Tsubaki KabelSchlepp Introduces Robotrax System for Industrial Robot Cable Protection

Addressing Robotic Cable Stress

Modern automated manufacturing relies on six-axis articulated robots performing high-speed, multidirectional maneuvers. These movements subject the electrical cables, fiber optics, and pneumatic hoses supplying the robots to significant mechanical stress, including torsional twist, rapid acceleration, and repeated contact with machine structures. This often leads to premature conductor fatigue, insulation breakdown, and costly production downtime.

Introducing the Robotrax System

Tsubaki KabelSchlepp has developed the Robotrax System, a specialized three-dimensional cable carrier engineered to manage the complex motion challenges of industrial robots. The system is designed to protect internal lines from the severe mechanical demands of robotic operations.

Central Steel Technology for Tensile Load Management

A key feature of the Robotrax system is a central steel cable integrated into the core of each chain link. This steel cable absorbs primary tensile loads, isolating electrical and fluid lines from pulling forces during rapid directional shifts and accelerations up to 10 g. This design preserves conductor integrity and extends cable service life. Mechanics can adjust system tension using an integrated clamping piece.

Flexible and Modular Design

The Robotrax system utilizes open, single-piece plastic links with spherical snap-on connections, allowing the carrier to flex smoothly across three axes with radial rotation up to ±450 degrees per meter. The links contain up to three distinct chambers for physical separation of power lines, data channels, and fluid hoses, preventing signal interference and mechanical abrasion. Standard models (R040-R100) allow tool-free cable installation, while larger configurations like the R140X include swiveling crossbars with snap locks.