The Linear Motion Blogger

Linear Motion – Vacuum Compatible Single Rail Stage!

September 1st, 2016

Editor

Linear Motion – Single Rail Stages – SRS-008-04-020-01V

Santa Clarita, CA – Linear Motion Control – The SRS-008-04-020-01V vacuum compatible single rail positioning stage uses a brushless linear motor to generate a continuous/peak force of 20.6 lbs [91.6 N]/61.8 lbs [275 N] with a total stroke length of 8.3 in [210 mm]. The non-contact 1.0-micron resolution encoder allows for precise positioning. It is guided by a rigid recirculating ball linear bearing. There are also provisions that allow customer cables to be routed within the cable carrier. This single rail positioning stage has been manufactured using low-outgassing materials as selected by NASA in order to make it vacuum compatible. It has end-of-travel bumper stops. A home positioning sensor, end-of-travel-sensors, and custom mounting holes on the moving table are available upon request.For a detailed description of all the considerations taken when manufacturing a vacuum compatible system, please click here.

Stroke	8.3 in	210 mm
Encoder Resolution	1.0 micron
Bearing Type	Recirculating Ball
Moving Mass	3.5 lbs	1.6 kg
Total Mass	18.0 lbs	8.2 kg
Resistance @ 20C	8.1 ohms
Inductance @ 20C	6.0 mH
Electrical Time Constant	0.70 msec
Motor Constant	2.1 lbs/√watt	9.4 N/√watt
Force Constant	6.1 lbs/amp	27.3 N/amp
Back EMF	0.80 V/ips	31.5 V/m/sec
Force @ 100% Duty	20.6 lbs	91.6 N
Power @ 100% Duty	95.0 watts
Current @ 100% Duty	3.4 amps
Force @ 10% Duty	61.8 lbs	275 N
Power @ 10% Duty	846 watts

For drawing go to https://www.h2wtech.com/pdf/2014-05-21-22-56-32.PDF

About H2W Technologies, Inc

H2W Technologies, Inc. is dedicated to the design and manufacture of linear and rotary motion products that are used in the motion control industry. The complete line of linear electric motors includes: Single and dual axis linear steppers, DC brush and brushless linear motors, voice coil actuators, and AC induction motors. Also offered is a complete line of ball screw, lead screw and belt driven positioning stages.

Other motion control products include: Limited angle torque motors for compact, limited angular excursion rotary servo applications, 3 phase brushless rotary servo motors with matching digital servo amplifiers and permanent magnet linear brakes for fail-safe, zero power braking for baggage handling and people moving applications as well as amusement park rides.

With over 75 years combined experience in the linear and rotary motion field, the H2W Technologies team of engineers offers the optimal solution to the most demanding motion control, requirements.

For additional information contact Mark Wilson at H2W Technologies, 26380 Ferry Ct, Santa Clarita, CA 91350; Tel: 888-702-0540, Fax: 661-251-2067, E-Mail: info@h2wtech.com or visit the website athttp://www.h2wtech.com

Linear Motion – Miniature Voice Coil Actuators from H2W Technologies, Inc.

August 17th, 2016

Editor

Linear Motion Miniature Voice Coil Actuators

Santa Clarita, CA — Linear Motion Actuators — H2W Technologies offers miniature versions of both our moving coil and moving magnet voice coil actuators. Additionally, we offer custom designed solutions to meet your application specifications.

H2W has built its smallest moving magnet voice coil actuator (NCM01-04-001-2IB)to date, with an outside diameter of 0.40 in [10 mm] and a length of 0.735 in [18.8 mm]. It has a stroke of 0.10 in [2.5 mm] and generates a continuous force of 0.10 lbs [0.45 N] and a peak force of 0.30 lbs [1.35 N]. It weighs just 0.20 ounces [5.7 grams]. This actuator utilizes a hardened shaft and sliding contact bushing to ensure long life, and is ideal for oscillatory motion. The compact design allows the actuator to be used in a number of handheld applications. Moving magnet voice coil actuators have built-in bearings so there is no need for the customer to add mass or complexity to their motion system to integrate a bearing, and there are no moving leads to worry about cable management.

Our smallest moving coil voice coil actuator (NCC01-04-001-1X) has an outside diameter of 0.44 in [11.1 mm] and a length of 0.36 in [9 mm]. It has a stroke of 0.13 in [3.2 mm] and generates a continuous force of 0.06 lbs [0.27 N] and a peak force of 0.18 lbs [0.8 N]. It weighs just 0.20 ounces [5.7 grams]. The bobbin has been constructed of plastic to prevent any damping forces that a metallic bobbin would create. The compact design allows the actuator to be used in a number of handheld applications.

