DINGS’ Motion USA has expanded its precision motion portfolio with miniature ball screw and nut assemblies for OEM linear motion applications. The product line is intended for systems that require high efficiency, low backlash and application-specific customization. As automation systems become faster, smaller and more precise, some engineers may find that standard ball screw assemblies […]
Actuators
Minimizing outgassing from cleanroom equipment
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 […]
PICMA Plus piezo actuators offer extended displacement range
PI has introduced the new PICMA Plus actuators, expanding the capabilities of its PICMA piezo stack actuator series. While the standard PICMA actuators offer long service life, high stiffness, fast response times, and precise resolution, the PICMA Plus line provides increased displacement for applications that require extended motion range. Extended displacement without sacrifice Previously, PI’s […]
SSEAC subsea actuator provides precise flow control on the seabed
The SSEAC is a new electromechanical subsea actuator from Wittenstein Motion Control (WMC) for actuating choke and other valves in subsea applications. Rated for a service life of at least 25 years, this actuator controls the continuous flow of gases and liquids at a depth of up to 4,000 m. As an alternative to hydraulic […]
Why operating environment matters for actuator selection
To make the right selection when specifying actuators, it’s important to consider the operating environment. Bruce Ng Valin Corporation Actuators are required for a variety of operations throughout a multitude of different industries. With so many different potential applications, one would correctly assume that the options can often be overwhelming. Many of these actuators […]
PI’s motion-amplified piezo actuators and grippers are designed for speed
The piezoelectric effect directly converts electrical energy into mechanical motion. PI uses this effect for high-precision, solid-state-based actuators, and grippers. Embedding a piezoceramic stack in a flexure-based arrangement can increase the motion range of the piezo actuator while providing protection, precision guidance, and a mounting interface at the same time. PI’s motion-amplified piezo actuators are […]
The latest developments in fast food automation
The fast-food industry is all about tasty food at low prices with cheerful customer service — all delivered fast. But with labor shortages and supply chain issues still plaguing the economy, how can businesses compete and survive? Fast-food restaurants across the globe are pondering ways to automate certain tasks or entire assembly lines to provide continuous service […]
Thomson’s actuators give motion system designers more options
Thomson, a provider of linear motion control solutions, has introduced a high-capacity, high-performance electric linear actuator that gives motion system designers more cost-effective options to replace hydraulic cylinders. Among the many new features of the Thomson Electrak XD linear actuator are load handling up to 25,000 N (5000 lb), depending on configuration, for a combined […]
Artificial intelligence and machine learning solutions for sit to stand robotic chairs
People around the world, especially those with injuries or limited mobility, experience sit to stand (STS) difficulties in their everyday lives. Detailing just some of these challenges is an August 12, 2022 New York Times article, Embarrassing, Uncomfortable and Risky: What Flying is Like for Passengers Who Use Wheelchairs. The author described the discomfort, danger, […]
Leading motion-control and actuation options for robotics
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 […]
