Designfax – Technology for OEM Design Engineers

June 10, 2025

Volume 21 Issue 22

Motion Control News & Products

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New smart motor controller for automotive

Toshiba has started sample shipments of the TB9M001FTG, the second product in its Smart Motor Control Driver (SmartMCD) series. This microcontroller can drive relays and control two brushed DC motors (forward and reverse control) in automotive applications. It incorporates a relay driver function and a LIN transceiver function, high-capacity flash memory, and power supply system. In addition to controlling brushed DC motors in applications such as power sunroofs, electric wipers, power windows, and power seats, it can also control sensors and actuators.
Learn more.

Versatile Transport System: Turbocharge conveyance

THK's Versatile Transport System is a high-mix production solution that will keep your production line moving. Its linear motor drive enables high-speed operations, and processing can be performed directly on top of the system's freely recirculating sliders. This highly precise, modular system has many unique features, including easily adjustable stop positions, flex layouts with path splitting and parallelization, and easy addition/subtraction of extension pieces.
View the video.

Tech Tip: How to keep heavy loads balanced

Some Thomson smart linear actuators have a position-based synchro-nization option to help manage unbalanced loads when using multiple units. The system adjusts the speed of each actuator to keep them starting, moving, and stopping synchronously, regardless of their respective load distribution. So useful. So smart.
Learn all about this feature.

Micropositioning stages ensure high accuracy

PI now offers fast delivery of the L-511 linear microposi-tioning stage, which is designed for applications requiring minimum incremental motion down to 20 nm and drive forces up to 22 lb. The L-511 can be combined to form XY or XYZ motion systems and integrated with rotary stages for enhanced flexibility. Features high-load recirculating ball bearings for exceptional durability, even under demanding, repetitive cycles. To enhance positioning accuracy and automation throughput, this stage integrates non-contact, direction-sensing optical reference point switches located at mid-travel.
Learn more.

Robots think and act on the fly at moving assembly line speeds

Inbolt and FANUC are launching a manufacturing breakthrough enabling FANUC robots to tackle one of the most complex automation challenges: performing production tasks on continuously moving parts at line speeds. With Inbolt's AI-powered 3D vision, manufacturers can now automate screw insertion, bolt rundown, glue application, and other high-precision tasks on parts moving down the line without costly infrastructure investments or cycle time compromises.
Learn more.

Best high-speed rotary bearing in THK history

THK has developed its best-performing, high-speed rotary bearing ever: the High-Speed, Double-Row Angular Contact Ring BWH. This rotary bearing has balls aligned inside a cage between the inner and outer rings and is part of the THK Rotary Series, along with the cross-roller ring. The main features of this product are its ability to receive loads in all directions as well as its high rigidity and rotational accuracy, which are equal to that of cross-roller rings. By adopting a new structure to change the rolling elements from rollers to balls, this product achieves the greatest high-speed performance ever offered by THK.
Learn more.

Elevating tables: Precise vertical positioning in tight spaces

As semicon-ductors and optical components become smaller and more sophisticated, the TZ Series of precision elevating tables from IKO International provides exceptional vertical positioning accuracy in a compact size. This unit features a unique wedge mechanism guided in the vertical direction by a pair of IKO C-Lube Super MX linear motion rolling guides arranged in parallel to achieve highly precise positioning with exceptional rigidity. An optional linear encoder provides full closed loop control to achieve positioning accuracy as high as 0.005 mm, with repeatability of +/-0.001 mm.
Learn more and get all the specs.

This cobot is all about safety around people

The COBOTTA PRO from DENSO Robotics is a lightweight, high-speed collaborative robot designed for communication between workers and robots while maximizing productivity. It delivers a blend of productivity and safety for both simple tasks and multi-step processes like assembly and inspection work. The 6-axis unit operates at speeds up to 2,500 mm per sec when no workers are near and slows or stops when people approach. Two models available: PRO 900 (max payload 6 kg) and PRO 1300 (max payload 12 kg). Many more functions and features.
Learn more.

