Automatisierung

Präzise in Bewegung

Automation requires precision and flexibility

Drive solutions for maximum automation

Automated processes need to run quickly. Above all, however, they must run identically every single time! In production lines, robotic axes and handling systems, precise movements, short response times and reliable operating conditions determine whether a process runs smoothly or comes to a standstill.

At the same time, demands are increasing: machines are operating with ever-shorter cycle times, taking on more tasks and having to adapt flexibly to different products and loads.

An axis does not simply move from A to B. It must position itself precisely, hold its position reliably, brake in a controlled manner and release again at exactly the right moment.

This is precisely where switchable clutches, brakes and actuators come into play. They combine the dynamics of automated systems with the safety and repeatability that modern production processes require.

When every movement has to be spot on

Automated machines move tools, workpieces, grippers, slides or entire assemblies. Typical applications include, for example

Pick-and-place systems for the rapid picking up and setting down of components
Robotic axes with high demands on positioning accuracy and holding force
Vertical axes that must hold loads securely even in the event of a power failure
Transfer and assembly lines with many repetitive motion sequences
Sorting, feeding and packaging systems with short cycle times
Automated testing and measurement systems where every position must be approached reproducibly

For drive technology, this means that clutches and brakes must engage and disengage frequently, withstand high load cycles, whilst remaining compact, energy-efficient and low-maintenance. A small amount of play may be inconsequential in a manual movement. In an automated system, however, it can accumulate over many cycles to become a genuine precision problem.

Requirements for clutches and brakes

Depending on the motion task, different characteristics take centre stage

High repeatability Positions must be achieved with precision even after many cycles.
Fast switching times Clutches and brakes must release or stop movements without unnecessary delay.
Reliable holding Vertical axes and moving loads require a reliable holding function, even in the event of a power failure.
Low or no rotational play Play-free power transmission is crucial for precise positioning and synchronous movements.
Flexible torque control Different products, tools and load profiles require a drive solution that can be adapted.
Compact design In robotics, gripper modules and confined machine axes, installation space is often the scarcest resource.
Long service life Automated systems frequently operate continuously. The technology must therefore reliably handle a high number of switching cycles.
Low energy consumption Particularly for holding functions, it is worth considering energy consumption over the entire machine life cycle.

The best solution is therefore not automatically the most powerful or fastest component. It is the one that harmonises the switching behaviour, load, installation space, control system and safety concept of the entire machine.

Engage, hold, control

Mönninghoff develops clutch and brake systems for automated motion sequences – from individual axis modules to integrated drive solutions.

Electromagnetic toothed clutches

Electromagnetic toothed clutches enable positive-engagement shifting with high positioning accuracy. They are particularly suitable where a defined connection between the input and output shafts is required and where, when engaged, there should be as little rotational play as possible.

Typical applications include

switching drives on and off in automated machines
synchronising axes or tools
rapid tool or format changes
switching tasks in transfer and feeding systems

Where a clearly defined switching state is essential, positive locking is often the better solution – the machine understands it immediately.

Electromagnetic tooth brakes

On vertical axes, stroke modules or gripper arms, a load must be held securely even when at a standstill. Electromagnetic tooth brakes secure positions via positive locking and can thus play an important role in the system’s safety concept.

They are particularly suitable for applications where the holding function must be maintained even in the event of a power failure. Thanks to their compact design, they can also be integrated into confined axis spaces.

Magnetorheological fluid brakes

Not every movement needs to stop abruptly. In the case of sensitive workpieces, dynamic axes or varying loads, a continuously adjustable braking effect can offer decisive advantages.

Magnetorheological fluid brakes allow for precise adjustment of the braking torque and are therefore suitable, amongst other things, for

variable deceleration in handling and robotics applications
damping tasks in sensitive motion sequences
applications with varying speeds and loads

This ensures that the stop is not a jolt, but a smoothly controlled conclusion to the movement.

Moving-coil actuators

Moving-coil actuators can be a suitable addition for short, fast and precise linear movements. They perform tasks such as actuation, positioning or switching where high dynamics and repeatable performance are required.

In automated systems, such actuators are suitable for applications including fast tool movements, small stroke movements or compact actuation mechanisms.

To the product overview >

Enquire about automation solutions >

Automation requires movement with a plan

Whether it’s a robotic axis, a pick-and-place system, an assembly machine or a handling module: Mönninghoff develops and manufactures couplings, brakes and actuators for automated movements that operate precisely, safely and with long-term reliability.

Are you planning a new automation solution or looking to optimise an existing axis? Talk to our experts about torque, switching behaviour, holding force and installation space. Together, we’ll tailor your system’s automation to your exact requirements.

A bespoke solution tailored to the machine architecture

Every automation task presents different requirements. A high-speed gripper requires a different switching behaviour to a vertical robot axis. An assembly line operating over millions of cycles places different demands on service life and maintenance than a flexible testing system with frequently changing load profiles.

Mönninghoff therefore considers not just the individual component, but the entire motion sequence. The following parameters, amongst others, can be taken into account during the design phase.

Torque and speed
Switching frequency and cycle time
Load profile and mass inertia
Desired holding and braking functions
Available installation space and connection geometry
Requirements for control systems and sensors
Temperature, vibration and other environmental conditions
Desired maintenance intervals and service life

On this basis, a clutch or brake solution is developed that not only works technically but can also be integrated effectively into the application.

Test early, move to series production faster

The earlier drive technology is incorporated into the development process, the easier it is to coordinate interfaces, switching behaviour and safety functions. Mönninghoff therefore provides support right from the concept and prototype phase.

Functional models and prototypes can be used, for example, to

check switching times and positioning accuracy
test holding functions under realistic loads
evaluate soft-stop and damping characteristics
investigate behaviour in the event of blockages or emergency stop situations
optimise integration into the mechanical system and control system
prepare the solution for continuous operation and high cycle counts

This reduces development risks and creates a robust foundation for integration into series production.

People >

News >

Contact >