Motion and Controls Reference Materials
Reference Articles 1 - 100 of 880
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Garage Door Upgrade Ideas with Linear Actuators
From: Progressive AutomationsDescription: Linear Actuators in Garage Projects ...
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How To Install Our Drop Down TV Lift
From: Progressive AutomationsDescription: What Do You Need for a Drop Down TV Lift System ...
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Full Guide on TV Lifts: Types, Usage, How It Works
From: Progressive AutomationsDescription: TV LIFT MECHANISM: WHAT IS IT AND HOW DOES IT WORK? ...
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Information on Linear Actuators
From: Progressive AutomationsDescription: WHAT IS AN ACTUATOR? ...
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How Stroke Size Effects Overall Actuator Dimensions
From: Progressive AutomationsDescription: When selecting the stroke of your actuator you need to take into account the actuators dimensions, specifically the mounting hole to mounting hole length and the end to end length. ...
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Pulse Width Modulation vs Variable Voltage Control
From: Progressive AutomationsDescription: there are large benefits to one (PWM) over the other (Analog Voltage). ...
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Introduction: What is an Electric Linear Actuator?
From: TiMOTION TechnologyDescription: In this section of the white paper we will discuss the common styles and configurations of an electric actuator ...
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"Just-right" Solution Delivers for IC Manufacturer
Description: Highly reliable part made-to-order (> 1,000,000 cycles), consistent operation across temperature extremes, smooth actuation, and 25% cost reduction. ...
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Industrial IoT: How Smart Alerts and Sensors Add Value to Electric Motors
From: QorvoDescription: This blog is the fourth of a five-part series that looks at the impact of the Internet of Things (IoT) on society. ...
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Progressive Automations Custom Actuators
From: Progressive AutomationsDescription: At Progressive Automations, we have a wide variety of actuators in stock with a range of stroke sizes and forces to choose from. We also understand that every user’s application is unique. For ...
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What is a Voice Coil Actuator?
From: H2W TechnologiesDescription: A voice coil actuator, also known as a non-commutated DC linear actuator, is a type of direct drive linear motor. The name "voice coil" comes from one of its historically first applications: vibrating ...
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High Speed Linear Actuators
From: PortescapDescription: Despite many advantages, pneumatics cylinders still face some fundamental problems which make engineers review alternate solutions. ...
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Miniature Motors for Biopsy Systems and Radiation Treatment
From: PortescapDescription: Miniature Motors for Biopsy Systems and Radiation Treatment Precision electric motors are spinning the way to improved developments in cancer management. ...
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Miniature Motors for Medical Devices and Dispensing Systems
From: PortescapDescription: Miniature Motors for Medical Devices and Dispensing Systems ...
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Understanding Speed-Torque Characteristics of Miniature DC Motors (Part 1 of 3)
From: PortescapDescription: Understanding Speed-Torque Characteristics of Miniature DC Motors (Part 1 of 3) ...
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Understanding Speed-Torque Characteristics of Miniature DC Motors (Part 2 of 3)
From: PortescapDescription: Understanding Speed-Torque Characteristics of Miniature DC Motors (Part 2 of 3) ...
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Understanding Speed-Torque Characteristics of Miniature DC Motors (Part 3 of 3)
From: PortescapDescription: Understanding Speed-Torque Characteristics of Miniature DC Motors (Part 3 of 3) ...
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Most Used Engineering Terms
From: DieQua CorporationDescription: So, you're an engineering pro? Sometimes it's important to challenge what you think you know. Take a look at our list of the most common mechanical engineering terms in use today. Some might actually ...
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Common Mounting Methods for Linear Actuators
From: Progressive AutomationsDescription: In this article, we will discuss a few common methods of mounting a linear actuator and what you need to pay attention to when installing them. ...
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FLIGHT SIMULATOR SUCCESS STORY USING LINEAR ACTUATORS
From: Progressive AutomationsDescription: FLIGHT SIMULATOR SUCCESS STORY USING LINEAR ACTUATORS ...
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FLOWCHART FOR ACTUATOR SELECTION
From: Progressive AutomationsDescription: Selecting the right electric actuator for your application is a key part of bringing it to life. ...
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FLUID POWER SOUTH SUCCESS STORY USING HEAVY DUTY LINEAR ACTUATORS
From: Progressive AutomationsDescription: FLUID POWER SOUTH SUCCESS STORY USING HEAVY DUTY LINEAR ACTUATORS ...
