NSK has unveiled an EtherCAT-compatible driver for its highly regarded Megatorque Motor, a direct drive motor renowned for its precision and efficiency. This new driver supports EtherCAT, the leading industrial Ethernet standard, which has gained prominence across diverse industries.
With this launch, NSK elevates the Megatorque Motor’s performance, increasing angular resolution by 1.6 times compared to current market offerings. Its advanced integrated control and high-speed synchronous operation greatly improve production efficiency, meeting the increasing demand for precision in today’s industrial applications.
Development of EtherCAT-Compatible Megatorque Motor Driver
The adoption of industrial Ethernet as a field network connecting devices has been accelerating due to the rise of Industry 4.0 and the Internet of Things (IoT). Among these standards, EtherCAT stands out for its high-speed, real-time capabilities.
To address these demands, NSK leveraged its expertise in precision engineering to design a driver that seamlessly integrates with EtherCAT networks. For instance, in semiconductor manufacturing, the EtherCAT-compatible driver enables real-time communication and synchronized control across multiple Megatorque Motors. This ensures precise alignment and faster production cycles, directly contributing to higher yields and reduced operational downtime.
By combining EtherCAT’s advanced networking capabilities with the Megatorque Motor’s inherent precision, NSK has created a solution that meets current industry standards and anticipates future technological requirements.
As industries like semiconductor manufacturing and electronic component production increasingly prioritize precision, the Megatorque Motor, enhanced by EtherCAT’s advanced features, continues to set the standard for precision-driven applications.
Key Features of the EtherCAT-Compatible Megatorque Motor
The Megatorque Motor boasts a unique integrated structure that combines bearings, a motor, and an angular sensor, enabling exceptionally precise rotational motion. This design facilitates rapid, accurate transport and ensures reliable performance, even in demanding environments, thanks to a robust angular sensor that outputs an AC signal corresponding to rotational angles.
With the EtherCAT-compatible driver, the Megatorque Motor enables integrated control of multiple motors with high-speed synchronous operation. This advancement reduces both startup and operation times, optimizing production processes. Compared to traditional servo motors with reduction gears, the Megatorque Motor’s streamlined design—featuring integrated bearings, gearboxes, and sensors—delivers superior performance and effectiveness.
Applications of the Megatorque Motor with EtherCAT Driver
The Megatorque Motor is highly versatile and suited for various applications, including semiconductor manufacturing equipment, electronic component inspection systems, and image processing devices. Existing facilities using the Megatorque Motor can seamlessly integrate EtherCAT compatibility into their systems, unlocking greater precision and efficiency.
The EtherCAT-compatible driver surpasses competing driver units by enabling more efficient connectivity of multiple devices, eliminating the need for a dedicated driver model for each unit.
Benefits of Using the EtherCAT-Compatible Driver for the Megatorque Motor
NSK’s Megatorque Motor already delivers exceptional performance in demanding environments. With the addition of the EtherCAT-compatible driver, users can achieve:
- Integrated control of multiple motors.
- High-speed synchronous operation.
- Enhanced rotational positioning precision.
These benefits substantially improve production efficiency, operational speed, and overall system performance.
Availability of NSK EtherCAT-Compatible Drivers
The EtherCAT-compatible driver was showcased at SEMICON Japan 2024 in Tokyo, receiving positive feedback from industry professionals. NSK will initially offer the driver for two Megatorque Motor models starting in April 2025, with plans to expand support to 11 models by March 2026.
About NSK
Since its founding in 1916 in Japan, NSK has been a leader in developing innovative products and technologies in bearings, automotive components, and precision machinery. Now operating in approximately 30 countries, NSK ranks among the top three global manufacturers in the bearing industry and is a leader in ball screws, electric power steering, and related fields.
With the introduction of the EtherCAT-compatible driver for the Megatorque Motor, NSK reinforces its position as a global innovator, continuing to transform industries through unparalleled precision and production efficiency. Contact us to learn more.