A Linear Slide Helps Get Desired Motion Control

Usually an object is capable of moving in three different directions, but with the help of a linear slide, it can move straight in a single direction. Basically, this linear mechanism helps control the other axes of the object. A linear motion is of use in industrial applications such as sorting, packaging, stamping, hammering, wrapping etc. This mechanism can be used in three ways—manually, by using a stepper motor or by using a DC motor in conjunction with an encoder.

Let's take a look at all the three ways of using a linear slide:

Manual method: This is used with a main knob that is connected to a lead screw. In this system, when the screw is rotated, the platform is pushed forward. In fields such as optics, this method is most suitable. In this, the linear stage can be mounted either horizontally or vertically by adjusting the base of the platform.

With a stepper motor: When automated position control is required, this kind of mechanism is best suited. In the manual method you have a knob, but in this system, in addition to the knob you have a stepper motor. Since there is a motor involved in this process, there is a greater amount of uniformity as the motor is programmed to move in fixed motion.

With a DC motor with encoder: In certain set ups, a DC motor can be used in place of a manual knob. However, while a stepper motor moves in fixed steps, a DC motor does not follow any such incremental steps in movement. Hence, it becomes rather important to use a method to determine the uniformity of the fixed steps. Mostly, a scale is attached on the internal mechanisms of a linear stage and an encoder is used to determine the position of the stage.

In certain cases, more than one linear set-up might be used together. This is done when the requirement is for linear movements in more than one direction. A linear slide is also sometimes referred to as a linear stage. A good linear movement system can help you gain effective motion control. Before making a purchase decision, it is advisable to surf the internet to learn about the most reputed manufacturers and suppliers of linear systems. Ideally, you should also look for a guarantee and warranty for such products. Having a good linear stage mechanism in your factory or work site will help you realize the true potential of motion control.

About the Author

PI is well known throughout the high-tech world as a leader in design and manufacture of motion control products, linear actuators, linear stage. piezo ceramics and nanoactuators, linear slide, microscope stage, hexapod 6DOF positioning systems, linear motor and micro robots.

All You Wanted To Know About Linear Stages and Their Uses

Linear Stages

Any object is said to be capable of rotating in 3 axes or translate along 3 axes. Thus an object is said to have freedom of movement in 6 degrees. Linear stage allows motion only in one direction.

The linear stages are devices used to control motion or movement of the object. Linear stage consists of a platform that moves along with a base. The platform and base are connected to each other by some form of a mechanism which helps in restricting motion or movement of the platform in one dimension or direction. Many different styles of guides are made in the market. Each guide has its pros and cons. Hence a guide may be more suitable in one application and may not be appropriate in other application.

These stages can also be called as translation stages or linear slides since they achieve the same purpose of motion control. A linear slide has almost similar functions to that of these stages.

A linear stage can be roughly classified in two categories such as manual and motorized stage. Motorized stages are further classified depending on the type of motor used etc.

Manual stage consists of a travel guide and driving structure. Many types of travel guides and related driving structures are available in the market. Today, users can get their stages custom made to their needs. For example, a stepper motor along with a knob can be used to operate a stage. In second option, a DC motor may also be used along with an encoder. Since DC motor does not move in fixed lengths, its movement needs to be reported to a controller which then further handles the motion.

How to Select a Stage for your Specific Requirements

Following factors should be considered while selecting a stage that suits your requirement.

• Accuracy
• Resolution
• Repeatability
• Load capacity
• Stiffness
• Environmental sensitivity
• Costs
• Errors allowed
• Protection on travel
• Locking mechanisms

Different bearings are available in the market each suitable for particular needs. Wide selection of quality linear slide is available. They have quality linear stage for micro positioning and nano positioning applications.

How to Build Multiple Axis Stages

If the need is to control positions in more than one direction, more than one linear stages can be used together. One stage can be mounted to the platform of the other stage so that they are in right angles to each other. If there is a need of bringing together three stages, then they should be attached to each other in orthogonal fashion. Sometimes they are integrated previously instead of assembling two or three single stages together. Moreover, four or five or six axis stages can also be manufactured. The linear rotary elements of these stages should be attached to each other in some fixed positions.

About the Author

PI is well known throughout the high-tech world as a leader in design and manufacture of motion control products, linear actuators, piezo ceramics and nanoactuators, hexapod 6DOF positioning systems, linear motor and micro robots.

Linear Stage for Better Position Control in Manufacturing Units

The linear stage is an amazing tool used in many industrial sectors to limit the movement of machines in a linear motion, as opposed to six degrees of freedom (3 rotational and 3 translational). Indeed, it allows for only one translational motion, that too in one axis.

The linear stage controls linear position using three position control methods.

Linear Stage Used Manually

Manual method is usually used through a control knob that is attached to a lead screw. This process is generally used in optics, where rotating the screw pushes the platform forward, thus achieving your purpose. A spring is used in this method, which offers restoring force to keep the platform in contact with the actuator. Hence, you get more precise motion of the stage. However, the whole arrangement is done differently when the linear stage has to be mounted vertically.

