THK UK and Parker-Digiplan will be using Drives & Controls 2003 as a platform to showcase their latest product, the KRE. The innovative linear motion package 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. A working demonstration of the KRE can be seen on Renishaw’s stand E284.
Available KRE packages are based on THK’s KR actuators in sizes ranging from 22mm to 65mm in height, combined with either a Parker DIN Rail stepper system or a ViX servo drive.
Ideally suited to a wide range of OEM, engineering and industrial applications, the new KRE actuator packages are designed to provide high levels of accuracy, rigidity and longevity combined with precise and fully programmable motion control.
In particular, one of the main benefits the KRE offers users is a simplified specification and installation process. Designed as a ready-to-use unit, the KRE eliminates the requirement for engineers to assemble or test equipment during overall system build, which in turn significantly reduces cost and time without sacrificing quality. There is also one single point of contact for product and technical support, rather than the three or four there would be if all of the components were sourced separately.
“Our aim is to make linear motion accessible and to simplify the process of machine movement,” explains Bob Hughes, Sales Manager at THK. “We see partnerships such as those we have with Parker and Renishaw as the way forward – combining our skill sets and providing long term stability for all three organisations and users of our technology alike.”
Parker-Digiplan's Operations Manager Jim Mowbray added, "This collaboration between major players in the UK motion control field will not only strengthen the product offering from all three companies, it will also simplify the process of product selection both for the OEM and end user. It is a logical step towards the 'one-stop-shop' for automation products".
