Advanced robotics for industrial and consumer applications demand sophisticated power-dense motion components for joints and linkages that must run smoothly, often at high torque and relatively low speed. The challenge is compounded when the robotic application must also make precise moves. At the core of most leading robotic-actuator options are electric motors. That’s because motor-driven designs […]
Industrial Automation
Basics of wave and cycloidal gearing for robotics and servo designs
Many of today’s precision applications necessitate gears capable of dramatic speed reductions, power densities, and transmission accuracies. Leading choices in these designs include trochoidal and cycloidal gearing as well as gearsets relying on wave-inducing subcomponents having an elliptical or Reuleaux or other polygonal shape. Trochoidal and cycloidal gearing includes elements that rotate and trace curves around […]
New micro servo-drive system for extra-low-voltage manufacturing applications
Siemens is extending its drive portfolio in the extra-low-voltage range for 24 to 48-V EC motors with its new SIMATIC MICRO-DRIVE. The new product line with UL- and CE-marked components consists of the PDC (Profidrive Control) servo drive in conjunction with a flexible range of motors and connecting cables from product partners, along with the […]
Compact controllers sport built-in security, open protocols
The new PACSystems RSTi-EP CPE 200 programmable automation controllers (PAC) from Emerson are a family of compact PACs to help OEMs successfully meet customer requirements by minimizing the need for specialized software engineering talent. CPE 200 controllers deliver large programmable logic controller (PLC) capability in a small, cost-effective, IIoT-ready form factor so machine manufacturers don’t […]
Schneider Electric launches Universal Automation Discovery Packs to foster industrial innovation
Schneider Electric has launched their Universal Automation Discovery Packs program in the U.S., giving innovators the opportunity to explore the benefits of universal automation. Through this program, experts from all aspects of the industry, including OEMs, system integrators, end users, distributors, academics, and others can receive a free license to explore this next-generation automation system […]
Draw-wire encoders from SIKO measure position, speed and inclination
SIKO’s PURE.MOBILE series, the SG31 and SG61 wire-actuated encoders, feature a maximum measuring length of 3 to 6 m. Integrating the latest generation of inclinometers, they combine the ability to detect not only position and speed, but also the measured variable of inclination. The two wire-actuated encoders are complemented by the large SG121 and SG150 […]
What is external device monitoring and how does it relate to machine safety?
According to the Machinery Directive 2006/42/EC, technical protective measures should be used to reduce risks that cannot be avoided through safe design measures. These technical protective measures include safety devices such as door locks, covers, light curtains, and other equipment that monitors the machine movements. When the safety device controls and external device, such as […]
What machine safety functions address speed, and when are they used?
The Machinery Directive 2006/42/EC states that when a machine manufacturer is unable to eliminate the risks of potential hazardous situations (for example, mechanical hazards such as crushing or cutting) through safe design methods, the next step is to reduce the risks through technical protective measures. These technical measures include protective devices, such as door locks […]
POSITAL’s explosion-proof rotary encoders earn ATEX/IECEx Certification
POSITAL’s explosion-proof IXARC rotary encoders have been certified to comply with ATEX/IECEx directives for Category 3 electrical products. These devices are suitable for use in Zone 2 and Zone 22 conditions (potential exposure to hazardous levels of explosive gases and flammable dust) and are ideal for oil and gas installations, chemical plants, woodworking operations, and […]
What is Machine as a Service (MaaS) and what are its benefits?
Most of us are familiar with the software as a service (SaaS) business model, in which users pay a fee to access software over the internet, without requiring an application or download to a local machine. The software as a service model made complex software, such as CRM (customer relationship management) systems, more accessible to […]
