Motion and Controls Reference Materials
Technical Articles
Reference Articles 101 - 200 of 2135
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Top 5 Trends Shaping Motion & Robotics
Description: Industrial operations are undergoing a historic transformation. What used to be linear, fixed, and mechanical is becoming adaptive, autonomous and data‑driven. Motion and robotics systems now ...
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Interferometric Metrology of Spherical and Aspherical Optical Components Aided by Hexapod 6-DOF Micropositioning System
Description: Freely programmable motion in all 6 degrees of freedom enables precise, computer-controlled orientation of test samples. ...
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Quick Tips for Successful DC Motor & Gearmotor Operation
Description: Understanding your load characteristics: It is critical to ensure your motor or gearmotor is operating within the recommended torque parameters. To verify this, measure the current draw during a ...
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The Rise of Humanoid Robots
From: PortescapDescription: As robotics moves toward real-world deployment, success will come down to more than innovation. It will require motion solutions that are engineered precisely, delivered reliably, and scaled ...
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Understanding Torque Curves: Why They Matter When Selecting a VFD
Description: Understanding torque requirements ensures your VFD is properly matched to the load, delivering reliable performance, energy efficiency, and long equipment life. ...
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Gear Grinding Technology in Planetary Gearbox Manufacturing
From: KOFON Motion GroupDescription: Details how gear grinding corrects heat-treatment distortion to achieve DIN 3-4 precision, improve surface topography, and enable tooth flank modification-and how this process has been engineered into ...
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Guidelines for Successful Operation of a Fail Safe Brake
Description: If you are unaware of your back-driving torque, further testing may be required. It is recommended that the brake which is identified to be used is verified to have sufficient holding torque for your ...
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Power Transmission Systems: Load, Efficiency, and Design
Description: Analyze how chains, belts, and gears transmit power under varying loads, focusing on efficiency, wear mechanisms, and system design considerations in industrial machinery. ...
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Why Helical Gears Improve Planetary Gearboxes
From: KOFON Motion GroupDescription: Helical gears provide smoother engagement, lower noise, and higher load capacity compared with traditional spur gears. This article explains how helical gear technology enhances precision, ...
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Robot Joint Modules: Design and Performance Analysis
From: KOFON Motion GroupDescription: Analyze the structure and working principles of integrated robot joint modules, focusing on torque transmission, thermal behavior, and design trade-offs in compact robotic systems. ...
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6-Axis Fast Hexapod Powers Portable Computerized Dynamic Posturography and Balance Training System
Description: Advanced Motion Control Solution Helps Injured Soldiers Regain their Balance ...
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Building Reliable Robotic Solutions: Partnering for Success in Micro Motion Control
From: PortescapDescription: Advancements in robotic technology continuously enhance lives by supporting applications in medicine, industrial automation, and other sectors. For example, myoelectric prosthetic limbs improve ...
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Brushed DC Motor Speed Control Using PWM
Description: Explains how voltage control and PWM enable efficient speed regulation in brushed DC motors, providing practical guidance for controller design and variable-speed applications. ...
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Gearbox Motors for Force and Speed Control
Description: Explains how integrating brushless motors with gearboxes provides precise torque and speed control for automotive, industrial automation, medical, and aerospace applications. ...
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Linear Actuator Speed vs. Force: The Essential Design Trade-Off
From: Actuonix Motion DevicesDescription: If you’ve ever looked at a datasheet and wondered why an actuator can’t be both the fastest and the strongest in the lineup, it comes down to a fundamental trade-off. Think of it like a ...
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Gearbox Maintenance Tips and Mistakes to Avoid
From: DieQua CorporationDescription: DieQua offers tips for installing, operating, and maintaining gearboxes. Below, we discuss common gearbox maintenance mistakes and how to avoid them. Specifically, our tips include both the error and ...
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Enabling Quantum Precision: Why Cryogenic 6-Axis Hexapods Matter
Description: Unlocking Precision in Extreme Environments ...
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How Mobile Devices Are Transforming Enterprise Operations Across Industries
From: AgozTech LLCDescription: For many years, enterprise mobile technology was most closely associated with warehouse operations. Barcode scanners, mobile computers, and portable printers helped logistics teams manage inventory ...
