Single-Axis Robots: Definition, Applications, and Core Features Analysis

I. Overview of Single-Axis Robots

II. Core Components and Structural Design

1. Drive System (motor side/non-motor side): Integrates servo/stepper motors, transmitting power via couplings;
2. Motion Unit: Slider 配合本体导轨 (slider paired with main guide rails) for low-friction linear movement;
3. Protection Devices: Dust-proof steel belts, side guards, and protective covers for dusty/wet environments;
4. Transmission Components: Ball screws or timing belts, determining precision and speed performance.

III. Typical Application Scenarios

1. Precision Measurement and Inspection

• Flatness Testing: The X-axis drives a laser rangefinder for reciprocating scans, while the Y-axis positions workpieces. Multi-point sampling calculates flatness errors with an accuracy of ±0.02mm.
• Visual Inspection: X/Y axes carry industrial cameras for 2D planar scanning, and the Z-axis adjusts focal length to detect product defects and auxiliary material misalignment, improving quality inspection efficiency by over 30%.

2. Processing and Assembly

• Laser Machining: The Z-axis mounts cutting/marking heads, expanding marking range with galvanometer systems for high-precision surface processing (minimum line width 0.1mm);
• Automatic Screw Tightening: A 3-axis platform picks screws via vibration feeders and completes tightening along preset trajectories, with positioning accuracy ±0.1mm and <2 seconds per screw.

3. Fluid Control

• 3D Stereoscopic Dispensing: X/Y axes plan paths, and the Z-axis controls dispenser height, achieving 0.5mm-diameter precise dispensing on complex surfaces, suitable for electronic component packaging and automotive sealing.

IV. Core Product Features

1. High-Precision Transmission:
   • Ball screw models use C5-grade screws with positioning error ≤±0.01mm and repeat positioning accuracy ±0.005mm, ideal for precision scenarios like semiconductor wafer handling;
   • Timing belt models achieve speeds up to 1500mm/s via toothed belt drives, suitable for high-speed sorting and conveyor lines.
2. Environmental Adaptability:
   • Dust-proof sealing (IP54 protection rating) with labyrinth seals, blocking particles >5μm and liquid splashes, extending service life by 20%;
   • Optional stainless steel bodies for wet/corrosive environments (e.g., medical devices, food production lines).
3. Modular Design:
   • Supports multi-stroke specifications (50–3000mm) and motor mounting directions (side/end-mounted), compatible with servo/stepper motors for loads 5–200kg;
   • Plug-and-play structure, installed in <30 minutes. Replaceable sliders/transmission components reduce downtime costs.

V. Key Selection Criteria

1. Condition Matching:
   • Stroke: Choose based on effective movement range with a 10%–15% safety margin;
   • Environment: Dust-proof for dusty scenes, stainless steel cleanroom models for cleanrooms (surface roughness Ra≤1.6μm);
   • Speed & Precision: Ball screws for high precision (≤1m/s), timing belts for high speed (>1m/s).
2. Load Calculation:
   • Dynamic load considers workpiece weight, inertia, and friction, verified via manufacturer torque formulas (safety factor ≥1.5);
   • Tilting moment scenarios require increased guide rail spacing or flange-type sliders for higher torsional rigidity.
3. Control Configuration:
   • Equipped with limit switches (home/limit) and encoders (incremental/absolute) for position feedback and safety;
   • Supports PLC/PC programming and Modbus/Canopen protocols for multi-axis coordination.

VI. Installation and Maintenance Guidelines

Motor Installation Process (Timing Belt Model Example)

1. Place the module horizontally and remove the motor end cover;
2. Adjust connecting plate screws to align the motor flange with the pulley;
3. Install the timing belt, ensuring moderate tension (sag ≤5mm per 100mm span);
4. Tighten diagonal fixing screws, check belt centering, and reinstall the end cover.

Periodic Maintenance

• Daily Inspection: Check cables for wear (bend radius ≥10× cable diameter), abnormal noise (normal ≤65dB);
• Quarterly Maintenance: Lubricate rails/screws with lithium-based grease (viscosity 30–150cst), clean surface dust;
• Semi-Annual Check: Verify screw tightness (torque deviation ≤±5%), timing belt wear (replace if tooth height loss >20%).

VII. Typical Fault Handling

1. Movement Stagnation: Stop to clean 异物 (foreign matter) on screws/rails (use compressed air + alcohol), replenish lubrication;
2. Belt Skipping: Check tension (recommended 80–120N/m with a tension meter), adjust motor position;
3. Positioning Deviation: Recalibrate home switches, check coupling looseness (concentricity error ≤0.05mm).

VIII. Example Application: Visual Inspection System Integration

• Equipment: Product Defect Detection Machine
• Configuration: X/Y-axis timing belt slides (stroke 500mm×300mm, speed 1m/s), Z-axis ball screw slide (stroke 100mm, accuracy ±0.01mm);
• Function: Camera moves with X/Y axes for full-field scanning, Z-axis auto-adjusts focal length for different workpiece heights. AI algorithms enable 0.2mm-level defect recognition at 200 pieces/minute.

Conclusion