When motion system designers need complex, high-speed, multiaxis motion, they might first think of elaborate, prepackaged robot arms. Or, if they need only a few axes, they might configure a separate profile or round rail for each axis. But hiding between those options is simple and proven ball spline technology. This multiaxis motion solution has existed for years and is still highly relevant to today’s complex motion schemes. Ball splines use a unique architecture integrating rotary and linear motion on a single shaft. This gives them more flexibility to implement complex motion schemes in tighter spaces, providing a two-for-one deal in motion control.

Anticipation vs. reaction is the name of the game in fluid power, hydraulics, and pneumatics. The organizations embracing mechatronics, digital toolsets, AI and the electrification movement will be in a much better position moving forward. Here are a few of the trends/technologies to consider relating to fluid power and motion control today:

Netzer introduces the new VLM-60 multi-turn, hollow shaft absolute rotary encoder, the ideal solution for smooth and continuous production with limited space.

Linear guides can function reliably in challenging environments — such as Li-ion battery manufacturing — with careful selection, protection, and proper lubrication. IKO has extensive expertise and a wide range of protective accessories available to create a custom product that will perform trouble-free.

Servo Technology has gone through various key stages of evolution, from the Power Transistors (Servo 1.0) and DSP/Microprocessor (Servo 2.0) to the Integrated Packaging (Servo 3.0) and Industrial Network (Servo 4.0). We are now entering the new era in servo evolution called Servo 5.0, where the intelligence and connectivity, in align with the emerging Industry 4.0 effort, are now required in the traditional servo control products.

IKO International introduces its CFC…B Series of short stud-type cam followers. These new cam followers have a unique mounting structure that solves space limitations that often exist on the stud side of the assembly region, thereby satisfying mounting requirements without sacrificing performance.

With the SL 38 product family, Dunkermotoren, an AMETEK brand, has launched a high-performance linear motor series. As an all-stainless-steel version, the ServoLine 38 STL is built with the highest material quality and environmental resistance.

The AY110-40-01 Rotary Stage (pictured) from Optimal Engineering Systems, Inc. (OES) offers the users a high precision, low profile, compact motorized rotary stage.

Shaft collars and mounts that can be adjusted without tools, plus handles and thumb screws to convert standard shaft collars to quick-adjust types, have been introduced by Stafford Manufacturing Corp. of Wilmington, MA. Stafford Quick-Adjust Products feature the Flip-Lok with a split hub and an integral adjustable clamp, Staff-Lok Lever-Actuated shaft collar, and the Python Flange Mounting Collar with a 6-hole bolt pattern and keyway. Suitable for a wide range of linear and low RPM rotary applications, these quick-adjust products can be easily repositioned by hand without tools.

Intellidrives Theta 2 theta stage consists of two rotation stages arranged in such a way that axis of rotation for both the stages are same. Both stages have preloaded ball bearing guides for wobble free rotation and positioning. 360° limitless movement is possible for inner and outer stages.