Thomson offers a family of linear motion systems which are easy-to-integrate and suitable for space-constrained applications.

Thomson Offers Customizable Compact Linear Motion Systems for Small Spaces

June 12, 2023

The Thomson family of compact linear systems allow motion designers to implement complex applications in small spaces.

Thomson Industries Inc. now offers a family of linear motion systems to provide an easy-to-integrate solution for designers who need thrust and bearing support in a single, compact unit.

Components within these linear motion systems include:

integrated stepper motors
lead screws
profile rail linear guides
60 Case LinearRace shafting
linear Ball Bushing bearings
end blocks.

Customizable Linear Motion Systems Offer Design Flexibility

The Thomson offering allows engineers to combine various linear motion components to create customized systems which meet specific application requirements. Multiple units can be combined with one another as well.

Features of the linear motion components can also be customized, such as screw diameters and leads, mounting holes and mounting configurations to provide further design flexibility.

The company’s compact linear systems are available in round rail, narrow and wide configurations with NEMA motor sizes between 14 and 23; stroke lengths of up to 40 in. (1,000 mm); and load capacities up to 2,091 lbs. (9,300 N).

Thomson offers a range of tools to aid the application and selection of its linear motion systems, as well as training tools. Among these is its 3D modeling tool which helps tailor motor size, stroke length and other variables for the most effective function to a given application.

Users work online with an engineer to select the right parameters for their application. Once the design is complete, the company’s CAD system produces and then tests the prototype. Working in concert during the process reduces the number of design iterations, according to Thomson.

Compact Linear Systems for Small-Space Applications

Thomson's compact linear systems are suitable for applications that require high-accuracy linear axes in confined spaces, including:

3D printers
microscope stage managers
medical pipetting systems
semiconductor manufacturing.

According to Thomson Product Line Specialist Matt Palmer, as demand for smaller-scale applications grows, so does the challenge of packing high functionality into a smaller footprint. “Our new family of compact linear motion systems equips designers to meet those challenges by assembling world-renowned Thomson linear motion components, with the added option of real-time collaboration with one of our engineers.”

About the Author

Sharon Spielman | Technical Editor, Machine Design and Power & Motion

Sharon Spielman is a technical editor for Power & Motion and its affiliate publication Machine Design. As technical editor, her beat includes 3D printing/CAD; mechanical and motion systems, with an emphasis on pneumatics and linear motion; automation; robotics; and AR/VR.

Sharon has more than three decades of experience as a writer and editor for a range of B2B brands, including those that cover electrical design and manufacturing; interconnection technology; food and beverage manufacturing; process heating and cooling; finishing; and package converting.