The six-axis parallel-kinematics systems known as hexapods excel in motion simulation and testing of mechanical and drive systems, multi-dimensional position sensors, and (the focus of this article) image-stabilization designs for cameras and video equipment. By Doris Knauer • Project Manager — Industrial Automation | Physik Instrumente (PI) Modern camera systems are capable of astounding feats, […]
Mini + piezo + voice coil
Linear motion in medical applications: Piezo actuators for non-contact dispensing
In a recent article, we looked at how piezo motors are used in liquid handling robots for contact-based dispensing (also referred to as pipetting) of microliter and nanoliter volumes. But when the required dispense volumes fall in the single-digit nanoliter or picoliter range, the process often requires a non-contact dispensing method to ensure accuracy and […]
Linear motion in medical applications: Piezo motors for liquid handling robots
Piezo motors and actuators are used in a variety of medical applications, including liquid handling robots for laboratory testing and diagnostics, drug discovery, and biotechnology. Liquid handling functions in the medical industry have traditionally been done manually by laboratory personnel. But consistency and accuracy are difficult to ensure with manual methods, since variations between technicians […]
Linear actuators for medical ventilators and respirators available in OEM quantities
During the COVID-19 pandemic engineers and designers of medical devices are working 24/7 to design and manufacture critically needed life support and testing equipment. Moticont has a proud history of supplying precise, reliable voice coil linear actuators used in medical ventilators and respirators and will be especially quick to respond to the need for actuators […]
Linear motion in medical applications: Voice coil actuators in ventilators
More and more, medical device manufacturers are replacing traditional components with smaller, lighter-weight options that have sufficient life and reliability for “life-critical” applications. One such example comes from manufacturers of ventilators, who are using voice coil actuators to control the valves that deliver air to a patient who’s unable to breathe on their own. Ventilators are […]
New 3-axis linear voice coil actuator stage from Moticont
Moticont has released a new three-axis XYZ linear actuator, the XYZ-10. The X and Y axis of the actuator each has 0.97 in. (24.6 mm) of travel and the Z axis has a stroke of 0.500 in. (12.7 mm). The high-speed, high-acceleration, zero-cogging, brushless voice coil motors provide 6.3 lb (28.2 N) of force and […]
SMAC actuators satisfy existing OEM form-fit-function requirements
SMAC now sells voice coil actuators that include differential features to satisfy OEM requirements … actuators that allow drop-in replacement of existing motion technologies having the same form, fit, and function. This design process is called MCA Inside and has been key in helping OEMs with an install base or an existing design to solve […]
Low-power voice-coil actuator for cryogenic environments
H2W Technologies’ new high-force, non-commutated dc linear actuator, otherwise known as a direct-drive voice-coil actuator, is designed specifically for use in cryogenic environments. Material choice and design parameters were implemented such that the motor can operate without degradation or damage when placed in a cryogenic environment. The model NCC14-78-830-1SM can generate a continuous force of […]
Physik Instrumente XY stage provides high speed and 10-nm resolution
Precision motion specialist Physik Instrumente (PI) now sells a new integrated XY stage — part of its compact high-speed positioning stage roster. All of these positioning stages are powered by ultrasonic piezo-linear motors — patented motors that deliver smooth motion, high resolution and rapid step and settle response. Also featured on the motors is a […]
SMAC single-axis servo controller starting at $200
SMAC Moving Coil Actuators has announced release of their next generation Very Low Cost (VLC) single axis DC brushed/brushless motor controller/driver. With a price of $250 for stand-alone ($200 for built in types) the VLC represents another 35% drop in price compared to many of the company’s previous controllers … and with no loss in […]
