Industrial networks are many and varied. They can be distinguished from one another in a variety of ways, one of which is the topology of the network; in other words, how the devices on the network are connected together and how they exchange information and communicate with one another. There’s also a distinction between two […]
FAQs + basics
How are fast Fourier transforms used in vibration analysis?
Fast Fourier transforms are mathematical calculations that transform, or convert, a time domain waveform (amplitude versus time) into a series of discrete sine waves in the frequency domain. Machine vibration is typically analyzed with measurements of the vibration frequency, displacement, velocity, and acceleration. The latter three — displacement, velocity, and acceleration — are time domain […]
How is machine vibration defined?
Machine vibration is a normal, and typically unavoidable, result of moving and rotating parts, often caused by standard manufacturing and assembly tolerances that lead to clearances between mating parts or imbalances in rotating parts. And while routine machine wear can cause vibration to increase over time, when a machine experiences a significant or sudden increase or […]
Is EtherCAT on the rise for motion applications?
For motion control and machine automation, the EtherCAT networking protocol has been slowly gaining acceptance, garnering more interest from both end users as well as developers of motion control systems. As one of several Ethernet-based motion protocols, it offers a number of advantages that have made it an increasingly common choice for many system designers. […]
What is a motion profile?
Servo applications require defined, controlled movements, often to move a part to a specified position at a precise velocity or along a predetermined path. A motion profile provides the physical motion information and graphically depicts how the motor should behave during the movement (often in terms of position, velocity, and acceleration) and is used by […]
What happens when a multi-turn encoder reaches 4096 turns?
One of the first decisions when choosing a rotary encoder is whether it should provide incremental or absolute position feedback. That choice primarily depends on whether the encoder should be able to exactly detect its position upon startup. If so, then an absolute encoder is typically required. When considering an absolute encoder, the next decision […]
What are some connectivity options for smart motors?
The class of motors known as “smart” motors continue to see a steady increase in use in many industrial applications. A smart motor is essentially a motor that integrates a number of other components together into one physical unit. Common configurations include a motor and drive, but can also consist of integrated encoders and controllers […]
What is hunting in the context of motion control and how is it addressed?
When a linear or rotary axis must follow a predefined move profile to reach or maintain a precise position, speed, or torque, a closed-loop servo system is often the best choice. Feedback from an encoder — mounted on the motor or directly on the axis — provides information regarding the system’s actual state (position, speed, […]
What is safe motion monitoring?
Machines and equipment placed on the European market must conform with essential health and safety requirements of the Machinery Directive. The Directive specifies that manufacturers of machines and equipment must conduct a risk assessment and implement measures to eliminate or reduce hazards that pose a risk to people, equipment, product, or the environment. These hazards […]
What are IIoT sensors for motion systems?
Sensors have always been a part of industrial automation and motion control systems. However, as the industrial IoT (IIoT) continues to make inroads into real-world applications, the spotlight shifts to the sensors used and the critical role they play in bettering performance. These sensors are the vital link between the physical system itself, collecting data […]