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Researchers Point to Ultrasonics and Microfluidics to Add Small-scale Capability to Robots

Researchers Point to Ultrasonics and Microfluidics to Add Small-scale Capability to Robots

ETH Zürich has developed a method to move small amounts of fluid using ultrasonic energy, giving micro-scale robots untapped capabilities in and outside of the laboratory.


News Jan 31, 2023 by Seth Price
Introducing High-volume, Low-labor 3D Printing for Mass Production

Introducing High-volume, Low-labor 3D Printing for Mass Production

The new Formlabs Automation Ecosystem automates steps in the 3D printing process, aiming to provide low-cost, hands-free, and time-saving 3D printing of parts for mass production.


News Jan 11, 2023 by Stephanie Leonida
Introduction to Network Switches for Industrial Applications

Introduction to Network Switches for Industrial Applications

Industrial network switches connect automation equipment, controllers, and other such devices. Learn about unmanaged, managed, and PoE enabled switches, as well as the differences between switches, routers, and hubs.


Reversing Structural Damage: Self-healing Materials

Reversing Structural Damage: Self-healing Materials

No matter how robust an automated control system might be, physical damage is a reality that plagues all machines. Thanks to new breakthrough materials, some failures may be prevented—or even reversed.


3D Printing Cookies and Rockets

3D Printing Cookies and Rockets

Take a look at new research looking to reduce food packaging waste, speed up micro printing processes, and improve printing capabilities on large objects, including rockets, using 3D printing.


News Nov 07, 2022 by Damond Goodwin
Manufacturing Technologies For Increased Productivity and Reduced Costs

Manufacturing Technologies For Increased Productivity and Reduced Costs

Amid global economic concerns, businesses are looking towards automation. Explore the emerging technologies helping make the future of manufacturing more cost-effective and productive.


News Oct 21, 2022 by Stephanie Leonida
Robot Collision Recovery and Prevention

Robot Collision Recovery and Prevention

When a robot crashes, it needs to be put back into position. The steps in this process depends on the end user and the equipment manufacturer. Understanding why the robot crashed also helps prevent future failures.


Sine/Cosine Approximations Simplify Controller Operation

Sine/Cosine Approximations Simplify Controller Operation

Programming languages often include sine and cosine functions. They simplify programming, but consume valuable memory space and computation time. This can be overcome using simple approximations.


Does 3D Printing Continue to Drive Digital Transformation?

Does 3D Printing Continue to Drive Digital Transformation?

As digital transformation continues to rise, technologies such as 3D printing also skyrocket. What is the relationship between these terms, and how can 3D printing help manufacturers and shops on their journey toward digital transformation?


SOLIDWORKS vs. AutoCAD for Mechatronics

SOLIDWORKS vs. AutoCAD for Mechatronics

Solidworks or AutoCAD? Which software is the right fit for you and your team? Take a dive into the fundamental components of both programs and the key differences between them.


A Look Into CAM (Computer-Aided Manufacturing)

A Look Into CAM (Computer-Aided Manufacturing)

This article introduces the concept of Computer-Aided Manufacturing (CAM) and discusses some common uses for CAM for controls and automation specialists.


How 3D Printing Failures Happen in Manufacturing

How 3D Printing Failures Happen in Manufacturing

This article will consider ways companies can use a full-digital thread and real-time monitoring that might lead to a better understanding of 3D printing part failures.


3D Printing Failures in Manufacturing: Troubleshooting and Prevention

3D Printing Failures in Manufacturing: Troubleshooting and Prevention

This two-part series will look at failures in additive manufacturing, how it happens, and what might prevent it from happening.


The Role of Carbon Fiber in 3D Printing

The Role of Carbon Fiber in 3D Printing

The following will look at key factors in manufacturing carbon fiber parts and how 3D printing could address some of the materials processing challenges.


Applications of Geometric Dimensioning & Tolerancing (GD&T) and Machine Vision in Manufacturing

Applications of Geometric Dimensioning & Tolerancing (GD&T) and Machine Vision in Manufacturing

A look at how cameras are used to detect GD&T based on the resolution of the camera, and how to achieve higher tolerances by using a differential waveform.


The Future of Metal Additive Manufacturing and 3D Printing

The Future of Metal Additive Manufacturing and 3D Printing

As metal additive manufacturing companies find more ways to increase speeds and decrease costs, the innovation behind this technology is continually expanding. 


The Benefits of 3D Printing for Small Manufacturers

The Benefits of 3D Printing for Small Manufacturers

Additive manufacturing, or the more popularized term 3D printing, has become a staple for small-batch manufacturing of some products. It’s even a common sight within companies whose main product is not even a manufactured item! What makes these devices such a great choice for small manufacturing companies?