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Gear and Pulley Motion Transmission

The choice of load device and transmission method often dictates what kind of control system is used, so it’s important to be familiar with the mechanical and electrical components of a system.

2 days ago by David Peterson

The Evolution of Autonomous Mobile Robots

What are autonomous mobile robots and how did they come to be a crucial part of the industrial manufacturing industry?

September 09, 2020 by Damond Goodwin

Common NEMA Enclosure Ratings 

This article discusses several different types of NEMA enclosure ratings and which one may be the right one for your specific applications.

August 24, 2020 by Dennis Lynch

Industrial Networking Terms Explained

This article includes a list of some common terms for industrial devices, and as with all computer-related terms, the descriptions are greatly simplified.

August 16, 2020 by David Peterson

Motion Control Systems: Velocity and Acceleration Feedforward

Learn the strategy called feedforward which can predict motion control system outputs. This helps to turn the feedback into a double-check as opposed to the sole provider of the output signal.

August 14, 2020 by David Peterson

How to Define the Tool Center Point (TCP) on a Robot

TCP is used to create necessary adjustments that allow the controller to shift the coordinate system to keep track of the tool instead of the arm's end. 

August 10, 2020 by Damond Goodwin

What is Overall Equipment Effectiveness (OEE)?

In production, ‘effectiveness’ can refer to a number of factors. If these factors are all considered together, the overall effectiveness of the equipment and process may be rated.

July 30, 2020 by David Peterson

An Overview of Automatic Guided Vehicles

What are Automated Guided Vehicles (AGVs) and how are they becoming more widely used within industrial manufacturing?

July 27, 2020 by Damond Goodwin

Protecting Control Networks with Safety Instrumented Systems (SIS)

Safety is of utmost importance in the day-to-day operations of any system, especially a system where humans and machines work together. Learn all about Safety Instrumented Systems and what it takes to keep workers safe, and the system running smoothly!

June 29, 2020 by David Peterson

Replacing Advanced Process Automation Control System (APACS) with Controllogix

A synopsis of a recent control system replacement on replacing APACS with Controllogix.

June 26, 2020 by Dennis Lynch

How Thermal Imaging Can Help Keep Systems Safe

This article looks at thermal imaging equipment and discusses the advantages and applications of thermal imaging in a variety of control systems.

June 22, 2020 by Muhammad Asim Niazi

Utilizing Exoskeleton Robots for Industrial Applications

Learn all about exoskeletons, a way to fuse robotics and humans in ways that can help the manufacturing process while protecting the human body from excessive strain.

June 19, 2020 by Akshay Kumar

Advanced Control Techniques for Collaborative Manipulators

Learn all about the collaborative robots (cobots) that work alongside humans and the many advanced strategies put in place so they can function efficiently and safely in industrial settings.

June 09, 2020 by Akshay Kumar

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?

June 07, 2020 by David Peterson

How Does Motion Planning for Autonomous Robot Manipulation Work?

Learn all about visual servoing and motion planning to create an autonomous robot!

June 01, 2020 by Akshay Kumar

An Introduction to Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition (SCADA)

Learn about the supervisory control and data acquisition system used to program PLCs and PIDs. See where, how, and why SCADA systems are so popular.

May 29, 2020 by Anish Devasia

Introduction to Shielding and Shielded Cables

Within an industrial setting, noise from EMI can create huge problems. For large load devices using many amps of current, small electrical noise may not be too critical. But when it comes to low-voltage and low-current communication wires, just a small amount of voltage finding its way onto a wire can corrupt data transmissions. Shielded cables can help to protect against that problem.

May 24, 2020 by David Peterson

An Introduction to User Requirement Specifications (URS)

Learn all about user requirement specifications (URS), including what should and should not be included and their importance for organizations planning to purchase new equipment.

May 20, 2020 by Muhammad Asim Niazi

How To Measure DC Voltage With a Multimeter

The simplest and most common measurement to obtain using a multimeter is voltage, in fact, they are often called ‘voltmeters’ for this reason.

May 15, 2020 by David Peterson

How to Choose the Right Multimeter

Most every engineer knows that there is no replacement for having the correct tool. This is especially important in testing and repair when every subtle characteristic of the tool may influence the readings.

May 12, 2020 by David Peterson