Micro-actuator Modules
SQUIGGLE micro-actuator modules: a smaller, lower-power
alternative to solenoids and stepper motors
The SQL-M Series SQUIGGLE micro-actuator modules replaces
solenoids, stepper and DC motors in applications where smallest size
and lowest power draw are needed.
These applications include electronic locks / electronic access
control (office, data centers, pharmaceutical cabinets, automotive
compartments and more), interlocks and latches, and many
applications where a smaller, lower-power alternative to solenoids
is needed.
SQL-M Series modules are:
- 1/4 to 1/2 the size of other actuators
- Longest battery life
- Unique ultrasonic drive
- Many mm of stroke
- High force and speed
- Simple and cost-effective
The module incorporates an SQL Series
SQUIGGLE motor - the world’s smallest linear motor – with
optical limit switches in a compact polymer housing. Flex circuits
connect the module to our miniature drive card, which can be powered
by a 3 V battery. We also help OEMs develop drive circuits specific
to their needs.
Ready for installation in OEM mechanisms
In a typical application, such as an
electronic lock, the tip of the SQUIGGLE
motor screw pushes a spring-loaded shear pin, causing the pin to
engage (or disengage) a locking mechanism or latch.
An optional bellows shaft cover with non-rotating tip provides a
small bias force and isolates the threaded screw from contamination.
The hard flat metal disk at the end of the bellows can be bonded to
a flat surface on the moving mechanism.
Drive Electronics
At approx.
33 x 38 x 10 mm, the MC-4100 Series motor controller is suitable for SQL-M module evaluation and for
use in many OEM applications. It drives one module in a fast,
limit-to-limit motion with low power use.
ASICs in development through partnership
with austriamicrosystems
are scheduled for general availability in summer 2008. Using these ASICs, resonant LC drive circuits can be
created in as little as 10 x 10 mm board space.
Specifications
Specifications are provided for standard SQL-M modules with
MC-4100 controller. We work with OEMs to create module/controller
combinations that optimize force, speed, power use and battery life
for your specific application. Actuator assemblies with larger size,
higher force and greater speed will use more power.
Download Printable Spec Sheet
| Actuator assembly |
SQL-M-1.8-3 |
SQL-M-3.4-4 |
| Stroke |
3 mm |
4 mm |
| Operating force |
15 grams |
100 grams |
| Stall force |
30 grams |
200 grams |
| Speed (at operating force) |
7 mm/s |
4 mm/s |
| Operating power - moving |
~ 300 mW |
~ 800 mW |
| Operating power - holding |
0 mW to hold position |
| Time / stroke |
0.45 sec |
1 sec |
| Operating temperature |
-30 to +80 degrees C |
| Humidity |
0 to 90% (non-condensing) |
| Shock |
500 G |
| Lifetime (cycle = 2 strokes) |
>500,000 cycles |
70,000 cycles |
| Movement |
Limit to limit (other options
possible) |
| Limit switches |
Opto-interruptor (2), forward and
reverse |
| TTL control signals |
RUN, DIRECTION, MOVING (feeedback),
WAKEUP (actuator sleeps when limit is reached, to conserve
power) |
| Housing material |
Polymer |
| Housing dimensions |
13.5 x 4.2 x 4.3 mm |
17.5 x 6.5 x 7.0 mm |
| Optional shaft cover |
Flexible bellows with stationary tip |
SQL-M model numbers are SQL-M-X-Y-Z
where X=SQL motor size (1.8 or 3.4), Y=stroke in mm,
Z=bellows option (B=bellows, blank=no bellows)
| Controller |
MC-4100-1.8 |
MC-4100-3.4 |
LC drive circuit with ASIC |
| Input voltage |
2.5 to 3.8 VDC |
2.5 to 4.5 VDC |
2.2 to 3.5 VDC |
| Dimensions |
33 x 38 x 10 mm |
~ 10 x 10 mm |
| Availability |
now |
Summer 2008 |
Summer 2008 |
MC-4100 model numbers are MC-4100-X where X= SQL Series
motor size (1.8 or 3.4)