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Converting Rotary Motion to Linear Motion | Practical Options Compared
From: Actuonix Motion DevicesDescription: Electric motors are cheap, reliable and abundant. This is why for many applications, including linear motion, they're often the starting point. Whether you're pushing, pulling, lifting, or ...
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Case Study - B01 Robot Dog Featuring Actuonix
From: Actuonix Motion DevicesDescription: In the quest for a cleaner environment, innovative technologies are paving the way for automated solutions to urban litter problems. One such solution is the development of an autonomous robot dog by ...
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How Universal Motors Run on AC and DC
Description: Series-wound universal motors reverse stator and armature magnetic fields simultaneously, maintaining constant torque under AC or DC power. This design enables compact, high-speed motors for ...
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How to Match an AC Drive to Different Motor Types
Description: A practical breakdown of what to consider for each motor type. ...
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How HMIs Improve Operator Safety in Industrial Environments
Description: Human-Machine Interfaces (HMIs) play a crucial role in protecting operators by providing real-time insight, control, and automation in industrial systems. Beyond convenience, a well-designed HMI ...
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What Is an HMI Architecture? A Beginner's Guide
Description: Why HMI Architecture Matters ...
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Understanding Tags, Data Mapping, and Variables in HMI Design
Description: A well-designed HMI doesn't just look good-it communicates clearly, responds instantly, and reflects what's really happening in the process. At the heart of all of that are tags, data mapping, and ...
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PRIME: Fiber-Optic Fabrication Breakthrough Enables Advanced Neuroscience Exploration at WUSTL
Description: "Disco Ball" Fiber Manufactured with Ultrafast Lasers; Multi-Axis Precision Motion Delivered by Pi's A-311 Planar Air-Bearing XY Stage and V-308 High-Speed Nanofocusing Stage ...
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Warehouse Forklift Scanner Mounting Guide for Standardized Zebra Deployments
From: AgozTech LLCDescription: In multi-site warehouse environments, inconsistent forklift device setups often lead to scanning delays, equipment damage, and unnecessary procurement complexity. Standardizing how Zebra scanners and ...
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Electromagnetic Principles of Permanent Magnet DC Motors
Description: This paper examines the structural design and electromagnetic operation of permanent magnet DC motors, evaluating torque generation, commutation mechanisms, and efficiency advantages in compact ...
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How to Maximize Fail-Safe Behavior
Description: Servo drive safety integrated functions: How to maximize fail-safe behavior. Maximize fail-safe behavior so that for any single fault, the system is transitioned to a safe state. When creating the ...
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IP Ratings: Using Linear Actuators in Challenging Environments
Description: Breaking Down the IP Rating ...
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The Engineer's Guide to Choosing Gearmotors for Dirty and Wet Environments
From: Bodine Electric CompanyDescription: This whitepaper is a guide for selecting gearmotors suitable for dirty and wet environments, emphasizing the importance of ingress protection. ...
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Precision in Every Step: Hybrid Steppers for Life Sciences
From: PortescapDescription: Enabling Smarter Motion in Life Science Applications ...
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A Technical Guide to Custom Versus Standard Servo Drives
From: ElectroCraftDescription: For most motion control applications, a standard servo drive isn't just adequate - it's the best solution. These off-the-shelf units offer a practical balance of proven performance, immediate ...
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Motor Options for RC Blowers: Single-Phase, Three-Phase, and More
Description: Choosing the right motor for a regenerative (RC) blower is just as important as selecting the blower itself. The motor affects everything from performance and energy efficiency to compatibility with ...
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Closed-Loop vs. Open-Loop Vector Control in VFDs
Description: Vector control (also called field-oriented control) is a powerful motor control method used in variable frequency drives (VFDs) to deliver precise torque and speed regulation. It comes in two main ...
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Brush Friction, Heat, and Efficiency in Motor Selection
Description: Brushless motors remove brush friction, reducing heat and wear. Engineers should evaluate efficiency, torque control, thermal limits, and maintenance for industrial, automotive, and agricultural ...
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Simplify Your Motor Control Center Configuration, Monitoring and Maintenance
Description: Your IntelliCENTER® dataset identifies the critical Ethernet/IP-enabled motor control components in your MCC - helping keep your equipment running profitably ...
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Unified Process and Power Integration in Mining
Description: Mining companies today face a complex reality: operations involve multiple systems and processes spread across different areas within a site that must work together seamlessly. This complexity ...
