Because of their ability to achieve fast speeds and high accuracy, linear motors have been used for years in semiconductor processing equipment. Now, the technology has finally found its way into automated assembly equipment.
MagneMotion Inc. (Acton, MA) has developed a high-speed linear synchronous motor for transporting pallets in a multistation, asynchronous automated assembly system. Called the QuickStick System, the motor can be installed in new machines or retrofit into existing ones as a replacement for belts or chains.