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, […]
Industrial Automation
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 […]
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 […]
igus one-piece energy chain targets compact cable routing
igus has designed a one-piece, injection-molded energy chain in its E1 series for cable management in compact spaces. Designers often skip cable guides in small installations such as food vending machines, laboratory equipment or electric doors, which can lead to cable damage and higher maintenance costs. The new compact energy chain is intended for these […]
Vert-X 26-series angle sensors are robust and accurate
Novotechnik U.S. now offers Vert-X 26-series of non-contacting magnetic angle sensors. These sensors use a Hall effect to track the position of the shaft. Designed for challenging settings where high humidity, dampness, dust and vibrations are expected, these are suitable for automotive, off-highway, and other applications. The plug-in sensors using an AMP MQ5 six-pole connector. […]
Motion unveils 2026 class schedule for training programs
Motion Industries Inc. has released the Motion Learning and Development Center’s 2026 class schedule. The training opportunities are intended to support professional development across North American industry. Motion offers technical training, professional development and Microsoft Office courses through in-person sessions at Motion Learning Centers and partner locations across the U.S., as well as virtual options. […]
How does IO-Link compare to competitive offerings for connectivity?
IO-Link is an open standard, point-to-point communication link for sensors and actuators. It’s defined by the IEC 61131-9 international standard which specifies a single-drop digital communication interface technology (SDCI, commonly referred to as IO-Link) for sensors and actuators. A typical IO-Link configuration includes an IO-Link master, which is the interface between the devices and a […]
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 […]
