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Linear ballbar system for robot diagnostics and TCP accuracy

The RCS L-90 ballbar system is a portable toolkit designed to advance industrial automation. Used by robot integrators and service engineers to monitor robot performance, diagnose problems, and accurately set tool centre point (TCP) and part frame alignment.

Fast, consistent robot cell deployment and maintenance

The RCS L-90 replaces manual robot servicing checks and pin-to-pin TCP and part frame alignment.

This 90 mm linear ballbar tool accurately measures the distance between a robot's end-effector and your working environment. Supplying the robot with vital data about its positioning.

Volumetric and joint repeatability tests provide robot path analysis and knowledge of the health of each robot axis. And the TCP and part frame location tests give reassurance about your robot's accuracy.

The accompanying RCS Software Suite stores data patterns to enable proactive and detailed maintenance and servicing schedules, minimising robot downtime.

Traditional robot set-up methods involve lining up a robot by eye. This is both time-consuming and open to human error. With the RCS L-90, operators are able to follow the same steps every time, for consistent and reliable results they can refer back to.

Learn more about the RCS L-90 ballbar system

Discover how you can simplify and enhance the installation and calibration of your robot cells.

At One-Off Robotics, precise calibration is crucial to our business, which is why we were delighted to work with Renishaw to help bring this technology to robotics fabrication.

One-Off Robotics (USA)

Discover the benefits

The RCS L-90 toolkit is an industrial robot calibration and maintenance solution. It enables faster robot set-up and deployment, and the ability to keep track of robot health. RCS L-90 works with our dedicated RCS Software Suite, which gives easy-to-follow step-by-step instructions.

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Save time and money

Speed up the set-up and deployment of a robot with standardised processes and easy-to-follow software programmes. Intuitive software takes you step-by-step through the process.

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Increase uptime

Regularly testing your robot's performance will identify issues early. This allows you to schedule repairs before critical failures cause unplanned downtime and affect productivity.

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Increase accuracy

Renishaw's reputation in metrology enables you to rely on your robot's accuracy, with easy TCP and part frame alignment tests. Measure your TCP in minutes.

The RCS L-90 as an industrial automation solution

The RCS L-90 is compatible with all of the major robot manufacturers, including ABB, Fanuc, Kuka, and Yaskawa. Its intuitive design means it's quick to unbox and assemble alongside most industrial six axis robots and then carry out the following verification tests:

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Tool frame verification

Rapid and traceable verification of tool frame, with report of residual error.

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Single joint repeatability

Verification of robot repeatability exercising one joint individually.

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Global repeatability

Verification of global robot repeatability exercising all joints simultaneously.

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Volumetric test

Identification of volumetric performance including 3D path and velocity accuracy.

RCS Software Suite

The RCS Software Suite completes our range of RCS products. Conduct ballbar system tests and capture data. Create program templates for robot probing routines to set tool and part frames with reliable accuracy. Follow step-by-step instructions to assess robot performance.

Learn about RCS Software Suite

RCS Software Suite Splash Screen on Laptop

Why you can trust RCS L-90

RCS L-90 is built on established Renishaw metrology expertise and technology.

The automation of manufacturing operations is now accepted industry practice. However, factories are facing up to the challenges associated with this. Renishaw offers an unrivalled breadth of metrology technologies and decades of experience in automated manufacturing and process control. This expertise and experience has combined to produce the RCS series of products.

The ballbar itself is constructed around a Renishaw linear encoder. Beyond that, we issue calibration certificates at production and after servicing - guaranteeing precision.

A person placing an RCS L-90 ballbar into an RCS calibrator

RCS L-90 FAQs

How robust is RCS L-90?

RCS L-90 is a robust ballbar system designed for use on factory and machine shop floors. However, operators should avoid dropping or knocking the ballbar. If this happens you should recalibrate the ballbar. Particularly if the end joints are exposed to shock loading.

Does RCS L-90 come with a warranty?

Yes, if you bought an RCS L-90 directly from Renishaw then it comes with a one year warranty. There is an option to purchase an extended warranty. We also recommend returning your RCS L-90 ballbar and calibrator to your local Renishaw service centre once a year to be serviced.

How much does RCS L-90 cost?

The cost of RCS L-90 depends on the specific package you wish to buy. The RCS Software Suite is free to download, but to run sessions you will need to purchase licences. Please contact our Sales Team to discuss costs.

How can I achieve the most accurate results?

For the best results, the RCS L-90 ballbar should be calibrated once every 12 hours and before use in each new location with the supplied calibrator. The RCS Software Suite will warn you if your ballbar requires calibration before capturing data.

The RCS L-90 system should be securely mounted on a stable base, such as a fixture plate. For an alternative, portable mounting option, you can purchase the RCS tripod kit.

What is the RCS L-90 toolkit comprised of?

The basic RCS L-90 toolkit includes:

  • One 90 mm ballbar
  • RCS calibrator
  • Base mount
  • RCS central pillar
  • Interface module
  • All necessary supporting cables and tethers

Contact your local Renishaw representative to purchase additional or replacement parts.

How do I run RCS Software Suite?

You need a computer system that meets the minimum PC specification. Download RCS Software Suite from the Robotics section of software downloads.

I am new to robotics, will I be able to use RCS L-90?

The RCS Software Suite is specifically designed to be easy to use with visual guides to follow each time you perform a session. To use the equipment you will need to understand how to move a robot, create robot programmes and export and import data onto a robot.

How can I be certain that RCS L-90 will be compatible with my robot?

Our library of supported robots is growing. We now support six axis industrial robots from many of the major robot manufacturers including: ABB, Fanuc, KUKA and Yaskawa. For a specific requirement, contact your local Renishaw representative to discuss.

Can I use RCS L-90 to master my robot?

RCS L-90 assists in tool frame and part frame set-up as well as robot health checks. To master your robot on site, you might be interested in our RCS T-90 tri-ballbar system for robot mastering.

Find out more about the RCS L-90 ballbar system for industrial automation

Contact our sales team

Support for robot calibration and maintenance products

Learn how to use industrial robot calibration and maintenance products with downloadable guides. Watch video tutorials on installing products and using our accompanying software package.

Support library

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