How to model a 2-axis linear rail

This example shows how to model a 2-axis linear rail, also known as a linear axes or linear track. Linear axes are used to extend the reach of robot arms.

Follow these steps to set up your 3D model in RoboDK:

1.Import your 3D model into RoboDK➔drag and drop the STEP fileinto your station.

2.Open the Mechanism builder:Utilities➔Model Mechanism or Robot.

3.Under Robot Type, select2-linear轴(T-bot)。

4.Once your model is split into 3 pieces, re-open the rail builder: SelectUtilities➔Model Mechanism or Robot.

5.Select the option:2-linear轴(T-bot)。

6.Rename your robot toT-bot(under robot name).

Follow these steps to find the location of your base frame:

7.If you consider that your base frame should be at the 0 position of the rail, create your reference frame exactly there and rename it toFrame Base.

Follow these steps to modify the position of the frame:

8.Open the frame panel bydouble clicking the frame.

9.Measure the position of the center of the surface by opening your measurement tool:Tools➔Measure.

10.Select the center point of each edge(as shown below) to find the distance between the two lines.

11.SelectCreate Geometryin theMeasurewindow which will create a line between the two points.

12.SelectClear Selection.

Follow these steps to measure the position of the center point between the two lines:

13.Select the center point of the line.

14.Copy the valuesin theMeasurementwindow andpaste the valuesas the frame position (as shown below).

Follow these steps to make sure the orientations are the same:

15.Rotate counterclockwise, 90 degrees, around X and then rotate 90 degrees around the Z axis (as shown below).

16.Enter the measurementsof the rail in the Model Mechanism or Robot window as show below.

17.SelectUpdateto create the robot.

18.If you are satisfied with the results, selectOkin the “Model Mechanism or Robot” window.