Shipping Soon to Backers!
The parts took longer than estimated to arrive, but production was eventually completed in June. We are thrilled to announce that the Fortiq modules have been shipped to Crowd Supply's distribution warehouse, so our backers should expect to receive them in coming weeks! Read the full update.
Addressing Manufacturing Issues With Our Motors' Phase-Wire Exit Ports
As you know from our last update, we recently received the motors from our manufacturer. Unfortunately, our manufacturer made a mistake with the design where the exit that they created for the phase wires is not quite the right shape to properly feed the leads through the controller housing onto the controller. While this is not a critical design flaw, we've had to change the "backpack" (the aluminum part that houses the motor controller) design and order a new batch to be compatible with the motor. We expect to get all the parts in by the end of March, at which point we'll begin final testing and assembly. Read the full update.
We Received the Motors!
Happy New Year everyone! We finally received the motors! The PCBs will arrive in about a month. Read the full update.
Manufacturing Discussions
One of the goals of the Fortiq project was to use an existing, cast BLDC motor with minor modifications to keep costs at a minimum while delivering the high performance and reliability of a fully commercialized product. As our manufacturer was wrapping up production of these motors, both parties discussed a few final aspects of the design to ensure the motors are compatible with the other integrated parts. Read the full update.
Manufacturing
IQ is excited to let you know that we have initiated the manufacturing process for the Fortiq modules! We truly appreciate your patience throughout this process. Read the full update.
Beta Testing
It’s been a while since our last update, so we wanted to get you up to speed on the latest with the Fortiq project. Read the full update.
High-Speed Control
With IQ’s hardware and software, the Fortiq BLS42 can be used in applications that require a wide range of speeds and positions. Along with position control, the Fortiq BLS42 is able to control speed as it can apply full-rated torque to a large range of speeds. This gives users flexibility with their machines so they don’t have to use different motors with distinct optimizations. Stepper motors tend to get weaker as their speed increases; the Fortiq BLS42 maintains its performance at any speed. This feature plays a large role in the efficiency of tools, conveyor systems, and other high-speed spinning applications. Read the full update.
Anti-cogging on the Fortiq Modules
Here's a look at the Fortiq anti-cogging feature in action. Wear headphones for the best results! Read the full update.
IQ Fortiq Modules are now compatible with NEMA mounting standards!
In response to our backers, we've redesigned our mounting holes to meet NEMA standards. Read the full update.
The IQ Minimum Jerk Trajectory Generator
What's the best way to make motors start, stop, and move smoothly? A Minimum Jerk Trajectory Generator of course! Read the full update.
Our Campaign Is Live!
Our IQ Fortiq BLS42 motor modules are now available for crowdfunding! This is a line of ultra compact, high-performance servo motors. They are straight-stack, straight-magnet BLDCs with integrated motor controllers and magnetic rotary encoders for position sensing. The Fortiq BLS42 line is built to maximize torque and speed output while minimizing motor vibration and footprint. Read the full update.