Machine Design
  • Resources
  • Members
  • Directory
  • Webinars
  • WISE
  • CAD Models
  • Advertise
    • Search
  • 3D Printing & CAD
  • AUTOMATION & IIOT
  • Robotics
  • Motion Systems
  • Materials
  • Video
  • Data Sheets
  • Topics
    Industry Markets3D Printing & CADAutomation & IIoTFastening & JoiningMaterialsMechanical & Motion Systems Medical DesignRobotics
    Resources
    Machine Design ResourcesWISE (Workers in Science & Engineering)Company DirectorySearch Data SheetsContributeDigital Edition ArchivesCSIA Exchange
    Members
    ContentBenefitsSubscribe
    Advertise
    https://www.facebook.com/MachineDesignMagazine/
    https://www.linkedin.com/company/10998894
    https://twitter.com/MachineDesign
    https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCXKEiQ9dob20rIqTA7ONfJg
    1. Archive

    Direct drive leaves gears behind

    Dec. 13, 2001
    ULT Series brushless, direct-drive motors feature heights as low as 10 mm and diameters up to 165 mm.

    ULT Series brushless, direct-drive motors feature heights as low as 10 mm and diameters up to 165 mm. Torque range is from 30 to 600 oz-in. With high-resolution feedback, the motors can run at speeds up to 250 rpm and position to submicron accuracy.


    Many applications in semiconductor processing, medical diagnostics, imaging, test, and inspection require rotary motion to move lightweight parts. The traditional solution was a mechanical rotary stage, but more of these applications are giving way to direct-drive rotary motion.

    A direct-drive system improves accuracy and reliability by eliminating gearing and mechanical connections which add compliance. Brushless, direct-drive motors are the key ingredient. The motors have a machine-wound stator with a single-piece, NdFeB, multipole rotor. Poles can be magnetized according to specific design requirements. This allows magnetic field domains to be optimized for smooth operation and low cogging torque, which eliminates the need for skewed stators.

    Advances in encoder technology, such as high-resolution, ring-type encoders, have led the way for thinner, larger diameter motors. Many of the applications for these motors require a large throughhole in the center. Until recently, encoders with large throughholes were relatively expensive. This has changed in the last few years with the advent of affordable ring-type, 360° encoders.

    Direct-drive technology has been used in clean rooms and high-reliability and aerospace applications for years. For instance, in semiconductor manufacturing, table height is critical. As a result of inspection operations moving in-tool as opposed to being in a separate machine, a low-profile motor is especially useful.

    A common misconception is that switching to a direct-drive system is more expensive than a rotary stage with a gearhead. ULT motors from Applimotion Inc., Roseville, Calif., are actually less expensive than brushless motors. A comparable rotary stage using ULT motors with direct-drive technology is competitively priced to a precision mechanical rotary stage driven by a traditional servomotor. Depending on the resolution and positioning control required, direct-drive motors used in a rotary stage can also be competitively priced to stepmotor driven mechanical rotary stages.

    Sponsored Recommendations

    Smart Factory Solutions that Connect and Protect from Amphenol RF

    Nov. 28, 2023

    Stay Connected and In Control of Your Future Factories with Littelfuse

    Nov. 28, 2023

    Turn to NKK Switches for the Widest Range of Industrial-Savvy Electromechanical Switches

    Nov. 28, 2023

    Unlocking Operational Flexibility in Manufacturing with Industria IoT

    Nov. 28, 2023

    Voice your opinion!

    To join the conversation, and become an exclusive member of Machine Design, create an account today!

    I already have an account

    New

    EXAIR Introduces PEEK ½ NPT Super Air Nozzle

    Using Natural Language Understanding to Power Productivity

    Intelligent Assistant Platforms Improve Conversations with Industrial Robots

    Most Read

    Universal Robots Unveils UR30: Relief for Heavy Lifting

    AI: Unleashing the Power in Manufacturing

    How Much Should a Bolted Joint be Tightened?

    Machine Design
    https://www.facebook.com/MachineDesignMagazine/
    https://www.linkedin.com/company/10998894
    https://twitter.com/MachineDesign
    https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCXKEiQ9dob20rIqTA7ONfJg
    • About Us
    • Contact Us
    • Advertise
    • Do Not Sell or Share
    • Privacy & Cookie Policy
    • Terms of Service
    © 2023 Endeavor Business Media, LLC. All rights reserved.
    Endeavor Business Media Logo