Driven by the STEAM (Science, Tech, Engineering, Arts, Math) education model and the need for rapid prototyping in research, equipment for teaching and R&D is more than just a tool; it’s a platform for inspiring innovation and validating theories. This creates unique demands for motion control components: 1) Operational Safety: Low-voltage DC power (e.g., 12V/24V) is universally preferred to eliminate safety hazards. 2) Control Flexibility & Openness: Simple control interfaces (e.g., Pulse/Direction, Analog) or bus interfaces are needed, allowing students and researchers to easily program control via PCs, microcontrollers (Arduino, Raspberry Pi), or PLCs. 3) Stable & Precise Performance: Ensuring the repeatability of experimental results. The high precision of stepper motors is a significant advantage here. 4) Modularity & Integrability: Easy integration with standard parts (like aluminum extrusions, sensors) to quickly build experimental setups.
AKT Product Solution
AKT provides modular, easy-to-integrate motion control kits for the education and R&D sector, centered on Hybrid Stepper Motors and supplemented by BLDC Motors for high-performance needs.
- High-Precision Positioning Solution (Core):
This is the absolute strength of Hybrid Stepper Motors. Our stepper series (NEMA 17/42mm, NEMA 23/57mm, etc.) is the standard for educational robots and desktop CNCs. We specifically recommend our 0.9° high-resolution stepper motors; with half the step angle, they provide double the positioning accuracy, ideal for optical experiments or 3D printer training models. The digital, open-loop nature of the motor, when paired with a stepper driver, achieves high-precision positioning with minimal control logic (PUL/DIR), making it perfect for teaching. - Smooth & Quiet Control Solution:
To enhance the user experience in quiet labs, our high-performance stepper drivers use advanced current control and anti-vibration algorithms. Even with micro-stepping, they ensure smooth, “crawl-free” low-speed operation and minimal electromagnetic noise, ideal for physics platforms requiring steady scanning or rotation. - High-Dynamic Performance Solution (Advanced R&D):
For advanced applications like robotics dynamics research or university robotics competitions (e.g., RoboMaster), the equipment needs high burst power and rapid response. Our low-voltage, high-performance Brushless DC Motors (BLDC) (e.g., 42mm, 57mm, 60mm series) paired with FOC drivers are the ideal choice. Their high power density and speed (up to thousands of RPM) provide exceptional dynamic performance. The Closed-Loop Stepper System is also a high-value alternative, balancing the low-speed torque of a stepper with the reliability of a servo (no step loss).
Engineering & Customization Capabilities:
We offer flexible, modular options for education and research: including linear steppers with integrated precision lead screws, easily matchable small planetary gearboxes (for adding torque to build robot arms), and motors with back shafts for mounting encoders (for teaching position feedback). Our driver interfaces are open and easy to integrate.
Typical Application Equipment Examples
- Desktop Robots / Small CNCs:
The core of a robotic arm or 3-axis mill is its X-Y-Z motion platform. Our NEMA 17/23 stepper motors are the global “maker” and education standard due to their high holding torque and precision. Paired with our micro-stepping drivers, students can intuitively learn the core automation principles of G-code and motion interpolation. - Optical & Physics Lab Platforms:
In optics, tasks like rotating polarizers or moving mirrors require micron-level or sub-degree positioning. Our 0.9° high-resolution stepper motors (or small NEMA 11/14 steppers) provide the necessary fine resolution. Their open-loop nature makes experimental setup fast, with no complex servo tuning required. - University Robotics Competitions:
In high-intensity competitions, the robot’s chassis drive and gimbal require extreme burst power and response speed. Our high-performance BLDC motors (e.g., 57mm, 86mm series) combined with high-torque planetary gearboxes and high-performance FOC drivers (supporting CAN bus) provide the high torque-to-weight ratio and millisecond response needed for high-speed maneuvers and precision aiming.
Summary
AKT supports educational innovation and scientific exploration with safe, reliable, and open motion control products. We offer more than just hardware; we provide an open ecosystem with accessible technical support and user-friendly stepper motor, BLDC motor, and driver kits. Our modular, cost-effective products lower the barrier to innovation and provide a reliable hardware foundation for research and teaching.