Multi-Axis Linear Motion Systems
Compare 16 standard two- and three-axis configurations by architecture, controlled axes and drive technology. HS LINEAR supports model selection, drawing review and configuration through local sales, technical support and after-sales service in Europe. Not sure which structure fits your cell? Read our guide Gantry, cantilever or moving-arm: how to choose.
Cantilever Systems
Open-sided XY and XYZ layouts for side access and space-conscious automation cells.
2-Axis Models
XY controlled motion
Cantilever XY Ball-Screw System
Ball-screw actuator configuration
MX-CT2-BS-01
3-Axis Models
XYZ controlled motion
Cantilever XYZ Ball-Screw System
Embedded ball-screw actuator configuration
MX-CT3-IB-01
Cantilever XYZ Ball-Screw System
Embedded ball-screw actuator configuration
MX-CT3-IB-02
Cantilever XYZ Ball-Screw System
Standard ball-screw actuator configuration
MX-CT3-BS-01
How to read the HS LINEAR model code
The base model identifies a stable mechanical configuration. The drive field now uses one consistent dimension: BS for Ball Screw and HB for Hybrid: Belt + Ball Screw. Embedded construction is shown separately as a product feature.
Need help selecting a multi-axis model?
Send required strokes, moving load, load center, speed, cycle time, mounting orientation, motor preference and end tooling. HS LINEAR will review the architecture and configuration boundary.
* Reference payloads are preliminary catalog maxima and may vary with carried-axis stroke, tooling geometry, center of gravity, acceleration, mounting and duty cycle. Final selection requires engineering review and an approved drawing.
“2-axis” and “3-axis” describe controlled Cartesian axes. Dual-X Gantry has two controlled axes but uses three linear actuators because the two X actuators move synchronously.
Plan a multi-axis system from the motion task
HS LINEAR is a linear motion solutions provider with local sales, technical support and after-sales service in Europe and supply-chain coordination in China.
For Cartesian and gantry arrangements, the axis layout should follow the travel path, payload, overhang and cycle requirement. A drawing review helps align interfaces, cable routing and service access before the component combination is fixed.
- Number of coordinated axes and motion sequence
- Payload, centre of gravity and overhang
- Stroke, speed, acceleration and cycle time
- Frame and mounting-interface constraints
- Cable, sensor and motor routing
- Access for commissioning and maintenance
Define the multi-axis task before fixing the axis layout
A useful concept review starts with the motion path and interfaces rather than a model list. Record the system-level inputs below before the axis combination is fixed.
| Planning item | Why it matters | Information to provide |
|---|---|---|
| Motion sequence | Defines axis count and coordination | Axis path, simultaneous moves, dwell and cycle sequence |
| Payload and centre of gravity | Affects axis loading and moments | Mass, dimensions, centre offsets and tooling |
| Travel and dynamics | Shapes the drive and frame concept | Stroke, speed, acceleration, cycle time and duty |
| Mechanical interfaces | Prevents mounting rework | Frame, mounting faces, orientation and available space |
| Controls and services | Affects integration and routing | Motor, drive, feedback, sensors, cables and utilities |
Download the multilingual selection and RFQ brief (PDF)
This worksheet supports a preliminary review. Final suitability depends on the verified application data and selected configuration.
How Multi-Axis Linear Motion Systems Work
Multi-axis linear motion systems combine two or more guided linear axes to move a payload along coordinated X, Y and Z directions. Compared with a single-axis module, the axes are arranged as cantilever, gantry, moving-arm or dual-X layouts according to the required access, stiffness, stroke and moving load.
Match the motion layout to the task
- XY: planar positioning, transfer and inspection across two controlled directions.
- XZ: horizontal travel with vertical lift for loading, unloading and narrow work zones.
- XYZ: three-axis positioning for pick-and-place, assembly, dispensing and inspection in a working volume.
- Architecture: cantilever layouts improve side access; gantry layouts support the cross axis from both sides; moving-arm layouts suit vertical travel and narrow zones; dual-X layouts support wider or offset loads.
Selection inputs that affect the final configuration
Final selection depends on the required stroke for each axis, moving load and load centre, speed, acceleration, repeatability, cycle time, mounting orientation, tooling, available installation space, operating environment and duty cycle. These inputs determine the architecture, module size, drive technology and motor arrangement that should be reviewed in the configuration drawing.
Typical applications
Typical uses include pick-and-place, machine loading, part transfer, sorting, assembly, dispensing, inspection and palletising. HS LINEAR reviews the application data, recommends a configuration from the available module families, coordinates drawing and supply-chain follow-up, and provides local sales, technical support and after-sales service in Europe.