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Thermodynamic Theory of the Ideal Stirling Engine
Description: Stirling engines are one of those devices that have fascinated many engineers (including myself) over the years, especially when we're young and impressionable, before we've gotten too cynical about ...
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A Low-Profile IPM with Optimized Heat Dissipation for Use in Restricted Environments
From: Infineon Technologies AGDescription: In space-constrained environments like a motor with an embedded PCB, there is no airflow and no room to apply additional cooling, such as a heatsink. In this article, we will introduce the ...
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Fluid Power vs. Electric Actuators - Comparison
From: CEF Industries LLCDescription: Comparison of actuators for applications in Aerospace. ...
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Advantages of Linear Motor Coupling
From: TecnotionDescription: Does your machine need a power upgrade or do you want to expand an existing design? Coupling two linear motors is an easy and effective way of increasing the available force. Herewith you are not just ...
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Application Note: Curved Magnet Track
From: TecnotionDescription: How does a linear motor move over a curved track? A seemingly complicated question with straight forward answers. Where traditionally different motion systems can be used to follow up on a linear ...
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Motor Application: Horizontal Panel Beam Saw
From: TecnotionDescription: Horizontal panel beam saws are used in the woodworking industry to cut large sheets, strips, or panels of wood or wood-based materials, such as oriented strand board (OSB), into various sizes. The ...
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Motor Application: Large Format Printing
From: TecnotionDescription: Large format printers are used to print all types of large artwork and signage, including banners, wallpaper, vehicle image wraps, architectural drawings, and electronic circuit schematics. ...
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Motor Application: Moving Magnet Systems
From: TecnotionDescription: For applications that require non-contact, particle-free transport, such as clean rooms, vacuums, or chemical environments, a moving magnet linear motor meets the most demanding process requirements. ...
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Motor Application: Packaging
From: TecnotionDescription: Machine throughput and production rate is a key factor for efficient manufacturing. It is well known that building machines that move back and forth result in lower efficiency than unidirectional ...
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What is Commutation?
From: TecnotionDescription: What is commutation? In order to generate motion in a three-phase linear motor there must be switching between the phases to energize appropriate windings. The process of switching between the phases ...
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Friction Guides: A Different Kind of Bold Movement
Description: The Basics of a Friction Guide - Friction guides are ideal for automated machinery in such environments as factories and laboratories. They provide an economical, long-lasting, and easy-to-install ...
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System Philosophy in Efficiency Optimization
From: Danfoss Drives A/SDescription: This article presents the concept of efficiency first, describing how energy saved can be regarded as an energy source in itself. Taking a systems approach to energy optimization pays off. ...
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Linear Actuators in Recreational Vehicles
From: Progressive AutomationsDescription: ...it's a great idea to make sure your RV is automated, so it can set up exactly the way you want and with minimum effort. At Progressive Automations, we offer a wide range of linear actuators and ...
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ACME Screw vs. Ball Screw
From: Progressive AutomationsDescription: Comparing and contrasting Acme Screws vs. Ball Screws, advantages and disadvantages of both ...
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Load Simulation For Test Bench
From: Andantex USA, Inc.Description: When designing a test bench, Particle brakes made by Merobel™ provide an excellent solution, because of their ability to generate a torque load that is precise, variable and easy to control - at ...
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ACME Lead Screws vs. Ball Screws: How Do They Differ?
From: Venture Mfg. Co.Description: In today’s automated environment, the demand for effective linear motion control systems like lead screws is extremely high. Most lead screws initiate motion by turning either the nut or the ...
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How Actuators are Playing Vital Role in Agriculture?
From: Venture Mfg. Co.Description: Today modern day farming has become quite a precision work. They are relying on various advanced technologies to improve their services. Hence, the demand for actuator driven devices in agricultural ...
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How Do Linear Actuators and Conveyors Share a Strong Bond?
From: Venture Mfg. Co.Description: Material handling industries require different objects to be moved from one place to another. For this purpose, conveyor systems are used, which make the movement of work pieces, and finished goods ...
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How Electric Linear Actuators Improve Automation Results?
