Motion System Design articles from July 2004

Motion System Design archives from July 2004

When all else fails--Part 2.(In the Loop)
July 1, 2004... Over the course of their careers, most engineers adopt somewhat of a routine or systematic method for solving problems This standard procedure works under most circumstances--but not all. In fact, in such cases, the approach engrained in...

A smooth pace: couplings eliminate backlash in rotary fabricating and die-cutting systems.(Project)(Pace Converting Equipment Co. Inc.)
July 1, 2004... BACKGROUND: Pace Converting Equipment Co. Inc., Cleveland, specializes in the design and manufacture of high-speed, narrow-web systems that laminate, die cut, emboss, slit, and sheet at up to 600 fpm. Web-fed materials include films, paper,...

Splitting hairs: miniature ballscrews help optical microsystems achieve nanometer precision.(Project)
July 1, 2004... BACKGROUND: InvenioSix from Invenios Inc., Santa Barbara, Calif., is a six degree-of-freedom robot designed to assemble consumer electronic products with submicron precision and repeatability. DESIGN CHALLENGE: The robot's toughest job is...

More well wishes.(In Response)(Letter to the Editor)
July 1, 2004... I really enjoyed the article "Well wishes for the healthcare industry" (In the Loop, April 2004). You speak the truth. Keep up the good work. Bruce N. Van Oss Somerville Inc. bvanoss@somervilleinc.com My husband brought home...

Under-the-ocean motion.(VideoRay LLC developed Remote submersibles)(Brief Article)
July 1, 2004... Whether exploring sacred underwater caves in the Yucatan or pursuing elusive Arctic sharks, tiny ROVs, or remotely operated vehicles, are reaching new depths. But VideoRay LLC, Exton, Pa., holds the distinction of making the world's smallest...

Robotic metal detector may save lives.(What's New)
July 1, 2004... The United Nations estimates there are more than 100 million land mines worldwide, and that more than 2,000 people are killed or maimed by explosions each month. Looking for a safe way to locate these hazards, Carl V. Nelson, a principal...

Bearings give Eiffel Tower visitors a lift.(What's New)(Brief Article)
July 1, 2004... After helping transport more than 160 million passengers in an Eiffel lower elevator, 40-year-old Timken bearings were recently replaced with new Timken bearings. The company that manages the monument, Societe Nouvelle d'Exploitation de la Tour...

Sensors like it hot, hot, hot.(Radatec Inc. Develops Microwave Sensor)(Brief Article)
July 1, 2004... Atlanta-based Radatec Inc., a company formed by former Georgia Tech researchers, has developed a noncontact displacement sensor that monitors rotating industrial equipment, including sections of gas turbine engines that reach 2,500[degrees]F....

Online resource center for motor control.(What's New)(Brief Article)
July 1, 2004... Microchip Technology Inc., Chandler, Ariz., expanded its technical resources with a new online Motor Control Design Center, located at www.microchip.com/motor. The site helps engineers of all experience levels add electronic motor control to...

High-efficiency wind turbine is no drag.(What's New)(Brief Article)
July 1, 2004... Hunt Aviation Corp., Pass Christian, Miss., is conducting tests on a high-efficiency vertical-axis wind turbine prototype that could produce more than twice as much power within the same area as conventional horizontal-axis wind turbines. ...

Power over Ethernet is on the rise.(What's New)(Brief Article)
July 1, 2004... From wireless access points to RFID tag readers, Power Over Ethernet (POE) technology, is fast becoming a standard feature in a wide variety, of products. In these devices, it's the semiconductor silicon (PoE-enabling ICs) that enables the...

Practical solutions at IFPE 2005.(What's New)
July 1, 2004... IFPE 2005 will feature a new Solutions Exchange--three days of presentations by leaders from industry and academia that will offer fluid power users solutions to the common challenges they face. IFPE will be held Mar. 15 to 19, 2005, at the...

Encoders for feedaxes with direct drives.
July 1, 2004... Direct-drive systems are firmly entrenched in the semiconductor and electronics-manufacturing industries, and are becoming increasingly common in the machine tool industry. Direct-drive systems offer benefits such as low wear, low maintenance,...

