Motion Control Components News

Analog sensors paved the way in plug-and-play, but digital sensors win hands down for response time, managing noise, and communicating so much more data. Still, a review of advantages and limitations of open-standard magnetorestrictive sensors and proprietary synchronous serial interface (SSI) configurations is vital for minimizing signal delays and boosting motion control system performance.

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The "Intelligent Pill," unveiled at a recent pharmaceutical conference, is a true position-detecting wonder. Its sensors measure acidity and temperature to determine position in the stomach and whether to release a dose of medicine. Microprocessor, battery, and wireless radio aid the release of meds to more precise spots in the body than previously possible.

Step motors are fairly robust as motion providers, but they have an inherent weakness — resonance that can lead to intolerable vibration. When engineers can't smooth the operation with changes in voltage or load parameters, dampers might be the answer. This Machine Design report and related video discusses routes to give step motors smoother moves.

As inverter switching speeds become faster, conducted noise levels are an increasing problem, creating interference or failure in peripheral equipment. The typical solutions are heavier earth cables, braided wire, or shielded cables with larger diameters. Two companies, however, have paired up to develop a thinner, non-shielded motor drive cable that reportedly doubles recovery efficiency of conducted noise current.

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The aim in motion systems is generally either high speed and high throughput or high accuracy with lower speed requirements. Sometimes a job requires both, as was the case in the redesign of a machine for testing automotive sensor components. The objective: select a high-performance controller and amplifier that can manage extremely short moves, 0.001 in. in 1-2 milliseconds.

Engineers often select linear motors when they seek accuracy in long or short strokes. Yet one new design, featuring a moving-magnet linear motor, is being tapped more for its fast response time. The applications include a machine for testing spinal discs, where moving-magnet motors generate the motion needed for realistic human body dynamics.

The company that introduced the world's first digital DC drive has plans to help keep the large installed base of expensive DC motors going. Control Techniques released its first new DC drive in 15 years, suggesting that drives with modern controls, system integration, and connectivity will help extend motor service life and improve performance.

A recent Design News article draws comments from automation suppliers on what their customers are demanding in drive products. Among the expectations: expanded control capability; support for different types of motors; management of regenerative energy; advanced control algorithms — mainly in support of a new focus on increasing the power efficiency of motion control systems.

Mick Jagger's song reminds us. Yet, in cultivating its leaders, manufacturer Tuthill does ask its executives to think about what they most want to do. The inquiry stirs passions and sends some workers seeking far different paths. But the company believes the process creates "conscious" and energized leaders who can bring about more improvements and inspire teams to achieve new heights.

A prototype sailing vessel takes unmanned vehicle performance to new heights — and full advantage of motion control components. Not only is the 30 ft trimaran remotely operable by VHF radio, satellite, or line-of-site UHF communication, it's green too — able to switch its motors off for efficient sailing when the boat speed exceeds four knots.

Energy Opportunities Everywhere?

We habitually look outward, especially to government, for solving our energy problems. But are we ignoring the usual best place to start — within our own companies? Can you share any efficiency improvements that worked in your work environment?