In manufacturing and packaging plants, gantry robots — also known as Cartesian robots — can be scaled up to travel longer distances to perform tasks that otherwise require multiple robots. Linear positioning stages allow gantries to move with precision across multiple axes and optimize space use while offering system designers the ability to carry larger-size loads at various speeds. However, finding an ideal positioning stage for gantry-type systems can be difficult. This blog post will describe the features and characteristics that make linear motor stages ideal for your long-travel gantry system.

An Attractive Choice for Long-Travel Systems
Gantry robot axes typically contain a linear actuator and bearings, and component selection will affect the carriage’s accuracy and cost. While conventional or belt-driven linear actuators are often used in robot axes, linear motor stages offer a host of benefits to gantry systems.

At Akribis Systems, for example, we offer long-travel actuators that are well-suited for gantry robots. Our single-axis positioning stages leverage direct drive motor technology to achieve high-speeds with exceptional positioning accuracy. Users can choose stages with iron core motors to achieve high thrust forces or ironless motors for cog-free operation. And, you can outfit these direct drive linear stages with multiple motors and carriages to achieve your gantry system’s long stroke requirements.

Our long-travel stages come with dual linear guides to provide good rigidity and an integrated feedback encoder for precise homing capabilities and repeatability. Highlights include:

  • DGH Series. Our most advanced long-travel linear stage, the DGH Series provides the highest precision of our family to make it desirable for sub-micron-precision applications. It also offers a long list of high-performance features, a compact size and an attractive price.
  • DGC Series. This stage is designed with speed and ease in mind. Capable of speeds of approximately 2 meters per second or higher, the DGC has a one-piece base and side cover for fast, simple installation.
  • DGL Series. The standard DGL stage features high power density and a good price-to-performance ratio. In one recent application, the DGL achieved a stroke distance of approximately 80 meters with a speed of approximately 2 meters per second while supporting a 440-pound load.

Build an Ideal Long-Travel Linear Stage
With an exceptional combination of high force and load handling capabilities, rapid motion, precision and the ability to add motors and carriages, these direct drive linear stages are ideal for applications with long travel and high speed requirements like gantry or Cartesian robots. To specify an ideal linear stage for your application, contact our experienced sales engineers who can help you begin your selection and modify your stage to meet your desired travel and performance requirements.

For more information about Akribis long-travel linear motor stages, please visit our product pages.