About H2W Technologies, Inc

H2W Technologies, Inc. is dedicated to the design and manufacture of linear and rotary motion products that are used in the motion control industry. The complete line of linear electric motors includes: Single and dual axis linear steppers, DC brush and brushless linear motors, voice coil actuators, and AC induction motors. Also offered is a complete line of ball screw, lead screw and belt driven positioning stages.

Other motion control products include: Limited angle torque motors for compact, limited angular excursion rotary servo applications, 3 phase brushless rotary servo motors with matching digital servo amplifiers and permanent magnet linear brakes for fail-safe, zero power braking for baggage handling and people moving applications as well as amusement park rides.

With over 75 years combined experience in the linear and rotary motion field, the H2W Technologies team of engineers offers the optimal solution to the most demanding motion control, requirements.

For additional information contact Mark Wilson at H2W Technologies, 26380 Ferry Ct, Santa Clarita, CA 91350; Tel: 888-702-0540, Fax: 661-251-2067, E-Mail: info@h2wtech.com or visit the website athttp://www.h2wtech.com

Linear Motion – High Speed, High Precision, Dual Axis Positioning Stage from H2W Tech

July 11th, 2016

Editor

H2W Technologies High Speed Dual Axis LSS Positioning System

Santa Clarita, CA —– Linear Motion Control – The high speed, high precision LSS-012-12-060-XY-01A-M dual axis, low profile linear stepper positioning stage generates a force of 6.0 lbs [26.7 N] with a total stroke length of 12.5 in. [318mm] for each axis. This compact, low profile dual axis stage measures 17.0 in. x 19.0 in. [432 mm x 483 mm] and is just 4.2 in. [108 mm] high. Featuring repeatability of ±0.0004. in [±10 microns] and accuracy of ±0.0007 in/ft [±58 micron/meter], this dual axis linear stage is ideal for: Assembly, testing, metrology, scanning, laser cutting, and plotting in industrial, laboratory, and medical applications.

This XY axis linear stage also features high speed and high acceleration, and can be mounted horizontally or vertically. For precision closed loop operation, H2W integrates a 1.0-micron absolute linear encoder and linear stepper motor, running it as a 2-phase brushless linear motor. Additionally, using absolute encoders eliminates the need for the stages to return to a home position.

Other features include: High-flex power cables in a cable carrier with room for additional cables. This stage is available with a complete plug-and-play electronics package and custom mounting holes in the base and top stage for easy integration into new or existing applications.

About H2W Technologies, Inc

H2W Technologies, Inc. is dedicated to the design and manufacture of linear and rotary motion products that are used in the motion control industry. The complete line of linear electric motors includes: Single and dual axis linear steppers, DC brush and brushless linear motors, voice coil actuators, and AC induction motors. Also offered is a complete line of ball screw, lead screw and belt driven positioning stages.

Other motion control products include: Limited angle torque motors for compact, limited angular excursion rotary servo applications, 3 phase brushless rotary servo motors with matching digital servo amplifiers and permanent magnet linear brakes for fail-safe, zero power braking for baggage handling and people moving applications as well as amusement park rides.

With over 75 years combined experience in the linear and rotary motion field, the H2W Technologies team of engineers offers the optimal solution to the most demanding motion control, requirements.

See Article: http://www.h2wtech.com/article/dual-axis-closed-loop-linear-stepper-stage

See Video at Youtube: https://youtu.be/kEOt0BDd7hE

See Product: http://www.h2wtech.com/product/linear-stepper-stages/LSS-012-12-060-XY-01A-M”

For additional information contact Mark Wilson at H2W Technologies, 26380 Ferry Ct, Santa Clarita, CA 91350; Tel: 888-702-0540, Fax: 661-251-2067, E-Mail: info@h2wtech.com or visit the website at http://www.h2wtech.com

Linear Motion Control – Linear Motors: How Do They Work?

May 5th, 2016

Editor

What is a Linear Motor?

Motion Control White Paper – A linear motor should be thought of as a rotary electric motor that has been cut along a radial plane and unrolled. The resultant motor is a direct drive linear electric motor that can produce linear motion without the need of pneumatic, hydraulic cylinders, or translation of rotary to linear motion with the use of belts or screws. Rotary motors produce torque whereas linear motors produce linear force.