Hypoid and bevel gearing: advanced learning at your desk, at your pace. Part 1 of 2.(Course Audit)
July 1, 2004... Topics of discussion: * Testing * Visualizing contract ratios * Load sharing The curved teeth of bevel and hypoid gears make smooth motion possible, but the best designs also carry load and transmit motion with the least...

Stuck in its ways.(Brushing Up)
July 1, 2004... Inertia is matter's tendency to resist change. Around moving masses it acts like a stabilizer, pushing against any accelerating or decelerating force. Galileo first defined the principle of inertia in the 16th century; it states that every...

What you need to know about mechanical torque limiters: advanced learning at your desk, at your pace / multi-part series.(Course Audit)(Electronic limiters)(Mechanical limiters)
July 1, 2004... Topics of discussion: * Electronic limiters * Mechanical limiters * Collision torque Electronic overload protection has long been employed on industrial electric motors. In some cases, this internal protection may serve as a...

Design by objective: time to market: the pressure is always on to get products to market faster. What should you know about reducing time to market? Motion System Design talked with Bosch Rexroth's Richard Rey, Electric Drives & Controls, and Kevin Gingerich, Linear Motion & Assembly Technologies, to find the answer to this and other questions.(Interview)
July 1, 2004... IN TERMS OF TIME TO MARKET, WHAT'S CONSIDERED LEADING EDGE? Gingerich: Leading-edge time to market is the elimination of all wasted effort in the conception, design, and manufacture of a product. You want to go from concept to cash as...

More sensors to measure motion.(Sensors and Signals)(Advertisement)
July 1, 2004... The role of proximity, photoelectric, and linear displacement sensors is rapidly changing as manufacturing processes become more sophisticated. Once far from the action, these "off-line" sensors are increasingly being used to close drive as...

Mini-er linear.(Better by Design)
July 1, 2004... A new line of linear motors, less than 2-cm wide, is smaller than many solenoids. The LEU Series, based on an ironless-core, brushless design, generates up to 26 lb with coils ranging in size from 35 x 15 mm to 95 x 30 ram. The outer magnet...

Stop it.(Better by Design)
July 1, 2004... Pneumatic cylinders are often used alongside servomotors in motion control applications. Usually, the servomotor does the positioning, while the cylinder performs some sort of cycling operation such as cutting or stamping. That's likely to...

Linear ball bearings.(Linear Corner)
July 1, 2004... FEATURES * Inch dimension * Compact design * Recirculating balls reduce friction and promote unlimited stroke * Available unmounted or in aluminum housing * Include open and closed designs in standard or...

External linear actuators.(Linear Corner)
July 1, 2004... SPECS Resolution: 120 to 1,920 [micro]in. Thrust: to 50 lb FEATURES * Leadscrew is integral part of motor; custom units available * Designed for confined areas; as motor steps, screw rotates but doesn't advance * Suitable...

UKE linear steppers.(Linear Corner)
July 1, 2004... SPECS Travel: 0.031 to 30 mm/step Static force: to 500 N Operating temp.: -15 to 60[degrees]C FEATURES * Rated IP40 and for thermal Class A according to IEC 85 * Can be stopped when voltage is applied without...

Direct-drive rotary servomotors.(Product spotlight: servomotors)
July 1, 2004... SPECS Torque: 50 to 510 N-m (continuous); 1,100 N-m (peak) Voltage: 230, 400, 480 V Speed: to 1,200 rpm FEATURES * Combine performance of frameless direct-drive motors with the easy installation of full-frame motors ...

BSM Series brushless servos.(Product spotlight: servomotors)
July 1, 2004... FEATURES * Include stand and low-inertia models available with a variety of feedback devices and other options * Use resolvers as prime feedback device * Expanded stock includes a 2,500-ppr encoder as standard * Servomotors...

PosiDrive servo systems.(Product spotlight: servomotors)
July 1, 2004... FEATURES * Combine 450-V servomotor and digital amplifier/controller with preprogrammed touchscreen interface * Multi-axis option lets eight drives be controlled by one interface * Touchscreen eases setup, tuning, and...

