A recent upgrade to the Royal Opera House included customized plastic cable management to support modern LED lighting. Live theater performances depend on engineering, including those at London’s Royal Ballet and Opera. For example, behind each performance is a technical ecosystem designed to move heavy overhead lighting trusses safely and silently. Following 25 years of […]
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RBTX launches direct online purchasing platform
The RBTX robotics marketplace has launched new e-commerce functionality that lets customers purchase components, robots and services directly through the company’s website. The update supports a self-serve purchasing model, so customers can buy without a sales consultation. Customers can complete the process online with transparent pricing and secure credit card checkout. The new shopping experience […]
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, […]
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 […]
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 […]
Smart fixed flange bearings unlock predictive maintenance
igus has developed intelligent two- and four-hole fixed flange bearings with wireless sensing capabilities for wear detection, enabling condition monitoring and preventing costly machine breakdowns. Constructed from self-lubricating, high-performance plastic, the bearings feature an integrated abrasion sensor, thin circuit board and cableless battery supply. Wear interrupts the board’s conductor paths, causing the electronics to lose […]
Tour: One fast way to design and buy low-cost automation
Performance-plastics component and system manufacturer igus Inc. recently brought their mobile-exhibition roadshow to Cleveland where we Design World editors got the chance to rendezvous with some of their engineers and sales team. igus has used mobile exbits for several years but temporarily halted them during the COVID-19 pandemic. Recently igus resurrected its roadshow program to […]
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 […]
Fast set-up of motor control systems from igus with no lengthy programming
The programming of motor control systems and the integration into machine environments often takes several days and can cost thousands of dollars. Now, igus, the leader in motion plastics and moving cable management systems, has removed the barrier. With free motion sample programs available from igus, it is possible to commission the dryve® series motor […]
New plastic bevel gears from igus offer lubrication-free motion
igus has expanded its gear offering with bevel gears made of its iguform S270 and igutek P360 high-performance plastics. These abrasion-resistant, self-lubricating gears are a lightweight and maintenance-free alternative to traditional metallic gears. Gears are widely used as drive elements in a range of applications, from e-bikes to locking systems to actuators. However, when forces […]
