Compact actuator with multi-point stopping capability uses just 1/30th the energy of equivalent hydraulic actuators.

Tsubakimoto Chain (Headquarters: Osaka, Japan. President: Isamu Osa) recently announced the June 1, 2011 release of its "Tsubaki Zip Chain Actuator," a new linear actuator that incorporates a drive unit using Tsubakimoto Chain's proprietary Zip Chain technology.

Tsubaki Zip Chain Actuator

Originally developed by Tsubakimoto Chain, the "Zip Chain" is comprised of two lengths of chain that can lock together like a zipper to create a single rigid column capable of both pushing and pulling. Tsubakimoto Chain began marketing its "Tsubaki Zip Chain Lifter," which utilizes the Zip Chain, in June 2008. The improved productivity and reduced energy usage made possible by its high-speed, high-frequency operation has proved ideal for use in auto assembly lines and in a variety of other industrial fields.

The new Tsubaki Zip Chain Actuator is a Zip Chain-based linear actuator. The two chains lock together to form a rigid column capable of both pushing and pulling, and when they withdraw and uncouple they coil back compactly into their plastic storage cases, a design that offers significant installation space savings compared to conventional linear actuator mechanisms. In addition to high-speed, high-frequency operation, the Zip Chain Actuator offers multi-point stopping capability and multi-level position setting for easy position control, and it uses less than 1/30 the energy consumed by hydraulic linear actuators.

Features

1. Compact, Space-Saving Design
   Because the component Zip Chains store themselves in compact coils, unit size in the direction of the stroke is reduced to just 1/4 or 1/5 that of conventional linear actuators. And, the unit can be positioned vertically, horizontally, or hanging, allowing numerous installation location options.
2.  Easy Multi-Point Stopping & Multi-Level Positioning
   Proportional motor and sprocket rotational speeds make operational speed constant. This allows the easy multi-point stopping and multi-level positioning capability required in such linear actuators.
3. High-speed, high-frequency operation combined with high efficiency and lower energy use
   The use of the Zip Chain allows high-speed operation (max. 1,000 mm /sec.) compared to conventional hydraulic or compressed air linear actuators. Power consumption is less than 1/30 that of hydraulic systems, and the integration of dedicated sprockets achieves high efficiency.
   *Results may vary with usage conditions and lubrication state.

Applications

1. Various industrial and manufacturing applications, including production lines for automobiles, semiconductors, LCDs, etc.
2. Medical industry, assistive devices, home automation, etc.
3. A wide variety of other applications requiring linear actuation.

Reference Materials

1. What Is a "Zip Chain"? Developed by Tsubakimoto Chain, the Zip Chain is comprised of two lengths of chain that lock together to form a single rigid column, which may be extended or retracted to generate both pushing and pulling action.

2. The Zip Chain Actuator's Chain Storage System. The dual chains lock together for pushing and pulling operation, and uncouple to retract into their compact plastic cases for space-saving storage, allowing convenient installation even in cramped spaces.

3. Advantages of the Tsubaki Zip Chain Actuator (Features Comparison)

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