How paper-thin electroadhesive linear brakes can unlock significant power and weight savings in new and legacy linear motion systems. Kirby Witte VP of Engineering ESTAT Actuation Linear motion systems must pack all the right features and components in increasingly compact designs. Brake technologies are a critical part of this puzzle, providing load holding, emergency stopping […]
Linear drives (all)
Pre-loaded systems deliver precise positioning for machine tools
Redex’s patented DualDRIVE and TwinDRIVE preloading technologies now give CNC machine designers several ways to build a zero-backlash system. These approaches leverage Redex modular SRP, DRP, KRP and KRPX Series rack and pinion reducers whose output pinions are preloaded against the rack to eliminate backlash — a longstanding challenge with designs that require long axis […]
Omega Drive technology outputs linear or rotational motion
RUD’s new Omega Drive is a new chain drive with a 180° wrap angle. From the Tecdos series, it is suitable for both linear and rotational motion — capable of rotating, lifting, and lowering loads in various on and offshore settings. Applications include shifting harbor and ship cranes, relocating machinery, and solar panel sun tracking. […]
How linear motion technology is meeting the challenges of tomorrow
To meet the complex factory automation challenges of tomorrow, linear motion systems are evolving to become quicker, more economical, and more sustainable. Kevin Straub Bosch Rexroth Linear motion components are central to the functioning of a host of machines and mechatronic systems. They enable reliable guidance, precise positioning, and advanced handling capabilities. Such features are […]
Increased speed with new planetary screw assembly
New intermediate size of the proven planetary screw assembly from Bosch Rexroth achieves double the linear travel speed and cycle time at the same rotary speed New intermediate size 48×20 for high-power applications Higher transmission ratio shortens cycle times and increases productivity Quick product selection and online configuration using e-tools The ongoing trend towards electrification […]
Leadscrews in medical equipment
Leadscrews are essential to surgical robotics, patient-monitoring systems, diagnostic imaging devices, and rehabilitation equipment. By Chris Nook | Chairman and CEO • Helix Linear Leadscrews are those spiral shafts that (upon application of torque) convert rotational motion into linear motion — axially advancing and receding a mating nut to deliver accurate positioning. They’re well suited […]
Integrated linear-motion variations becoming the norm
Automation over the last several years has expanded use of electric linear actuators to leverage their technological advancements in smart homes, aerospace, defense, and industrial applications. In fact, the global linear actuator market could (in large part because of electric options) surpass U.S. $52.67B this year and grow at a compound annual growth rate through […]
Thomson debuts online product selector simplifying screw jack configuration, selection
Thomson has added a unique screw jack configuration and selection tool to its online engineering toolset. The new Thomson screw jack product selector helps design engineers optimize and specify screw jacks for applications involving loads of up to 100 tons. “Screw jacks are increasingly replacing hydraulic cylinders in many ultra-heavy, low duty-cycle applications, and there […]
Packaging focus: Carton making and packing operations
Carton making and case packing are key operations in packaging facilities. Both rely on extremely fast motion systems with dozens of mechanically and programmatically linked axes for sufficient throughput to satisfy the demands of a global market. Case packing in particular is a common bottleneck. Typically, cartoners are installed at the ends of production lines, […]
Simplifying overhead machine tending with long-travel automation
Cartesian robots with the right design upgrades can assume manual transfer operations. By Michael Everman • Founder and CTO | Bell-Everman Manufacturing and packaging operations using manual material or parts handling operations can reap immediate benefits from automation with long-travel Cartesian robots having custom end-of-arm tooling (EoAT) and advanced sensing capabilities. These robots can support […]
