Cost-effective linear positioning

Cost-effective linear positioning

Keyword Positioning

The Aerotech ATS 7000 linear positioning stage has been designed for applications which require high speed and acceleration at a cost-effective price (see Plate 5). It has been possible to keep costs low because of the stage's support structure, which is fabricated from an extruded aluminium base and is machined to accept recirculating linear bearings. This feature offers full support to the carriage throughout its travel, making positioning less sensitive to load location within the travel envelope.

Plate 5 The Aerotech ATS 7000 linear positioning stage

The ATS 7000 stages offer a top speed of 3m/sec and a maximum acceleration of 19.6m²sec. A durable, lightweight timing belt, which is tensioned to accept loads up to 22.4kg, enables both high speed and accurate positioning to be achieved and is supported on both ends by robust ball bearing mounted pulley shafts. This design eliminates belt slipping and stretch potential.

A choice of microstepping,brush or brushless servo motors is offered with the ATS 7000. Microstepping motors are well suited to low speed, repetitive loads while servo motors are ideal for higher speed applications where smooth, low vibration moves and closed loop positioning are needed. The ATS 7000 range comprises a wide selection of travels from 150 to 1,200mm and can be configured in multi-axis arrangements.

Standard features include end-of-travel limit switches, cushioned end stops, integral metal waycovers, and NEMA 34 frame size motor interfaces. Suitable applications will include both industrial and laboratory tasks such as pick-and-place, material handling,scanning and gluing.

For further information contact Karl St George, Aerotech Limited, Jupiter House, Calleva Park,Aldermaston, Berkshire RG7 8NN. Tel: +44 (0)118 981 7274; Fax: +44 (0)118 981 5022; Web: www.aerotech.co.uk E-mail: karl@aerotech.co.uk