iMC-V CAN Controller from Techno, Inc.
March 24, 2010 by admin
Filed under Controllers, Industry News
New Hyde Park, NY – Techno, Inc. Linear Motion Systems announces the New iMC-V CAN controller, a single-to six-axis controller unit complete with drives, power supply, I/O, enclosure, onboard computer and 10″ touch screen. The iMC-V is compatible with all Techno’s gantry tables, linear slides, belt drive actuators and rotary tables and can be used for pick and place, dispensing, assembly, testing, drilling, routing, welding and general automation.

There are 16 digital inputs and 8 digital outputs per unit, which can be expanded up to 128 points of I/O through the CAN bus. The iMC-V can also perform linear, circular and helical interpolation, ultimately expanding the applications it can be used for. A rugged industrial desktop enclosure (optional frame mount) with 10″ touch screen and keyboard make for a robust system which can operate on the plant floor. Recent applications include a 6-axis version used in the automotive field and a 4-axis version used to manufacture cosmetics.
Techno, Inc. Linear Motion Systems
www.techno-isel.com/tic/Catdas/Multi-AxisServoMotionController.htm
KABELSCHLEPP integrated into Tsubaki Group
March 23, 2010 by admin
Filed under Cable Carriers, Cables
KABELSCHLEPP and Tsubaki Group have been close cooperative partners for more than 40 years. With this integration, both companies will leverage their successful working relationship in one strategic global partnership. The objective: KABELSCHLEPP becomes a member of global Tsubaki Group. Thus, putting together what has long fit together.
The Tsubaki Group, based in Japan, operates three successful worldwide divisions. The cable carrier systems will be globally lead by KABELSCHLEPP. This new corporate constellation offers both companies and their customers a wide variety of immediate advantages and synergies.
These advantages for our customers are significant. KABELSCHLEPP now has access to a vast network of more than 40 international subsidiaries, an expanded product portfolio as well as synergies in product development and distribution.
KABELSCHLEPP
www.kabelschlepp.com
Tsubaki Group
www.tsubakimoto.com
New Videos Explain Features and Benefits of Linear Guides
March 23, 2010 by admin
Filed under Featured, Linear Guides
EAST PROVIDENCE, R.I. – igus® has two new videos highlighting the latest additions to its range of DryLin® W linear guide systems. The videos explain the features and benefits of the new products and demonstrate how they are assembled and how they operate.

The most recently added video demonstrates how igus’ DryLin WJRM hybrid linear bearing combines both rolling and sliding movements in order to reduce the driving force of a machine-guard door. The viewer is able to see exactly how a sliding-sleeve bearing and a polymer roller work together to give DryLin WJRM its unique characteristics.
The second video is about igus’ DryLin W adjustable linear bearings. It demonstrates how to manually adjust the clearance of the linear guide with a new ‘turn-to-fit’ hand clamp.
To watch these videos and more, visit www.igus.com/ApplicationCorner/DL_videos.asp. For more information about DryLin® linear bearings, guides and slide tables, please call 1-888-803-1895 or e-mail sales@igus.com.
igus
www.igus.com
New Scale Technologies Introduces Micro Actuator Development Platform
March 19, 2010 by Miles Budimir
Filed under Linear Actuators
Victor, NY - New Scale Technologies, Inc. announces its M3 (Micro-Mechatronic Module) Design Platform for rapid development of custom closed-loop micro actuator modules. Building on the company’s miniature SQUIGGLE motor and TRACKER position sensor technology, this design platform yields a complete closed-loop actuator on a printed circuit board of 12 x 30mm or less. Modules have low power consumption and 3.3V input voltage for battery-powered operation. No external control board is necessary; simple serial commands drive an on-board PID controller using a standard I2C, SPI or USART interface.
The basic M3 Design Platform consists of an SQL-RV-1.8 reduced voltage SQUIGGLE RV micro motor, NSD-2101 motor driver, a TRACKER NSE-5310 position sensor (encoder), and an on-board microprocessor for PID control. Typical specifications for a linear drive system based on the M3 Design Platform include 0.5 micron position resolution, up to 50 grams force load, 10 mm/sec speed, and up to 20mm travel range.
The SQUIGGLE RV motor and TRACKER sensor provide extremely precise, closed-loop positioning. The closed-loop system can be tuned with PID control parameters stored in the microprocessor to provide response tailored to the integrated system requirements. Modules based on the M3 Design Platform are ideal for high resolution positioning in miniature optical instrumentation, lasers and photonics systems, aerospace controls and biomedical systems.
For more information visit the New Scale Technologies web site at: www.newscaletech.com
Misumi introduces New Series of Standard Precision Positioning Stages
March 19, 2010 by admin
Filed under Featured, Linear Guides, Linear Stages / Gantries
Schaumburg, IL – Misumi USA, Inc. introduces a new series of Standard Precision Positioning Stages to complement its existing line of High Precision Positioning Stages. The new stages feature a simplified product design that make them suitable and very cost-effective for applications in which frequent and/or fine adjustment is needed, but ultra-high precision is not required.

