All-in-One Harmonic Rotary Actuator with Safety Over EtherCAT functionality

Engineering Industry News

Motion Control Products Ltd (MCP), the Bournemouth-based motion solutions provider for the automation market, is excited to introduce our MGM series all-in-one harmonic rotary actuator, an integrated solution designed for high torque, high precision motion. It combines a servo motor, harmonic gearbox, brake, and German made Synapticon® Circulo drive with EtherCAT Communications in a single unit, offering compactness and efficiency.

The actuator’s design incorporates a hollow shaft, enabling internal cable routing with a maximum through hole of 29mm. It comes in black or clear anodised finishes, with options for extended shaft length and alternative gearbox ratios up to 161:1. The performance of our harmonic actuator is impressive and ensures reliable operation in a variety of conditions. With a rated torque range from 8.6Nm to 557Nm and a maximum torque capability of up to 800Nm, this actuator delivers robust power. It achieves a maximum speed of 88.2 rpm and a rated speed of up to 70.6 rpm, ensuring efficient operation. With uni-directional positional accuracy to 50 Arc sec and a repeatability of positioning accuracy to 9 Arc sec, precision is guaranteed. It boasts heat resistance Class F, making it suitable for high-temperature environments, and can operate at altitudes of up to 2000m. The storage temperature ranges from -20 to 60°C, while the standard operating temperature is 0 to 40°C, with an option for -20 to 40°C upon request. It can withstand a maximum humidity of 90% rH and mechanical vibrations of up to 5g. With accuracy retention life ranging from 15000 to 20000 hours, our actuator is built for various automation applications in standard or harsh environments.

The MGM actuator supports torque, velocity, and position control modes, allowing for flexible operation based on application requirements. Control modes can be switched seamlessly during operation. Customers can choose between dual encoders or a single multi-turn encoder. The dual encoder setup includes one encoder mounted pre-gearbox for commutation and velocity control, and another post-gearbox for position loop closure. The single multi-turn encoder option offers battery-backed absolute position feedback.

MGM standard models come with Safe Torque Off (STO) functionality, ensuring safe motor stoppage when needed. Additional safety features, such as Safe Operating Stop (SOS) and Safely Limited Speed (SLS), are available upon request. Moreover, the integrated servo drive offers Functional Safety over EtherCAT (FSoE), embedding safety functions within EtherCAT communication relays to enhance flexibility and response times. This makes it well-suited for motion control systems like robot arms and mobile robots, where safety is a critical aspect of machine design.

Our MGM series harmonic rotary actuator is suitable for a wide range of industrial applications. From tracking systems to robot arms, medical instruments to radar systems, its versatility makes it an ideal choice for demanding engineering tasks. For more information about our MGM harmonic actuator and how it can elevate operations in challenging conditions, please visit our website https://motioncontrolproducts.com/electric-motors/harmonic-rotary-actuators.html