What Is a Stepper Motor-Based Linear Actuator?
A linear actuator is a device that develops a force and a motion through a straight line. A stepper motor-based linear actuator uses a stepping motor as the source of rotary power. Inside the rotor there’s a threaded precision nut instead of a shaft; the shaft is replaced by a precision lead screw. As the rotor turns (as in a conventional stepper motor), linear motion is achieved directly through the nut and threaded screw. It makes sense to achieve the rotary to linear conversion directly inside the motor, as this approach greatly simplifies the design of rotary-to-linear applications. This creates mechanical advantage, high resolution, and accuracy ideal for use in applications where precision motion is required. (Illustrated, hybrid linear actuators from HaydonKerk Motion Solutions.) Basic Components: the Stepper Motor Why use a stepper motor instead of a conventional rotary motor? Unlike other rotary motors, steppers are unique in that they move a given amount of rotary motion for