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How to Use C++, Datasets for Motion Control Programming
Description: As machine controllers take on more responsibility beyond traditional control tasks, systems are expected to handle motion control, data processing and decisions in one platform. How can control ...
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Case Sealing Within Packaging Automation
From: parvalux by maxonDescription: The whole point of automation is to speed up all aspects of the packaging process ensuring products are out of the warehouse in the shortest time possible. The process has many key stages, including ...
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Parvalux Basics: Gearboxes
From: parvalux by maxonDescription: Here at Parvalux we have over 75 years of expertise in designing and building geared motors. However, we appreciate that not everyone is as experienced and knowledgeable about this as we are, so we ...
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Packaging Automation - Void Filling Machines
From: parvalux by maxonDescription: Packaging automation plays a crucial role in the protection of goods during transit ??" from pharmaceuticals, to consumables to electronic components. Void filling machines are key to the packaging ...
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Efficient Brushed DC Motor Control for Industrial Applications
Description: Covers brushed DC motor control fundamentals, controller design, load handling, and speed regulation, enabling efficient, precise, and reliable operation in automotive, industrial, and consumer ...
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Brushless Motor Encoders for Automotive Seat Position Control
Description: Explains how brushless motor encoders provide position feedback for automotive power seats, enabling precise motion control, smooth adjustment, and reliable stopping through closed-loop motor control ...
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Meeting the Demands of Modern Logistics: The Role of Mounted Mobile Printing
From: AgozTech LLCDescription: Mounted mobile printers on forklifts and other material-handling equiment are reshaping how companies approach labeling. ...
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AC Series Motor vs Universal Motor
Description: Compare AC series and universal motors to understand their efficiency, durability, speed characteristics, and best applications for appliances and industrial machinery. ...
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High-Performance DC Brushless Motor Generator
Description: Discover a compact, efficient, and eco-friendly DC brushless generator with high-speed operation, low noise, durability, and versatile power applications. ...
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Carbon Brushes in Single-Phase AC Motors
Description: Explore brush types, materials, contact performance, and spring structures critical for commutation efficiency and lifespan in universal motors. ...
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Technical Overview of Stepper Motors
Description: Detailed analysis of stepping motor types, construction, key parameters, and precision control applications in automation, robotics, medical devices, and automotive systems. ...
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Brushless DC Motor for Vehicle Air Pumps
Description: Technical overview of brushless DC motor design improvements, including high-efficiency permanent magnet structure, anodized aluminum housing for heat dissipation, and integrated drive control for ...
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Gear Motors: Working Principles and Industrial Applications
Description: Understand gear motors' design, components, and types, including planetary, worm, spur, and helical, for precise torque control in automotive, automation, and industrial systems. ...
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BLDC Motors: Principles and High-Precision Applications
Description: Explore brushless DC motors' design, inner- and outer-rotor types, electronic control, and advantages in efficiency, precision, low noise, and reliability across multiple industries. ...
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Precision-Control Brushless Fan Motors for Engineering Applications
Description: High-efficiency, low-noise brushless fan motors with stepless speed regulation and long service life, designed for HVAC, medical, and industrial ventilation systems. ...
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Synchronous vs. Induction Motors Explained
Description: A technical comparison of synchronous and induction motors, highlighting efficiency, torque, speed control, and application suitability for industrial and automotive systems. ...
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Induction Motors: Principles and Applications
Description: Technical overview of single-phase and three-phase induction motors, explaining electromagnetic operation, torque generation, and suitability for industrial and consumer applications. ...
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DC Motor Solution for Precision Valve Control
Description: Technical overview of low-voltage DC permanent magnet motors with integrated angle sensors and clutch-equipped gearboxes, enabling accurate, flexible, and space-efficient water valve adjustment. ...
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How To Control Multiple Actuators Together
From: Actuonix Motion DevicesDescription: When your project requires four, six, or even ten linear actuators working together, the control strategy becomes more nuanced than simply wiring everything to a single switch. This guide will walk ...
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Custom Micro Linear Actuators for Blister Rupture and Microfluidic Valve Control
From: Actuonix Motion DevicesDescription: A few years ago, a leading OEM developing a cartridge-based microfluidic analyzer approached Actuonix with a unique challenge. Their system needed precise blister activation and stable microfluidic ...
