Linear Actuators With Compact Construction & Simplified
The positioning resolution and range of motion varies from actuator to actuator. And the way the devices are designed by manufacturers are known to come with own proprietary method. In this article, we'll focus on generalized description of simple electronic actuators. Check out the following points:
Simple design
To let the eclectic motor rotate the lead screw, typically, electric motor is connected to a lead screw mechanically. A lead screw is known to come with a continuous helical thread which is machined over circumference to run along the length. Lead nut or ball nut is usually threaded onto the lead. The rotation of the lead screw is prevented with the nut. Thus, the nut drives along the threads with the rotation of load screw.
The direction of rotation of the lead screw is the factor on which the direction of nut is dependent. The movement of motor can be converted to certain usable linear displacement by easily connecting linkages to the nut. You should know that most of devices are designed either for high force, for high speed or for both compromising on factors.
When manufacturers consider the designing of actuators, factors or specifications on which they focus include speed, accuracy, force and lifetime.
Talking about motors types, different kinds of motors are there which can be used in actuation systems. dc brush, stepper, dc brushless and induction motors are certain kinds of motors that can be found coming with devices. There are many variations which one will find in the design of systems, so the best solution is to customize the system as per design requirements in specific application.
Construction
The system with standard motors comes with the motor having a separate cylinder which is attached to the parallel, side or stick to the side perpendicular of actuator. And motor can also be found constructed at the backend of the system. The drive motor that comes with solid drive shaft is geared to the drive screw or nut of the actuator.
Compact linear actuators are constructed with motor to let the device fits easily into small space. The inner motor shaft diameter can be easily enlarged to make the drive shaft hollow. And drive screw finds space at the centre of the motor and leaves no additional gearing between the drive screw and motor.
And it has been observed that electronic linear actuators coming with compact construction and simplified design have been proving advantageous in different applications.