Safe, precise and reliable: Brakes for medical robots from Kendrion

January 14, 2022

Safe, precise and reliable: Brakes for medical robots from Kendrion

Surgical robots allow surgeons to perform movements with particular precision - for the benefit of the patient. Therefore, it is no surprise that this special cooperation between humans and machines is gaining ground in the medical field. A particularly important component in the drives of the robots are the brakes, which must function with the utmost precision and absolute reliability in this application. Solutions by Kendrion meet these requirements in every aspect.

"Our brakes are highly demanded by manufacturers of medical robots," says Daniel Guggolz, Global Sales Manager at Kendrion. "We have a great level of application expertise in this area and can also flexibly fulfill individual requests." For an assured high quality standard, the brakes are thoroughly tested before delivery. In addition, we meet the specific requirements regarding documentation and compliance with processes that are essential in medical technology.

The application examples from this industry are numerous: For example, our permanent magnet brakes are used in surgical robots for orthopedic applications, among others. "Safety, reliability and precision are the distinctive requirements placed on electromagnetic brake solutions in medical technology," emphasizes Daniel Guggolz. "Precise positioning of medical devices, reliable holding in a specific position, as well as low-noise operation and a high power density are top priorities, ensuring the safety of the patient at all times." No problem with permanent magnet brakes from Kendrion: they feature safe, residual torque-free release in any installation position and backlash-free transmission of the braking torque. At the same time, they offer further advantages, such as above-average consistency of the holding torque and the dynamic braking torque over the entire service life. The brakes also have an impressively long service life and are wear-resistant.

Kendrion developed a customer-specific emergency stop brake for a start-up that launched an innovative solution for robot-assisted surgery. "The customer's requirements included a compact design and a large inner diameter," describes Daniel Guggolz. "In addition, the brake should consume as little energy as possible to keep heat generation low." Kendrion designed a suitable solution based on the Servo Slim Line series. They are characterized by their compact design and high power density. The power consumption was modified so that the brake operates reliably and heat generation is minimal.

The examples show: Having Kendrion as a partner allows medical device manufacturers to save costs and develop innovative technologies that support people's health and quality of life. "In the case of medical robots, it is impressively demonstrated how intelligent technology can support surgical success," Daniel Guggolz concludes. "Kendrion contributes to the development of this industry with its safe and high-quality brakes. With our broad product portfolio, we find the right solution for all project-specific requirements - for both established and start-up companies."