Cello digital servodrives.(Product spotlight: servomotors)
July 1, 2004... SPECS Output: 3 kW continuous (6 kW peak) Current: 2.25 to 15 A Input: 48, 85, and 180 Vdc FEATURES * Operate in current, velocity, or position mode * Feedback options include incremental encoders, resolvers,...

VC Series vacuum motors.(Product spotlight: servomotors)
July 1, 2004... SPECS Pressure: [10.sup.-6] Torr Temperature: 130[degrees]C (internal); 105[degrees]C (case) FEATURES * Available as brushless servo, stepper, hollow-shaft, or rotor nut motors * Variety of frame sizes * Reduce...

Linear displacement transducers.(Motion Marketplace)
July 1, 2004... SPECS Resolution; 0.001 in. Length: to 180 in. Update rate: 1 msec FEATURES * Magnetostrictive sensing technology * Multiple magnets * Automatic magnet locator * Tri-color indicator verifies optimal magnet...

Inverter-duty gearmotors.(Motion Marketplace)
July 1, 2004... SPECS Torque: 38 to 350 lb-in. Ratios: 5 to 75:1 FEATURES * Right-angle and parallel-shaft configurations * Lubed for life * Inverter spike resistant magnet wire * Induction hardened gears * TEFC IP44...

Auto-Lok differential drives.(Motion Marketplace)
July 1, 2004... SPECS Torque: 60 lb-ft (per wheel) FEATURES * Lets wheels rotate at different speeds * Transmits equal power to both wheels * Automatic locking and unlocking Hilliard Corp. (607) 733-7121 ...

FlexiForce force, load sensors.(Motion Marketplace)
July 1, 2004... SPECS Temperature: to 420[degrees]F FEATURES * Thin, flexible, reusable * Suitable for engine gaskets injection molding and laminates Tekscan Inc. (800) 248-3669 www.tekscan.com/flexiforce Circle 136 ...

UltraThrust ground ballscrews.(Motion Marketplace)
July 1, 2004... FEATURES * Thrust capacity to 1,000,000 N * Six sizes from 50 x 20 (dia x pitch mm) to 100 x 20 (15-mm balls) * DIN 69051 versions available * dn values to 160,000 Steinmeyer Inc. (781) 275-6097 ...

HMI550M operator interfaces.(Motion Marketplace)
July 1, 2004... SPECS Size: 10.4 in. Screens: to 1,990 Processor: 200 MHz FEATURES * Four tone greyscale * Multi language labeling multi-state animated and moving objects * Fastselection window macro scripting language ...

Absolute linear encoders.(Motion Marketplace)
July 1, 2004... SPECS Accuracy: to 3 [micro]m Resolution: to 0.1 [micro]m Travel: 925 m Speed: to 60 m/sec FEATURES * Suitable for linear motor and high velocity measurement applications * True absolute position upon startup...

Series SLS/SLF support bearing assemblies.(Motion Marketplace)
July 1, 2004... SPECS Diameter: 6, 8, 10, 12 mm FEATURES * Integrated for simplified ballscrew installation * Compatible with 1112, 1214, 1412, 1510 Series ballscrews and rolled-thread counterparts * Includes backlash-free sealed duplex...

SealMaster reduced-maintenance bearings.(Motion Marketplace)
July 1, 2004... SPECS Bores: 5/8 to 2 7/16 in. FEATURES * Design ensures lubricant is easily directed to the raceway * Filled with GoldPlex-HP grease designed to help mounted bearings run cooler and longer * Three types of sealing...

S Series planetary gears.(Motion Marketplace)
July 1, 2004... SPECS Torque: 25,000 to 275,000 lb-ft Transmission ratio: 3:1 to 3,150:1 FEATURES * Deliver high torque in compact package * Available in eight harmonically developed sizes * Rugged sealing arrangement, larger oil...

Pipe mounting collars.(Motion Marketplace)
July 1, 2004... FEATURES * Nylon bushings compensate for thermal expansion and vibration * Bushings come in six pipe sizes from 1/4 to 1 1/4-in. ID * Two-piece collars available in aluminum, steel, and stainless steel, and can include a finished...

SK2 safety couplings.(Motion Marketplace)
July 1, 2004... SPECS Torque: 15 oz-in. to 600 lb-ft Bore size: 4 to 60 mm FEATURES * Drive and driven shafts disconnect in 1 to 3 msec when overload is detected * Preset within a wide range of disengagement torques *...

