The Challenge: Overcoming Motion Control Issues in High-Demand Applications

Client: Leading semiconductor manufacturer

Application: Automated Optical Inspection (AOI) Systems

In semiconductor manufacturing, precision is crucial. A manufacturer faced motion control issues in their AOI systems due to step loss in open-loop stepper motors. The impact included:

  • Misalignment during inspections
  • Slower production speeds
  • Increased downtime and rework

With increasing production speeds, they needed a reliable, cost-effective solution without a full system overhaul.

The Solution: Closed-Loop Stepper Motor System

They selected SANMOTION PB, SANYO DENKI’s closed-loop stepper motor, which offers:

  • Step Loss Elimination – Real-time closed loop feedback for precise positioning without step loss even under varying loads.
  • High Torque at High Speeds – Consistent torque even at full speeds for faster automated inspection.
  • Cost-Effective Upgrade – Improved efficiency without the need to replace the entire system with a more complex servo motor solution.
  • Seamless EtherCAT Integration – Smooth communication with existing factory automation systems for real-time monitoring, easy maintenance and remote adjustments.

The Results: Faster, Smoother, More Reliable Production

After switching to SANMOTION PB, the manufacturer achieved:

  • 20% faster inspection speeds, increasing throughput
  • Eliminated step loss, ensuring flawless inspections
  • Improved automation integration, enhancing reliability increasing throughput
  • Lower energy consumption, creating a more stable production environment

For simpler tasks, SANMOTION F2 open-loop stepper motors remain a great option, but for high-precision needs, SANMOTION PB offers superior control, efficiency, and reliability.

Take Your Automation to the Next Level

Discover how SANMOTION stepper motors can improve precision, efficiency, and reliability in your operations.

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