BEI Kimco Magnetics, a company of Custom Sensors &
Technologies (CST) Inc., has introduced the uniquely designed LA15-16-043Z voice
coil actuator, featuring a large diameter clear aperture, compact size, and force
high capabilities. Design engineers will find the new actuator an ideal
solution where space savings through system integration is critical.
The actuator’s aperture can be used for product feed-through,
laser beams, or other illumination delivery, as well as for other application-specific
functions. This design lends itself to merging the actuator into the customer
assembly for a completely integrated system, resulting in reduced weigh, fewer
components and a more overall compact product.
In addition to the space-savings through system integration,
the through-hole actuator’s small size of only 1.5 in. diameter and 1.6 in. in
length (at mid-stroke) offers space-saving by itself. Other outstanding product
characteristics include a total stroke of 0.25 in. and a peak force of 15 lb., a
high strength given that the center opening means less magnetic material to
conduct magnetic flux.
The new offering was developed to meet specific requirements
for an optical application. In this instance, the laser beam passes through the
middle hole of the actuator and a lens is assembled to the coil, becoming an
integral part of the system. When the coil/lens moves, the actuator changes the
focus and dithers the laser beam. The concept can be used for a variety of
other industrial applications where integration and simplicity can be adapted
for volume and cost savings.