A Fresh Look at Linear Motion Technology

Linear guides, bushings, ball screws, stages, tables and motion control systems continue to evolve to meet the needs of factory automation, machine tools, and mechatronics. These components will continue to add sensors, electronics and software to meet new industrial requirements. We've spent time on the trade show circuit recently to report on new innovations in linear motion technology.

Schneeberger Spotlights Latest Innovations

Schneeberger Minirail miniature guideways, Monorail AMS distance measuring system, gear racks, linear and linear roller guideways, SLA Actuators, mineral cast machine foundations, and more. When linear technology components integrate seamlessly as a system, they form the optimal solution for machine automation. Consequently, Schneeberger systems empower OEMs to expedite design and manufacturing, minimize assembly time and labor — resulting in a reduced total cost of ownership. 

Minirail miniature guideways provide high precision, robustness, reliability, and versatility. As a result, these guideways are ideal for medical equipment, additive manufacturing, and other applications when space is at a premium and where high acceleration and/or extreme load values are involved.

Integrated Monorail AMS measuring head and scale for Monorail profiled linear guideways makes precision distance measurement possible when space constraints and performance. Monorail AMS solutions boast a 25-year track record as proven technology, are machine-compatible and ready to install to reduce the lifetime costs of mechanical engineering and automation applications.

Monorail BM profiled linear guideways (with balls) deliver maximum precision and increased service life — with minimal maintenance. All carriages feature longitudinal cross wipers for efficient sealing against dirt and debris.

Monorail MR profiled linear roller guideways feature high precision, high rigidity, great dynamic and static load carrying capacity, outstanding running smoothness, and total enclosure of the carriage as required for use worldwide in many machine tool applications. The results: Higher machining rates and enhanced geometrical accuracy and surface quality for workpieces, and improved vibration behavior and smaller vibration amplitudes for extended tool life.

Gear racks enable linear movements over almost limitless stretches. They are well-suited to use in large machines and systems as an economical solution when machine components with large axial forces require long linear movement with consistent stiffness over the rack length. Dirty working environments are no problem, and there are cost-efficient solutions for all applications.

The super-compact SLA Actuator offers high-performance linear positioning at an economical price. The actuator uses recirculating ball linear guides, which provide smooth motion and high load capacity. A ball screw version is available for higher speeds and duty cycles. Various leads are available for both the lead screw and ball screw versions.