The white paper, Consistent Linear Motion with Uni-Guide Linear Systems: Eliminate Artifact Lines with Consistent Linear Motion examines the primary need for a linear guidance system that provides consistent repeatable performance. This is especially important in the use of large format digital image scanning and has broadened into many fields such as architectural drawings, mapping, and medical x-rays. Output devices such as ink jet printers and plotters are continuing to increase in resolution and size for creating posters, billboards, signs, and many other various applications. In all these areas, there is a need for clean scans and output without the distraction and interference of artifact lines which can have costly and even devastating results. Consistency in this motion is the essential factor in developing a successful scanner design.
In this white paper, we compare data on traditional type of slide built from components versus our Uni-Guide linear guide system. We establish Uni-Guide as having the most consistent results of the available motion system choices. It does this through one-piece rails that have an inherent accuracy built into the design and manufacturing process that cannot be duplicated with the built-up components of traditional dual rail systems. The ultimate result is a predictable quality image output without distracting artifact lines. The repeatability of the mechanical components allows the user to focus on the imaging realm with confidence.
Categories discussed in this white paper include:
- Basics of Linear Slide Accuracy: Slide accuracy is defined using positional accuracy and repeatability. Positional accuracy the variation between a slide’s desired position and its actual position. Repeatability is the variation between a slides first movement to a position and its subsequent movements to the same position. These variations can be from end-to-end (pitch), side-to-side (roll), or twisting moments (yaw). In the case of imaging, scanning or output applications, excessive and unpredictable variations in the movement of the slider carriage will result in artifact lines on the output.
- Comparison of Slide Options: This section compares the two types of guide rails. The traditional component build-up has the potential of 300 individual components within a 32” stroke system. Our Uni-Guide linear motion system has only two components, which include a 1-piece carriage and a 1-piece rail that is manufactured with a proprietary sizing process.
- Rail Inspection Report & Analysis: This section compares the assembled components for dual rail versus our 1-piece extruded rail. We do this using overall rail length, number of components, and inspection methods for Yaw and Pitch error.
- Factors Contributing to Consistent Torque: This segment shows the consistency of torque required to drive a slide, and the variations caused by a wide variety of ingredients within the system. For this comparison, two types of bearings are utilized. They are rolling ball elements within the built-up component systems, and a Teflon® based composite, FrelonGOLD®, within our two-piece Uni-Guide system.
Positional accuracy vs. repeatability and equally applied torque are the two major factors that develop consistency in linear motion for imaging applications. The analyzed conclusion is that the Uni-Guide from PBC Linear provides the most consistent results of the motion system choices available.
Our Uni-Guide linear slide system is a unique assembly that eliminates tolerance stack up, dampens vibrations and shock loads, and can drop into existing applications making installation easy. The ultimate result is a predictable quality image output without distracting artifact lines.
Additional related content and downloads:
- To see more on the Uni-Guide product line from PBC Linear, watch the video Uni-Guide Linear Slide Overview
- To see more information on gliding surface systems from PBC Linear, download the Gliding Surface Technology catalog
- To see Uni-Guide up close, please go to the PBC Linear website and Request a Free Sample
Sponsored content by PBC Linear
Filed Under: SPONSORED CONTENT
