For this project, MACHINESHOP was confronted with the challenge that a conventional gimbal drive consisting of two axes traditionally contains geared motors that not only generate a lot of noise, but also lead to more backlash. If using geared motors, very expensive anti-backlash parts would have had to be used. The system should also be of exceptionally high quality, for use in continuous operation of at least 10 years without failure.
Furthermore, the usual approach to engineering such movement is to use scissor lever elements. These consist of two rods laid crosswise and hinged in the middle. This connection allows the “scissors” to be opened and closed. This is seen for example in scissor lifts. In this case, a scissor lever element would require at least six bearing surfaces per axis, i.e. 12 per mirror! Each of these bearings would increase the backlash, creating 12 other points at which each mechanism could rattle, this is a major problem on a vibrating ship. The task could not be accomplished with gear motors and scissor lever elements, necessitating a completely new concept.
Munsch Kunststoff-Schweißtechnik GmbH uses lubrication-free linear axes and linear bearings from our drylin® product range for its weld seam bend testing equipment. The testing device was part of a practical project by trainees at the company. The testing device works so well that it's now entering series production.
With the “CocktailAvenue”, a start-up company in Friedrichshafen has invented a completely new way of mixing cocktails, leaving the task for a machine. Automation technology thus opens up a new, albeit rather exotic, area of application.
