NTN Bearing Corporation of America is pleased to announce the launch of three web-based tools for its NTN Automation division. This suite of interactive tools was recently launched to coincide with the roll-out of the new NTN Americas website in January 2021. These all-new NTN Automation tools include a 3D Linear Modeling & Configuration Tool, a Linear Guide Configurator Tool, and a Linear Guide Interchange Tool.

“The development and implementation of these powerful tools is a milestone in the evolution of the NTN Automation business unit,” said Jim Mangan, vice president, NTN Automation, “These three tools represent a major value-add to our customer base as they research, configure and specify components for their custom linear motion systems, and we expect to see increased adoption of these tools as NTN Automation continues to grow.”

The 3D Linear Modeling & Configuration Tool allows users to conduct an in-depth search of linear axis, linear guide, or bushing and shafting components, as well as our AXE series of linear axis modules. This configuration tool guides users to specify options for each component or module as they build a custom solution that fits their specific application. Configurable options are too numerous to list, but include load ratings, dimensions, materials and coatings, seals designs, and mounting options, among dozens of additional specs. Users are able to view and manipulate a 3D model of the components/systems as they work through the configuration process. Users can then generate CAD models that are compatible with over one-hundred CAD formats, and generate PDF datasheets that feature an embedded interactive 3D model, so they can manipulate the 3D model in the PDF. At the end of the configuration process, users are also able to generate part numbers for their specified product, for ease of ordering. Users of this tool can also create a user account which enables them to easily access previous configurations, and save their user and CAD preferences.

The Linear Guide Configurator Tool allows users to configure rail and carriage linear guide components and create a custom system. Like the tool above, users have a multitude of options to spec when configuring these components and systems. As options are selected, the configurator tool builds custom part numbers for each of the rail and carriage components, as well as a combined system part number. These part numbers can be exported to a PDF data sheet which can be used for ordering full systems or individual components.

Finally, the Linear Guide Interchange Tool allows users to input part numbers from dozens of linear brands, or search by brand, series and size, and interchange that information into NTN’s equivalent part number. As with the tools above, there are numerous possible configurations for each component, so it is critical to match all of the specs and options in order to interchange between manufacturers. This interchange tool guides users through the interchange process, allowing users to select the applicable options, and then displays the equivalent NTN part numbers. Users can then view or download engineering drawings for the component, or select the part and open a configurator where they can further adjust the configuration options of the selected part, before arriving at a final part number.