Powerful, pull-type clapper solenoids handle myriad jobs

New powerful, low-profile, pull-type clapper solenoids are available from Magnetic Sensor Systems (MSS). Applications include valve control, locks, starters, ventilators, clamping, sorting, appliances, tools, HVAC, brakes, clutches, switches, mixing, fire suppression systems, door controls, detent latches, and more. The S-16-264 Series of 17 Pull-Type Clapper Solenoids have ampere turns (windings) adjusted to meet the specific force and duty cycle requirements of your application. They provide up to 130 lb (578 N) of force.
Get all the specs for these solenoids and other options.

Tech Tip: Belt, screw, or chain-driven actuator?

Bishop-Wisecarver provides a quick, very useful guide to help you evaluate the right drive strategy for your system: belt, screw, or chain-driven actuator. Each drive type has unique advantages and limitations, so evaluating all your options will help you find the most suitable actuator setup for your specific application needs.
Read the Bishop-Wisecarver blog.

Ultra-precise linear stage -- down to 0.005 microns

PI, a global leader in precision motion control and nanoposi-tioning, now offers fast delivery of the L-511 linear micropositioning stage, which is designed for applications requiring minimum incremental motion down to 20 nm, drive forces up to 22 lb, and multi-axis configuration options. The L-511 can be combined to form XY or XYZ motion systems and integrated with rotary stages. A variety of drive and encoder options (stepper and servo motors, rotary, and linear encoders) enable ultra-fine sensitivity. Applications include: metrology, laser processing, semiconductors, biotech, optical alignment, and advanced automation.
Learn more and get all the specs.

Choosing the right stepper motor: PM or hybrid?

According to the experts at Lin Engineering, there are two primary types of stepper motors to consider: permanent magnet (PM) and hybrid. But which is right for your application? Both types have their advantages and disadvantages, and the choice ultimately depends on your specific requirements.
Read this informative Lin Engineering article.

New PTFE-free linear guide for precise positioning

The new drylin WWP linear guide from igus features a PTFE-free locking carriage. Engineered from lubrication-free, high-performance polymers and aluminum, the guide offers a lightweight, hygienic, and low-maintenance alternative to complex mechanical and electronic adjustment systems. It is significantly more compact and lightweight than conventional recirculating ball-bearing systems. Applications include interior components in vehicles, aircraft, and furniture.
Learn more and get all the specs.

Heavy-duty gear units for mixing and agitating systems

MAXXDRIVE industrial gear units from NORD DRIVE-SYSTEMS are an established drive solution for heavy-duty applications. In addition to conveying, lifting, and driving, they also play an important role in mixing and agitating systems. MAXXDRIVE units feature a compact, one-piece UNICASE housing that delivers long service life, easy maintenance, and quiet operation. Their robust design handles high axial and radial loads, achieves output torques up to 2,495,900 lb-in., and powers up to 8,075 hp.
Learn more.

What are non-captive linear actuators?

According to PBC Linear, their new non-captive linear actuators are different from the more common external versions of lead screw-driven linear actuators because they allow the lead screw to completely pass through the motor. This fundamental difference offers advantages for designs that have limited space available or for engineers looking to shrink the overall size of their design package.
Read the full PBC Linear blog.

Torpedoes from the air: U.S. Air Force expands QUICKSINK capability to include Stealth Bomber launches

An Airman assigned to the 393rd Bomber Generation Squadron prepares GBU-38 Joint Direct Attack Munitions to be loaded onto a B-2 Spirit stealth bomber at Whiteman Air Force Base, MO. The loading operations were a component of the Air Force Research Laboratory QUICKSINK Joint Capability Technology Demonstration, a new, low-cost, air-delivered capability for defeating maritime threats. [Credit: U.S. Air Force photo by Senior Airman Joshua Hastings/Courtesy of USAF]

In a demonstration of enhanced maritime lethality, the U.S. Air Force recently tested a new, more versatile variant of the QUICKSINK maritime weapon, increasing aircraft lethality by expanding its targeting reach.