Misumi’s new series of Standard Precision Stages are designed to deliver optimal adjustment flexibility, with acceptable and repeatable precision levels in positioning devices for automated inspection, assembly, and machining, as well as for processing instruments (e.g., welders) and production jigs. By streamlining functionality and precision levels (relative to straightness, pitching, yawing and rolling), Misumi is able to offer the new models at a price point 20 to 35 percent lower than pricing for its ultra-precise High Precision Stages. Order fulfillment time is also shorter – the new series takes just three days to ship versus six days for High Precision models.
The Standard Precision Positioning Stages series is comprised of three different versions and a total of 22 models. These include:
• Cross-Roller Stages (Part Number XCRS). Available in 9 different models – 3 sizes each in X-Axis, XY-Axis, and Z-Axis versions – these cross-roller guides incorporate two rollers connecting upper and lower plate, resulting in accurate and reliable positioning.
• Dovetail Stages (Rack & Pinion, Part Number XDTS). Available in 9 different models – 3 sizes each in X-Axis, XY-Axis, and Z-Axis versions – this slide mechanism consists of two precision-ground flat surfaces sliding against each other. (Note: Due to direct contact between upper and lower aluminum alloy plates, this stage is not suited for high moment load.)
• Long-Travel Dovetail Stages (Rack & Pinion, Part Number XDTLS). Available in 4 different models – 2 sizes each in X-Axis and Z-Axis – this slide mechanism extends the travel distance of the Dovetail Stage.
All three versions have top and bottom surface plates made of Aluminum Alloy with a Black Anodized surface treatment.
Additional information on Misumi’s standard precision positioning stages, including complete technical data, easy product selection, product options, pricing and delivery times, can be found in the New Standard Precision Positioning Stages Brochure or online at www.misumi-ec.com/eusaen/mech/.
MISUMI USA, Inc.
www.misumiusa.com
Screw-driven Actuator from Specialty Motions
March 18, 2010 by Miles Budimir
Filed under Featured, Linear Actuators
Corona, Calif. –The Slick Stick™ is a screw-driven actuator that boasts a small, streamlined footprint making it ideal for applications with tight space restrictions. The Slick Stick has travel lengths up to 76 in. and speeds up to 20 in./sec. Standard screw leads come in 0.5-in and 10mm leads. It is designed with one-inch diameter aluminum tubing that provides exceptional stiffness and rigidity in an envelope equivalent to the size of a support rail assembly. It can be mounted horizontally, vertically or laterally.
The Slick Stick comes standard ready to accept a motor and coupler.
For more information, call 800-283-3411 or visit www.smi4motion.com.
HepcoMotion® PDU2M Belt Driven Unit from Bishop-Wisecarver
March 10, 2010 by admin
Filed under Belts, Linear Drives
Pittsburg, CA – - Bishop-Wisecarver Corporation announces the availability of the new HepcoMotion® PDU2M Profile Belt Driven Unit, a high capacity version of the successful PDU2. The PDU2M incorporates a carriage that contains four extra rollers on each side in order to withstand increased moment forces. Suitable for demanding single-axis systems and multi-axis applications, the PDU2M delivers a 50% higher load capacity, a 200% increase in moment load capacity and a 1,000% improvement in moment load stiffness compared to the standard PDU2. Designers can now specify a single PDU2M unit as a horizontal axis in an X-Z system, where previously two PDU2 units working in parallel would have been required to provide the necessary rigidity and strength.