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Hexapod Controllers and Simulation Software
Description: How Do Hexapods Work? ...
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Operating Linear Stages under Force Control
Description: How Advanced Control Algorithms enable Precision Force Control, Connecting the Future to the Past - from Artificial Feel" to Haptics of Augmented Reality ...
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Rethinking Microtome Motion Control: Why Precision Matters More Than Ever
Description: The Challenge with Conventional Microtome Designs ...
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Servomotor Help: Demystify Servo Sizing
Description: Understand common mistakes when sizing. Review some common servomotor applications. See how selecting a gearbox assists in sizing selection. ...
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Stepper Motor: Working Principle & Applications
Description: Explore stepper motors' discrete step operation, types (PM, VR, Hybrid), and precise control mechanisms, ideal for robotics, 3D printing, and automated systems. ...
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Stepper Motor Output Power Explained
Description: Learn how stepper motor output power varies with speed, torque, and driving conditions, helping engineers estimate performance for precise motion control applications. ...
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AC vs DC Motors: Key Differences Explained
Description: Discover the main differences in operation, speed control, efficiency, and maintenance between AC and DC motors to select the optimal motor for your application. ...
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Four Key Electric Motors for EVs
Description: Explore permanent magnet, induction, switched reluctance, and brushless DC motors, their features, and how they power electric vehicles efficiently and reliably. ...
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Why a Virtual Pivot Point Matters in Optical and Photonics Alignment
Description: What Is a Pivot Point? ...
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From Paper To Digital: Supporting WMS Digitization With Reliable Forklift Tablet Mounts
From: AgozTech LLCDescription: Warehouse and distribution environments are accelerating toward full digital transformation, and for good reason. Manual, paper-based workflows slow down operations, increase the risk of errors, and ...
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Applications of Gearbox Motors
Description: Explore the applications, benefits, and technical significance of AC and DC gearbox motors in robotics, automotive, healthcare, manufacturing, and agriculture. ...
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Optimizing Motors for Adjustable Standing Desks
Description: Learn about brushless motors, gear systems, and design strategies that enhance desk stability, user comfort, and long-term motor reliability. ...
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Improve Micro-Hole Drilling with a Hybrid Motion Technology Approach
Description: Thanks to new generation of lasers offering features such as ultra-short, laser drilling is becoming the method of choice for creating small holes in a variety of materials. These advanc es make it is ...
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Optimizing Power Seat Motors for Vehicles
Description: Learn about BLDC motors, gearboxes, and motor design strategies that improve comfort, precision, and durability in automotive power seat applications. ...
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Optimizing Motors for Hair Dryer Efficiency
Description: Technical insights into AC, DC, and brushless motor designs to achieve lightweight, quiet, and energy-efficient hair dryers suitable for professional and consumer markets. ...
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Comparing Actuator Controllers - Which One is Right for Your Project?
From: Actuonix Motion DevicesDescription: The performance of your actuator is tied to how you control it. The wrong controller can limit precision or even cause damage, while the right one unlocks smooth, reliable motion. The right controller ...
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Pairing a Servomotor with the Right Gearhead
From: DieQua CorporationDescription: There is an explosion of servomotor integration into machine design in response to the demand to automate nearly every aspect of manufacturing. As factories strive to make their processes more ...
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What to Consider When Mounting a Gearbox to a Machine and Why it Matters?
From: DieQua CorporationDescription: When it comes to building machines, every component plays an important role in the performance and function of the machine. Gearboxes are no exception to this rule, and how they are mounted on a ...
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Choosing Between Single-Phase and Three-Phase Motors
Description: An engineer's guide to understanding performance differences, load handling, and cost implications for residential and industrial motor applications. ...
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Optimizing AC Drive Systems for Variable Demand
Description: This article explores the strategies and best practices for optimizing AC drive systems to accommodate variable demand effectively. ...
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How to Specify an AC Drive Based on Application
Description: Specifying the right AC drive (also called VFD - Variable Frequency Drive) for your application is critical to achieving reliable performance, energy efficiency, and motor protection. Here's a ...
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Blender Motor Technologies for Kitchen Applications
Description: Overview of induction, universal, and DC motor designs for blenders, with focus on speed, torque, and durability considerations in household and commercial appliances. ...
