Posted to News on 24th Jan 2008, 16:49
Cantilever axes achieve fast and precise positioning
Festo is launching a new series of high-performance cantilever axes with spindle drives. Designed for handling applications requiring fast and precise positioning, the EGSA series axes are based on an open platform that enables OEMs and system integrators to use either a Festo servo or stepper motor, or another motor and controller of their choice. Fully compatible with Festo's extensive range of modular mechatronic handling and assembly products, they can be easily integrated into multi-axis systems.
EGSA cantilever axes can be used in any orientation - including vertical - and can handle high torsional loads. They are suitable for precision short-stroke Z axis functions involving fast positioning, such as those used in palletising systems, 2D and 3D gantry robots, and pick-and-place units.
Festo supplies the EGSA series cantilever axes in a choice of 50 and 60mm wide models. The size 50 unit has a nominal stroke length of 100mm, while the size 60 unit is available with 100, 200 and 300mm stroke lengths. The size 50 unit is rated for speeds up to 1m/s, accommodates loads up to 3kg and can deliver up to 100N of peak thrust. The larger 60 size unit is rated for speeds up to 1.5m/s, loads up to 6kg and can produce up to 200N peak thrust. All four models handle acceleration rates as high as 25m/s2, and provide exceptionally accurate repeatable positioning to within +/-20um.
Easy integration
The EGSA series cantilever axes are suitable for use with standard stepper or servo motors and controllers, which can be Festo or third-party products. Festo offers a range of compatible couplings, coupling houses and motor flanges for inline axial mounting - all of which are available separately or as complete kits - as well as a belt transmission unit that enables a servo motor to be installed in parallel with the axis.
Engineers will find that choosing the most appropriate EGSA series cantilever axis and associated components for their application is very easy; Festo's latest Positioning Drives software - which is a free download from the company's website - guides users through every aspect of selection and can even create a complete bill of materials.
Commissioning an EGSA series cantilever axis is equally simple; Festo includes a copy of its renowned FCT commissioning software with every axis. This intuitive Windows-based package can be used offline or online, and allows the physical and electrical characteristics of all drive-related functions - including the controller, motor and positioning axis - to be correlated and checked for compatibility and performance. The software also enables engineers to verify motion control programs in advance of system commissioning - it automatically warns of any impermissible programmed values, without requiring the electronics hardware to be connected.
Festo's EGSA series cantilever axes are expressly designed for ease of installation and a long, trouble-free service life. The axes incorporate centring ring technology to facilitate precise alignment, and are lubricated for life. They are copper and Teflon free (CT) - hence they are suitable for use in LCD and plasma screen manufacturing processes - conform to the RoHS requirements of EU Directive 2002/95/EC, and meet the clean room 1000 standard.
