise solution than conventional gear designs.
AGVs and AMRs are transforming logistics and warehousing, but their performance is only as good as the drive systems that power them. Precise, reliable navigation is essential to ensuring loads reach their destinations on time, every time.
Smartris is a packaged drive solution designed specifically for AGV and AMR applications. Combining a cycloidal gearbox, servo motor, and drive controller in a single compact, plug-and-play package, Smartris delivers consistently smooth, fast, and quiet movement - simplifying system design and reducing integration time for both OEMs and end users.
Collaborative robots (cobots) work alongside people, which means the bar for both precision and safety is exceptionally high. The award-winning Tuaka fully integrated drive has been developed specifically for cobot applications, combining the backlash-free, high-precision shaft drive of the E Cyclo series with a powerful servo motor in a compact, lightweight package.
Tuaka offers a safety level up to SIL3 PL-e, with features including collision detection developed specifically for human-robot collaboration environments. Its integrated encoder and controller enable accurate position, velocity, and torque control in a closed loop - making it ideal for high-precision applications and dynamic motion control with a high repetition rate.
“These are just a few examples of the extensive product range used in automation and robotics applications,” continues Nigel. “Our team also offers specialist technical expertise, meaning we are perfectly positioned to support customers with their precise motion control requirements.
“With so much choice available in an industry which is growing exponentially and has ever changing needs, it can be challenging for customers to identify the best solutions for their requirements.
“Our robust, proven products backed by extensive experience in this industry means our customers can be confident that they’ll get exactly what they need, whatever their project entails,” Nigel concludes.
Whether the requirement is for a precision reducer in a robot joint, an integrated wheel drive for an autonomous vehicle, or a complete packaged motion control solution for a production line, Sumitomo Drive Technologies has the products, the expertise, and the global reach to deliver for automation and robotics applications.
Contact our team now to speak to our precision motion control experts.