Applications that require complex process or motion control also require elaborate and complicated programming — often across multiple components, functions, and parameters. But thanks to the integrated develop environment found in programmable automation controllers (PACs), the programming task for these complex applications is faster, less burdensome, and more reliable. When ARC Advisory Group introduced the term “programmable […]
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New igus robolink Apiro is modular kinematics system for automation
igus now sells components as part of a modular motion system called robolink Apiro. The systems could soon make designing and using individual automation setups more cost effective and much easier. With robolink Apiro, design engineers can choose from three lubrication-free worm gears for standard, inverted and linear movement. For users, the device offers setups […]
What is an inching drive?
When you hear the term “inching drive,” you might think of a small actuator, possibly driven by a piezo or voice coil, suitable for short, precise movements in applications such as optical inspection. (At least, that’s what I envisioned when I first heard of an inching drive!) But inching drives are so named because of […]
Single-chip brushless dc (BLDC) driver extends runtime off batteries
STSPIN233 low-voltage motor drivers from STMicroelectronics excel in single-shunt and three-shunt brushless-motor driving. They include a 200mΩ 1.3Arms power stage, in a slim and compact 3mm x 3mm package. The STSPIN233 also has the industry’s lowest standby current, at less than 80nA. What’s more, it can be put into standby mode under logic control, making […]
Selecting a servo drive: 9 things you need to know
Sizing a motor for a servo application requires evaluating the move profile and torque requirements to determine the mechanical demands of the system, such as maximum velocity and acceleration, RMS and peak torque values, and load-to-motor inertia match. Once the motor is chosen, the next step is to select a drive. On the surface, selecting […]
Miniature brakes, clutches, and torque limiters from Mach III for shaft sizes to a half-inch
Brakes, clutches and torque limiters are now available from Mach III for shaft sizes of half-inch and smaller. The ten new products include: • A spring-engaged brake for power off applications • An air-engaged brake for stopping and holding applications • Five air-engaged clutch configurations for connect and disconnect applications • Three mechanical torque limiters […]
Stepper drives: What’s the difference between an L/R drive and a chopper drive?
There are two fundamental types of stepper drives: L/R drives and chopper drives. L/R stepper drives are also referred to as “constant voltage” drives, because they supply constant voltage to the motor windings. The current produced in the windings depends on the motor’s time constant, which is the relationship between its inductance and resistance (L/R). The […]
Conveyor manufacturer Dorner now includes FlexMove and Geppert-Band companies to transform automation
In a move that combines more than 100 years of conveyance expertise, Dorner Holding Co. (the parent company of Dorner Mfg. Corp.) FlexMove and Geppert-Band GmbH is merging the three entities into one consolidated brand of Dorner. The new Dorner boasts a global workforce of more than 400 and brings a diverse conveyor automation product […]
How do cam clutches work, and what are other overrunning clutch options?
Mechanical overrunning clutches, sometimes called one-way or backstop clutches depending on the context, transmit torque in one drive direction but let the output axis continue to turn (freewheel) when the driving motor slows or stops. Such clutch function is useful in large and small designs for material handling, packaging, conveying, medical, turbine auxiliary drives, and […]
When to use a programmable automation controller (PAC)
In a broad sense, a programmable automation controller (PAC) is an industrial controller that combines the functionality of a PLC with the processing capability of a PC. The term “Programmable Automation Controller” is generally accepted as having been coined by the ARC Advisory Group, which specified five characteristics that define a PAC: Multi-domain functionality A […]