PDU2M is comprised of a rigid but lightweight aluminum slotted profile fitted with a toothed belt drive and carriage which effectively encloses the unit. Rated for operating speeds up to 6m/s and loads up to 750N, PDU2M’s 20AT3 belt allows for driving forces up to 280N. Left, right or double drive shafts can be specified together with a range of options such as brakes, positioning encoders and mechanical or inductive limit switches. Internal bumpers provide end of stroke protection at both ends.
Key to this unit is the extra ultra-high performance HepcoMotion Herculane® wheels that are mounted on adjustable eccentric studs. These wheels run virtually friction-free on the inside of the profile providing stable support for the carriage plate; felt wipers sweep debris from their path. Several carriage styles are available to allow for quick and easy construction of multi-axis systems with minimal brackets and hardware.
PDU2 is fully compatible with aluminum profile systems (which Bishop-Wisecarver carries) and is an ideal replacement for failing ball-based systems that are unable to match its speed and reliability.
Bishop-Wisecarver
www.bwc.com
Rotary Stage features Compact Package and Accurate Positioning
March 8, 2010 by admin
Filed under Linear Guides, Linear Stages / Gantries, Rotary Stages
RTHM-100 compact rotation stages are designed to rotate optical components and small tooling in the confined spaces of the manufacturing processes for fiber optical components and semiconductor devices, fiber optic alignment, laser diode research, bio-medical applications and inspection systems.

The lightweight design feature low 32 mm profile height and incorporates anodized aluminum body with pre-loaded ball bearings with run-outs of 5 microns. This proprietary bearing design provides smooth rotation with minimal wobble.
A precision ground worm gear produces consistent driving torque to the rotor and eliminates variations in the motor current.
RTHM-100 stages feature an angular resolution 0.1 arc-sec, which may be achieved with either DC Servo or stepper motor controls.
The stages are equipped with a reference home sensor. RTHM-100 stages can run in continuous or start/stop rotation modes and mounted horizontally or vertically.
These stages feature zero backlash, large 50 mm center aperture and can rotate loads of 20 kg over unlimited rotation angle.
IntelLiDrives, Inc.
www.intellidrives.com
New HepcoMotion® PSD80 Profile Screw Driven Unit from Bishop-Wisecarver
March 2, 2010 by admin
Filed under Ball / Lead Screws, Featured, Linear Actuators
Pittsburg, CA - Bishop-Wisecarver Corporation announces the availability of the new HepcoMotion® PSD80 Profile Screw Driven Linear Actuator with high efficiency Herculane® wheel technology. Designed to complement the established PSD120 ball screw actuator, PSD80 has been primarily developed around the need for a cost effective Z axis solution in lighter load applications such as pick and place and assembly operations.

Housed on a high strength aluminum beam and fitted with a stainless steel sealing band, the PSD80 uses Herculane wheels mounted to an adjustable carriage, offering long life and no re-lubrication. Single or multiple carriages on a unit are possible and can handle loads to 500N. A stainless steel lead screw provides actuation with pitch ranges of 4, 15, 25 and 70mm. The 25mm lead is particularly useful in Z axis applications, while the 70mm screw pitch satisfies the higher speed pick and place requirements and allows speeds up to 1 m/s and thrust loads to 300N. The lead screw is available in right and left handed threads and offers smooth, strong and precise actuation. A ball screw can be supplied for applications that require greater positioning accuracy.
PSD80 is supplied as a closed or open format dependent upon the application being subject to the ingress of dirt. The closed unit is rugged, tolerant of debris, and offers many mounting options while the open version is a lower cost solution that is compact, light, and has low friction. Where two units are to be used in parallel, a “slave axis” without the driving screw can be specified for both closed and open units. Adding to its flexibility, the PSD80 is available in a completely corrosion resistant version, as well as a double acting version for applications that require symmetrical movement from opposing carriages.
Bishop-Wisecarver
www.bwc.com
Linear Motion Handbook from Rexroth
March 2, 2010 by Miles Budimir
Filed under Featured, Linear Actuators, Linear Guides
Hoffman Estates, Ill. – A new 350+ page Linear Motion Technology Handbook from Rexroth is an educational, engineering reference book on linear motion technology and its uses, offering everything from a review of basic principles to examples of practical applications. It deals extensively with all common types of linear motion guides, as well as ball screw drives and ready-to-install linear motion actuators and Cartesian systems.
The first section of the handbook provides insights into the fundamental physical principles involved in linear motion technology, including information about the structural design, operating principles and characteristics of linear motion technology components. Topics such as rolling contact, life expectancy, pre-load, rigidity, accuracy and lubrication are also discussed in detail.
Later sections describe the structural design and technical characteristics of the manufacturer’s linear bushings and shafts, profiled rail systems, ball screw assemblies, and ready-to-install linear motion actuators and Cartesian robots. Readers will also find useful design hints and advice on product selection, assembly and installation, as well as tips for cost-effective project engineering.
To download individual sections of the handbook or to get the entire handbook, visit
www.boschrexroth-us.com/country_units/america/united_states/en/index.jsp


