General Application
MANUAL Linear Stages
The MM-1,-2,-3 manual linear stages
are designed for top loads ranging from under 0.17
kg to 0.5 kg and low moment loads under 12 oz-in.
Slide System
Hardened precision dowels are preloaded against the
slider. The low-load requirements of the stage allow
a spring-action, preloaded, positive slider seating.
Return Preload Spring
The standard manual stages have a simple return
spring and moving lead screw. Although limited in
travel, there is the benefit of built in
anti-backlash.
MOTORIZED Linear Stages
-ST motor stages have a simple return spring and
moving lead screw. Although limited in travel, there
is the benefit of built in anti-backlash.
Fixed Lead Screw Thru Slider
The Folded and Extended motor stages have a fixed
lead screw passing through a tapped section in the
slider.
Backlash
Clearance between the tapped hole and the lead screw
gives a degree of backlash in slider motion. It also
affects linearity of motion (in -F and -EX stages).
Anti-Backlash High Linearity
A radially preload-seating tapped lead hole module
is provided for more stringent requirements. The
effect of this system is near 0 backlash, along with
maximum linearity, repeatability, and homing
consistency.
Load Bearing Consideration
The amount of preload determines the load bearing
capacity. When the preload is overcome by excessive
load, the slider-rail seating is disturbed making
overload errors easy to detect. Stage damage does
not occur at this point. Simple formulae are
provided for quick, or detailed load analysis. A
larger MM-4M stage is
provided as a base to better carry the weights of
additional axes, thus improving the end load
capacity.
Velocity
Slider velocity is determined by the torque and
speed of the motor, along with the gearhead ratio.
It is limited by the slider drag force along with
the lead screw drag from an anti-backlash module (if
used). In order to increase speed without violating
accuracy, the "drag" forces may be
reduced, but with a consequential decrease in load
capacity.
Bracing
A selection of optional braces (BR) offers extra
rigidity and crash protection for stages in
vulnerable positions, as the slide elements are not
designed to withstand pressure or twist. The
cushioned "ears" on one slide of the
slider will begin to yield, then the brace will
engage before damage takes place. Braces add some
weight and must be counted as load.
Multi-Axis Versatility
All similar series manual and motorized stages are
compatible for quick, multi-axis connection using
standard English screws.