Leading conveyor system designer and manufacturer, mk North America has introduced two new conveyor models to its VersaFlex flat top chain conveyor system. Both the A17 and A29 add length and width capabilities – so larger products or those requiring extra support, can easily make their way through the conveyor line. All while maintaining the […]
Integrated Motion Systems
What are Sawyer motors and where are they used?
Originally named for Bruce Sawyer, who patented the design in 1968, Sawyer motors are a type of planar motor, and are sometimes referred to as “dual-axis linear stepper motors” since they use stepper motor technology and the moving part can travel in both the X and Y directions. Like other planar motor designs, Sawyer motors […]
Dorner’s ERT250 Conveyor helps create zones for better control in accumulation and assembly applications
As automation becomes more integrated into medium- and heavy-load accumulation and assembly applications, the need for conveyors with zoning capabilities increases. Dorner’s Edge Roller Technology (ERT250) precision edge roller pallet and tray handling conveyors are engineered specifically to handle zone functionality. Creating zones along a conveyor is an important feature for applications where product accumulates […]
Direct-drive actuator with high torque density for more productive robots and machines
Genesis Robotics & Motion Technologies announces the availability of its new LiveDrive LDD 1800 Series Direct Drive Actuators, with an extensive range of configurations and performance options. LiveDrive direct-drive actuators eliminate the need for gearing and are redefining the next generation of parallel robots and precision machinery, unlocking capabilities beyond the reach of conventional drivetrains, […]
New distributed drive system designed for conveyor applications
The Sinamics G115D from Siemens is a new compact and powerful drive system specifically designed for horizontal conveyor applications. The drive system comprises the motor, drive and gearbox in one unit and is offered in two versions — wall-mounted and motor-mounted. The Sinamics G115D drive system features a robust design with a high IP protection […]
What are radial and axial runout and how do they affect rotary tables and stages?
Runout is a dimensional specification that defines error in the motion of a surface as it moves relative to a datum. The official geometric dimensioning and tolerancing (GD&T) definition of runout applies to the variation of a circular feature — such as a shaft or spindle — as it rotates over 360 degrees, although the term […]
How to calculate crossed roller bearing life (with various load types)
A crossed roller bearing is a type of rotary bearing that uses cylindrical rollers arranged in a crisscross pattern, with each roller oriented at a 90 degree angle relative to the one adjacent to it. This arrangement allows crossed roller bearings to withstand radial, axial, and moment loads, so they can often replace dual-bearing arrangements, for […]
What are the key parameters to consider when sizing and selecting a rotary actuator?
Rotary actuators — and their counterparts, rotary stages and rotary indexing tables — are designed to move loads radially with high positioning accuracy. Similar to linear actuators, sizing a rotary actuator requires evaluating parameters such as torque, speed, and inertia, as well as ensuring the actuator can meet the application requirements for positioning the load, such […]
Dorner’s virtual showcase now open with nine product demonstrations
As industry professionals are still unable to visit Dorner in person due to trade show cancellations, Dorner is bringing the trade show to them! Dorner is hosting its own virtual showcase that includes nine demonstrations covering sanitary, automation and industrial applications. Each demonstration contains a video narrated by Dorner experts who point out features, benefits and […]
Wafer-handling machine maximizes performance with specially clamping belt-pulley and bushing assembly
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 […]
