Thomson Linear Motion Optimized
WOLFSCHLUGEN, GERMANY – Under the theme “Imagine Where Motion Can Take You”, Regal Rexnord™ (NYSE: RRX) will stage a live, integrated factory automation demonstration at SPS 2026, showing how motion technologies from its Thomson, Kollmorgen, Portescap, Bauer Gear Motor and Warner Electric brands work together to create more flexible, efficient and productive systems. The event takes place from 24–26 November in Nuremberg, Germany.
The demonstration will combine robotic transfer, servo control, precise linear motion, geared motors, braking and conveyor technologies in one automated production cell. Visitors will see how the technologies operate together, supporting applications such as machine tending, packaging, palletising and material handling.
As manufacturers look to increase automation throughput while managing space constraints, production efficiency and changing operational requirements, machine builders face growing pressure to develop systems that are both capable and adaptable. Meeting these demands involves more than individual component performance. It also requires careful consideration of how motion, control and mechanical technologies work together across an automated system. This is the approach Regal Rexnord will present at SPS, demonstrating how its combined capabilities can help engineers address these interconnected requirements.
Extending robotic capabilities with integrated motion
One of the key highlights is the Thomson Movotrak™ Cobot Transfer Unit (CTU), a plug-and-play 7th axis solution that extends a cobot's operating range by up to 10 metres. By enabling one cobot to serve multiple workstations or a larger production area, it increases production line flexibility and makes better use of floor space. Flexible mounting options suit different workspace layouts, and the CTU also features user-defined collision detection and Freedrive functionality for setting linear waypoints during setup.
Supporting precision and performance across automation applications
Beyond the integrated demonstration, Thomson will showcase its range of electric and precision linear actuators for applications requiring controlled movement, high load capacity and repeatable positioning. The Electrak® XD, HD and MD smart electric actuators offer solutions for different load requirements, with the XD providing dynamic load capacities of up to 25 kN. For applications requiring higher precision, T Series and PC Series actuators support loads of up to 60 kN with repeatability of ±0.05 mm, delivering superior performance as they are stronger, faster and come with a longer service life than other comparable units on the market.
Thomson will also present its ball screw and linear guidance technologies, including an outstanding precision ground ball screw that combines an extra-high lead of 100 mm with a high-load capability of up to 100 kN Cam, supporting applications where high-speed movement and substantial load handling are required. Additional displays will include miniature ball screws, compact linear systems for space-conscious applications, and a selection of linear bearings and guides for different machine design requirements.
Other Regal Rexnord brands will contribute complementary technologies to the showcase. Kollmorgen's servo motors, drives and automation systems deliver precise, responsive motion for robotics and packaging machinery, while Portescap's miniature motors are suited to space-constrained designs, including medical devices and compact automated systems. Bauer Gear Motor's energy-efficient geared drives serve demanding automation environments, while Warner Electric's electromagnetic clutches and brakes provide controlled engagement and stopping functions in industrial machinery.
“Design engineers are under increasing pressure to develop machines in less time while balancing high-performance, system complexity and ease of use,” said Anders Karlsson, Business Development Manager for Regal Rexnord’s Linear Motion Division. “At SPS, we want to show how Regal Rexnord’s integrated solution capabilities can help engineers simplify system design, reduce development time and apply proven motion technologies to their own automation projects.”
Visitors can explore Regal Rexnord's integrated automation demonstration and speak with specialists from across its motion technology brands at SPS 2026 in Hall 3, Booths 3-360 to 3-368.
For more information, visit: www.thomsonlinear.com or www.regalrexnord.com/
About Regal Rexnord
Regal Rexnord’s 30,000 associates around the world help create a better tomorrow by providing sustainable solutions that power, transmit and control motion. The Company’s automation offering, comprised of controllers, drives, precision motors, actuators, and linear systems, controls motion in applications ranging from factory automation to precision tools used in surgical applications.
The Company’s linear motion brands – Thomson, Nook, and Delevan – have nearly 80 years of achievement in motion control innovation and are the premier producers of Linear Actuators, Linear Ball Bushing® Bearings, Profile Rail Linear Guides, 60 Case® LinearRace® Shafting, Ground and Rolled Ball Screws, Lead and Acme Screws, Screw Jacks, Linear Units, Robot Transfer Units, and related accessories. Ever since inventing the Linear Ball Bushing Bearing in 1945, our brands have set the standard with an unsurpassed set of linear motion control solutions serving global material handling, industrial automation, medical and health, food and beverage processing, aerospace and defense, mobile off-highway, and many other markets through engineering, manufacturing and sales facilities in North America, Europe and Asia.
Regal Rexnord is comprised of three operating segments: Industrial Powertrain Solutions, Power Efficiency Solutions, and Automation & Motion Control. Regal Rexnord is headquartered in Milwaukee, Wisconsin and has manufacturing, sales and service facilities worldwide. For more information, including a copy of our Sustainability Report, visit RegalRexnord.com
For more information on Regal Rexnord brand, Thomson: 2400 Curtiss Street, Downers Grove, IL 60515; 1-540-633-3549; 1-540-633-0294 (fax); Thomson@regalrexnord.com; www.thomsonlinear.com.
