linear motion Feature The first thing the linear motion component


manufacturer did to reduce the cost was shorten the shaft to a 280mm lead screw with a 150mm drive, which eliminated the need for support at both ends. Specifying a stepper motor with an integrated motorised lead screw (MLS) reduced the need for external support further because the MLS motor bearings could support the load themselves. In addition, because the lead screw and MLS rotor are combined into one part, there was no longer a need for external coupling of the screw and the rotor.


customisation options


Collaborating with a manufacturer that has vast experience in customising linear motion components produces both immediate benefits for the design project as well as long-term benefits for the application. The several modifications called out for this Thomson motorised lead screw actuator illustrate potential examples of how the overall design process can be simplified, and designers can save time and costs in specifying additional parts


4. Supply chain flexibility. Are they vertically


integrated so that they build most of their subcomponents from raw material, or will they be waiting for your parts to arrive on the next container boat? 5. Process. Can they give budgetary quotes


right away? How long does it typically take to get a quote for a non-standard product? Will there be a dedicated engineer? Can the prototype be built online? Can the vendor produce the product directly from a CAD model? 6. Engineering problem-solving. After


all else is considered, perhaps the most important factor is the creativity of the vendor’s engineering team in terms of helping to reach an optimal solution. Will they take the time to understand the needs?


simple modifications


While it is common for machine builders to think of customisation as an all-or-none situation, many needs can be met with a relatively simple modification of standard products which, depending on the vendor’s experience, can often be delivered in days rather than weeks or months. Sometimes, all that is needed are some special machined shafts, connectors or mounting ends. Here are some examples of linear motion customisations that have helped designers adapt to irregular spaces, improve ergonomics or reduce costs. Adapting to irregular spaces: Usually, the


need for customisation often emerges after the project begins. As an example, a company that specialises in customising semi-trailers required several modifications to adapt actuators for use in ramps, stairs and movable floor assemblies. Fitting ramp lift actuators inside the trailer wall required rotating the motor 90 degrees. The ability to mount actuators within custom ramp frames while still connecting to the standard mounting points required extending the actuator tube by four inches. Simplifying future maintenance involved retrofitting the wiring connections


with an easily detachable harness. Lowering the price point: Even if the


business relationship begins with a customisation need, it can sometimes be met inexpensively by mixing and matching standard components. For example, a supplier of CNC tubing and pipe bending systems sought help in designing a new machine to meet market demand for a scaled-down system. Their high-end system used two linear slides bolted together in a cross configuration to control motion on an XZ axis, using stepper motors to drive a 600mm ball screw on each axis. The long length of the screw required support bearings on both ends and a special coupling to the stepper.


The above are just a couple of customisation examples. There are, however, a wide range of options to ensure the solution meets the application requirements. These include: Customising stroke and


extracted length down to millimeter scale; enhancing control by adding encoders; complying with industry regulations by adding certification; selecting a more aesthetically pleasing finish; implementing a custom adapter housing; or improving voltages or clutch handling. Even those are just mere examples of what could be customised on an electric actuator. This same degree of customisation applies to


shafting, screws, Ball Bushings, linear guides and a host of other linear motion components. Acknowledging the fact that the need to


customise some aspect of the project is a likely possibility – and taking a few minutes to be comfortable that you have partnered with a vendor that has deep customisation capability – can save money and headaches down the road.


Thomson Industries www.thomsonlinear.com


Busting myths aBout linear motion product customisation


MYTH


Customisation requires extensive end-to-end testing


Slow delivery REALITY


Most customisation involves simple modifications to standard products that have already been fully tested.


With modern prototyping and tools, CAD drawings can be fed directly into production systems. Vendors can often deliver solutions within days.


High cost


While costs for systems that must be purpose-designed from the ground up will be higher, most routine customisations add little or no incremental cost to the initial quote


Violation of loyalty to existing suppliers


Selecting vendors in anticipation of potential customisation needs avoids supplier relationship problems that may arise if your chosen supplier can’t meet modification requirements that emerge later in the project lifecycle.


noVemBer 2021 DESIGN SOLUTIONS 21


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