Solution
Custom Cartesian Robot Systems
Cerebrus designs custom Cartesian robots — multi-axis gantry and linear systems that move a tool or part precisely through a defined work envelope. When your application needs a specific reach, payload, footprint, or end effector that a standard robot cannot provide, a purpose-built Cartesian system delivers repeatable motion tailored to the task.
Two to five axes of coordinated motion
Cartesian robots move along orthogonal linear axes (X, Y, Z) with optional rotary axes, giving predictable, straight-line motion and a rectangular work envelope that is easy to guard and integrate. We build configurations from simple two-axis pick-and-place units to five-axis gantries handling larger payloads across long travels.
This architecture is well suited to pick-and-place, dispensing, machine tending, inspection scanning, and assembly, where a defined envelope and high repeatability matter more than the articulated reach of a jointed arm. The linear structure also scales cleanly to large work areas that would be out of reach for a standard six-axis robot.
Application-specific end effectors
The end effector is where the robot meets your process, so we design it for the specific task — vacuum or mechanical grippers, dispensing heads, drivers, probes, cameras, or multi-tool assemblies. Payload, speed, and cycle time are engineered together so the tool, the axes, and the controller work as one coordinated system.
Motion control, sensing, and safety are developed alongside the mechanics. We program the coordinated moves, integrate vision or sensing where the task requires it, and design the guarding and interlocks so the finished cell is safe and production-ready.
Tools & methods
- Multi-axis mechanical design in 3D CAD
- Motion sizing and coordinated-motion profiling
- Servo motion control and multi-axis controllers
- Custom end-effector and tooling design
- Machine vision and sensor integration
- Guarding, interlocks, and safety design
What you receive
- Work-envelope and cycle-time analysis
- 3D CAD models and manufacturing drawings
- Assembled multi-axis robot with end effector
- Motion control program and operator interface
- Integrated vision or sensing where required
- Commissioned, guarded, production-ready cell
A typical engagement
A Cartesian robot project begins by defining the work envelope, payload, cycle time, and tooling. We design and build the mechanics, program the coordinated motion, integrate any vision or sensing, and commission the guarded cell — delivered standalone or as part of a larger automated line.
FAQ
Cartesian Robots: frequently asked questions
When is a Cartesian robot a better choice than an articulated arm?
Cartesian robots are ideal when you need a defined rectangular work envelope, high repeatability, straight-line motion, or a large travel area — for tasks like pick-and-place, dispensing, and scanning. Articulated arms are better when you need to reach around obstacles or approach a part from many angles in a compact footprint.
How many axes can you build?
We build configurations from two axes up to five, including gantry systems with multiple coordinated axes and optional rotary motion, sized to your payload and travel requirements.
Can you design a custom gripper or tool for our part?
Yes. The end effector is designed specifically for your process — vacuum or mechanical grippers, dispensing heads, drivers, probes, cameras, or combined multi-tool heads — and engineered together with the axes so payload, speed, and cycle time are balanced.
Can the robot use machine vision?
We integrate machine vision and other sensing where the task calls for it — for part location, guidance, inspection, or verification — and tie it into the motion program so the robot reacts to what it sees.
Does the system come guarded and ready for production?
Yes. We design guarding, interlocks, and safety circuits as part of the cell and commission the system so it arrives production-ready, either as a standalone unit or integrated into a larger line.
Have a project in mind?
Tell us what you're trying to build or automate. We'll help you scope it and recommend the right approach.