Direct-Drive Gimbals for UAVs – When Weight and Precision Must Work Together
The use of UAVs is increasing rapidly, along with the demand for gimbal systems that are lightweight, precise, and energy-efficient. For many development teams, the challenge lies in combining high performance with a compact design where every gram counts.
We see that traditional gimbal solutions often reach their limits in terms of weight and power consumption. At the same time, modern UAV applications require extremely high stability and accurate positioning. As a result, more and more designers are turning to direct-drive solutions without gearboxes, an approach that delivers high pointing accuracy, reliability, and a more compact overall design.
For direct-drive gimbals in UAV applications, low-profile motors from the Omni and Agility series by Celera Motion (Novanta) are particularly well suited. These motors offer low power consumption and can be customized with through-holes, providing greater flexibility in mechanical design.
Achieving stable and accurate positioning also requires encoders with high resolution in a compact form factor. Optira encoders from Celera Motion are developed for applications where low weight, high positional accuracy, and excellent repeatability are critical.
By combining the right motor and encoder solutions, we help our customers develop direct-drive gimbals that meet demanding requirements for precision, energy efficiency, and low weight, without compromising performance.
Would you like to discuss your application with us?
At Compotech, we are happy to support you with technical advice and guidance in selecting motors and encoders. Contact us to learn more.
Compotech Attends 3M’s Exclusive Supplier Summit in St. Paul
Last week, I had the opportunity to attend 3M’s annual Supplier Summit at the company’s headquarters in St. Paul. The summit is an exclusive forum, bringing together a limited number of selected suppliers from around the world.
3M is one of the world’s leading industrial companies, with a strong focus on innovation and advanced materials technology. For us at Compotech, the invitation is a clear confirmation of the trust that has been built over time, as well as of our role as a long-term partner in advanced technical solutions.
I am very proud to be part of this context and look forward to continuing to develop our collaboration with 3M.
Regular opening hours during Christmas and New Year
The Christmas and New Year holidays are approaching, but Compotech’s office and warehouse will remain open as usual on all weekdays throughout the period from December 22 to January 9.
If you need to get in touch with us or plan your work during the holidays, you are most welcome to contact us!
Thank you for a great year!
As 2025 draws to a close, it’s a fitting moment for us at Compotech to pause and reflect on the year that has passed. It has brought both challenges and many positive steps forward, but above all, it has shown the strength of our collaborations. I feel deeply grateful for everything we have achieved together.
To our customers and suppliers: thank you for the trust you place in us and for the energy you bring. You are the reason we continue to grow and develop.
And to all our employees: you make a difference every single day. Your commitment, your drive and your professionalism are the foundation of everything we do at Compotech — and something I am immensely proud of.
As we now look ahead to 2026, I am excited to continue building on what we have created together. With the same drive and curiosity that have shaped this year, I am confident that we will meet whatever comes next in the best possible way.
Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!
Warmest regards,
Jim Franzén, CEO
Measure forces accurately with Novanta’s Torque/Force sensors from ATI
At Compotech, we closely follow advancements in sensor technology. One of the most exciting innovations in recent years comes from our supplier Novanta and their subsidiary ATI Industrial Automation, who have introduced a new series of Torque/Force sensors. Read more
Navigating Global Sourcing Challenges
Sourcing magnets, motors, and other components involving rare metals has become increasingly complex. With constantly shifting geopolitical regulations and new tariffs being introduced, many companies are struggling with higher costs, delays, and growing uncertainty around deliveries.
Read more
Strengthening Our Motor Team
Welcome, Emil and Johan!
We’re pleased to announce that our motor team is growing with the addition of two new Project Sales Engineers – Emil Moberg and Johan Wahlén.
Emil and Johan will play a key role in driving projects forward and ensuring our customers receive the best possible support. Their experience and motivation make them valuable additions to the team, and we’re confident they’ll quickly settle into their roles and contribute to both customer success and internal development.
We warmly welcome Emil and Johan to Compotech and look forward to an exciting journey together!
We believe in the power of collaboration, and now we’re taking it one step further!
For several years, Compotech have worked together with the communications agency Looks and Brains on various web projects. We are therefore especially pleased to now be strengthening our partnership with their team in Östersund.
With Looks and Brains as a full-service partner in communication, we gain access to expertise in areas such as strategy, graphic design, and digital communication. This gives us better opportunities to strengthen our identity, develop our digital presence, and build long-term relationships with our customers and partners.
We look forward to combining our technical knowledge with the creativity of Looks and Brains on the journey ahead!
GUIDE: Common problems with encoders and troubleshooting tips
Encoders are integral components in many motion control systems, providing critical feedback to motors for position, speed, and direction control. However, like any mechanical or electrical device, encoders can sometimes encounter problems that disrupt system performance. Identifying and resolving these issues quickly is essential to maintaining the reliability and efficiency of your system.
In this article, we’ll explore some of the most common problems with encoders and offer troubleshooting tips to help you diagnose and fix them. Read more
Choosing the Right Encoder for Motors: Key Considerations
When selecting an encoder for a motor system, several factors across electrical, mechanical, and software aspects need to be carefully evaluated. Encoders play a vital role in measuring the position, speed, and direction of the motor shaft, providing essential feedback for motor controllers in a variety of applications. A poorly chosen encoder can lead to poor system performance, increased wear and tear, or even system failure. This article provides a comprehensive guide to understanding the key factors to consider when selecting an encoder for motors. Read more