Industry-leading automation solutions provider, Omron Automation Americas, will demonstrate a diverse solution portfolio encompassing traceability, flexible manufacturing, human-machine collaboration and more at the upcoming Automate Show in Chicago this April. Omron Automation Americas, a global leader in end-to-end solutions for industrial automation, will be at the upcoming Automate Show to demonstrate applications for the factory […]
What is nested vector interrupt control (NVIC)?
In a microcontroller, such as those at the heart of industrial motion controllers, interrupts serve as a way to immediately divert the central processing unit from its current task to another, more important task. An interrupt can be triggered internally from the microcontroller (MCU) or externally, by a peripheral. The interrupt alerts the central processing […]
What is Space Vector Pulse Width Modulation (SVPWM)?
One common, modern method for controlling three-phase induction motors and permanent magnet synchronous motors (aka BLAC or PMAC motors) is field oriented control, which independently controls the magnetizing and torque-producing components of the stator current. This allows the torque-producing component to be kept orthogonal to the rotor flux, maximizing torque production. Space vector pulse width […]
Dorner Latin America Now Manufacturing at New Facility in Mexico
Dorner’s new manufacturing facility in Guadalajara, Mexico (Dorner Latin America) enables the company to build and deliver belt and flexible chain conveyor systems more quickly and efficiently for customers throughout Latin America. Dorner is an industry leader in the design, application, manufacturing and integration of precision industrial and sanitary conveyor systems. The new facility, staffed […]
What are pallet conveyors? (Not to be confused with pallet-moving conveyors)
Pallet conveyors transfer discrete products on carriers referred to as pallets typically transported by belt, roller chain, flat-top chain, or for extremely high loads, powered rollers. Pallet sizes are for the most part standardized among manufacturers in metric dimensions (240 x 240 mm, for example), although some manufacturers offer pallets in inch or non-standard metric […]
What is plugging for electric motors?
There are generally three types of electrical braking for motors: regenerative braking, dynamic braking, and plugging. Of the three methods, plugging provides the fastest stop, but it can be harsh on both the electrical and mechanical components. Because of this, it’s the least commonly used method of braking, but it is appropriate for some applications. […]
What is pitch in the context of conveyors?
Roller chains are one of the most common types of transport media for conveying systems. While they’re available in many designs and variations to meet different application requirements, they all have one thing in common. To specify a roller chain, you need three basic dimensions: The chain pitch … the roller diameter … and the width […]
When do tubular linear motors outperform traditional iron core and ironless designs?
In a recent post, we looked at traditional iron core and ironless linear motors, both of which have a flat-type construction. But another type of linear motor, often referred to as a “tubular linear motor,” is also gaining traction in industrial applications. This is especially true in the packaging and medical industries, where tubular linear motors […]
Kevin Barker selected as new president of Beckhoff Automation LLC
Barker to manage operations of US Beckhoff subsidiary Beckhoff Automation is pleased to announce that Kevin Barker has been appointed the new president of Beckhoff Automation LLC to manage Beckhoff business operations across the US. Barker takes over the leadership role that Aurelio Banda has held for four years. Banda led Beckhoff Automation LLC revenue […]
What is an IK rating, and how does it apply to motion control products?
If you deal with electrical components, including electrical enclosures such as control cabinets, you’re probably familiar with IP (International Protection) ratings, which specify the enclosure’s ability to prevent the ingress of solid objects and liquids. But you may be less familiar with the IK rating system, which defines the enclosure’s ability to protect its components from […]