Oriental Motor has developed the αSTEP AZ Series of closed-loop stepping motor & Driver packages, which contain its patented mechanical absolute sensor, the ABZO Sensor.

“The ABZO Sensor in the motor is able to record the current position of the motor in the sensor itself. So, it enables high-precision positioning and homing without a home sensor or a limit sensor.”

With the majority of stepping motors, a backup battery is needed to store position data, and because batteries have a limited life, data can’t be stored for a long time. But the AZ Series doesn’t need a battery, so storing data isn’t a concern, even if the production equipment is stopped for a long time, or the unit is shipped overseas.

“What is so special about this new product ? Firstly, it enables you to set up an absolute system without the need for a battery. This feature eliminates the battery replacement cycle for the customer, making it possible to achieve a maintenance-free absolute system.”

By eliminating batteries and external sensors in this way, the AZ Series can reduce set-up costs, electrical connections, and footprint.

“In addition to the current line-up, Oriental Motor is planning to release a model with a gearhead. It also intends to develop variations by attaching mechanisms to the motor, similar to motorized actuators, using the current AZ Series. Ultimately, Oriental Motor plans to release these products overseas as well.”