Iglide R plastic bearings.(Motion Marketplace)
July 1, 2004... FEATURES * Require no lubrication * Resist dirt, dust, and UV rays * Virtually maintenance-free * Suitable for agricultural and outdoor applications Igus Inc. (800) 521-2747 www.igus.com Circle 147 ...

QC 700 speed reducers.(Motion Marketplace)
July 1, 2004... FEATURES * Motor connects and disconnects from reducer without a large coupling alignment hole in the NEMA flange * No contamination during washdown * Reduced flange length * Easy installation Boston Gear (888)...

R112 high-res encoders.(Motion Marketplace)
July 1, 2004... SPECS Size: 12 mm x 25 mm Resolution: to 8,000 counts/rev FEATURES * Suitable for light industrial applications in X-Y stages, instrumentation, compact motors Gurley Precision Instruments (800) 759-1844 ...

BHF Series gearmotors.(Motion Marketplace)
July 1, 2004... SPECS Gear ratios: 5:1 to 180:1 (right-angle series); 3:1 to 180:1 (standard parallel shaft series) Shaft torque: 14.1 to 530 lb-in. Input: 100 to 115 Vac (single-phase), 200 to 230 Vac (single-phase), and 200 to 230 Vac...

MAE Y Series hybrid stepper motors.(Motion Marketplace)
July 1, 2004... SPECS Resolution: 1.8[degrees] Frame size: NEMA 16, 17, 23 Holding torque: 10 to 154 oz-in. Length: 0.81 to 2.64 in. FEATURES * CE approved, EN 60034-1:1995-02 manufactured * Rotation runs clockwise or...

PM108 dc motors.(Motion Marketplace)
July 1, 2004... SPECS Torque: 130 lb-in. start/stall Output: 1/3 hp Voltage: 90 V Rpm: 2,500 Length: 7.55 in. (PM10816); 8.61 in. (PM10818) FEATURES * Square end bells for base mounting * 1/2-in. output shaft * Class-B...

Coupling guards.(Motion Marketplace)
July 1, 2004... FEATURES * Made of maintenance-free polyethylene * Top hinge joins symmetric halves * Trims to any length * Optional end caps and metal risers available * ANSI orange, ISO yellow, sanitary white Falk Corp. (414)...

Positip 880 digital readouts.(Motion Marketplace)
July 1, 2004... FEATURES * Capable of programming contours * Program any 2D part and graphically follow the cutting process on a large TFT color monitor * Six axes input for linear or angular encoders * Accepts absolute scale inputs ...

Hollow-shaft encoder.(Motion Marketplace)
July 1, 2004... SPECS Resolution: 500 lines/rev FEATURES * Two channels of incremental shaft position * RS422 output * Glass code disk * Low profile (0.045 in) design Servo Magnetics Inc. (800) 457-3786 ...

Microstepping drives.(Motion Marketplace)
July 1, 2004... SPECS Voltage: 18 to 65 Vdc Current: 3.5 A Steps/cycle: 256 Step rate: 3,000,000 [micro]steps/sec FEATURES * 4-axis drive (2-axis version available) * Low-current mode * Eight analog inputs (12 or 16-bit...

EC Series electromechanical clutches.(Motion Marketplace)
July 1, 2004... SPECS Operating speed: 100 to 800 rpm Max speed: 1,400 rpm Lifetime: 1,000,000 actuations FEATURES * Compact, wrap spring design * 3-msec acceleration with no slippage * Near-instantaneous disengagement * 12...

Rotary position sensors.(Motion Marketplace)
July 1, 2004... SPECS Resolution: [+ or -] 0.09[degrees] (12 bit) Accuracy: [+ or -] 0.35[degrees] Lifetime: >350 million cycles FEATURES * 360[degrees] absolute angle measurements * Customizable output curve * Output formats...

Electric actuators.(Motion Marketplace)
July 1, 2004... SPECS Repeatability: +/- 0.05 mm FEATURES * Built-in motor, drive, and controller * Eight programmable positions, plus pause * Slider and rod-type versions * Readily interfaces with PLCs IAI America Inc. ...