From: Venture Mfg. Co.Description: VenturemfgcoActuators for Agriculture, Actuators for Wheelchairs, Electric Linear Actuator, Hospital Bed Actuator, Medical Actuatorsagriculture, electric linear actuators, food and beverage, medical ...
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Guide to Voice Coil Motors: Selection and Characteristics
From: GEEPLUS Inc.Description: Voice Coil Motors are perfect for applications where excellent control for short stroke bidirectional linear actuation is required, e.g. in medical or optical equipment. Voice Coil Motors can develop ...
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Voice Coil Motor Parameters
From: GEEPLUS Inc.Description: Voice Coils Motors are perfect for applications where excellent control for short stroke, bidirectional linear actuation is required, e.g. in medical or optical equipment. Learn the parameters and ...
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Steps In Selecting a Disc Coupling
From: jbj Techniques LimitedDescription: 1) Determine coupling type suitable for application. Angular, axial and parallel misalignment properties need to be considered. Size will be determined by the selection torque and shaft diameters. 2) ...
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Adaptive Optics - the Next Generation. 11,000 Actuators to Aid Search for Exoplanets with the E-ELT
Description: PI and Fraunhofer IOF Cooperate on New Large Scale Adaptive Optics Project ...
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Advances in Precision Motorized Positioning Systems: Selection Criteria
Description: Motion drive and control technologies are advancing rapidly. This means engineers have access to an expanding spectrum of options to leverage previously unattainable performance and form factors. ...
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Largest Telescope in the World Driven by 2000+ PI Nano-Precision Actuators
Description: PI wins contract from European South Observatory (ESO) for more than 2000 custom-designed hybrid actuators that will adjust 798 quarter ton segments in the primary mirror of the Extremely Large ...
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Self-Locking Actuator for Hexapod Applications Combines High Push-Pull Force with Picometer Resolution for Active Optical Alignment in Astronomy
Description: Astronomical telescopes usually employ active position control for primary mirror surfaces using motorized mechanical actuators. The motion needed is generally quasistatic, to compensate gravitational ...
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Advances in Variable Speed Drives Ease Complications
Description: Conventional variable speed drives offer control for motor speeds. New advancements in their configuration look to simplify the process. ...
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CoolSiC™ MOSFET in Drives Applications
From: Infineon Technologies AGDescription: Even at reduced dv/dt of max. 5kV/µs the CoolSiC™ MOSFET features significantly lower losses than conventional IGBTs with the same current rating ...
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Pipetting Made Easy
From: IntelLiDrives, Inc.Description: Manual pipetting is a time-consuming process that can lead to repetitive stress injuries. Automatic pipetting involves the use of robots to perform this type of tedious bench work, allowing scientists ...
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What is a Torque Motor?
From: TecnotionDescription: Rotational electric motors have been around for ages but a lot has changed since then. How did electric motors change? What innovations have been made? Torque motors have benefitted greatly from the ...
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Sleeve Coupling Installation Guide
From: Joyce/Dayton Corp.Description: Step-by-step guide to installing sleeve couplings. ...
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Smart Actuators - The Intelligent Choice
Description: Modern cars contain more than 130 motors to control everything from HVAC systems, coolant and refrigerant valves, headlights and seat adjustments to grille shutters, vehicle security and trunks. Most ...
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What is Tribology?
From: GGBDescription: Tribology is the science of wear, friction and lubrication, and encompasses how interacting surfaces and other tribo-elements behave in relative motion in natural and artificial systems.This includes ...
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Gear Types and Manufacturing
From: QTC METRIC GEARSDescription: Displays images and descriptions of different gear types including spur gears, helical gears, bevel gears and more. ...
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Planetary Gear Design
From: QTC METRIC GEARSDescription: A planetary gear system, also referred to as epicyclic gearing, consists of three elements - a sun gear, one or more planet gears, and a ring gear. The sun gear is located at the center, and transmits ...
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Acme Screw Selection
From: Nook Industries, Inc.Description: The selection of the correct acme screw and nut for a particular application involves four interrelated factors. Before attempting to determine the acme screw and nut combination, the following values ...
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Ball Screw Load Definitions
From: Nook Industries, Inc.Description: Glossary of terms related to ball screw loads. ...
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Motion Specifications Don't Always Tell the Whole Story
From: Newport CorporationDescription: Specifications are often gathered under ideal conditions and rarely replicate an actual real-life environment. ...
