A well-balanced relationship

Highly integrated – the electrical handling axis HME consists of a linear motor, displacement encoder, guide and external positioning controller with integrated power electronics. Thanks to its full compatibility with the Festo modular handling system, this new axis is not only suitable as an individual precision module, but can also be very easily integrated into a Pick & Place-unit, linear gantry or three-dimensional gantry. With its backlash-free ball bearing guide and high precision linear drive, the HME can even be used to construct precision machines involving a minimum of complexity. The more precise, the better – with a repetition accuracy of ≤±0.03 mm, this axis is in top form regarding precision technology when it comes to joining operations which involve close tolerances such as the precision insertion of delicate workpieces. Equally writ large with the HME is resetting flexibility. Freely adjustable parameter position, acceleration, speed and force as well as up to 31 storable traversing profiles ensure ease of movement for small-series production and handling of different sized workpieces.

Speed monitoring

Dynamics, previously the preserve of pneumatic drives, are made possible thanks to the integrated 3-phase linear motor – developed, patented and produced by Festo. At a permissible maximum speed of 3 m/s, the HME assists highly dynamic machines in achieving maximum productivity. Process reliability throughout operation is ensured by the standard sensor strip. The HME axis can be installed in no time at all – a single preassembled cable facilitates the transmission of control signals and power supply via an electrical interface.

A package solution

The position controller SFC-LAC makes the HME complete. Designed as an external field device, this controller, thanks to IP54, can be installed either directly in the field or in a control cabinet, using either a top-hat rail interface or mounting plates. The position controller is suitable for stand-alone-operation or can be externally controlled via an
I/O interface. The optional display facilitates ultra fast Teach-In on site. Convenient – configuration and commissioning using the FCT (Festo Configuration Tool) via RS232 interface. With this standard configuration tool for electrical drives, all you need to do is to input the parameters and traversing records – and off you go!