Solution

Gilman initiated a partnership with the customer’s engineering team to develop a product that fit their needs: machine-tool-quality rigidity in a 3-axis positioning module. This partnership resulted in a new custom-configured design assembled at Gilman and utilized standard Gilman components. The high degree of rigidity and stability of the final design improved volumetric accuracy by 300%. The ground ball screws used in the 3-axis custom configuration deliver rapid movements at 1000 inches per minute. The carefully selected rail structure for the slide component was a key factor in the success of the project. IKO “Super X” series anti-friction rollers were chosen by Gilman for their high vibration damping characteristics. The recirculating rollers of the “Super X” provide 2.6 times the rigidity of a ball-type guide-way of the same size, supplying accuracy needed for this application.

Continuing the partnership approach, Gilman helped the customer develop a “just- in-time” business plan that delivers the modules on the exact date specified by the customer. Now, with Gilman as an integral part of the business plan, the customer continues to maintain deadlines while maximizing warehouse floor space and increasing overall productivity.