Extending a robot’s reach is relatively easy. Maintaining machining accuracy across that extended working area is the real challenge.
Güdel’s TrackMotion Precision (TMP) addresses this challenge with a purpose developed linear track for Machine Tool Robot (MTR) applications. Combined with suitable robots, including Autonox, the Güdel TMP provides the stiffness and repeatability that support path accuracy when combined with a Siemens SINUMERIK ONE CNC for robotic machining.
What Is the Güdel TMP?
The Güdel TMP is a floor-mounted linear track developed specifically for MTR applications.
It extends the robot’s working envelope while providing a stable mechanical platform. In a typical MTR application, the robot carries a machining spindle or another process tool. MTR + TMP allows the robot to process components that are longer or larger than the working envelope of a fixed robot. It is particularly relevant to large-part manufacturing in the aerospace and general metalworking segments.
The TMP is based on Güdel’s proven linear track technology with further development for demanding machining processes. Conventional linear axes reach their limits when cutting forces, deflection and insufficient rigidity begin to affect precision and process quality. The TMP addresses these limitations through with linear rails, lengthened base fabrication and a dual anti-backlash planetary gearbox drive system.
Why TMP Is Different from Conventional Robot Linear Tracks
Not every application requires the performance of a TMP.
General purpose linear tracks with robots are commonly used to move robots between machines, fixtures or production zones. Typical applications include:
- Machine loading and unloading
- Parts and material handling
- Welding
- Painting
- Assembly
- Pallet and tool transfer
The Güdel TMF family is generally a more suitable and commercially competitive starting point for these traditional automation applications.
The TMP occupies a different technical and cost position. Its linear rail guideways, dual-drive system with precision planetary gearboxes, optional direct measuring system and optional protective covers are designed to support machining performance.
The distinction is straightforward:
- Choose TMF when the primary objective is extending robot reach for tending, handling, transfer or welding.
- Choose TMP when the robot performs machining and the linear axis must contribute to stiffness & repeatability for increased path accuracy.
Selecting the correct platform prevents manufacturers from over-engineering a routine handling application or under-engineering a demanding machining system.
High Rigidity for Robotic Machining
Machining forces travel through the cutting tool, spindle, robot structure, robot base and linear axis. Movement or deflection anywhere in this mechanical chain can affect dimensional accuracy, surface quality and tool life.
The Güdel TMP addresses this challenge with an especially rigid mechanical design. According to Güdel, it offers up to ten times the stiffness of a standard Güdel linear axis. Its dual-motor arrangement provides high torsional and drive stiffness, creating a stable foundation for demanding machining operations.
The drive system uses two high-precision Güdel NRH planetary gearboxes with a hardened and ground helical rack-and-pinion system. This anti-backlash arrangement helps produce controlled, repeatable movement along the complete axis.
This is the TMP’s key point of difference. A conventional robot track must position a robot reliably. A machining process axis must also resist dynamic loads and cutting forces while the robot follows a programmed tool path.
The TMP can support machining across materials ranging from lightweight materials to steel.
Combining Güdel TMP with Machining Robots
The TMP must be combined with robot mechanics capable of supporting the intended machining process. Suitable Machine Tool Robot platforms include specific systems from Autonox, Danobat or MABI, depending on the application.
The TMP provides repeatability of ±0.005mm. A direct linear encoder measures the carriage position directly, supporting accurate positioning independently of the rotary drive components.
The package is completed with a Siemens SINUMERIK ONE CNC.
Robot selection should not be based on payload and reach alone. Engineers must also evaluate:
- Robot stiffness in different poses
- Expected cutting and process forces
- Required tool orientation
- Spindle power and weight
- Component material and geometry
- Required path accuracy
- Compatibility with the selected CNC platform
The MTR robots, including Autonox, and Güdel TMP and Siemens SINUMERIK ONE should be treated as parts of one integrated machine, not as separate automation products that are expected to cooperate by chance.
Applications for Güdel TMP
Güdel identifies large part manufacturing for aerospace and metalworking as key application areas for the TMP.
Potential applications include:
- Machining aircraft fuselage sections
- Processing large aerospace structures
- Milling and drilling long fabricated components
- Trimming composite or lightweight parts
- Machining large cast or fabricated metal parts
- Grinding, deburring and finishing
- Processing workpieces that exceed a fixed robot’s reach
The TMP provides long linear travel of up to 48.5m while maintaining the mechanical stiffness required for machining. This makes it suitable for components that may be difficult or uneconomical to process using a traditional fixed robotic cell.
Engineering the Complete MTR System
A successful TMP installation involves much more than mounting a robot on a track. The foundation, robot, spindle, tooling, CNC platform, electrical equipment, guarding and safety systems must function as one machine.
Mechanical Design
The design must account for robot mass, machining forces, acceleration, dynamic loads and workpiece geometry. Foundation quality, track levelling and alignment are critical to maintaining consistent performance across the complete stroke.
CNC and Motion Integration
The robot axes and TMP process axis must operate within a coordinated control architecture. The system must support accurate path control, calibration, process sequencing, diagnostics and reliable recovery following production interruptions.
Environmental Protection
Machining may generate chips, dust or coolant. Suitable covers, cable management and energy-supply systems must be selected for the process and must remain reliable throughout the full travel distance.
Functional Safety
A moving robot, powered spindle and long linear axis create a substantial operating envelope. Risk assessment, guarding, interlocks, controlled access, safe operating zones and emergency-stop functions must be included from the beginning of the project.
Why Work with CNC Design?
CNC Design brings together CNC technology, drives, motion control, robotics and mechatronic engineering.
Through its technology relationships with Güdel and Autonox, CNC Design can help manufacturers progress from an initial machining concept to an integrated MTR solution. This whole-system approach may include:
- Application and feasibility assessment
- Robot and process axis selection
- Mechanical and foundation engineering
- CNC, drive and motion integration
- Spindle and tooling integration
- Electrical and functional safety design
- Guarding and environmental protection
- Installation, calibration and commissioning
- Operator training and ongoing support
This coordinated approach is essential because machining performance depends on every part of the system working together.
Build a Precision Robotic Machining Platform
The Güdel TMP is not simply a conventional robot track for additional travel. It is a specialised linear track for MTR applications where stiffness & repeatability provide a platform for path accuracy that directly affect production results.
With up to ten times the stiffness of a standard Güdel linear axis, repeatability of ±0.005mm and capacity for robots weighing up to 4,500 kg including payload, the TMP provides a strong foundation for medium and high payload robotic machining.
When combined with suitable robots such as Autonox and the integrated CNC architecture of Siemens SINUMERIK ONE, it can create a flexible platform for machining large aerospace, metalworking and industrial components.
Contact CNC Design to discuss your Güdel TMP & MTR application. The CNC Design engineering team can assess your component, machining process and production requirements and develop an integrated solution focused on precision, safety and long-term performance.