New Linear Stepper Motors for High-speed Open Loop Positioning Applications

H2W Technologies May 14, 2020

Press Release Summary:

Performs at speeds of up to 80 in/sec and strokes of up to 68 in.
Capable of precise position, velocity and acceleration control when coupled with a micro-stepping drive and indexer
Provides multiple forcers on a single platen and no servo tuning is required

Original Press Release:

Magnetically Preloaded Linear Stepper Motors

H2W Technologies’ dual axis linear stepper motors are ideal for high-speed open loop positioning applications. They can perform at speeds of up to 80 in/sec [2 m/sec] and strokes of up to 68 in [1.7 m]. Linear stepper motors are capable of very precise position, velocity, and acceleration control when coupled with a micro-stepping drive and indexer.

The moving assembly called the “forcer” is supported by magnetically preloaded air bearings that are imbedded in the active surface of the forcer, and on a single side of the platen to minimize the physical contact of bearings on the platen. The bearings are designed to support the customer’s payload and to maintain the required 0.0005 in to 0.0010 in [12 to 25 micron] air gap between the platen and the forcer.

The step and direction signal for each axis comes from a micro-stepping drive (2 or 4 phase). A 2 axis indexer is required to send step and direction signals to the drivers. For 2 phase motors, the full step is 0.010 in [250 microns] and for 4 phase motors the full step is 0.005 in [125 microns]. With micro-stepping, resolutions in the order of 0.5 to 1 micron are achievable.

The dual axis linear stepper motor is a complete air bearing positioning system with the motor, the bearings, and the positioning system all built into one compact package. Integrating linear encoders with the stepper motor allows for a hybrid, closed loop positioning system.

Advantages: