Read the online version if some of the links don't work in this Motion Control, Motors & Drives Update.
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From the Publisher:
Welcome to this inaugural issue
Featured Articles:
VFD FAQs, Motion Control Choices, Servos, Linear Motion, Application Tips and more
Resources & Literature:
Online Tutorial, Components Selector, 3 New Catalogs and Encoder CAD Drawings
Featured Events:
Motion College, Motor & Drives Conference, Robot Safety Conference
Featured Training:
Understanding Motion Control Systems
Product Announcements:
New Controllers, Drives, Motors, Components and much more
| New Product Portals | |
From the Publisher |
Automation.com just launched twelve new product portals, each hosting products, articles, application stories, news headlines and other resources specific to the following topics: -Automatic Identification |
Welcome to the inaugural issue of Motion Control Update This is the first issue in a series of topical e-newsletters to be published by Automation.com in 2007. As the automation industry's leading online resource, we feel obligated to better organize and distribute the plethora of information available across the Web. As a result, we have created 12 different product portals focused on various topics relating to automation. The product portals listed to the left will each host a wealth of information including:
Along with these portals, we will be publishing a monthly (every 4-6 weeks) newsletter focused on each topic. As Automation.com subscribers, you will automatically receive each of these topical newsletters. However, you will have the option to unsubscribe from any topic(s) you do not wish to receive. To review your subscription and edit your preferences, please click here. If you have any suggestions on how we can improve on these product portals or topical e-newsletters, please don't hesitate to contact me. As always, we look forward to better serving your information needs. Enjoy the rest of this Motion Control update! Rick Zabel |
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VFDs: Frequently Asked Questions
AutomationDirect’s technical support team compiled a list of frequently asked questions from customers on variable frequency drives (VFDs), on topics such as sensorless vector control, grounding, dynamic braking, ringing, standards, power cables, drives vs softstarts, low speed operation, line reactors, slow pump problems, and more. Read full article
Motion Control System Choices
Motion control systems are capable of extremely precise speed, position, and torque control. This article compares the three main motion control choices: standalone controllers, PC-based controllers, and PLCs. It describes how indexing, direction and electronic gearing are accomplished, examines future trends in motion control, and describes products available today for motion control. Read full article
Robotics Industry Strives to Diversify in 2007
by Bennett Brumson, Contributing Editor of Robot Industry Association
Despite a slowdown in the automotive sector, the robotics industry as a whole is still relatively healthy. This article quotes various experts and explores applications for robots in 2007, saying that the industry has to diversify, and find opportunities outside the automotive industry. Read full article
Serving Up Better Servos
By: Kristin Lewotsky, Contributing Editor of Motion Control Online
With absolute position monitoring, digital communications, and ever higher torques, today’s servo motors offer motion control designers more options than ever. This article describes servo motors, notes how they are being used to replace hydraulics, as direct drive systems, and for precise positioning, and covers trends such as smaller motors, the shift toward encoders, and the use of Ethernet. Read full article
Straight and narrow motion
By Joe Feeley, Editor in Chief of Control Design
As manufacturers become familiar with modular linear motion, automated systems are finding their way into more and more areas of production. The article explores examples in packaging, a shrink bundler and honing machines, using ball screws, linerar actuators and linear belt drive modules. It wraps up with guidance on using linear actuators. Read full article
Controller Lends Touch of Reality to Simulator
By Lawrence D. Maloney, Contributing Editor of Design News
Case history article describes how a MasterLift simulator from GlobalSim, Salt Lake City, UT, is used to train heavy equipment crane operators. The simulator provides a virtual environment that accurately replicates the physical and operating characteristics of a crane. To create realistic, precise motion in the simulator, the seat that is encased in the cab of the base unit of the MasterLift model 4000 is attached to a motion base controlled by a DMC-1240 4-axis motion controller from Galil Motion Control, Rocklin, CA. Read full article
Servo System Application Tips
By Frank J. Bartos, P.E., Control Engineering Consulting Editor
The article offers tips and guidance on applying electric servo systems, including proper grounding, shielding and EMI practices. Topics covered include electric servo systems, servo motion control, servo motors and controls, closed-loop control, CNC machining and tuning software. The article counsels you to buy a motion controller, drive, and servo motor that are designed to work together—as a system—to eliminate numerous problems, including wiring, configuration, and communication issues. Read full article
AutomationDirect Learning Site
Learn.AutomationDirect.com is an online streaming tutorial site offering training and information on a wide range of practical automation products. Topics covered include Drives and Motors, Motor Controls, PLCs, operator interfaces, software and sensors.
Online Motion Components Selector Saves Time
MotionInfo.com (www.motioninfo.com) is a online motion control resource that offers a series of valuable new tools for selecting and sizing (coming soon) various types of electric motor-based products including motors, linear actuators, gear-motors, motors with matching drives, integrated motor drives, and motors with many different integral components.
Parker releases motion control product catalog - 12/19/06
The 240-page, full-color guide covers the Bayside brand of motion and control systems products, incluidng linear and rotary positioning stages, frameless kit motors, gearheads, integral gearmotors and a special section devoted to Parker Bayside's Engineered Solutions Group.
SICK STEGMANN provides downloadable 2D and 3D CAD drawings for encoders - 12/13/06
An online catalog of 2D and 3D configurable product models using SolidWorks 3D PartStream.NET allows customers to configure, view and download 2D and 3D CAD drawings directly into their designs to check for fit and function. SolidWorks product models are available for SICK STEGMANN’s absolute and incremental encoders, length measuring systems, and motor feedback systems.
National Instruments releases downloadable catalog - 12/05/06
Measurement and Automation Catalog 2007 describes software and hardware for test, control and design applications. For 2007, NI has made it even easier for customers to find what they need by providing the catalog in a searchable, downloadable eBook format.
Danaher releases 2006/2007 Guide to Thomson-Deltran clutches and brakes - 11/21/06
This brake and clutch solutions catalog details the complete line of electromagnetic friction brakes and clutches, and The Genuine Wrap Spring™ family of wrap spring clutch/brakes. The new AKB and PMB series power-off spring set brakes are also included.
Motion and Motor College
February 6, 2007 - Fairmont Hotel, Dallas
Organized by the Small Motors and Motion Association, the course covers “Design and Control Techniques for the Mitigation of Torque Ripple (and Cogging) Produced by Permanent Magnet Synchronous Machines,” and is taught by Steve Pekarek, PhD, Associate Professor of Electrical and Computer Engineering, Purdue University. Price: $495. More Information
2007 Motor & Drive Systems Conference
February 7-8, 2007 Hyatt Regency Dallas, Dallas, TX
Organized by e-Drive magazine, this two-day conference focuses on the latest advancements and economics in electric motor and drive and motion control technology. More Information
2007 North American Robot Safety Conference
March 26-28, 2007 -
Holiday Inn, Toronto International Airport, Toronto
Organized by the Robotics Industry Association, this three-day training event presents strategies for safety systems in automated environments. More Information
35th Annual PTRA Conference
April 29-May 2, 2007 - South Seas Island Resort, Captiva Island, FL Organized by the Power-Motion Technology Representatives Association. More Information
HEIDENHAIN promotes three in sales and product management - 01/19/07
New National Sales and Product Managers for North America are Kevin Kaufenberg, Electronics, Semiconductor & Metrology Div; Chris Weber, Machine Tool Div; and Tom Wyatt, Automation Div.
ABB establishes Control Systems and Products center for Asia - 01/18/07
The Regional Action Center (RAC) in Singapore will provide technical and training support for automation customers, plus regional sales support, marketing and business development functions. The opening ceremony for the RAC took place on January 16, 2007.
KUKA Robotics to provide stainless steel robot for food application - 01/11/07
Zepnick, of Green Bay, Wisconsin, has incorporated the KUKA KR 15 SL stainless steel robot into its food handling and packaging system. The use of stainless steel on all the robot's surfaces, together with the high IP rating, makes the KUKA KR 15 SL robot suitable for all fields of application with stringent requirements as to hygiene, sterility and absence of particles.
Danaher Motion reaches 225,000 axes milestone with SynqNet - 01/05/07
Shipments of SynqNet motion and I/O network now exceed 225,000 axes since 2003.
National Instruments releases LEGO MINDSTORMS NXT toolkit for older kids - 12/19/06
With the new LabVIEW toolkit, more advanced MINDSTORMS NXT users, including adults, students and secondary school and university educators, now can program the NXT using advanced programming tools available in LabVIEW.
Igus products aid climbing machines that eliminate dangerous chemicals - 12/18/06
International Climbing Machines (ICM) uses igus products in its climbing apparatus that removes lead paint or chemical toxins from tall surfaces. ICM develops portable, remote-controlled devices capable of removing lethal materials on virtually any vertical or inverted surface.
Bosch Rexroth names Berend Bracht President and CEO - 12/18/06
Berend Bracht, former CEO of Bosch Rexroth China and former head of the company’s U.S. industrial hydraulics operation, will take over as president and chief executive officer effective January 1, 2007. Bracht replaces Wolfgang Dangel, who has led the U.S. subsidiary of the German-based company since April 2003. Dangel is leaving to accept a leadership position with the Schaeffler Group.
Understanding Motion Control Systems
This practical 3-day course introduces engineering concepts of motors and drives that can be easily understood by both engineers and technicians unfamiliar with the technology and not accustomed to complex theory and mathematics. The course materials feature simple explanations, summaries, review questions, glossaries, and reference tables for formulas and conversions. The course begins with an explanation of the principles of DC and variablefrequency AC drive technology. It provides an overview of the different types of drive components with emphasis given to common motion control applications. We will cover:
- DC and AC motor and drive operation
- Stepper motors
- Vector motors
- Brushless servo motors
- Linear stepper and linear servo motors
- PWM stepper and servo drives
- Feedback devices such as tachometers, resolvers, and encoders that control speed and torque.
Additional instruction topics will cover drive systems control methods, troubleshooting, and maintenance. Design engineers, automation and control specialists, and maintenance technicians will find this to be an invaluable learning experience. The course includes a detailed, organized binder for future reference.
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AutomationDirect offers 575Vac Motors and Drives - 11/10/06 Marathon Blue Chip XRI motors improve system reliability while maintaining optimum motor system efficiency and substantial energy savings. Available in 15-100 hp sizes, Blue Chip XRI motors meet NEMA Premium efficiency levels and are an excellent choice for use with compressors, blowers, conveyors, pumps, and in dirty or dusty environments. Prices start at $765.00. |
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Festo announces Multi-Axis Controllers and Drives - 01/05/07 SEC-AC-SMLC is a fully-integrated control solution providing hardware and software building blocks that are engineered to easily plug together and work as a system. This allows engineers to focus on solving their application instead of integrating control components. |
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Advantech releases PC/104 4-axis motor control card - 01/09/07 The PCM-3240 stepping/pulse-type servo motor control card starts at $845. The card's intelligent NOVA MCX341-motion ASIC provides a variety of motion control functions, such as 2/3-axis linear interpolation, 2-axis circular interpolation, and T/S-curve acceleration/deceleration rate. The PCM-3240 performs these functions without requiring any main CPU processing. The PCM-3240 fits onto a standard PC/104 board. |
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Beckhoff announces machine control synchronization software - 12/05/06 TwinCAT Remote Synchronization library of software function blocks helps users synchronize several multi-axis machines that have TwinCAT control systems. The software allows for general time synchronization of information for distributed control to coordinate multiple machines by calculating offsets to compensate for differences in execution time and CPU clock frequencies. |
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TURCK releases retractile Profibus-DP cordsets - 12/18/06 SEC-AC-SMLC is a fully-integrated control solution providing hardware and software building blocks that are engineered to easily plug together and work as a system. This allows engineers to focus on solving their application instead of integrating control components. |
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Midwest Motion Products announces 24V DC Gearmotor - 11/24/06 Accepting any 24 Volt DC source including battery power, No. MMP-TM55-24V GP52-079 reversible gearmotor is rated for 80 in-lb continuous torque at 58 RPM, and 448 in.-lb Peak. The motor measures 2.14” in Diameter, by 7.7” long, and has a keyed output shaft of 12mm diameter by 25mm long. |
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Rockwell Automation ups power ratings to 350 hp in Allen-Bradley PowerFlex AC Drives - 01/15/07 Optimized for commercial fan and pump applications, PowerFlex 400 AC drives feature built-in network connectivity for integration into building automation systems, as well as flexible packaging options for easy installation and startup. |
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Rexroth introduces integrated drive/control system - 01/05/07 IndraDrive is a complete drive, motion control, and logic control mounted directly on the motor. It uses the motor casing surface as the heat sink. This reduces the total build space required by 50% when compared to the copmpany's traditional servo drives. |
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Applied Motion Products releases stepper drives for OEM market - 12/21/06 Engineered to satisfy the price and performance needs of the OEM market, the ST5-S offers advanced features to obtain absolute maximum performance benefits from a stepper motor. the ST5-S can be controlled by a step and direction input, or by a host controller via serial communications. |
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PMD announces motion card for $380 - 12/01/06 Prodigy-PCI Motion Card for multi-axis, high-performance control is available in 1, 2, 3, and 4-axis versions. The card provides advanced motion control features including trajectory generation, servo loop closure, quadrature signal input, motor output signal generation, performance trace, on-the-fly changes and commutation. Motor type can be software-selected on a per-axis basis, and includes DC brush, brushless DC, step, and microstepping. |
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Baldor announces Ethernet-compatible three-phase AC motor drive - 11/28/06 The MotiFlex e100 three-phase AC motor drives have Ethernet Powerlink and TCP/IP connectivity, and can be used in both centralized control and distributed "intelligent drive" scenarios. The initial launch of MotiFlex e100 provides drives rated for output powers up to 16 A, in five steps of 1.5, 3, 6, 10.5 and 16 A. |
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ControlEng adds wizard to servo sizing software - 11/28/06 ServoSoft v2.6 now has EasySize Wizard, which walks users through each step of the servo system sizing process. Helpful hints are displayed at each step. Each time the user clicks 'Next,' the main form follows the wizard so that the user can see how ServoSoft is organized and, eventually, learn to navigate without the wizard. |
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Animatics introduces SmartMotors, integrated motion control system - 11/24/06 The SM2315DT incorporates a Servo Motor, Amplifier, and Motion Controller into the same integral frame. It has an 8-pole compact rotor with higher copper filling factor that can generate two times (2X) more continuous torque than the company's previous model. It delivers 112 oz-in of peak torque while maintaining 57 oz-in of continuous torque with a maximum speed capability of 4700 rpm. |
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SKF releases smart control unit that can synchronize six actuators - 11/16/06 “Smart Control Units” can synchronize the speeds of up to six different actuators and store frequently used positions for quick selection using only one command. These units have a standardized plug system (DIN8 for actuators and HD15 for operating devices), three or six channels for actuators, and adjustable operating parameters. |
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ABB introduces 20-20,000 amp DC motor drive - 11/10/06 DCS800 power converters have supply voltages of 230-1200 Vac, outputs from 20 to 20,000 Adc, and CE, cULus and C-Tick approvals. Expansion modules are available for all commonly used fieldbuses, and for additional analog and digital inputs/outputs. |
Other Product Announcements
- Midwest Motion announces 12 Vdc Mini Gearmotor - 1/19/07
- Kerk announces TFE coating on lead screws - 12/29/06
- Zero-Max announces couplings with zero backlash - 12/22/06
- Haydon Switch releases Size 8 linear actuators with encoder feedback - 12/19/06
- SKF announces roller screws that outperform ball screws for heavy loads - 12/14/06
- Anver announces food-grade suction cups that handle muffins, cakes and pastry - 12/07/06
- Danaher releases info on power-off brakes - 12/04/06
- AMCI adds heavy duty shaft to encoders & resolvers - 12/01/06
- ITT introduces connector for medium and large servomotors - 11/27/06
- ITT announces line of servomotor connectors - 11/15/06
- SICK STEGMANN releases programmble incremental encoders with USB - 11/15/06
- Smart AC drive from Baldor simplifies cable winding automation - 11/15/06
- Pepperl+Fuchs introduces Encoders for space restricted applications - 11/10/06
- Rexroth announces Motion Control System for semiconductor and medical industries - 11/10/06
- AMETEK announces small, rugged brushless DC motors - 11/08/06
- Pittman releases brush-commutated DC motors - 11/02/06
Product Search
I hope you enjoyed this motion control update. If you have any comments or suggestions regarding the content in this e-newsletter or on Automation.com, please don't hesitate to contact me.
Rick Zabel
Vice President, Editor-in-chief
Automation.com
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