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Charlotte Stonestreet
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Motor innovation for modular automation
23 August 2022
Modular automation – the concept of using modular processes along the production line – allows for flexibility in the production layout and eliminates the need linear production lines. It also enables production segments to be replaced to accommodate different equipment according to need.

The movable modules involved do not use AC power lines, relying instead on DC or battery power to ensure they can be moved around to suit. They also have to be compact and lightweight for ease of movement.
To accommodate both the small form factors and the energy efficiency needs of modular automation, Oriental Motor offers the compact, DC-powered AZ series. The AZ servo motors are based on stepper technology, with 1,000 steps hardware, which increases to 10,000 steps per revolution through microstepping.
This allows a very wide degree of acceleration and deceleration for an agile module in the production line. It is also cost-efficient as it does not require a PID loop for positional accuracy, allowing modules to be manoeuvred with ease according to the production line’s requirements.
The AZ series can be used in automated sensor line assembly robots, for transporting products between stations, for example. These mobile robots replace traditional large conveyors within the production line. They have a small turning radius to move and work in space-constrained areas, using lightweight, compact motors.
- Meeting the demands of AGVs/AMRs
- High-precision servo motors
- Closed loop stepper motors
- Motor driver design enhanced
- IP66 rated BLDC motors
- Performance features for AGV use
- Stepper motors with integrated encoder
- Dedicated vector control
- Oriental Motor signs distribution deal with OEM Automatic
- Oriental Motor (UK) showcases AZ Series at Drives and Controls 2022