The demand for hand-held surgical power tools continues to grow due to significant surgical procedure backlogs and rising calls for elective and cosmetic surgeries. Where hospital administrators are under pressure to manage their costs, manufacturers are being challenged to produce tools that can be re-used, typically requiring them to withstand autoclave cleaning processes. This is […]
Motion Casebook
Engineering precise welding technology for medical device assembly
When assembling plastic medical devices, manufacturers can connect parts using screws, glue, clips, or welds. However, to adhere parts most securely, welding is the preferred solution. Welding has several advantages over glue or clips. It creates a stronger bond by melting the plastic parts together rather than trusting a surface adhesion or risking breaking the […]
Automated foodservice with EtherCAT to disrupt restaurant industry
Now an industrial-appliance-sized design called the Makeline from food services company Hyphen is leveraging software, rugged automation, and networked controls to help labor-strapped restaurants meet modern business demands. “We founded the business in July 2018 to leverage automation technology in modern restaurants,” says Daniel Fukuba, Co-Founder and CTO of Hyphen. “Shortly thereafter, we built the […]
Managing motion-design EMI for food metal detection
Electromagnetic interference (EMI) and radio-frequency interference (RFI) from ground loops and the operation of electric motor drives can degrade the performance of metal-detection equipment so essential to safe food processing. Here we look at ways to mitigate such issues. By Eric Garr • Regional Sales Manager | Fortress Technology Metal detectors in the food-processing industry […]
Contactless energy transfer, cable-free communication open up new possibilities for machine builders
One of the more promising recent developments in connection technology is contactless energy and data transfer and its use in the industrial world. Such technology can replace wiring and cables and cable carriers, lowering costs and streamlining designs. For instance, robotic systems are sometimes limited by constraints in automation and drive technology. However, consider the […]
Micro motors give robotic hand a boost
Among the changes to small motor design over the years has been the use of powerful rare-earth magnets to increase power density, making for smaller and more powerful motors. These motors are finding their way into medical devices, robotics, as well as the intersection of these two. Case in point; a robotic glove. Ironhand from […]
Sensors aid packaging machine flexibility
Sensors have always been the unseen elements that make complex machines perform at their optimal level. This is true for all kinds of machines, including the latest generation of packaging machines. Companies that need to invest in packaging machines value flexibility where a single machine can handle a wide range of package sizes and formats. […]
Automation putting faster in the fast-food industry
To the relief of those who are indecisive at the drive through, McDonald’s Corp. will soon be ramping up its use of voice-activated order taking. That’s according to a Wall Street Journal report last year — which also details how designs coming to the restaurant also include automatic systems to operate the deep fryers for […]
Pedal electric cycles (pedelecs) employ FAULHABER electric motors
In many parts of the world, bicycles are central to the culture — both for recreation and practical transportation for everyday tasks such as shopping or commuting to and from work. Efforts to reduce CO2 emissions, concerns about climate change, and rising fossil-fuel costs in many areas (along with congested roadways) have only spurred more […]
Environmental effects on motion components in robots
Here we outline leading factors affecting the longevity and performance of industrial robot joints. Links refer to supporting research listed at the feature conclusion. Recent years have seen continuous demand in numerous industries — automotive manufacturing to computer, communication, and consumer electronics (3C) product fabrication — for industrial robots. Compared to automated dedicated equipment in […]
