Motion Control and Automation

Automation has been around since the 50s, but the modern era of automation really started in the 1980s. Many of these machines haven't been updated since that time - more than 30 years. Over time, these machines tend to have little problems arise here and there, and frankly, the hardware can be very difficult to support and often impossible to repair due to older technologies going obsolete.

A growing trend in industrial plant design is wireless connectivity. Recent technological advances have made wireless protocols significantly more robust and reliable than previous versions, enough so to rival traditional hard-wired connections.

Factory automation mobility is not just about iPads. Companies of all sizes need to think about the software needed to push context-sensitive information to operators and managers.

Intelligent Actuator Inc (IAI) is a world leader in the design and manufacture of off-the-shelf single and multi-axis servo positioning systems and SCARA robots.

IAI answers some of their most asked questions

One resource that you may have overlooked is OSHA's collection of standard interpretation letters, which are OSHA's official responses to written questions about compliance with the agency's requirements.

Emissivity is a surface property that determines how much radiation an object emits at a given temperature compared to a blackbody at the same temperature.

If an IRt/c sensor is installed and does not function as expected the failure may be due to something other than the sensor.

It is possible for a Timer to continuously apply power, but you should not leave the Timer in a time-expired condition for long periods of time under high-temperature conditions.

This video, courtesy of IAI, highlights another example of the IAI America ROBO products in an automated inspection process.

Slicing Aluminum with IAI Automation Products

Some useful tips for extending the lead wires of a temperature sensor.

As the amount of critical data surrounding industrial processes has increased, industrial device manufacturers have found that the traditional methods of exchanging and gathering data are not able to keep pace.

"Precision" is a term that needs to be broken down into several components including accuracy, repeatability, flatness, straightness, etc.

Lean Manufacturing is the art of improving production efficiency.

Most people simply think of the price and lead time of their systems, but there are many other things to take into consideration. 

There are many elements to consider in the true cost of a motion control system. Here are 6 budget busters to watch out for.

Valin Receives Sales Achievement Award from Intelligent Actuator for 19th straight year

Patlite products are generally not designed for use outdoors. Horn-style audible products can be used outdoors if mounted and sealed properly. Otherwise, additional protection must be designed for the product.

Do any of your products have a NEMA rating and what is it?

How fast are the Analog to Digital pins on the SmartMotor read and converted?

Are there ways to keep stepping motor temperature down?

How long can a SmartMotor supply its peak torque?