In two previous articles, we detailed example integrations of motion control and robotics as well as peripheral motion systems that complement robotics. Robot-related software today offers cross-compatibilities to take mechanical concepts into validated robotic motions and deployable control code. To begin work, robot-controller simulation and programming defines joint and cartesian trajectories, kinematics, motions, singularity handling, […]
Editor Blogs
The enduring use of pneumatic grippers
In two previous articles, we detailed example integrations of motion control and robotics as well as peripheral motion systems that complement robotics. In fact, end effectors are another motion design for robotic workcells. The Design World library has more information on end-of-arm tooling (EOAT) such as process tools (for welding, for example) and inspection sensors […]
Example integrations of motion control and robotics
Garnering much attention these days are industrial robotics and their integration of motion components and incorporation into workcells with other motion-based automated equipment. Such robotic workcells also feature conveyors, vision systems, and machines to automate specific tasks. So, what makes a motion system a robot or machine? In other words, what’s the distinction between motion […]
Motor torque to tiny tech at MD&M West 2026
It’s hard to believe I’ve attended various iterations of MD&M West for more than two decades with just a few years missed. In fact, I was just reminiscing about the first-ever tradeshow of any type I attended in our industry — the 2002 National Manufacturing Week at Chicago’s McCormick Place. I was so young that I’d […]
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 […]
The top motion control stories of 2025
Here at motioncontroltips.com, the editors have once again sifted through the data to see what you, our readers, viewed and read the most in 2025. Alongside some perennial hot topics that year after year continue to be go-to sources for engineers, there was strong interest in more newsy pieces highlighting big stories in automation and […]
A simple PID loop tuning technique: Part 1 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. There are two types of servomotors commonly used for positioning motion control applications — the dc brush motor (which uses mechanical brushes to commutate the […]
New motor could spur new applications
It often happens than new technologies enable new forms of automation — or makes them more practical. One new electric-motor design recognized by this year’s R&D 100 Awards could prove one such technology. Lisa Eitel | Executive editor Most electric vehicle or EV motors use permanent-magnet synchronous motors or PMSMs with the magnets on their rotors, and […]
Day 1: New technologies at Automate 2025
In addition to presentations and technical sessions, several dozen companies have announced new technologies at this year’s Automate Show. Some of these have been released in announcements: Festo Didactic to showcase workforce development at Automate Columbus McKinnon showcases conveyance systems at Automate 2025 Festo showing multi-axis positioning systems at Automate Automate 2025 builds on years […]
Several markets are spurring new innovation in motion systems
Over the last year, Design World has tracked several persistent and emerging trends that build on the last decade’s innovations. With some notable exceptions, many of the core technologies employed in motion systems and automation are familiar. Yet, propelled by the radically increased capabilities of electronics and software, these core technologies have catapulted the design-engineering […]