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Servo Press Assembles Fine and Large Parts at the Same Time
From: HBMDescription: IEF-Werner GmbH was approached by a user to provide a single press that allows crimping, i.e.joining through plastic deformation, of both very fine metal parts and thick, massive components to form a ...
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Avoiding Linear Bearing Failure Series
From: ROLLON CorporationDescription: When linear bearing systems fail prematurely, the reason almost always involves an overlooked application error. These errors fall into just five different categories and when left unchecked, can ...
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BLDC Motors: Flying High in the Aerospace Industry [Infographic]
From: SinotechDescription: The following infographic examines the aerospace industry, history of the aircraft engines and the role of BLDC motors. Brushless DC motors offer accuracy and vital characteristics needed in this ...
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Motion Control Basic Knowledge
From: CONTEC Co., Ltd.Description: Includes sections on motion control, stepper motors, sevo motors and encoders. ...
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Transconductance vs Voltage Amplifiers
From: Galil Motion ControlDescription: The purpose of an amplifier in a motion control system is to provide a controlled amount of current or voltage to a motor based on a command signal from the motion controller. This is done by a ...
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Boosting Efficiency, Reliability And Affordability Of EV Drivetrain Power Modules
From: Infineon Technologies AGDescription: This article describes how improvements in IGBT device design and module packaging design enable reductions in switching and conduction losses, greater ability to withstand thermal stresses, and use ...
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Multi-Point Automatic Lubrication System for Robotic 7th Axis
From: Andantex USA, Inc.Description: Manufacturing companies in every field have realized the best way to be competitive with price and quality is to automate their factories. ...
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What Is A Digital Controller?
From: WATTCODescription: Control panels are essential elements of any electrical device. Control panels are especially important on HVAC devices and heater elements. They enable you to control the temperature, voltage, and ...
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Automatic Commutation of Stepper Motors
From: PortescapDescription: Introduction, Principle of Autocommutation Stepper motors are mostly driven in open loop mode. Timing of the step pulses is defined by the controller, the motor is supposed to follow without loosing ...
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Determination of Rotor Temperature Under Steady State Conditions
From: PortescapDescription: In most DC motor applications, ascertaining that the steady state rotor temperature does not exceed the manufacturer's recommended temperature is of paramount importance. ...
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High Speed Linear Actuators White Paper
From: PortescapDescription: The first thing that comes to mind when we talk about linear actuators is a pneumatic cylinder with some control valves. They have been an indispensable part of the automation industry and still hold ...
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What Gearing Types are Typical of Fractional Horsepower Motors
From: Groschopp, Inc.Description: Originally, gears and the structure that houses them (called gearheads, gear reducers or gearboxes) were created for two main reasons: 1.To increase motor torque 2.To enable more adjustments to be ...
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Why Three Phase Induction Motors Are Popular for Industrial Applications
From: Groschopp, Inc.Description: Three phase induction motors have been a popular choice for many industrial applications for a number of reasons: *Non-complex construction - they don't require permanent magnets, brushes or windings ...
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Benefits of Using a VFD in Rotary Screw Air Compressors
Description: This is the first part of a series that discusses how VFD technology has become a common feature in compressors where the focus is on production efficiency and energy savings. ...
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Boost Capacity and Efficiency, While Minimizing Upgrade Costs in Water Treatment Plants
Description: Medium Voltage VFDs Provide an Ideal Solution for Many Facilities: White Paper Case Study of MV1000 Installation at Municipal Authority of Westmoreland County (MAWC) near Pittsburgh, PA ...
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Five Ways Servos Improve Packaging Machines
Description: Upgrade your next machine design with servo motors to decrease downtime, decrease footprint, increase throughput, make equipment last longer, and provide better diagnostics. ...
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How to Choose the Right Control Method for VFDs
Description: Motors account for at least half of the energy consumed in the U.S. Selecting the right control method for an application lets the motor run most efficiently while maximizing torque and overall ...
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How to Cut Costs and Maximize Production with Servo Automation
Description: Inside Machines: Lumber machine manufacturer's moves to servo control yields increased precision, productivity. ...
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Irrigation Station for High School Football Field
Description: Metro Irrigation Supply successfully installed a Gicon pump station at a local high school football field and reduced energy consumption by utilizing Yaskawa iQpump1000 variable speed drives. ...
