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Festo announced the development of its UR+ certified multi-axis solution for Universal Robot’s (UR) cobots. The certified UR system adds up to four axes of motion beyond the UR cobot six axes, and embodies Festo world-class precision, reliability and longevity. This solution from Festo, according to the company, lowers customer engineering time and speeds startup as it arrives ready to install. 

Cobot applications are intentionally simple to configure and operate. This multi-axis system is no different. No programming is involved in set up and no additional PLC is required. Multi-axes are configured through the UR HMI. End users simply set position, speed and acceleration on the HMI or, using the URCap toolbar, move the axes in manual mode to configure motion.

The multi-axis system features the Festo Motion Control Package (FMCP) for UR, which is a complete motion control panel for up to four axis motion. The FMCP is fully integrated with the UR cobot control panel and HMI and features a UR safety I/O and communications interface.  

In addition to a seventh axis used for linear transfer, the FMCP can control turning tables, automatic storage systems, conveyors and transfer tables, all under the UR umbrella. The FMCP has extra space within the panel for future expansion and brackets for wall mounting, which reduces footprint. 

The seventh axis is also used for extending the range of action for a UR cobot in such applications as palletizing and machine tending. Festo EGC belt-driven or ball-screw linear axes comes equipped with a cobot mounting plate. The EGC has an energy chain for cable management and servo motor optimized for performance. Standard EGC axes are available in lengths of up to 8 m with up to 10 m axes available by request.  

Festo offers a wide range of grippers such as vacuum, mechanical and the innovative Magswitch magnetic grippers, including the cobot smart gripper E30. Automatic tool changers are also available.