May 21, 2012 - The GP16 precision spindle combined with a DC motor make it possible to transform rotary motion into axial motion. Gearheads, motors, encoders and controllers from maxon's standard program are used to drive the spindles. Updates to the GP16 include a metric M6 spindle with a self-locking function or a 5mm ball screw which offers high efficiency, high load capacity and no self-locking feature. A central component is the axial bearing, which must withstand the high tractive and compressive forces of the spindle.
For the planetary gearhead, 14 different reduction ratios are now available, from 4.4 up to 850:1. Depending on the reduction ratio and the type of spindle, this makes it possible to achieve feed forces between 35 and 370 N and even up to 400 N for short durations. Nine different brushed and brushless motors may be used to drive the system. These motors may also be equipped with compatible sensors (encoders), which are essential for precise positioning.
EPOS positioning controllers are recommended for controlling the motor-sensor combination. These controllers feature a wide range of functions as well as CANopen or EtherCat.
