Advanced linear motors offer high performance, low weight and unlimited travel

Citation

(2006), "Advanced linear motors offer high performance, low weight and unlimited travel", Assembly Automation, Vol. 26 No. 2. https://doi.org/10.1108/aa.2006.03326bad.003

Advanced linear motors offer high performance, low weight and unlimited travel

Advanced linear motors offer high performance, low weight and unlimited travel

Keywords: Electric motors, Assembly

A new series of high performance ironless linear servo motors from Anorad utilises the most advanced linear motor technology currently available to develop extremely high force densities at low weight. The design of the new LZ Series has been optimised using finite element analysis and incorporates the latest magnetic materials. As a result, the series develops up to 30 per cent higher force density compared to standard ironless linear motors (Plate 3).

Plate 3 A new series of high performance ironless linear servo motors from Anorad utilises the most advanced linear motor technology currently available to develop extremely high force densities at low weight

The LZ series, which will be launched at Productronica 2005, consists of 48 zero-cogging motors offering peak force in the range 350-4,000N, and continuous forces in the range 70- 900N. The brushless construction, with no contacting surfaces to cause jitter, provides extremely smooth motion and a high ratio of peak force to motor inertia of about 30:1.

Each motor follows a similar basic design, incorporating four magnet lengths and four coil lengths, with each coil having three coil/magnet configurations. All the motors are offered with optional hall- effect and thermal sensors, and each motor is offered in several winding configurations to accommodate most applications.

Like all Anorad linear motors, LZ models do not have limitations on travel displacements. Since, the stationary magnet assemblies can be easily joined together to form any length of motor, travel can be made as long as necessary. As the same moving coil assembly could be used for any travel, there is no trade-off in performance as a function of travel. This is unlike systems such as those using rotary screw techniques, which have critical speed limitations and higher inertia over increased lengths.

The motors can be used both in very low (<1 μm/s) and very high velocity (>10 m/s) applications, all with very high precision. Indeed, the only limitation to total system accuracy and repeatability would generally be the sensing devices used and the bearings of the positioning system.

For further information contact: Andy Holmes, Anorad UK, Viewpoint, Basing View, Basingstoke, Hants, RG21 4RG. Tel.: +44 (0) 1256 799827; fax: +44 (0)1256 799829; e-mail: aholmes@ra.rockwell.com; web site: www.anorad.com