Greater cost-effectiveness for precise, highly dynamic pick-and-place applications

Neugart is expanding its portfolio of application-specific drive solutions with the new NDFC gearbox series. (Source: Neugart GmbH)

Delta robots place high demands on their drive technology, especially when precision, dynamics, and efficiency must work together. With a new gearbox series developed specifically for this type of kinematics, Neugart now offers additional, economical options.

Neugart is expanding its portfolio of application-specific drive solutions with the new NDFC gearbox series. Developed as a cost-effective alternative for delta robot drives, the NDFC delivers reliable performance, high availability, and exceptional robustness. Like the high-performance NDF series, its design is optimized for the unique kinematics of delta robots. These parallel kinematic systems combine rapid pick-and-place movements with high repeat accuracy, placing specific demands on the inertia, stiffness, and sealing technology of the gearbox. The NDFC addresses these requirements precisely, combining an application-specific drive train with a focus on cost efficiency.

The NDFC series features gearing parts from the Neugart Precision Line, paired with an input and sealing system optimized for delta robot applications. Its mass-inertia-reduced clamping system allows rapid direction changes, enabling short cycle times. At the same time, the sealing concept optimizes effective sealing at the limited angles of rotation typical of delta robot output shafts. Standard torsional backlash is less than 5 arcminutes and can be reduced to below 2 arcminutes for frame size 064 and below 1 arcminute for frame sizes 090 and 110. With three frame sizes (064, 090, and 110) and two-stage ratios ranging from i = 16 to 100, the NDFC covers a wide range of delta robot and parallel kinematic robot applications.

Neugart placed particular emphasis on operational reliability under dynamic load conditions. The application-specific sealing design supports high performance, while the mechanical drive train combines low inertia with high transmissible torque. As a result, the NDFC delivers the precision required for demanding pick-and-place tasks while remaining economically efficient. Frame size 064 is also ideal for compact delta robots with a small working area and lower payloads.

For hygienically sensitive environments, the NDFC series offers several options: food-grade lubrication without performance restrictions, a nickel-plated output flange, and a stainless-steel output shaft. These features enhance corrosion resistance and support frequent cleaning cycles, making the gearbox suitable for use in the pharmaceutical, food, and beverage industries.
"With the NDFC gearboxes, we offer design teams an economical, application-specific gear solution for delta robots that combines dynamic performance, rapid availability, and an attractive total cost of ownership," says Marcel Geurts, Product Manager at Neugart GmbH.

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