Contribute to Prosperous Lives

Responding to the need for automation in manufacturing sites is becoming an urgent task for sustaining economic activities in a social environment with declining birthrates and an aging population. NTN has launched the sale of its “Crossdrive (XD) Linear Feeder” as well as the “i-WRIST” Wrist Joint Module and its “Starter Package,” all of which contribute to improving safety, labor-saving, and efficiency at manufacturing sites.

Moreover, amid the increasing incidence of natural disasters caused by abnormal weather conditions, disaster prevention and mitigation efforts are being promoted to reduce the impact on lives in the event of a disaster. NTN has developed “N³ N-CUBE,” which houses small-sized wind generators, solar panels, and storage batteries in containers. In addition to using it as an air-conditioned disaster prevention storehouse, this product also has a wide range of applications outside of use during disasters, such as workation facility and waiting area at bus stops.

Through these products, NTN provides safety and comfort to customers.

Robot-related

NTN has developed the “Crossdrive (XD) Linear Feeder,” a linear feeder that supplies parts at high speed to processing equipment at manufacturing sites. This device can convey parts at speeds of up to 18 m/min, which is 3 times faster than conventional devices, making it the fastest linear feeder in the industry. It operates silently when conveying parts, achieves smooth conveyance even at the inlet and outlet, and reduces the volume of air used during operation to up to one-fifth of that of conventional devices, thereby contributing to energy conservation at manufacturing sites. NTN has also developed a “Parts Feeder Controller with Communication Function” to meet customer demand for smooth changeover during high-mix, low-volume production. It is equipped with functions for registering and switching operating conditions and monitoring the status of operations and can support a wide range of workpieces with one parts feeder and one controller, simply by changing the operating criteria.
Furthermore, the “i-WRIST” Wrist Joint Module is already being used in the market to automate processes such as visual inspection and grease application. For customers who are using this product for the first time, or customers who wish to reduce the man-hours required for device design and operation verification, NTN has launched a “Starter Package” that can be used immediately once the power is switched on. By packaging the main unit, dedicated controller, dedicated console, actuator, control panel, and other parts in a compact housing, we have reduced the man-hours required for device design, procurement, assembly, and adjustment, making it possible to smoothly conduct reviews and verification of operations and takt time.
Going forward, NTN will continue to provide safety and comfort through the development of robotic peripheral products that contribute to improving automation, labor-saving, and efficiency at manufacturing sites.

Disaster mitigation and disaster prevention

NTN has developed “N³ N-CUBE,” a transportable independent power supply which houses small-sized wind generators, solar panels, and storage batteries in containers. This product is being used for a wide range of purposes. The initial objective of developing the product was to use it as a stockpiling warehouse in preparation for natural disasters, or as a relief facility in the event of a disaster. However, it is now being used as an infrastructural facility in places where commercial power supply are not available.

“N³ N-CUBE” can be transported by trucks or other vehicles and can be customized to suit different applications. In recent years, the incidence of natural disasters such as earthquakes, heavy rains, and typhoons has been increasing year by year. Therefore, in addition to preparing for power outages that occur during disasters, we are also proposing its use as a charging station that can supply power to personal mobility devices, vending machines, and other equipment. NTN has also installed the “N³ N-CUBE” at the Company's main factories, including Wakayama Works, which began operating last year. These are used as stockpiling warehouses and power supply facilities in the event of a disaster. In this way, we are actively promoting disaster preparedness and the use of renewable energy.

■A circulation type flush toilet installed in Noto Town

■“N³ N-CUBE” installed at Wakayama Works