Medical Device Link.

SPOTLIGHT

DSP universal drive

A universal drive based on digital signal processor (DSP) technology embeds motion control, drive, and PLC functionalities in a single unit measuring 62 × 42 × 20 mm. The IPS210 drive can control dc and stepper motors with low inductance in open- and closed- loop modes. It is programmable using a host PC with motion libraries or a PLC using PLCopen libraries. Available modes include torque, speed, and position control, as well as contouring, gearing, and electronic camming. Industry-standard RS-232 and CAN interfaces are available communication options; an external adapter is offered for Ethernet communication. Technosoft Motion, Bevaix, Switzerland.

Linear actuator

A size-8 hybrid linear actuator is available with encoder feedback. It is suited for high- and low-volume motion control applications. Capable of delivering thrusts as high as 4.5 kg, the actuator achieves resolutions ranging from 120 to 330 cycles per revolution; a version supporting 480 to 1200 pulses per revolution is also available. The unit’s encoder module incorporates a lensed LED light source and a monolithic photodetector array with signal-shaping electronics. The internal monolithic electronic module converts real-time position, speed, and direction into TTL-compatible outputs. Haydon Motion Europe, Coueron, France.

TFE-coated linear motion equipment

Linear motion products are available with a proprietary TFE coating. The coating is a dry lubricant that has been shown to decrease erratic drag torques and unpredictable wear. It can extend nut and bushing life as much as 10 times when compared with uncoated steel, according to the company. Products coated with the material require no maintenance or external lubrication. The coating is available on a range of products including lead screws, linear rails, spline shafts, slides, guides, and actuator assemblies. Kerk Motion Products Inc., Hollis, NH, USA.

Motion controller

A compact motion controller uses an electronics configuration based on a digital signal processor to provide precise positioning. The system is available in two versions: the MCDC 3006 unit for use with dc micromotors and the MCBL 3006 for brushless dc motor applications. Capable of being operated with an RS-232 or CAN interface, the motion controller supports a continuous output current up to 6 A. The system can provide precise positioning with a resolution as high as 1/3000 revolution. MicroMo Electronics Inc., Clearwater, FL, USA.

Dc motors

Iron-free dc motors are suited for applications that require high continuous and peak torques, such as medical device and diagnostic equipment. Available in 44- and 54-mm lengths, the Portescap motors are fitted with a fibre-wrapped high-temperature coil with preloaded ball bearings and a rugged stator design. The motors make use of powerful magnets that are designed into an optimized circuit. A range of custom gearboxes, brakes, and encoders is also offered by the company. Delta Line Europe, Basiglio (MI), Italy.

Hall-effect sensors

Analogue Hall-effect sensors are suitable for positioning applications that require precise linear movements. An alternative to optical and magnetic encoders, they offer an accuracy of 100 µm with a resolution as small as 5 µm. The robust sensors use a magnetic track as the linear scale and can be easily mounted on the company’s TM, TL, TB, and TG iron-core motors. Linear motors and drives suitable for applications demanding precise motion control are also manufactured by the company. Tecnotion B.V., Almelo, Netherlands.

Microstepping drive

A microstepping drive with a volume measuring 12.7 cu in. accepts input voltages ranging from 12 to 48 V dc and offers an output current of up to 2 A. The unit accepts up to 20 resolution settings and can be used at temperatures ranging from –40 to 85°C. Other products available from the firm include full- and half-step drives, power supplies, stepping motors, and complete microstepping systems. Intelligent Motion Systems Inc., Marlborough, CT, USA.

Double-torque motors

A line of double-torque motors features a compact eight-pole rotor design and a high copper-filling factor. The patented SM2315DT motors can deliver as much as 112 oz-in. of peak torque while maintaining up to 57 oz-in. of continuous torque with a maximum speed capability of 4700 rpm. The company also offers stepper motors with patented closed-loop motion control technology and an array of high-performance brushless dc and ac servos. Animatics Corp., Santa Clara, CA, USA.

Stepper motor

A stepper motor with a captive shaft generates guideless linear shaft movement. The motor’s antirotation cap enables shaft actuation without an external guide mechanism. Capable of yielding up to 5 kg of force, the motor has a shaft resolution ranging from 0.010 to 0.050 mm per step. Suitable for low- or high-volume applications, the motor can be used with medical pumps and syringe devices that require precise remote-controlled linear movements. The compact unit has ball-bearing shaft supports and a welded motor case to ensure durability. Nippon Pulse Motor Co., London, UK.