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 […]
Motion Casebook
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. This feature was contributed by Kollmorgen engineering staff. 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 […]
Motors + sensors + other motion in off-highway + mobile robotics
Automated mobile equipment, which transports items in warehouses and freight centers as well as assembly operations, continues to boost demand for power-transmission and motion control systems. In fact, the worldwide mobile-robot market will reach nearly $15 billion by 2026, according to researchandmarkets.com. Almost all run off electric-motor drivetrains that are relatively expensive upfront but with […]
Software tools streamline cable design, management
A critical but sometimes overlooked component, cables come in a variety of customized versions to meet specific application requirements. Cable properties such as the number of solid conductors or wire strands for transmitting power to motors as well as feedback to and from controllers and sensors are an example of what designers must consider when […]
Sensors at heart of bionic robots from Festo
The Festo Bionic Learning Network has released it latest biomimicry innovations to support ongoing research in engineering, manufacturing, and materials science drawn from natural systems. Here are the 2018 additions to the Festo Bionic Learning Network: A transforming spider that rolls or creeps A robotic fish that autonomously maneuvers through acrylic water-filled tubing A semi-autonomous flying bat-like robot […]
Hygienic, stainless gearmotor designs improve fish-processing plant
Processing fresh fish necessitates a hygienic environment with regular washdowns, followed by frigid temperatures for freezing final products. That’s why machinery in such settings must be extremely rugged — and why one fish supplier has used motors from Bauer Gear Motor for the last few years. Van Der Lee Seafish processes approximately 200 tons of […]