Bridging Terminology

Rotary	Linear
Torque (lb-in) or [N-m]	Force (lbs) or [N]
Velocity (rpm)	Velocity (in/sec) or [m/sec]
Acceleration (rad/s²)	Acceleration (in/sec²) or [m/sec²]
Duty Cycle (%)	Duty Cycle (%)

Basic Types of Linear Motors

As there are various types of AC and DC rotary type motors, there are also different types of linear motors, which include AC, DC, and Stepper:

For a PDF of this article with additional information on Linear Motors including: Types of motors, Performance factors (force, peak force,maximum stroke,maximum velocity and acceleration), what amplifier or drive types to use, bearing type, and for other options – CLICK HERE

Brushless

Ironless

Iron core

DC brushless linear motors provide non-contact operation for maintenance-free operation. Available in both ironless (cog-free) and iron core versions. They are capable of high speed and high acceleration motion profiles. They can be driven using standard 3 phase brushless servo amplifiers. Brushless linear motors can achieve an acceleration of up to 12 g’s, and speeds in excess of 200+ inches per second [5+ m/s].

Brush

DC brush linear motors are ideal for long stroke, open or closed loop servo, linear motion applications. They can be used at speeds up to 100 in/sec [2.5 m/sec] and as low as 1 in/sec [25 mm/sec]. They are capable of very precise position, velocity, and acceleration control when coupled with a linear encoder.

Voice Coil

Voice Coil

Moving Magnet

DC voice coil actuators are ideal for short stroke (typically less than 2 inches) closed loop servo applications. Their compact size allows them to fit into small spaces. They have very low electrical and mechanical time constants. The low moving mass allows for high accelerations of light payloads. They are available in both moving coil and moving magnet versions.

Linear Stepper

Single Axis

Dual Axis

Linear stepper motors are used in both open loop and closed loop positioning applications. Since the positioning is built into the forcer and platen, no additional feedback devices are required which reduces the overall cost of a system. For open loop operation, no servo tuning is necessary. Multiple forcers can operate on a single platen. With linear steppers, acceleration of 1 g and speeds up to 100 in/sec [2.5 m/s] are typical. They are available in both single-axis and dual-axis versions.

Linear Induction

The flat AC linear induction motor (LIM) is typically run directly off of 3 phase line voltage, with an adjustable frequency, or vector drive if speed control is required. Accelerations of up to 1 g with speeds in excess of 1800 inches per second [45 m/s] are possible with LIMs. They are ideal for high speed, long travel applications moving heavy payloads.

Polynoid

The tubular AC linear induction motor (polynoid) is typically run directly off of single or 3 phase line voltage. Accelerations greater than 1 g are possible with polynoids. They are ideal for short stroke, low duty cycle applications. They can be used to replace air cylinders when compressed air is not available.

Force Multipliers Based on Duty Cycle

Basic Types of Linear Motors	Continuous Force/ Motor Area lbs/in² [N/m²]	Peak Force/ Motor Area lbs/in² [N/m²]
AC Linear Motors	0.2	1
DC Linear Motors	2.5	7.5
Linear Stepper Motors	2.5	7.5

Linear Motor Force

As explained, linear motors produce force (measured in pounds or newtons) along a straight line axis to move its payload. Each motor type provides different force levels.

Force depends upon duty cycle. Duty cycle is specified as a percentage:

Linear Motor Advantages

Faster Acceleration: From 1 to 10 g’s; this leads to shortened cycle times and improved productivity for the customer.

High Speeds: Speeds to 1800 inches per second [45 m/sec].

Highly Accurate: Accuracy to 0.00004 in/ft [1 µm/305 mm].

Very Repeatable: Repeatability to 0.00004 inch [1 µm.

No Backlash: A direct drive approach has no backlash such as obtained in leadscrews, gears, belt drives, and pinions.

High Stiffness: Direct drive linear motors provide higher stiffness than ball screw / lead screw systems.

Very Smooth Operation: Linear packages provide smooth operation due to the elimination of mechanical linkages.

Non-Contact Parts: This reduces component friction and wear, thus reducing the customer’s maintenance.

Long Life: Indefinite life expectancy under normal operating conditions can be expected due to the simplicity and part reduction

Low Maintenance: This helps to reduce the customer’s overall costs.

Unlimited Stroke: Stroke lengths are not limited as with ball screws. It is easy to extend the stroke by simply adding another section.

About H2W Technologies:

H2W Technologies, Inc. is dedicated to the design and manufacture of linear and rotary motion products that are used in the motion control industry. The complete line of linear electric motors includes: Single and dual axis linear steppers, DC brush and brushless linear motors, voice coil actuators, and AC induction motors. Also offered is a complete line of ball screw, lead screw and belt driven positioning stages.

Other motion control products include: Limited angle torque motors for compact, limited angular excursion rotary servo applications, 3 phase brushless rotary servo motors with matching digital servo amplifiers and permanent magnet linear brakes for fail-safe, zero power braking for baggage handling and people moving applications as well as amusement park rides.

With over 75 years combined experience in the linear and rotary motion field, the H2W Technologies team of engineers offers the optimal solution to the most demanding motion control, requirements.

