Festo Simplified Motion Series electric drives are easy to use

Festo's Simplified Motion Series consists of different linear and rotary electromechanical components together with a simple and application-optimised combination of motor and servo drives (the integrated drive). With this system there is no need for external servo drives or for the installation of a control cabinet, because the Simplified Motion Series is mounted directly in the machine.

The Simplified Motion Series integrates all the elements of an electric drive system into a single package for simple motion tasks such as repositioning, aligning, feeding, sorting, clamping, ejecting and stopping. Simplified set-up and operation makes these electric drives suitable for simple motions between two mechanical end positions, without having to sacrifice electric drive motion characteristics such as pre-defined speed, gently cushioned movement into end positions and selectable force for pressing or clamping functions.

There is no need for additional software - just plug and work. The parameters for the advancing and retracting speed as well as the pressing and clamping force can be set directly on the drive, along with the end position reference and cushioning profile. Thanks to this intuitive, quick and easy commissioning facility, configuration does not require any special software or specific know-how. The motion can be simply controlled via digital I/O (DIO), like a pneumatic valve. End position feedback, similar to that from a standard proximity sensor or cylinder switch, provides feedback on completion of the motion.

Digital I/O and IO-Link are included as standard. Advanced user functions via IO-Link, include convenient remote control, parameter copy, backup function and read functions for advanced process parameters. IO-Link enables the drives to communicate intelligently from the controllers all the way to the cloud about simple motions as well as easy handling, commissioning and actuation.

The Simplified Motion Series includes spindle and toothed belt axis, mini slides, toothed belt axis, electric cylinder and rotary drives. These can be simply and securely combined mechanically with other actuators from within the Simplified Motion Series, with more advanced electric axis products from Festo, or with the vast range of pneumatically driven guided actuators using standardised interfaces and centring rings for accurate positioning and load transfer. Usually this works simply using a "one-size-down' principle X to Y to Z - making it easy to select the right drive for the right application.

The Simplified Motion Series is a useful entry point to upgrade to electric drive automation with simple set-up and control. Ready matched motor, drive and axis make selection safe and reliable and clearly show the way ahead for simple yet controlled motion.

For more information about the Simplified Motion Series, visit www.festo.co.uk/sms.