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OEE is Key
Description: Today's CPG manufacturer is faced with a number of difficult challenges. The manufacturer's ability to drive the cost per packaged unit down while maintaining the flexibility to innovate and integrate ...
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OEM Expands Servo, Control Capabilities to Improve Accuracy
Description: All-Fill's servo-driven auger fillers continue to evolve with a more inclusive control platform. ...
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Programming In Motion
Description: Machines now use less wiring and easier motion control programming with code that can be reused. What's not to like? Automated Industrial Machinery (AIM Inc.) is a leading producer of automated CNC ...
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Redundant VFDs and Fan Arrays in Critical Operations
Description: Learning objectives Understand fan arrays. Learn how VFDs can operate fan arrays. Understand how to best maintain controlled airflow in a critical operation incorporating VFDs and fan arrays. ...
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Taking Advantage of VFD Software
Description: Although VFD manufacturers have made many advances in terms of ease of use, some users still find programming and monitoring with a 2-inch display tedious. This is where VFD programming and monitoring ...
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VFDs Eliminate the Need for PLCs and External Hardware
Description: Advanced VFD technology delivers cost and space savings by providing protective features and minimal programming. ...
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Choosing Variable Frequency Drives for Water Applications
Description: Flow control enhances efficiency and energy savings. ...
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Four Ways to Improve Production by Understanding the Physics of Servos
Description: There is always a need to increase production in automation applications. Sometimes achieving improvements requires breaking the process down to its fundamental basics. The science behind the ...
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Matrix Drives Reduce Energy Consumption for Transporter System
Description: The article "Matrix drives reduce energy consumption for transporter system" by Mike Grant, an engineer at Yaskawa, appeared on Control Engineering's website. The article goes into how Yaskawa ...
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The Fundamentals of Matrix Variable Frequency Drive Technology
Description: Providing cost, space, and energy efficiency for VFD applications. ...
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Troubleshooting VFDs 101 - With No-power Checks
Description: Before you rip that variable frequency drive (VFD) off the wall and send it in for a rebuild, stop. Some simple checks diagnose a VFD in moments. Here's how to make the necessary inspections with a ...
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Understanding Permanent Magnet Motors
Description: A permanent magnet motor is an ac motor that uses magnets imbedded into or attached to the surface of the motor's rotor. This article provides understanding behind the terminology, concepts, theory, ...
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Dynamic Analysis of a Cycloidal Gearbox Using Finite Element Method
Description: This paper discusses the stress distribution, modeled in a dynamic simulation environment, on the rotating parts of Cycloidal reducer. A three dimensional finite element model is developed using Algor ...
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Gearbox Service Factors for Overhead Cranes
Description: One of the most cricical aspects to consider when sizing and selecting a gearbox is the required service factor. Learn how to determine the proper service factor for overhead crane applications. ...
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How Does Your Gearbox Sound?
Description: Sound can be a very subjective thing. What may sound "unusual" to one individual may very well sound "normal" to another. As a method of diagnosing a potential problem with a gearbox or gearmotor, the ...
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Reducer Shaft Mounting Systems
Description: Learn about the different methods of shaft-mounting a reducer that include keyed, splined, taper grip bushing, shrink disc and rigid coupling. ...
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Reliable Gear Reduction Units Are Critical For Many Applications
Description: It's pretty obvious that there are a great many more electric motors in use. They are used in many industries - from airports to office buildings to production lines. Many important applications use ...
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Automated Secret Bookcase Doors Project
From: Progressive AutomationsDescription: Bruce McArdle shares with us how he designed and built his own automatic secret bookcase doors. ...
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Building An Automated Standing Desk With Our Table Lift Set
From: Progressive AutomationsDescription: With our FLT-02 Table Lift Set you can turn your desk into a height adjustable standing desk with easy up/down motion control. Today we are going to show just how simple it is to install and build a ...
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How To Build A Portable Solar Tracker
From: Progressive AutomationsDescription: Solar power is one of the most accessible types of renewable energy and is rapidly increasing in efficiency and affordability. In this project, we will show you how we used our PA-14 Mini Linear ...
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The Importance Of Actuator Synchronization
From: Progressive AutomationsDescription: There are two methods of multiple actuator control - parallel and synchronous. Parallel control outputs a constant voltage to each actuator, while synchronous control outputs variable voltage to each ...
