Backlash is an inherent property of lead screw assemblies due to the sliding motion between the screw and the nut. For some applications, a certain amount of backlash, or “play,” can be tolerated, but applications such as positioning, dispensing, or assembly often require a level of precision and repeatability that can’t be achieved if backlash […]
What’s the difference between ball screw critical speed and characteristic speed?
Ball screw drives incorporate two primary moving components: the rotating screw shaft and the nut that traverses the screw. (The radial bearings that support the screw shaft play a minor role for the purposes of this discussion.) This means that to accurately determine the maximum allowable speed of a ball screw assembly, there are two […]
Motion basics: Difference between Cartesian and polar coordinate systems
Coordinate systems provide a way to define a point in space in either one, two, or three dimensions. The most prevalent coordinate system used in linear motion applications is the Cartesian system. Cartesian coordinates define a position as the linear distance from the origin in two or three mutually perpendicular axes. The origin is the […]
What types of motion can you create with multi-axis linear systems?
For many tasks, multi-axis linear systems — Cartesian robots, X-Y tables, and gantry systems — travel in straight lines to achieve quick point-to-point movements. But some applications, such as dispensing and cutting, require the system to follow a circular path or a complex shape that can’t be created by simple lines and arcs. Fortunately, modern […]
Linear motion systems: Only as strong as weakest link
Demands placed on linear systems in today’s automation are greater than ever — and continue to increase. Here we review five links in the chain of design elements so critical to precision operation. By Mark Huebner • Mechatronics global product manager | PBC Linear Kevin Bischel • Principal engineer | PBC Linear A linear motion […]
THK roller LM guide type HRX for myriad applications and harsh environments
A new Roller LM Guide Type HRX from THK America Inc. meets the demands of myriad applications and environments. The Type HRX boasts a duplex face-to-face structure (DF Structure) and a full roller design for resilient performance in even harsh settings. Features include a highly rigid, yet simple structure, caged rollers and an extensive dust […]
When to use linear bearings and ball nuts with ceramic balls
Ball nut preload: What effect does it have on bearing life?
Ball nut preload offers several benefits to screw assemblies, but the most common reason for using a preloaded ball nut is to reduce axial play, or backlash, caused by clearance between the screw and nut raceways. Reducing this axial play does two things. It improves the repeatability of the screw assembly — meaning the assembly […]
What is curvilinear motion and when is it used?
In single-axis motion systems, travel is typically either linear (in a straight line) or rotary (in a partial or complete circle). But some applications call for a system that combines straight sections of motion with curved sections — referred to as curvilinear motion. Curvilinear systems generally take one of two forms: simple, constant-radii sections (such as […]
Stepper motor performance: Is it possible to get high torque at high speeds?
The most notable stepper motor performance characteristics are precise positioning, good holding torque, and good low-speed torque characteristics. But in some cases, application parameters necessitate high torque production at high speeds, while design or control constraints dictate the use of a stepper motor. Although stepper motors aren’t notable for their ability to produce high torque […]
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