If there is one overarching trend for electric actuators, it has to be integration. That is, integrating more components such as feedback devices, controllers and drives, and functions into the actuator itself. Designers are looking for reliable actuators that can be quickly and easily installed, powered up and operational. Here’s what some top actuator manufacturers told […]
What are sequential function charts (SFCs) for PLCs?
Sequential function charts (or SFCs) are one of the five PLC programming languages defined by the IEC 61131-3 standard. (The others being ladder logic diagrams, function block diagrams, structured text and instruction lists.) SFCs are a graphical programming language, not text-based. Being a visual programming language means that it’s well suited to the task of […]
Encoder manufacturers offer more custom, flexible designs
In response to their customer’s requests, encoder manufacturers continue to offer more customization options. We asked encoder manufacturers for their input on encoder trends as well as trends in the motion control industry in general. Here’s what they told us. Has your company added or expanded services to provide more in-house engineering support and upfront […]
New compact stepper motor controller boasts 2,048 microstep resolution
PI (Physik Instrumente) has released a higher performance model of its successful Mercury Stepper Motion controller. Stepper motors take up discrete positions in a revolution of a constant distance. Typical commercial models provide 200 to 1,000 full steps per revolution. Designed to deliver more than 2,000 times the basic motor resolution, the C-663.12 Mercury controller […]
Design simplicity tops gearmotor trends
One of the top gearmotor trends is design simplicity. This consists of many things including easier integration into mechanical designs as well as newer software programs to speed up the selection process. These trends are driving gearmotor manufacturers to offer their customers more simplicity. “We have seen an increase in demand for design simplicity,” says […]
HEIDENHAIN’s improved grid encoder for testing CNC machines
HEIDENHAIN’s family of KGM grid encoders have been improved to better meet the needs of CNC-controlled machine users who require accuracy testing. Now the KGM 281 grid encoder is available with a measuring range of 140 mm and an increased accuracy of ±1 µm. As part of HEIDENHAIN’s KGM grid encoder series, the 281 model’s […]
FAQ: How does the performance of parallel and right-angle gearmotors compare?
A common way to classify gearmotors is by the output shaft orientation, and two of the standard types are parallel and right-angle arrangements. Beyond shaft configuration itself, other factors such as the type of gears used in the gearmotor determine performance. Generally speaking, a right-angle gearmotor is less efficient than a parallel configuration. A typical right-angle […]
Drive manufacturers deliver more integrated, IoT-ready designs
Machines with greater intelligence have long been the hot new “trend” across industries. And there’s no change in that today, as the pace of adding intelligence continues. That intelligence can come in a number of forms, including in so-called smart motors as well as in drives and controls. Along with the demand for smarter devices and […]
Yokogawa releases enhanced version of the STARDOM network-based control system
The latest version of Yokogawa’s STARDOM network-based control system supports Windows 10, and the high-speed CPU module comes with a new function that enables Java applications to run on a STARDOM controller. In addition, an oil flow rate calculation function has been added to meet the needs of oil and gas well operations. STARDOM is […]
Tech trends impact belt & pulley design
Belts and pulleys are a mainstay of power transmission systems. Far from being obsolete, companies are innovating and offering smart solutions to contemporary motion system designs. Belt and pulley systems of all shapes and sizes are used in a range of applications from agricultural equipment to factory floor applications where they are an integral part of […]