Miniature Linear Motors

With rapid advances in electronics, microelectronics (including materials) and control technologies, it has now become possible further to miniaturize and improve functions of office equipment, as well as of measuring instruments. Actuators are indispensible for this purpose. The linear motors described in this chapter, in which thrust is generated with electro-magnetic forces (magnetic and electro-dynamic forces), were developed in the 1970s. Applications of linear motors spread to various fields as their cost-performance was improved by reducing the number of configuring components. They are now being considered for the above-mentioned OA and measuring devices, and research and development is being carried out around the world.