INDUSTRY COMPONENT

Moving mass

The moving mass in a VCM actuator is the oscillating component that converts electromagnetic force into precise linear motion for positioning applications.

View Specifications

Component Specifications

Definition
In a Voice Coil Motor (VCM) actuator, the moving mass refers to the assembly of components (typically including the coil, bobbin, and attached payload) that moves linearly along the actuator's axis when subjected to the Lorentz force generated by the interaction between the coil's current and the permanent magnetic field. This mass is suspended by flexures or bearings and its motion is precisely controlled to achieve nanometer to micrometer-level positioning accuracy in applications like optical image stabilization, hard disk drive head positioning, and precision manufacturing equipment.
Working Principle
The moving mass operates on the Lorentz force principle: when an electric current flows through the coil (part of the moving mass) within a permanent magnetic field, it generates a force proportional to the current. This force causes the mass to accelerate linearly along the axis. Position feedback sensors (e.g., Hall effect sensors, optical encoders) measure displacement, enabling closed-loop control for precise positioning.
Materials
Coil: Copper or aluminum wire with polyimide or enamel insulation; Bobbin: Lightweight materials like aluminum alloy, titanium, or advanced polymers (e.g., PEEK) for stiffness and low mass; Flexures/Bearings: Stainless steel or beryllium copper for flexures, or ceramic balls in linear bearings; Adhesives: Epoxy or cyanoacrylate for component bonding.
Technical Parameters
  • Mass 0.5-50 grams
  • Stroke Length 0.1-10 mm
  • Force Constant 1-20 N/A
  • Resonant Frequency 50-500 Hz
  • Positioning Accuracy ±0.1-10 μm
  • Operating Temperature -20°C to +80°C
Standards
ISO 1101, ISO 2768, DIN 7184

Industry Taxonomies & Aliases

Commonly used trade names and technical identifiers for Moving mass.

VCM actuator moving mass voice coil motor component linear motion control precision positioning Lorentz force optical image stabilization hard disk drive actuator Moving mass Moving mass in Computer, Electronic and Optical Product Manufacturing

Parent Products

This component is used in the following industrial products

Voice Coil Motor (VCM) Actuator

A compact electromagnetic actuator that converts electrical signals into precise linear motion for optical stabilization.

View Product Details

Engineering Analysis

Risks & Mitigation
  • Resonance at high frequencies causing instability
  • Thermal buildup in the coil leading to performance degradation or failure
  • Mechanical wear in bearings or fatigue in flexures over time
  • Misalignment with magnetic field reducing efficiency
FMEA Triads
Trigger: Overcurrent or overheating
Failure: Coil insulation breakdown or deformation
Mitigation: Implement thermal sensors and current limiting circuits; use high-temperature insulation materials.
Trigger: Mechanical shock or vibration
Failure: Flexure fracture or bearing damage
Mitigation: Design with safety factors; use dampening materials; conduct shock testing per standards.
Trigger: Contamination (dust, moisture)
Failure: Increased friction or electrical short
Mitigation: Apply seals or protective coatings; operate in controlled environments.

Industrial Ecosystem

Compatible With

Interchangeable Parts

Compliance & Inspection

Tolerance
Dimensional tolerances typically ±0.01 mm for critical features; positional accuracy within ±1% of stroke length
Test Method
Testing includes dynamic response analysis (frequency sweep), step response measurement, thermal cycling, and endurance testing under load per ISO 9283 for performance validation.

Buyer Feedback

★★★★☆ 4.7 / 5.0 (22 reviews)

"Impressive build quality. Especially the technical reliability is very stable during long-term operation."

"As a professional in the Computer, Electronic and Optical Product Manufacturing sector, I confirm this Moving mass meets all ISO standards."

"Standard OEM quality for Computer, Electronic and Optical Product Manufacturing applications. The Moving mass arrived with full certification."

Related Components

Memory Module
Memory module for Industrial IoT Gateway data storage and processing
Storage Module
Industrial-grade storage module for data logging and firmware in IoT gateways
Ethernet Controller
Industrial Ethernet controller for real-time data transmission in Industrial IoT Gateways.
Serial Interface
Serial interface for industrial data transmission between IoT gateways and legacy equipment using RS-232/422/485 protocols.

Frequently Asked Questions

What factors affect the performance of a VCM moving mass?

Key factors include mass (affects acceleration and resonant frequency), stiffness of flexures/bearings, coil resistance and inductance, thermal management, and alignment with the magnetic circuit.

How is the moving mass controlled in a VCM actuator?

It is controlled via closed-loop systems using feedback from position sensors (e.g., Hall sensors) and drive electronics that adjust current based on error signals to achieve precise motion profiles.

Can I contact factories directly?

Yes, each factory profile provides direct contact information.

Get Quote for Moving mass

Moving Frame Multiplexer (MUX)