For additional information contact Mark Wilson at H2W Technologies, 26380 Ferry Ct, Santa Clarita, CA 91350; Tel: 888-702-0540, Fax: 661-251-2067, E-Mail:info@h2wtech.com or visit the website at http://www.h2wtech.com

Linear Motion – Voice Coil Actuators vs. Solenoids: What is the difference?

December 18th, 2015

Editor

Linear Motion – White Paper

The question of whether to use voice coil actuators or solenoids for small displacement motion control applications comes up often. This article explains the key differences between each product and why you might choose one over the other for your applicationA non-commutated DC linear actuator, typically referred to as a voice coil, is capable of a displacement in excess of 5 inches. In addition, voice coil actuators, can move bi-directionally, and has a constant force over the stroke and can be used for closed loop position and force applications.

A solenoid can generate high forces at very short strokes, however it requires a spring return because they are operated unidirectional and the force output declines rapidly through the total displacement, and therefore are normally used only for short strokes, not typically longer than 0.5 in. The typical application for a solenoid is the simple opening or closing of a switch or valve, and are not typically used for force or position control applications.

A voice coil generates a force based on an interaction of a current carrying conductor in a permanent magnetic field.

A solenoid generates force based on an electromagnetic field that is created by a current carrying conductor.

What is a Voice Coil Actuator?

Voice coil actuators or non-commutated DC linear actuators consist of a permanent magnetic field assembly (permanent magnets and ferrous steel) and a coil assembly. The current flowing through the coil assembly interacts with the permanent magnetic field and generates a force vector perpendicular to the direction of the current. The force vector can be reversed by changing the polarity of current flowing through the coil.

The force generated by the voice coil is proportional to the cross product of the current flowing through the coil and the magnetic flux in the permanent magnetic field, as dictated by Lorentz’ force equation. Either the coil assembly or permanent magnetic field assembly can be used as the moving member in a voice coil actuator.

The force generated is relatively constant throughout the stroke of the actuator, with minor dips at the beginning and end of the travel length.

Voice coil actuators are typically used in focusing applications, oscillatory systems, mirror tilting, and miniature position control.

What is a Solenoid?

Solenoids consist of a coil that is contained in a ferrous steel housing and a movable steel slug or washer. An electromagnetic field is generated by current being applied to the coil. The magnetic field intensity determines the amount of force that can be generated by the solenoid. When the power is turned off, the force drops to zero and the spring returns it to its extended position.

The forces are initially high, but as the stroke increases the force decreases.

Solenoids are typically used to open latches or open or close valves, and are either used to apply a holding or latching force.

Comparison

	Voice Coil Actuator	Solenoid
Force	Low to medium	High
Stroke	5 inches maximum	¼ inch maximum
Constant Force	Yes	No
Reversible	Yes	No
Position/Force Control	Yes	No
Cost	Moderate	Low

Should I select a Voice Coil Actuator or a Solenoid?

If your application simply requires opening or closing a valve a solenoid might be an option, however they have limitations when it comes to force linearity and stroke length.

Due to the fact that voice coil actuators typically cost more than an off-the-shelf solenoid, many customers try and use a solenoid when a voice coil actuator is the more appropriate solution. Some applications require a constant force throughout the travel length, and in these situations a solenoid is insufficient due to the diminished force through the travel, while a voice coil actuator provides constant force. This is particularly important in oscillatory systems. Another advantage that the voice coil provides is force control, without a feedback device, because the force output (at any position in the stroke) is directly proportional to the current input.

This type of actuation lends itself to generally a higher force density, thus achieving higher strokes and forces in a smaller package size to the solenoid counterparts.

H2W Technologies, Inc. is dedicated to the design and manufacture of linear and rotary motion products that are used in the motion control industry. The complete line of linear electric motors includes: Single and dual axis linear steppers, DC brush and brushless linear motors, voice coil actuators, and AC induction motors. Also offered is a complete line of ball screw, lead screw and belt driven positioning stages.

Other motion control products include: Limited angle torque motors for compact, limited angular excursion rotary servo applications, 3 phase brushless rotary servo motors with matching digital servo amplifiers and permanent magnet linear brakes for fail-safe, zero power braking for baggage handling and people moving applications as well as amusement park rides.

With over 75 years combined experience in the linear and rotary motion field, the H2W Technologies team of engineers offers the optimal solution to the most demanding motion control, requirements.

For additional information contact Mark Wilson at H2W Technologies, 26380 Ferry Ct, Santa Clarita, CA 91350; Tel: 888-702-0540, Fax: 661-251-2067, E-Mail:info@h2wtech.com or visit the website at http://www.h2wtech.com