Regal Rexnord Corporation, global industry experts in motion control, linear systems, and automation solutions, has announced its collaboration with ABB Robotics to simplify integration of ABB’s GoFa™ collaborative robots (cobots) with Thomson Movotrak™ 7th Axis Cobot Transfer Units (CTUs). Thomson is one of Regal Rexnord’s flagship linear motion brands. As a result of this collaboration, the Movotrak CTU becomes the first cobot 7th axis technology to be certified for use within the ABB Robotics global partner ecosystem.
“Until now, anyone wanting to use a single, plug-and-play ABB cobot on multiple workstations faced what could be days of programming and communications challenges. As part of the ABB Robotics partner ecosystem, we have preconfigured our Movotrak CTU, ensuring rapid deployment with ABB cobots right out of the box. Integrators, distributors, and end-users can now invest more time using the 7th axis to solve productivity problems than dealing with complex integration details,” said Kevin Zaba, Executive Vice President and President, Automation & Motion Control segment of Regal Rexnord.
Extended Operating Range and Enhanced Safety Features
The Thomson Movotrak™ CTU enables ABB cobots to travel up to 10 meters, with integrated collision detection and plug-and-play compatibility.
The Thomson Movotrak CTU expands the traditional reach of a collaborative cobot up to 10 meters, allowing a single unit to service multiple workstations. With flexible rail mounting options for the floor, wall, or ceiling, the system supports configurable layouts and space-saving design. It also introduces several first-to-market features, including built-in collision detection that automatically halts the cobot when an obstacle is encountered, and a Freedrive mode to streamline setup, operator training, and installation. To further simplify deployment, Thomson linear units are integrated with other Regal Rexnord components—including Boston Gear gearheads, Huco couplings, and Kollmorgen motors and software—resulting in a fully engineered, high-level assembly available under a single part number.
Preconfigured for ABB Ecosystem Integration
Regal Rexnord’s engineering team has developed custom mounting hardware and a plug-and-play wiring harness optimized for seamless compatibility with ABB software platforms. This includes support for the ABB Web App, Wizard interface, and RAPID™ Module Code programming tools. Thomson configuration tools are also accessible directly from the ABB FlexPendant user interface, enabling certified ABB robotic developers to deploy the 7th axis solution with minimal setup time.
“This collaboration with ABB Robotics is a great example of how our differentiated Regal Rexnord technologies can be integrated into high-impact, customer-ready solutions,” said Louis Pinkham, CEO of Regal Rexnord. “By combining the technical expertise of our Thomson, Kollmorgen, Boston Gear, and Huco brands into a seamless, 7th axis system available for the ABB Robotics partner ecosystem, we’re making it easier for customers to unlock greater productivity and flexibility in their automation strategies. It also reflects our ongoing commitment to innovation and delivering value through system-level thinking.”
Enabling Seamless Multi-Workstation Automation
Through this ABB-certified solution, manufacturers and integrators can now deploy GoFa cobots across multiple stations with minimal downtime and without the need for custom coding. The architecture is designed to support flexible, scalable automation environments—a valuable advantage for dynamic industrial workflows. For more information, please click here.
About Regal Rexnord Corporation
Headquartered in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, Regal Rexnord Corporation (NYSE: RRX) is a global manufacturer of electric motors, power transmission components, and automation technologies. With over 30,000 employees worldwide, the company delivers sustainable motion solutions for industries ranging from factory automation and mobile equipment to aerospace and medical technology. To learn more, please click here.
About ABB Robotics
ABB Robotics & Discrete Automation is a global leader in industrial robotics and machine automation, offering a comprehensive portfolio of robotic arms, autonomous mobile robots, and control software. ABB serves key sectors such as automotive, electronics, logistics, and general manufacturing, helping customers build resilient, collaborative, and connected factories. Learn more at https://go.abb/robotics.
Source/Photo Credit: Regal Rexnord Corporation
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Molly is the Founder, Publisher, and Editor-in-Chief of Components Source Network, the industry’s first and only known 100% woman- and disability-owned and led B2B publishing platform serving the global high-tech manufacturing and engineering sectors. Her portfolio includes Robotics Industry Monthly and ten additional specialized e-news sites. With more than 25 years of experience spanning strategic technical marketing, public relations, and business development in highly specialized technical markets, she also leads Embassy Global, LLC, a virtual consultancy that has supported the growth of more than 200 high-tech industry brands worldwide since 2008. In addition to her publishing and advisory work, Molly has been appointed to serve as Second Vice Chair of the Government Team for the Women’s Business Enterprise National Council (WBENC) Forum, beginning in 2026, supporting policy development and advocacy initiatives advancing women-owned businesses. A long-standing voice for small business, supplier diversity, and women in STEM, she was also a 2025 finalist for the WBEC Metro New York Outstanding Advocate Award. Connect with her on LinkedIn.
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