Innovative Harmonic Drive mini DC servo actuators reduce system build time and costs

Citation

(2007), "Innovative Harmonic Drive mini DC servo actuators reduce system build time and costs", Assembly Automation, Vol. 27 No. 2. https://doi.org/10.1108/aa.2007.03327bad.003

Innovative Harmonic Drive mini DC servo actuators reduce system build time and costs

Innovative Harmonic Drive mini DC servo actuators reduce system build time and costs

Harmonic Drive, a manufacturer of precision gears and actuators, has launched an innovative, new range of low-cost miniature servo actuators that feature a fully integrated construction, comprising a mini or super-mini Harmonic Drive gear box, a DC servo motor and a feedback device (Figure 3). This unique construction ensures that the new PMA servo actuators offer design and manufacturing engineers the opportunity to reduce both the time and cost associated with system design, specification and construction. Perhaps most crucially, the new actuators also allow system performance, precision and reliability to be significantly improved, while size and weight are minimised considerably.

Figure 3 Low-cost miniature servo actuators from Harmonic Drive

The new PMA servo actuators are available in four gear sizes, 5, 8, 11 or 14, and have been designed specifically for use in demanding applications, where highly accurate motion control and high torque capacity are required, or where operating space or weight are restricted. Typically, applications include optical equipment, precision engineering equipment, measuring and testing machines, medical equipment, materials handling equipment and assembly automation, and semiconductor production machines.

The incorporation of advanced Harmonic Drive technology within the PMA miniature servo actuators practically eliminates the effects of backlash, while the integrated DC servo motor provides exceptionally smooth torque curves, with output speeds of up to 200rpm, and reduced rotor inertia as a result of ironless winding.

In addition, the built-in encoder means that the new mini servo actuators can interface directly with all industry standard servo controllers. There is the option of optical or magnetic sensing with resolutions of 256, 512, 500 or 100ppr.

Available in a wide range of output torques and speeds, the new PMA miniature servo actuators can be configured to withstand maximum rotor temperatures of up to 155ºC and can operate at temperatures between 0 and 40ºC.

For more information, visit the web site: www.harmonicdrive.co.uk