4 Installation
4.1 Track
The correct installation of the track is the most important part of the setup. Like the foundation of a house: if the track is not straight the cuts won’t be either and it will bite you in your behind later. So take your time: do it once, do it right.
Please read carefully the instructions. Do step by step - Do not assume anything. If something is not 100% clear contact us to verify.
4.1.1 Steps in short
- Find highest point of the floor
- Place the first module
- Install the piano wire
- Align module by module
- Secure to the ground
4.1.2 Preparation
4.1.2.1 Highest point of the floor
Before you install the track you have to find the lowest point first. Shoot a laser over the floor and measure the depth in a 500mm pattern. Write down the points and calculate the biggest difference. The difference can’t be more than the length of the set screw of the track.
4.1.2.2 Piano Wire
A piano wire is a strong steel wire that acts as a guide/template for the track.
To install the piano wire (get one here) set the holder at the start and end of the track. The wire has to be really tight so it doesn’t sag. Take a laser or better a precision water level to ensure the track will be as leveled as possible. If the track is straight, but not level, there will be a constant force on the bearings and they will wear out faster.
4.1.2.2.1 Set the piano wire
Measure the distance (green) from the guide rail to the bottom of the foot and add 5mm (1/4 inch). This is the minimum distance at the highest point of your floor.
Place the piano wire like in the sketch below. Again: the green line is the distance + 5mm (1/4 inch) on the highest point of your floor.
Make sure the wire is as straight as possible.
Repeat this process on the other side. Make sure the piano wires are level in cross as well, otherwise the track would be rotated over the X Axis. This also would put stress on the bearings which decreases the life of the bearings.
4.1.3 Placing the track
Start placing the track modules one after the other. Before you move on with the next make sure the track element is as straight as possible. It is much easier to align a module when it is only attached on one side. When the whole track is screwed together only small movement can be corrected.
4.1.4 Bolting down
4.1.4.1 Direct to the floor
4.1.4.2 Plate
In case you can not just drill holes in the floor (for example you have floor heating) then you can install a 1/2” steel plate on both sides of the track and drill the holes where it is safe. After this is done you then place bolts with base welded on into the track foot and weld it to the base plate after aligning the track.
4.2 Robot
WARNING: Do NOT lift the robot on the arm - use the dedicated anchor points on the base or you could damage the robot!