Linear motion system for electronics assembly

Edited by the Engineeringtalk editorial team Jun 18, 2003

The KRE is an integrated ready-to-use linear motion package designed for use in a wide range of electronics applications including the production and handling of components and pick and place systems.

THK UK and Parker-Digiplan have collaborated in the launch of the KRE, an integrated ready-to-use linear motion package designed for use in a wide range of electronics applications including the production and handling of components and pick and place systems.

The KRE combines a KR actuator system from THK with motion control technology from Parker and is supplied complete with a Renishaw linear encoder, drive, power supply, cabling and HMI.

The KRE package is based on THK's KR actuators in sizes ranging from 22 to 65mm in height, combined with either a Parker DIN rail stepper system or a ViX servo drive.

The KRE has been designed to supply users with high levels of accuracy and rigidity combined with fully programmable motion control.

This makes it particularly suited to electronics equipment such as automated PCB systems, exit conveyors for wave soldering lines or high speed surface mount units, where smooth motion and precision is paramount.

One of the key benefits the KRE offers is in terms of time and cost, as instead of sourcing all of the different components from separate suppliers the KRE provides them all together in a single source.

In addition, this simplifies the specification and installation process as it is no longer necessary to assemble or test electronics systems during overall system build and it allows for engineers to incorporate the KRE as a complete unit, rather than as a series of independent components.

A further core benefit is that there is a single point of contact for both product and technical support.

Bob Hughes, Sales Manager at THK explained; "At THK we listen to our customers and learn from what they tell us, consequently the KRE was developed in response to client demands for solutions rather than products.

We believe that partnerships, like the one we have with Parker, are the way forward for the future, where skill sets and technology is combined to provide customers with long term stability".