Linear actuator incorporates linear motor and guide

Paul Boughton
Copley Motion Systems is introducing a new range of direct-drive linear modules that integrate a linear motor, bearing rail, cable management and optional position sensor to make it easier for machine builders to assemble high-throughput, multi-axis systems rapidly and affordably.

By supplying the unit with the linear motor and load-bearing guide rail pre-aligned, Copley is aiming to improve the accessibility of linear motors for single- and multi-axis applications. The Copley Servotube Module complements the Servotube high-rigidity self-contained Z axis unit. Engineering time is reduced because the module is fully integrated, plus the all-in-one unit reduces risk and can improve time to market because, unlike in-house integration, the linear motion subsystem's characteristics and parameters are predetermined.

The Servotube module combines Copley's magnetic design and built-in position sensor to provide 350micron positioning accuracy. Its industry-standard 1V peak-peak sine/cosine output provides feedback for many standard rotary servo motor drives. Using Copley Controls' own self-tuning Xenus and Accelnet servo amplifiers with its PC-based motion engineering tools, engineers can quickly configure applications. Alternatively, popular drives from manufacturers such as Siemens, Parker and B&R are also supported.

Electromotive force is transferred directly to the forcer carriage without any physical contact; unlike ball screws there are no energy-storing components to introduce positioning errors caused by wind-up or backlash. The linear drive module can therefore achieve 12micron repeatability without any additional engineering. For higher-precision applications, the positional resolution can be upgraded to 1micron with an integrated optical encoder.

The Servotube module is available in two versions: a powerful industrial drive with strokes of up to 1323mm and peak forces of 312-1860N, and a compact version with shorter strokes of up to 825mm for space-critical applications. Both models are high speed (up to 8.7m/s and 10.8m/s, respectively) and are capable of 11 to 31 'g' acceleration with 12micron repeatability for reliable, high-duty-cycle service. The non-contact electromagnetic drive is said to provide the Servotube module with very long life compared with other linear motion technologies.

Copley’s new Servotube module is suitable for pick-and-place machines, gantry axes, assembly lines and general positioning where high throughput and excellent repeatability are required. It is suitable for use in a wide range of environments because its position sensor is built into the forcer carriage and is protected from dirt.

For more information, visit www.copleycontrols.com

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