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Basic Applications of Pneumatic, Hydraulic, and Electric Actuators

In this article, we take a look at hydraulic, pneumatic, and electric actuators and how they are used in different scenarios.

12 hours ago by Robin Mitchell

How To Start A Smarter Fluid Power Preventative Maintenance Plan

Smart connected devices are providing savings and increasing productivity for companies. However, focusing too much on the results may lead to more complex solutions and headaches.

one day ago by Jeff Kerns

Using PID and Feedback Loops for Precise Motion Systems

PID controllers are an excellent method of using feedback to turn an otherwise open-loop system into one which can follow a carefully prescribed profile, correcting for inconsistencies caused by the equipment, the environment, and even the products in the manufacturing process.

4 days ago by David Peterson

The Role of Industrial Robots in Workplace Safety and Efficiency

Industrial robots have replaced many of the dangerous and repetitive tasks that workers have faced in manufacturing.

February 13, 2020 by David Peterson

Connecting Remote Input and Output Devices Using Computer Networking Technologies

Networked remote I/O allows us to work with a machine center separately from the rest of the system, and drop the solution right in place.

February 11, 2020 by David Peterson

Design Strategies and Characteristics of Adaptive Machines

In this article, we take a look at adaptive machines and how they differ from traditional manufacturing techniques.

February 09, 2020 by Robin Mitchell

Common Uses of Force Control in a Robotic Cell

This article discusses force control in robots and how it can be applied in a few different ways.

February 08, 2020 by Damond Goodwin

Using a Human-Machine Interface to Streamline Operations

A human-machine interface is a valuable tool used to display key information and control your automated system with a panel that can be designed and programmed with flexibility.

February 07, 2020 by David Peterson

The Role of Variable Frequency Drives (VFDs) In Motor Control

Introduction to the role of variable frequency drives (VFDs) in motor control for medium to large-size industrial applications.

February 05, 2020 by David Peterson

Building Cyber Resilience In Industrial Control Systems

Industrial control system cybersecurity can be a matter of vital corporate and national interest. What are the operational risks, and how are they assessed?

February 04, 2020 by Weston Floyd

What Are Plenum-Rated Cables? Safety, Function, and Usage

In this article, we will look at plenum cables, what they are made of, and when it can be appropriate to use them.

February 03, 2020 by Robin Mitchell

Parametric Modeling in CATIA CAD Software for Process Optimization

Learn about CATIA, a CAD software program used for parametric modeling, and how it can improve automated processes.

February 02, 2020 by Maher Elkhaldi

Vibration Monitoring in Predictive Maintenance (PdM)

Advanced automation and IoT devices can detect vibration, but even complex systems can miss a variable and cause chaos.

January 25, 2020 by Jeff Kerns

Cyber Resilience in Industrial Control Systems

Take a look at the concept of cyber resilience in control systems and how it relates to cybersecurity for critical infrastructure in the age of security vulnerabilities

January 10, 2020 by Weston Floyd

Applications and Limitations of Genetic Programming

Learn about the applications and future directions of genetic programming.

December 27, 2019 by Greg Schmidt

Evolving a Sorting Program and Symbolic Regression

Learn about symbolic regression in genetic programming, one of the breaking fields of research for algorithm development that can be used in the control systems of tomorrow.

December 24, 2019 by Greg Schmidt

Genetic Operators in Evolutionary Algorithms

Learn about genetic operators and their role in future algorithms for automation.

December 23, 2019 by Greg Schmidt

An Introduction to Genetic Programming: The “Holy Grail” of Systems that Can Author Themselves

Can a system author itself? Genetic programming may represent the next revolution for control systems, robot navigation, pattern recognition, and more.

December 19, 2019 by Greg Schmidt

The TLS (Transport Layer Security) Protocol in Secure Modbus/TCP

What is TLS and what is its role in the Modbus-TCP version of the Modbus protocol?

December 17, 2019 by Weston Floyd

Introduction to Modbus

This article will introduce Modbus, an industrial protocol that laid the foundation for fieldbus communication in industrial systems.

December 10, 2019 by Stephen St. Michael