Inductive ring sensors.(Motion Marketplace)
July 1, 2004... SPECS Diameter: 100 mm Input: 10 to 55 Vdc Temp range: -25 to 70[degrees]C FEATURES * Short-circuit, overload, wire-break, reverse-polarity protected * Complementary (NO and NC) outputs * IP67 housing Turck...

Electric Cylinders.(Media Mart)(Advertisement)
July 1, 2004... RACO Electric Linear Cylinders offer the broadest performance range in the industry. Clean electric power replaces the need for leaking hydraulic or inefficient pneumatic systems. Rod type actuators with thrust capabilities to 200,000 lbs. acme...

We make the motion ...(Media Mart)(Advertisement)
July 1, 2004... ... that makes the world move. R/B/S provides our customers with the highest level of quality, extensive engineering expertise, competitive pricing, and outstanding customer service. We stock over 55 standard models ranging in size from .375"...

Spiral Retaining Rings.(Media Mart)(Advertisement)
July 1, 2004... The new Smalley Steel Ring Company Retaining Ring Catalog is now available. Smalley has over 4500 rings in stock, sizes from 1/4" to 18". Special designs are available with No-Tooling-Charges[TM] with sizes from .200" to 84"; available in...

Backlash-free solutions.(Media Mart)(Advertisement)
July 1, 2004... GERWAH Drive Components offers a complete line of GERWAH[R] Zero Backlash Servo Coupling and PETER[R] Keyless Shaft/Hub Locking Devices, including Bellow, Miniature and Servo Insert Couplings, Mechanical and Magnetic Torque Limiters, Locking...

Slow it. Stop it. Park it.(Motion System Design)
July 1, 2004... If it moves, we can neap you stop it. Carlisle will design a brake or friction solution to held you control motion. We've got over 50 years experience in developing brakes and friction materials for major OEMs with applications ranging from...

C-Sleeve linear way L.(Motion System Design)
July 1, 2004... C-Sleeve (Capillary Sleeve) is a component part for lubrication originally developed by IKO. This is a porous sintered resin made in the form of a sleeve by sintering fine resin powder and impregnating a large amount of lubricant into its...

Clutches & brakes.(Motion System Design)
July 1, 2004... New 22-page color brochure features Hilliard's full line or motion control products, including overrunning, bi-directional, intermittent motion, torque limiting and centrifugal clutches, plus permanent magnet, electric and Twiflex brakes....

Linear motion catalog offers components & complete systems.(Motion System Design)
July 1, 2004... Over 400 products and systems are showcased, including precision case-hardened and ground steel shafts, aluminum support rails, shaft supports blocks and shaft rail assemblies, roller bearing pillow blocks/carriage plates, as well as complete...

Zero backlash couplings.(Motion System Design)
July 1, 2004... New from Ruland Manufacturing Company, Inc. Ruland has just issued a new catalog for their Paradrive[TM] Oldham zero backlash couplings. The Paradrive[TM] motion control coupling is designed to handle parallel misalignment. At the same time the...

Precision positioning stages.(Motion System Design)
July 1, 2004... Kohzu, Japan's premiere manufacturer of precision motion instruments now offers its comprehensive line of rotary, linear and swivel-arc stages to the American industrial and scientific community. Manual and motorized sub-micron accuracy...

Torque Systems capabilities.(Motion System Design)
July 1, 2004... Torque Systems Division of Cleveland Motion controls has introduced a new capabilities brochure that highlights their ability to provide customized electromechanical solutions for brushless and brush servomotors, linear actuators and encoders...

WorldWide Electric Motors.(Motion System Design)
July 1, 2004... 1/3 HP 500 HP; 1200, 1800 and 3600 RPM, Single-Phase and Three-Phase, ODP and TEFC Enclosures Standard NEMA "T" Frames and General Purpose 56-Frames, WorldWide Electric Corporation. Phone 1-800-808-2131 ext. 3. Fax: 1-800-711-1616 Circle...

Bellows coupling stiffness.(msd 101)
July 1, 2004... On faster servo systems even small powertrain flexibility variations can compromise positioning accuracy. While many factors are involved, the stiffness of couplings has huge effects. That's why metal bellows couplings are often used in servo...