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Brushless Motors: Technical Advantages and Industry Applications
Description: A brushless DC (BLDC) motor eliminates brushes and commutators, using electronic controllers to manage current flow, resulting in higher efficiency, precise speed control, low noise, compact size, and ...
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White Paper: Powering Aerospace and Defense Through Quality and Innovation
From: PortescapDescription: When you're operating in the high-stakes world of aerospace and defense, every part must earn its place. From the first drawing to the final flight, there is no margin for error - reliability isn't ...
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White Paper: How Portescap Empowers Humanoid Robots
From: PortescapDescription: Modern humanoid robots are designed to navigate human environments, with Portescap enabling their lifelike motion through precision motor systems. ...
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Driving Innovation in Laboratory Automation with Advanced Motion Solutions
From: PortescapDescription: The Evolution of Laboratory Automation ...
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Motor Technologies at the Heart of Point-of-Care Diagnostics
From: PortescapDescription: What Do Miniature Motors Do in POC Devices? ...
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Why You Should Use VFD's In Pumping Applications
Description: With a properly selected and configured VFD, customers can enjoy a better user experience while saving money on energy costs. ...
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Advantages and Applications of Custom Direct Drive Motors
Description: Special Voice Coil, 3 Phase Linear & Torque Designs ...
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Force & Position Control in Precision Automation
Description: A host of applications can benefit from fast actuation systems equipped with precise metrology for controlling both force and position accurately. ...
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Precision Force Control via Motor Force Constant Calibration
Description: From "Artificial Feel" to Haptics of Augmented Reality-How Precision Motion is Connecting the Future to the Past through Force Control ...
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BenchTop™ Vibration Control Enables Critical Improvements in Microscopy
From: Newport MKSDescription: High-resolution microscopy offers researchers and clinicians a powerful analytical tool to help uncover a variety of biological phenomena and processes. However, instruments of this type require a ...
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Optical Table System Design
From: Newport MKSDescription: In optical tables, "noise" refers to three types of vibration: seismic, acoustic, and tabletop forces. Seismic vibrations come from the ground underneath the table and can be caused by foot and ...
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Vacuum Cleaner Motors for Enhanced Suction and Efficiency
Description: A technical overview of universal and brushless DC motors in upright, stick, handheld, canister, and robotic vacuums, with key selection factors for optimal performance. ...
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Electric Motors for Fans: AC vs. DC Solutions
Description: A technical guide to single-phase, three-phase, brushed, and brushless motors used in residential, commercial, and industrial fans, highlighting efficiency, performance, and selection factors. ...
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Motors Used in Robots: Key Types and Selection
Description: A technical overview of brushed, brushless, geared, AC, servo, stepper, and linear motors in robotics, focusing on torque, speed, efficiency, and control for optimal performance. ...
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Can Hexapods Provide Advantages in Micro-LED Production?
Description: Micro-LEDs represent one of the most exciting frontiers in display technology. With chip dimensions below 50µm, they promise unmatched brightness, power efficiency, and lifetime compared to OLED ...
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Spring Applied Brakes Compared: Hydraulic, Pneumatic, and Electromagnetic Brakes
From: Branham, W.C. Inc.Description: When industrial equipment needs reliable stopping power, caliper disc brakes are a common solution. These brakes use calipers to apply pressure against a rotating disc, creating friction that slows or ...
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Right-Angle Gearboxes 101: Solving Space and Power Transmission Challenges in Tight Quarters
From: Branham, W.C. Inc.Description: Designing complex material handling and packaging systems is tough, especially when space is tight. Right-angle gearboxes provide a smart solution. They are space-efficient and offer several other ...
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How to Determine Which Bevel Gear Design is Right for Your Application
From: Branham, W.C. Inc.Description: When your machine needs to transfer power between shafts that intersect at odd angles—or don't intersect at all—standard gears won't cut it. You need a more sophisticated solution. That's ...
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Understanding Foot Switch Stages: Single, Two-Stage, And Redundant Designs
Description: Most people don’t think twice about what’s going on inside a foot pedal, but if your application involves controlling multiple devices or inputs, the internal design matters. Whether ...
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Automatic Door Motors for Modern Access Systems
Description: A technical insight into AC and DC automatic door motors, their roles in sliding, swinging, folding, revolving, and overhead doors, and key factors for motor selection. ...