Achieving true precision in motion control applications requires a deeper understanding of the full motion control system from the mechanics to the motors, drives and controls. Corey Foster Director of Automation Sales & Application Engineering Valin Corporation In high-precision motion control, system performance is often judged simply by the specifications of the mechanics alone. The […]
Controls
Trends in software ecosystems for motion
Some of the latest developments in software ecosystems aim to make motion systems easier to design and commission. Artificial intelligence (AI) has made rapid inroads here. For motion systems specifically, the trend is to use AI for: Servotuning — before a system is put into service. Predictive maintenance — when a system is running in […]
What does today’s software for motion controllers look like?
It’s no secret that software is at the heart of motion control systems, making possible all the basic motion control functions as well as new features and functions that enhance system design and operation. Fundamentally, motion control is about positioning in three-dimensional space, which is executed by mechanical components such as motors and drives with […]
Robotics design leverages motion development
Helping robotics companies bring their projects to completion, OLogic increasingly turns to Performance Motion Devices for motion control technology without limits. Silicon Valley–based OLogic has helped robotics and consumer electronics companies — from startups to industry leaders — bring products to market. Past customers include NVIDIA, Google, Hasbro, Panasonic, Toyota Research Institute, and Carnegie Mellon […]
Choosing between chassis-mount and PCB-mount motion controls
Motion controllers come in many shapes and sizes to fit unique and specific application needs. From small embedded controllers that can be integrated into a servo motor along with a drive and feedback, to large stand-alone controllers attached to machines, there’s a controller to match every application need. The type of controller can usually dictate […]
Beckhoff updates CX82xx Embedded PCs, adds CX9240 quad-core
The new CX82xx Embedded PC series from Beckhoff uses a modern ARM Cortex A53 processor architecture with two cores, offering more computing power for ultra-compact controls. Released at the same time, the CX9240 features the 4-core version of this processor and is even more powerful. The increased power in these microcontrollers does not come at […]
Advanced feedforward and trajectory control
Using a trajectory-following controller provides several significant benefits, especially in systems requiring smooth, precise, and reliable movements. Neyram Hemati, Ph.D. Department of Mechanical Engineering, San Jose State University Don Macleod, Ph.D. CEO, Applied Motion Products Model-based feedforward control is a predictive control strategy using a mathematical model of the system to predict the control input […]
Festo launches AX Motion Insights Electric for AI monitoring
Festo has introduced Festo AX Motion Insights Electric, an AI-based monitoring and predictive maintenance tool for electric axes and servo drives. The system is designed to reduce unplanned machine downtime by identifying wear and anomalies early. It supports improved reliability and operational efficiency in industrial environments. Motion Insights Electric enables maintenance teams to schedule tasks […]
Announcing the 2025 LEAP Awards in industrial automation
Now in its eighth year, Design World’s annual Awards in Leadership in Engineering Achievement Program highlights innovation and engineering achievements from around the globe. This year, the expert independent judging panel reviewed dozens of submissions to award gold, silver, and bronze winners across multiple categories. The following products were recognized in the 2025 LEAP Awards […]
A simple PID loop tuning technique: Part 2 of 2
Proportional, integral, derivative (PID) position servo-loop tuning can be daunting. However, one simple technique works well for most systems. Chuck Lewin • Founder and CEO | Performance Motion Devices Inc. The first installment of this two-part series detailed a simple technique called step-response tuning that helps identify good PID-gain settings in motor-positioning applications. This manual […]
