In one recent machine redesign, Florida-based machine builder Hine Automation added precision engineered pulley-bushing assemblies to their SL-200C Vacuum Cassette-to-Cassette-Wafer Handling System for a boost in performance. This machine’s function is to transfer silicon wafers from a wafer cassette to a wafer process module under vacuum. The moves are commanded by computer controls. Hine Automation […]
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What is friction compensation in servo control?
Friction, which is the resistance to relative motion between two bodies, occurs in all sliding and rolling motions. In components that use lubrication to separate rolling or sliding surfaces — such as bearings and gears — there are typically two types of friction: static friction and dynamic friction. Static friction — also referred to as “stiction” […]
What is dual-loop control for servo systems and when is it used?
In servo-driven systems, feedback for position, velocity, and/or torque control is typically provided by a rotary encoder or resolver mounted to the motor. But mechanical components and connections in the drivetrain — such as gearboxes, ball screws, and couplings — are not perfectly rigid and introduce backlash, compliance, and windup into the system. This lack […]
Feedback on stepper motors for better positioning and holding (and less ringing)
Feedback-equipped stepper motors are not a complete substitute for servomotors, but they can provide a reliable alternative for many real-world applications. These motion-design solutions improve machine performance without breaking the bank. By Jim Stevens • Product Specialist | POSITAL Inc. Stepper motors are a top choice for many motion and position control applications. They’re available […]
Pallet-handling conveyors: Harnessing the power and safety of all-electric peripheral components
Pallet-handling conveyors optimize manufacturing, assembly, and testing processes by conveying product on workpiece pallets. The workpiece pallet provides consistent and stable conveying — regardless of the product’s current shape and future evolution down the line. By Kate Nadeau • mk North America Pallet-handling conveyor systems are reliable, durable, and highly intelligent systems that integrate and […]
What are rotary actuators and how do they differ from other rotary tables?
When we think about actuators, we typically think about linear actuators — devices that move loads in a straight line, driven by a screw, belt, or other mechanical power transmission device. But there also exists a class of actuators that provide rotary motion for positioning a load radially around a fixed axis. While these rotary […]
What does motor insulation class specify and why is it important?
Any time current flows through a wire — such as the windings in a motor — resistance in the wire, as well as other losses, cause heat to be generated. This heat will eventually transfer to other parts of the motor, causing them to degrade over time. One of the key components affected by this […]
New integrated servo motors from Maxon feature IP65 protection
Maxon’s new IDX compact integrated servo gearmotor + drive combines a powerful, brushless EC-i motor and an EPOS4 positioning controller, which can be complemented with a maxon planetary gearhead when required. This integrated motor features high torque density, high efficiency, maintenance-free components, and a high-quality industrial housing providing IP65 protection. The IDX also features configurable […]
Motion Control Tips: The top 5 posts for 2020
An end-of-year tradition here at motioncontroltips.com is to look back at some of our most viewed articles we published on the site throughout the year. This represents what you, our readers, clicked on the most throughout the year. Curiously enough, some of the most-read content in 2020 revolved around electrical and networking topics. We’re not […]
What is inrush current in an AC motor and why does it matter?
When an electrical device, such as an AC induction motor, is switched on, it experiences a very high, momentary surge of current, referred to as inrush current. When an AC induction motor is started, the supplied voltage creates a magnetic field in the stator, which induces a magnetic field in the rotor. The interaction of […]
