Volz Extends Range to Include OPV Solutions

OPV 26

Volz is expanding its market foothold to optionally piloted vehicles (OPV). Several electro-mechanical clutches available for Volz products starting with the DA 26 Volz cover a wide range of OPV applications.

A servo from Volz excels due to the simplicity of its design while simultaneously maximizing positioning force, reliability and durability. Moreover, a variety of electric interfaces makes it possible, for instance, to monitor the operating condition of the servos by reading out the current consumption, the internal temperature and humidity, etc.

Every actuator comprises a DC motor, a gear train and control electronics governed by microprocessors with integrated position feedback. These are electromechanical servo units that precisely position a radial output drive.

DA 26

DA 26

Depending on the type of actuator, the maximum travel in the standard configuration varies between 90° and 170°. Versions with larger travel of up to 330° or “Multiturn” versions (e.g., 3, 5 or 10 revolutions) can be provided on request.

In the standard configuration, the actuators turns a TTL-compatible pulse width modulation (PWM) signal into a position-based reference value that is used by the closed-loop-controller to drive the servo shaft to the desired target position. The internal position feedback supplies the necessary information for precise positioning.

Instead of the TTL-level, single ended PWM command interface, opto-coupled or RS-422-level PWM interfaces can be provided.

Alternatively serial command and communication interfaces based on the popular RS-485 standard can also be delivered for most of our high end actuators.

Volz’s COTS actuator solutions are particularly suitable for use in robotics, UAVs and unmanned underwater vehicles:

stacks_image_134 The two-channel redundant design of the DA 26-D actuator ensures the actuator continues to operate should one channel fail, and the system incorporates a three-channel position sensor.

  • The DA 15‐N is the smallest and lightest full brushless actuator in the range and is designed for use in harsh environments – the HART‐coat treated aluminum housing is saltwater‐resistant and is IP‐67 rated for water and dust protection.
  • The DA 30 actuator features a brushless motor and a contactless position sensor, reducing electromagnetic emissions.
  • The DA 20-TS throttle servo is a fully programmable, compact fly-by-wire actuator for direct installation on the throttle valve shaft of a combustion engine.
  • The DA 22-SUB and DA 26R-30-5024 are specialized actuators designed for submersible applications.

Customer solutions

Along with the off-the-shelf product range, the company also offers a comprehensive service for the development and subsequent series production of customized solutions. Volz specializes in adapting its products to the customer’s exact requirements and in developing completely new solutions.

This includes mechanical solutions such as adaptation to HALE (High Altitude Long Endurance) applications > 90,000 feet altitude or for deep sea projects down to 2,000 m / 6,600 foot water depth and actuators with electromagnetic clutches for optional piloted vehicles (OPV).The company can also adapt the control signals to suit individual requirements, for example, by expanding our RS 485 interface to include additional commands. Furthermore it is possible to integrate e.g. CAN based protocols.Volz is also an ideal partner for research projects. Together with the Institute of Flight System Dynamics at the Technische Universität München (TUM), the German Aerospace Center (DLR) and other institutes, the company has already developed several innovative products.

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