Linear drive technology poised to revolutionize material handling

Linear drive technology in material handing equipment and processes in manufacturing, distribution centre and warehousing applications is going through a revolution.

This is according to Ronald Ward, CEO, Celerity Automation Inc. (celerityautomation.com) of Paintsville, KY.
In his presentation delivered at the material handling trade show NA2006 (na2006.org) in Cleveland last month, "Linear Drive Technology Revolutionizes Material Handling," Ward said: "Cooperative advancement among the sciences of controls engineering and mechanical technology has helped clear the path for accelerating the way we handle materials." 

A few key points about linear drive technology mentioned by Ward:
• Developments in guidance and feedback positioning (that also control a requirement known as air gap) enable linear motors to achieve high torque over long distances; over 2 to 3 G acceleration is typical with over 5 G possible.
• With developments in high speeds and high torque, positioning accuracy rivals that normally found in machine tool applications – one ten-thousandth of an inch.
• The servo control system allows for minor changes or major production rescheduling "on the fly."

Certainly for designers and builders, linear drives provide new design options, fewer limitations and cost-effective solutions, Ward noted.

Mike Edwards, Editor,
DPN Magazine medwards@clbmedia.ca
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