QUICKSINK is a low-cost method for neutralizing surface vessels using a modified, air-delivered munition. A 500-lb variant of the anti-ship weapon was delivered recently by a B-2 Spirit Stealth Bomber during a test at the Eglin Air Force Base Gulf Test Range. This innovative capability provides a rapid response to maritime threats across vast ocean expanses, significantly bolstering the U.S. Air Force's counter-maritime deterrence and operations.

"QUICKSINK is the result of a Joint collaboration that rapidly prototyped an affordable concept for holding surface targets at risk," said Col. Matthew Caspers, AFRL Munitions Directorate commander.

Airmen assigned to the 393rd Bomber Generation Squadron load GBU-38 Joint Direct Attack Munitions in a B-2 Spirit stealth bomber at Whiteman Air Force Base, MO. The loading operations were a component of the Air Force Research Laboratory QUICKSINK Joint Capability Technology Demonstration, a new low-cost, air-delivered capability for defeating maritime threats. [Credit: U.S. Air Force photo by Senior Airman Joshua Hastings/Courtesy of USAF]

While torpedoes predominantly sink enemy ships via submarines, new methods explored through QUICKSINK may achieve anti-ship lethality with air-launched weapons, including modified 2,000-lb JDAM precision-guided bombs like the one used in an Air Force QUICKSINK Gulf of Mexico exercise back in 2022.

Four GBU-31/B Joint Direct Attack Munition Bombs are seen loaded on an F15-E Strike Eagle from 85th Test & Evaluation Squadron in this picture released in Aug. 2021. [Credit: U.S. Air Force photo by 1st Lt Lindsey Heflin]

Joint Direct Attack Munition (JDAM) makes "dumb" bombs smart by adding on autonomous navigation capabilities. Using JDAM, QUICKSINK becomes a plug-and-play weapons system that is easily adaptable to different manufacturers' seeker components, so it is a versatile cost-saver.

An Air Force page on the JDAM tech says, "JDAM can be launched from very low to very high altitudes in a dive, toss, or loft, and in straight and level flight with an on-axis or off-axis delivery. JDAM enables multiple weapons to be directed against single or multiple targets on a single pass." As for accuracy, it says, "In its most accurate mode, the JDAM system will provide a weapon circular error probable (CEP) of 5 meters or less during free flight when GPS data is available. If GPS data is denied, the JDAM will achieve a 30-meter CEP or less for free flight times up to 100 seconds with a GPS quality handoff from the aircraft." Range is listed as up to 15 miles.

Kabam. A QUICKSINK missile hits its full-size cargo ship target in the Gulf of Mexico test April 28, 2022. [Credit: U.S. Air Force video screenshots]

"A Navy submarine has the ability to launch and destroy a ship with a single torpedo at any time, but the QUICKSINK JCTD aims to develop a low-cost method of achieving torpedo-like kills from the air at a much higher rate and over a much larger area," said Kirk Herzog, AFRL program manager, about the 2022 test.

VIDEO: Kapow! Watch the AFRL QUICKSINK Joint Capability Technology Demonstration that successfully destroyed a full-scale surface test vessel in the Gulf of Mexico on April 28, 2022. An F-15E Strike Eagle released one modified GBU-31 Joint Direct Attack Munition as part of this test. [Credit: Video by Keith Lewis, Air Force Research Laboratory]

According to Naval News, when the armed fighter detects the target, "It fires an all-weather marine seeker-enabled munition that flies to the target's coordinates. After approaching the target, the seeker tracks its velocity vector and neutralizes it by exploding beneath it, much like a torpedo."

"Heavy-weight torpedoes are effective [at sinking large ships] but are expensive and employed by a small portion of naval assets," said Maj. Andrew Swanson, 85th TES division chief of Advanced Programs. "With QUICKSINK, we have demonstrated a low-cost and more agile solution that has the potential to be employed by the majority of Air Force combat aircraft, providing combatant commanders and warfighters with more options."

A 2,000-lb QUICKSINK munition was also employed successfully during the Rim of the Pacific Exercise (RIMPAC) 2024. The Air Force's new 500-lb variant broadens the B-2's targeting capabilities, providing combatant commanders with an expanded complement of innovative warfighting solutions.