Linear Stage with Stepper Motor

This is usually used when you wish to go for automated position control. The stepper motor is employed in addition to a manual knob most of the times. It is to be mentioned here that there is greater degree of uniformity while using this method, as the motor moves in fixed increments/steps. Hence, you would get something like an indexed knob. It would be much convenient to understand with the help of a suitable example: If you use a lead screw whose pitch is 0.5 mm and the stepper motor has 200 steps per revolution, then with each revolution of the motor you would get 0.5 mm of linear motion of the stage platform. And further, each step will result in 0.0025 mm of linear motion.

Linear Stage Using DC Motor with Encoder

Then there are stages for linear motion that uses a DC motor in lieu of a manual control knob. Unlike the ones with Stepper motor, a DC motor does not move in fixed increments, and hence you as a user should employ an alternate means to determine stage position. You can use a scale that is to be attached to the internals of the stage with a linear slide and an encoder should be used to measure the position of the stage relative to the scale. This is to be further reported to the motor controller, which facilitates for motion control in set positions, reliably and repeatedly.

These are all used for linear motion control in one way; if you wish to have control in multiple directions, then more than one linear stage may be used together.

About the Author

PI is well known throughout the high-tech world as a leader in design and manufacture of motion control products, linear actuators, piezo ceramics and nanoactuators, hexapod 6DOF positioning systems, linear motor and micro robots.

Different Types of Linear Actuator for Industrial Purposes

Linear actuator is one of the widely used devices for various industrial purposes. With the use of other tools and devices creating liner force is not a problem. Live wire automation can be shaped up with the use of primary blocks. Creation of external energy is a must for the force to take effect. The overall performance of such devices can be rated with the use of specific equipment.

There are different types of linear actuator available in the market that can be selected as per your requirements, online purchase is one of the preferred options that can be used. Controlling a mechanism can be done with the use of such actuators which are specially designed for high end industrial use.

Hydraulic actuators are available that work with the use of fluids. Hydraulic fluid is pumped in the piston rod which controls motion. They have hydraulic cylinders which work superb when there is a need to curb motion. Both the ends of the piston are pressurized under strict conditions; they also adjust according to the pressure created. Pneumatic systems are preferred for carrying huge pressure created from various industrial applications. Use of hydraulic linear actuator is done in special cases where there is a huge need of stability. Control of such devices is simply outstanding and staggering. Cost of such devices is also over the box since they are created from updated technology.

Electro mechanical actuators are also in the list of high end industrial devices. Electric motor is used for the working of this device. Use of rotary motion is done which generates the power for working; it ensures motion control to be defined in proper manner. Uses of electro mechanical actuators are done for creation of medical equipment, consumer products, and furniture and hobby design. The cost of this device is not that costly but in mid range.

Linear motor therefore proves itself to be useful for a manufacturing firm. Linear actuator is available in different sizes and powers that can be selected as per your requirements. Online purchase of these actuators will help a lot in saving time and money. There are various websites available over the internet that can be used for buying this high end device. These devices also contribute in reducing overall production and operation costs. Installation of such actuators also ensures to deliver 100% performance of the equipment in which they are installed for various manufacturing purposes.

About the Author

PI is well known throughout the high-tech world as a leader in design and manufacture of motion control products, linear actuators, linear stage. piezo ceramics and nanoactuators, linear slide, microscope stage, hexapod 6DOF positioning systems, linear motor and micro robots.

Everything about Motion Control

Motion control is one of the simplest actions for a CNC or computer numerical control machine. Yet, it is required and important for all CNC machines to work in programmed manner. A manufacturing firm cannot suffice without this device which is designed for those who believe in perfection. Various motion control devices are available that can be selected as per your requirements. It is an automated system of control which ensures smooth flow of working and it is applied in multiple categories of production units. One of them is the CNC machine which is used for cutting and other important tasks of manufacturing unit. Robotics, pneumatics, kinetics, and other circuit operated machines are also included which make use of such devices.

Online purchase is one of the preferred sources that can be used to buy motion control devices. It is an updated source which has various options. Industrial requirements are in bulk and need to be met. Online websites are present which can help in buying them for an affordable cost. Custom designs are also available which helps in attaining industrial specifications.

A CNC machines develops lots of vibrations during working, it can cause damage to the product which is being manufactured. To curb this vibration use of motion control devices is done. With the use of updated technology it has proved to be one of the preferred equipment. CNC machine remains stable and can be operated at various temperatures and movements. Apart from reducing movements it also ensures to smoothen out processes and reduces operation time and cost. Production cost is also reduced which is a positive factor for this device. Uses of such devices are done for packaging, assembly, textile, semi conductor production and printing industries. These are some of the fields which incorporate such high end devices.

Online websites will help a lot in saving time and money. Price comparison can be done you will get advanced options that help in selecting the right device. Its properties and performance can be selected as per requirement through the custom setup. Linear stage also ensures to be used in specially designed work processes.

Motion control device therefore prove itself to be necessary and useful because of its working output. It curbs out operation and production costs which is good and preferred for any growing company. Linear slide can be done through online purchase as it will also help in finding the right type of device for your manufacturing needs, bulk purchase will help in attracting huge discounts.

About the Author

PI is well known throughout the high-tech world as a leader in design and manufacture of motion control products, linear actuators, piezo ceramics and nanoactuators, hexapod 6DOF positioning systems, linear motor and micro robots.