With the current emphasis in new engineering designs on smaller, more compact products, there continues to be a growing need for micro motors. And of course, the need for more torque that fits into smaller, more lightweight product designs is also driving manufacturers to develop more capable, compact packages. The power/volume ratio of the products continues to be the emphasis, fueled by requirements for smaller footprints and even more robust operation.
Innovative new miniature motor products are providing more precise positioning and suppliers are utilizing new high-energy magnet technologies, winding techniques and automated assembly capabilities to boost performance. Makers of micro motors continue to focus on the fundamental of delivering higher power-to-volume ratios, motor efficiency and reliability — along with more cost-effective solutions.
12V MM MINIATURE STEPPER MOTOR
MicroMo Electronics Inc. announces the expansion of its miniature stepper motor product line with the addition of its Series ADM1220. The miniature stepper motor has an external motor-diameter of only 12 mm and a length of 17.2 mm. The ADM1220 has a holding torque without current of 2.4 mNm and can achieve a high boost torque of 4.1 mNm.
The ADM1220 offers 20 full steps per revolution in full step mode and is capable of microstep operation at speeds ranging from 10 to 6,000 rpm. The miniature stepper motor is very rugged with a strong 1.5 mm diameter output shaft and large bearings. The ADM1220 has no axial endplay meaning rotational audible noise is lessened.
STARTER KIT FOR LINEAR MICRO MOTORS
New Scale Technologies is offering an evaluation kit for its SQL Series SQUIGGLE linear micro motors. The starter kit simplifies evaluation of the patented piezoelectric motor technology for use in miniature OEM products such as medical devices, tiny optical systems and micro-robotic instruments.
The starter kit includes a tiny SQL-1.8-6 SQUIGGLE motor pre-mounted in a polycarbonate holder for “straight out of the box” evaluation. This ultrasonic micro motor measures only 1.8 x 1.8 x 6 mm, weighs 0.16 gm and pushes loads of up to 30 gm — nearly 200 times its own weight. Linear travel range is 6 mm. The starter kit also includes an MC-3000 motor controller, ac power adapter, PC control software and cables.
The controller generates ultrasonic-frequency electronic signals to drive the SQUIGGLE motor. It accepts position feedback from analog or digital position sensors (not included) for closed-loop system evaluation. The motor can also be used in open-loop configuration.
BRUSHLESS DC MICROMOTORS
A new family of PITTMAN® brushless dc servo motors incorporates patented coil-winding geometry in a slotless motor design to deliver more power using less energy. All models in the new product line utilize the patented “Parallex” winding geometry for maximum high efficiency; high-energy NdFeB rare earth magnets for enhanced performance; robust construction with stainless-steel housings for corrosion-resistance; and precision ABEC bearings and balanced rotors for smooth and quiet operation.
Five series (Size 05, 08, 11, 14 and 18) allow for a wide selection of power solutions. The smallest (Size 05 Series) performs with virtually no vibration at the highest speeds and the heavy-duty Size 18 Series motor can be engineered for application-specific performance and efficiency.
Sizes for the micromotors range from .500 to 1.750 inch. Speeds are up to 44,525 rpm and continuous torques up to 42.6 oz-inch can be achieved, depending on the individual model.