Cleanrooms require minimization of friction-related particle generation. Now let’s consider another source of contamination — outgassing — and how to minimize it. Especially in cleanroom applications involving the manufacture of LEDs, optics, or glass, or the processing of silicon wafers, outgassing can damage end product. Outgassing is the desorption of vapors or gasses, either from […]
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Update on designing for cleanrooms
Considering all the moving and static sources that contribute to particle generation, it’s no wonder that many designers cringe when they find out that a motion system will be operating in a cleanroom. But motion doesn’t have to be the enemy of the cleanroom. With an understanding of the particle sources and corresponding design adaptations, […]
Part 2: Layers of performance and specifications in motion control
Here, the focus is on motors as key elements of motion control systems, and the way in which they help achieve true precision in motion control applications. Corey Foster · Director of Automation Sales & Application Engineering | Valin Corporation The central focus of this series of articles is how achieving true precision requires a […]
Update on robotics-related motion software, vision, and safety
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, […]
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 […]
Peripheral motion systems that complement robotics
In a previous article, we detailed example integrations of motion control and robotics. So, what about the workcells and systems surrounding the robotics in their workcells? Various automated systems can serve, move, and enhance a robot to maximize its usefulness. There are various complexity levels with these peripheral motion systems. The act of machine tending […]
The motors and gearing of different robotics
Industrial six-axis robotics often integrate frameless motors at their axes. Over the last decade, permanent-magnet brushless servomotors have come to dominate. Increasingly common in six-axis robotic assemblies are frameless and direct-drive variations. A high motor pole count (with strain-wave gearing) yields high torque output and low cogging. Often completing such assemblies are an absolute encoder […]
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 […]
Realtime systems benefit from multi-protocol motor and drive lines
Modern motion systems demand ultra-fast deterministic communication with precise multi-axis synchronization. So, engineers are turning to realtime Ethernet-based industrial protocols. Neyram Hemati, PhD Ankit Barad | Applied Motion Products Realtime motion control depends on fast, deterministic communication and precise synchronization across multiple axes. Among Ethernet-based technologies: EtherCAT delivers the highest synchronization accuracy and speed. EtherNet/IP […]
