In this post, we take a closer look at why a planetary gearbox is essential for your linear unit. And how do torque, speed and torsional backlash in the planetary gear affect your machine?
Location and function of the planetary gear
Linear units are used in many different places in warehouses and picking/packing processes where automation is applied, and some form of gearbox almost always accompanies the linear unit. Planetary gearboxes are used to connect the linear unit, drive unit and motor. They ensure that the relationship between input speed, torque and positioning is correct. They also help to make optimal use of the available installation space. If the application requires it, angled gear options are available, which are even more space-saving.
We asked our engineer, Pontus, why planetary gearboxes are used
– Well, it’s to adapt the motor speed to the speed that the linear unit requires. You almost always need some type of gearbox, says Pontus. And a planetary gearbox is chosen because it’s precise and compact and provides good accuracy. In addition, it has high efficiency.
In what types of applications within warehouse automation are linear units typically used?
– I immediately think of vertical storage lifts, or, for example, situations where you need to push items off a conveyor belt. In principle, you almost always need a gearbox then as well.
– Well, if it’s a belt-driven linear unit, Pontus adds. A belt-driven linear unit travels a long distance per input revolution, so you often need high torque and fairly low speed. Motors are usually the opposite—high speed and low torque. With a ball screw-driven linear unit, this is not necessary, since the ball screw is essentially a complete transmission.
The planetary gearboxes are delivered with several selectable interfaces for the application, giving designers great flexibility and makes design selection easier. They are always adapted to the current servo motor as standard.
Learn more about torque, speed and torsional backlash in the film from our partner WITTENSTEIN:
