MA-d direct drive actuator is a type of robotic actuator that directly connects the motor to the load without the use of gears or other mechanical transmission components. It consists of a brushless motor connected to the MD series controller with an integrated absolute encoder. This direct connection allows for precise control of motion and torque, resulting in higher accuracy and efficiency. Direct drive actuators are known for their smooth operation, zeroed backlash and low maintenance requirements, making them ideal for applications where precise positioning and high performance are critical.
Great energy efficiency
Perfect backdrivability
Perfect torque control and estimation
Great dynamics
Smooth operation and zero backlash
Simple design, hard to damage
Low torque density
Example applications
Haptic feedback device
A direct drive actuator is perfect for a haptic feedback device because of its precision, accuracy and the lack of gears and mechanical transmissions, which are crucial for delivering realistic tactile sensations. Its highly dynamic performance and rapid response times allow it to quickly replicate a wide range of touch sensations. The absence of backlash and perfect backdrivability ensures consistent and accurate feedback. This type of actuator has highest possible torque estimation and control accuracy.
Gimbal / camera pantilt systems
The direct drive actuator is perfect for gimbal and camera pan-tilt systems due to its precision, smooth motion and rapid response times. These actuators eliminate backlash and integrate absolute encoders, ensuring accurate and consistent camera positioning for steady and clear videos, even at very low operating speeds. They offer high torque, effectively stabilizing camera equipment, while their compact design and energy efficiency make them ideal for portable gimbal systems.
Automation
A direct drive actuator is ideal for automation owing to its direct motor-to-load connection, which eliminates backlash and ensures highly accurate and smooth movements. This simple and reliable design minimizes maintenance needs and extends lifespan. Additionally, direct drive actuators offer quick response times and high dynamics. Their excellent energy efficiency makes them an environmentally friendly solution, and the built-in absolute encoder makes it unmatched solution in terms of size and price.
Legged robots
A direct drive actuator is ideal for a legged robot because it offers exceptional dynamics essential for natural movement, complex gaits and agility. The durability of direct drive actuators makes them well-suited for the demanding nature of legged robots, where resistance to repetitive loads during activities such as jumping is necessary. The perfect backdrivability ensures highly accurate foot-ground contact detection.