Clean and LEAN

RK Rose+Krieger optimized the successful RK DuoLine linear units for cleanroom use and had them tested according to EN ISO 14644-1.

In cooperation with Fraunhofer IPA Stuttgart, RK Rose+Krieger developed a biomechanical laboratory to record the movement patterns of working people and the forces acting upon them.

Embedded and variably positionable force measurement plates in the modular floor of the biomechanical laboratory record the movement data of the assembly worker.

RK Rose+Krieger offers the RK Multilift II as a synchronized version in a pre-assembled Plug&Work package.

The heavy-duty hub column RK Powerlift XL is ideally suited for height adjustment of ergonomic standing workstations.

Linear units for cleanroom applications and the optimization of ergonomic LEAN workstations are at the center of RK Rose+Krieger's this year's Motek trade fair presentation. Additionally, the Minden-based company will showcase updated versions of its electric motorized lift columns Multilift II and Powerlift XL, as well as the adapter sleeve R28 for pipe connectors during the trade fair from October 6 to 9, 2014.

A highlight at this year's Motek booth is the introduction of the new RK DuoLine Clean series. The successful profile linear units RK DuoLine have been optimized for use in cleanrooms, tested according to EN ISO 14644-1, and serve as the X- and Y-axis core components of the cleanroom robot SCOUT® triax by Roth & Rau - Ortner GmbH. The driverless 3-axis transport system is used for flexible material handling in semiconductor factories and other pure production environments.

Another highlight is the modular floor for a biomechanical laboratory designed to record the movement sequences of working people and the forces acting upon them. This joint project with Fraunhofer IPA Stuttgart enables precise analysis of the physical stresses experienced by assembly workers during their tasks. The goal is ergonomic optimization of LEAN workstations. Covering an area of 9 sqm with a maximum of 12 m of travel distance, IR cameras and sensors—including specially embedded and variably positionable force measurement plates—capture the movement and load data of the worker. The entire laboratory was completely constructed from BLOCAN® profiles and pipe connectors from RK's product range. The modular flooring system allows for the variable positioning of sensitive elements within the space and the methodically optimal integration of additional structures such as stairs, ramps, workstations, and camera systems.

Height-adjustable work tables also contribute to improved ergonomics of assembly workplaces. RK Rose+Krieger offers electric lift columns such as the RK Multilift II and the RK Powerlift XL for this purpose. Both lift columns are also suitable for adjustment tasks in custom and series machine construction.

An extensive customer survey served as the basis for numerous design optimizations of the RK Multilift II. Among other innovations, a double-sided mounting groove has been added to the outer profile of the Multilift II, which is coordinated with the RK profile system and can accommodate corresponding T-nuts. This allows for easy attachment of additional components such as a privacy screen, computer table, or extra stiffening elements. Additionally, RK Rose+Krieger supplies the lift columns as a synchronized variant in a pre-assembled Plug&Work package. The fully pre-initialized package includes two Multilifts, a Compact-3e control, power and connection cables, and an optional hand switch. Optional mounting plates with integrated leveling screws for vertical alignment, including a spirit level as an alignment aid, are also available. This ensures precise installation of the lift columns and quick assembly of a work table with capacities up to 3000 N and strokes from 355 mm to 500 mm.

For electric height adjustments requiring particularly high lifting forces, RK Rose+Krieger will present the heavy-duty lift column RK Powerlift XL at Motek, designed for adjustment tasks up to 550 kg. With a pressing force of 5,500 N and a dynamic torque compensation of 400 Nm (statically up to 1000 Nm), the new DC lift column is intended to complement the Minden company's lift program as the most powerful version in an updated model with an optimized price-performance ratio.

Industrial lean applications such as transport carts, linked workstations, and similar systems are often built using pipes with a 28 mm diameter and matching sheet metal clamp connectors. Frequently, the stability of these systems is insufficient. In such cases, the Solid Clamp pipe connection system from RK Rose+Krieger can be integrated as a high-strength addition using an intelligent adapter sleeve. This construction method is particularly preferred for stable substructures and mobile constructions. The new R28 adapter sleeve reduces the 30 mm inner diameter of the Solid Clamps to the standard 28 mm pipe size. It is easy to install and secured against axial and rotational movement.

Visitors to Motek can learn about the products and see the modular floor and cleanroom robot in action at the RK booth 3330 in Hall 3 from October 6 to 9, 2014.