Choosing the right robot gripper can be a daunting task, especially when a gripper that is fully controllable and is able to grip small, delicate components is…
Choosing the right robot gripper can be a daunting task, especially when a gripper that is fully controllable and is able to grip small, delicate components is needed. Enter Schunk’s new EGK smart gripper.
Thought leadership from Rockwell Automation execs point to future trends and how to leverage technology and skills to…
Thought leadership from Rockwell Automation execs point to future trends and how to leverage technology and skills to increase productivity and the security of operational technology (OT).
Variable frequency drive units can be found inside tons of control cabinets, but what happens if you disassemble one to…
Variable frequency drive units can be found inside tons of control cabinets, but what happens if you disassemble one to see what’s inside and how it works? We did just that. The results might surprise you.
Network routers are designed to route and pass information between a system of connected computers and devices. Learn…
Network routers are designed to route and pass information between a system of connected computers and devices. Learn about the role of routers in industrial applications and how to properly maintain them.
Programmable Logic Control (PLC) systems are the core of most industrial control systems that drive modern manufacturing.…
Programmable Logic Control (PLC) systems are the core of most industrial control systems that drive modern manufacturing. In this Control Automation video, we discuss the wiring process for buttons, switches, and discrete sensors, applicable to virtually every PLC.
Using advanced sensing technology, robotic skin allows grippers and manipulators to “feel” and handle objects without…
Using advanced sensing technology, robotic skin allows grippers and manipulators to “feel” and handle objects without damaging them. While emulating human touch is still in its infancy, it does show promise for future applications.
Functional safety is the safety of a system and is critical for industries such as medical devices, automotive, railways,…
Functional safety is the safety of a system and is critical for industries such as medical devices, automotive, railways, and machinery. This article will focus on functional safety for machinery and the standards that help its implementation.
Learn about proportional gain and proportional band, two key proportional control concepts, to better understand the most…
Learn about proportional gain and proportional band, two key proportional control concepts, to better understand the most popular control system method in industrial automation.
Despite the many overlaps, PLCs and RTUs are two different devices, each with specific suitable applications.
Despite the many overlaps, PLCs and RTUs are two different devices, each with specific suitable applications.
Most engineers are not intimidated by simple mathematics, but when designing mission-critical systems, it’s important…
Most engineers are not intimidated by simple mathematics, but when designing mission-critical systems, it’s important to have easy access to reliable tools and calculators. Introducing our first new set of tools designed for control engineers.
When a robot crashes, it needs to be put back into position. The steps in this process depends on the end user and the…
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.
Copia reduces the strain of backing up automation code on the factory floor with their latest software release…
Copia reduces the strain of backing up automation code on the factory floor with their latest software release DeviceLink. This automated backup software makes use of the Git workflow and backup running code automatically.
You are bound to encounter two terms associated with sensors and some loads: ‘NPN’ and ‘PNP’. You must understand…
You are bound to encounter two terms associated with sensors and some loads: ‘NPN’ and ‘PNP’. You must understand the relationship between the field device and the control module in order to choose and install components properly when needed.
Relay and other coil devices pose a few confusing questions: How can the relay still work if you connect a DC supply in…
Relay and other coil devices pose a few confusing questions: How can the relay still work if you connect a DC supply in reverse? How can an alternating voltage attract and hold the load consistently?
Honeywell furthers its investment in the healthcare sector, aiming to find digital and automation solutions to…
Honeywell furthers its investment in the healthcare sector, aiming to find digital and automation solutions to inefficiencies, fallible processes, and ineffective tasks highlighted by the pandemic.
KUKA announces the release of two new lightweight, long-reaching industrial cobots for flexible automation…
KUKA announces the release of two new lightweight, long-reaching industrial cobots for flexible automation applications—the “big iisys.”
Industrial control panels are at the heart of control systems. Learn about the standards and regulations that dictate…
Industrial control panels are at the heart of control systems. Learn about the standards and regulations that dictate industrial control panel design for safety and efficiency, including NFPA 70, UL 60947-4-1, and NFPA 79.
Keyence releases new safety-rated interlock switches for monitoring and locking the position of guarding and fencing.…
Keyence releases new safety-rated interlock switches for monitoring and locking the position of guarding and fencing. Unlike traditional door switches, the GS-M series switches use electromagnetic technology.
Humidity control is vital in many industrial applications. We'll take a look at nine different humidity measurement…
Humidity control is vital in many industrial applications. We'll take a look at nine different humidity measurement technologies, how they are used, and discuss the difference between relative humidity and dew point.
Ambient light, reflection, and transparent objects can all cause difficulties during machine vision applications. Learn…
Ambient light, reflection, and transparent objects can all cause difficulties during machine vision applications. Learn about these issues and some potential solutions to better ensure safety and quality.