Innovations

Linear steppers. Traveling at speeds up to 80 in./sec over distances up to 144 in., these 2- and 4-phase linear stepper motors can achieve acceleration up to 1G. They are capable of 50 lbs continuous force and 65 lbs peak force. Motor, bearings and positioning system are integrated into one compact package. Applications include pick-and-place, wire bonder, parts transfer, semiconductor and other robotic applications. H2W Technologies Inc, Valencia, CA. www.rsleads.com/204df-190

Micropositioners. Designed for precise manual positioning of subassemblies in instrumentation applications, the XYZ-1000 series of micropositioners provides 1-in. travel on each axis. Measuring 3.75 x 4.75 in., and can be ordered with either screw or micrometer adjustment in 40, 80 or 100 threads per inch. Micrometers are avail-able with either 0.001-in. or 0.01mm resolution. An inline version of the XYZ-1000 will be available soon. Quater Research & Development Inc, Clackamas, OR. www.rsleads.com/204df-191

Absolute rotary encoder. This certified absolute rotary encoder provides reliability between the encoder and other DeviceNet devices. EDS programmability ensures fast adaptation to the required application during the start-up phase. Configurable parameters include direction of counting, resolution per revolution, total resolution to divide a flexible gear factor, and a preset value to calibrate the encoder and drive system. FRABA Inc, Lawrenceville, NJ. www.rsleads.com/204df-192

Rotary encoder collars. This lightweight series of aluminum clamp-type collars can be custom configured with metallic targets to permit shaft speed sensing with customer-supplied variable reluctance sensors. The collars can be supplied in one- and two-piece clamp-type designs in bore sizes from ½ in. and ODs up to 12 in., with target spacing to specification on the face or OD. These smooth-bore collars will not damage shafts and are unaffected by oils and coolants. Stafford Mfg Corp, Woburn, MA.  www.rsleads.com/204df-193

Cage assistance. Based on a rugged rack-and-pinion design, the Formula-S cage assist solution eliminates cage creep in linear motion applications with acceleration up to 15G. Grooves are machined along the face and top of each side of the bearing rail to accept a rack. The rack slides into the groove and secures with two clips that are snapped into place, preventing the rack from sliding. It can be mounted in any orientation, including vertical installations, and conforms to DIN standards. Schneeberger Inc, Bedford, MA.  www.rsleads.com/204df-194