Two drives in one

Cost-effective automation in confined spaces. Igus has now developed a new double-shaft stepper motor for its drylin linear technology to make it easy to get started with automation. It can be used to drive two linear axes directly. Another possible application is the installation of a handwheel on the second drive shaft. This means that the motor can also be turned by hand in an emergency situation. Manual zero point adjustment is also possible.

If precision and controlled movements are required in drive technology, the stepper motor is the motor of choice. This is because it moves to the desired position with millimetre precision. This is particularly important for applications in automation technology, at transfer stations and format adjustments. Drive technology specialist Igus has now developed a double-shaft stepper motor for its drylin linear axes for the first time. This motor is characterised by its versatility and performance. The double-shaft stepper motor is a special type of stepper motor because it has two output shafts. "This design offers greater flexibility when connecting and driving mechanical components," explains Rene Erdmann, Head of the drylin E business unit at Igus GmbH. "We can now drive two mechanical loads, such as two parallel linear axes, with just one motor." This not only saves space, but also reduces costs, as the motor is available at the same price as a single stepper motor and the user does not have to purchase a second coupling.

One motor, three functions

In contrast to conventional double-axis drives, where the motor is installed at the side and can cause space problems, the double-shaft stepper motor sits between the axles and therefore makes optimum use of the available installation space. Another advantage of the double-shaft stepper motor is the option of mounting a handwheel on the second shaft end. This means that the motor can also be turned by hand. This allows the user to manually adjust the zero point of a linear axis. In addition, a self-locking spindle axis can be adjusted manually by turning the handwheel, for example in the event of a power failure. This is particularly important in areas such as entrances or doors. In addition to stepper motors, Igus offers EC/BLDC and DC motors from 38 euros in its online shop. The matching igus motor output stages called "dryve" are available from less than 70 euros. The intuitively operable software is available free of charge. Powerful controllers with BUS connection and integrated web server are also available.