H2W Technologies¡¯ single axis linear stepper motors are ideal for high-speed open loop positioning applications. They can perform at speeds of up to 80 in/sec [2 m/sec] and strokes of up to 68 in [1.7 m]. Linear stepper motors are capable of very precise position, velocity, and acceleration control when coupled with a micro-stepping drive and indexer.
The moving assembly called the ¡°forcer¡± is supported by magnetically preloaded air bearings that are embedded in the active surface of the forcer, and on a single side of the platen to minimize the physical contact of bearings on the platen. The bearings are designed to support the customer¡¯s payload and to maintain the required 0.0005 in to 0.0010 in [12 to 25 micron] air gap between the platen and the forcer.
The step and direction signal comes from a micro-stepping drive (2 or 4 phase). An indexer is required to send step and direction signals to the driver. For 2 phase motors, the full step is 0.010 in [250 microns] and for 4 phase motors the full step is 0.005 in [125 microns]. With micro-stepping, resolutions in the order of 0.5 to 1 micron are achievable.
The single axis linear stepper motor is a complete air bearing positioning system with the motor, the bearings, and the positioning system all built into one compact package. Integrating a linear encoder with the stepper motor allows for a hybrid, closed loop positioning system.
