1.Brief of a hollow rotary actuator
A hollow rotary actuator is an integrated device that combines a high-rigidity hollow rotary table with a motor and driver, designed for automated angular adjustment and the accurate, high-torque positioning of large-inertia loads. Its defining feature is a large-diameter central bore, which simplifies wiring, piping, and installation by allowing components to pass directly through the unit. These actuators are used in factory automation for tasks like robot joints, alignment mechanisms, and rotary tables, offering advantages such as high precision, reliability, and simplified equipment design.
2.Key Components and functionality
1.Motor & Driver:An integrated motor (often a stepper motor) with a driver provides the energy for rotation.
2.Hollow Output Table:The central component is a large-diameter, hollow output table with a high-precision, direct-mount design.
3.Bearings:Cross-roller bearings are used to support high axial, radial, and moment loads, providing rigidity and durability.
4.Mechanical Encoder:Many models include a built-in, battery-less absolute encoder, eliminating the need for external home or limit sensors.
3.Key technologies of a hollow rotary actuator
1.Hollow Shaft/Bore:The defining feature is the large diameter hole through the center of the actuator, which simplifies wiring and tubing, reducing the need for complex routing and saving space.
2.High-Rigidity Cross-Roller Bearings:These bearings are crucial for providing high stiffness and accuracy, allowing the actuator to withstand significant radial, thrust, and moment loads without excessive deflection.
3.Optimized Gear Train:A carefully designed gear train provides precise speed reduction and torque multiplication while maintaining a compact form factor.
4.Integrated Sensors:Many hollow rotary actuators feature built-in mechanical absolute encoders, eliminating the need for external sensors for homing and positioning, thereby simplifying the system design.
5.High Torque & High Accuracy:The combination of the bearing design and integrated components allows for high torque output and high positional accuracy despite the actuator's compact size.
6.Simplified System Design:By allowing components to pass through the shaft, the hollow design eliminates the need for separate mechanical components like belts and pulleys, reducing complexity, cost, and potential errors.
4.Selection principles of a hollow rotary actuator
1.Understand Application Needs:Define the required torque for starting and stopping, and the desired rotational speed and acceleration/deceleration rates. For precise tasks, consider backlash (the amount of play in the system) and repeatability to ensure the actuator can consistently reach and hold target positions. Determine how accurately and quickly the actuator must stop at a specific position.
2.Calculate Loads:Calculate the load's moment of inertia, as it indicates how difficult it is to start or stop the load. Use the load inertia and desired speed/time to calculate the acceleration torque needed. If the load exerts forces on the output shaft, calculate the axial and radial loads and ensure they are within the actuator's specifications.
3.Evaluate Actuator Specifications:Ensure the actuator can provide the necessary torque and handle the load's moment of inertia within the required positioning time. Verify that the actuator can withstand the calculated axial and radial loads. Look for actuators with high rigidity to prevent vibration and ensure stable operation.
4.Consider Practical Design Aspects:The large hollow center simplifies equipment design by allowing cables and tubing to pass through, reducing complex wiring and piping. Consider the mounting configuration (horizontal, ceiling, or wall mount) and whether a motor clearance hole is needed in the mounting plate, or if an accessory installation pedestal is required. Some actuators may produce a small amount of grease leakage. If this is a concern due to contamination, plan for routine inspection or install protective equipment.