Ewellix has launched the SmartX digital platform to aid with the development of motion, robotic and automation systems. SmartX will enable the creation of advanced linear motion solutions.
Key features of SmartX include:
- integrated digital control, sensor and communication technologies
- twin CPU controller with onboard software and electronics
- range of sensors can be integrated
- can be used in various applications
Integrated Technology Benefits Performance
According to Ewellix, incorporation of the SmartX platform will enable customers to improve productivity, reliability, safety and functionality. It will also help to provide a future-proof option compliant with Industry 4.0, smart factories and the Internet of Things (IoT).
Devices into which the SmartX platform is integrated will feature digital control, sensor and communication technologies within a standard product envelope. This will help to ease installation for customers compared to alternative options requiring controllers and sensors to be mounted externally. Additionally, it helps to ensure compatibility of the components as they are all from a single source.
The device's dedicated twin-CPU controller includes onboard software, electronics as well as internal and external bus connections to make programming, setup and adjustments easy.
Ewellix showcased the SmartX platform and other linear motion technologies at IFPE 2023.
A range of sensor types can be used with the platform. Ewellix will first be offering products with internal digital absolute position sensors which offer precise and consistent positioning control and eliminate the need for recalibration. Further sensor and software options will be available and aid with safety, performance metrics as well as feedback in various motion and automation systems.
Currently there are three SmartX solutions available, the new CAHB-2xS linear actuator and updated versions of the company's Liftkit and Slidekit for robotics and automation systems. Additional solutions will be available and based on existing Ewellix technology.
"Our new SmartX platform helps to facilitate the next leap forward in machine development, enabling customers to simplify machine construction, improve performance and functionality, and reduce the total cost of ownership," said Stefano Gai, Global Product Line and Marketing Manager at Ewellix, in the company's press release announcing the launch of the platform.
Various Applications will Benefit
Ewellix said in its press release that its SmartX platform and associated devices can be used in a range of applications. For instance, it has been used by a heavy machinery OEM to provide smoother opening and closing of the engine hood as well as by an automated guided vehicle (AGV) manufacturer to improve payload capabilities.
The company also outlined in its press release use of the new CAHB-2xS by Italian electric car manufacturer Regis Motors. The OEM wanted to develop a fully electric automatic tipper system for its new electric quadricycle. This would help to provide higher efficiency and extended battery life in the electric vehicle, which are important factors for OEMs and their customers.
Fabrizio Regis, CTO of Regis Motors, said in the Ewellix press release that the electro-hydraulic actuation systems typically used on existing quadricycles often require additional maintenance while reducing flexibility and efficiency.
The new CAHB-2xS actuator was chosen due to the various benefits it could offer this application:
- master and slave configurations with synchronization features
- load capacity of 13,000 N
- maximum speed of 40 mm/s
- compact actuator design
With its compact design and various other features, the actuator helped meet Regis Motors' requirements for ease of installation as well as weight and cost reductions, improved efficiency and minimal maintenance. As the actuator is fully electric and controlled by wireless remote control, energy use by the vehicle can be improved. Ewellix stated its system improved the vehicle's battery usage time by 10% and provided a 60% weight savings.
Watch our video interview with Kirk Martin, sector sales director mobile machinery at Ewellix, to learn more about the SmartX platform, or read the full interview with Martin for more details on the technology.
