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Lock-out-tag-out (LOTO) Devices for Industrial Safety

Lock-out-tag-out (LOTO) Devices for Industrial Safety

One of the most visible elements of industrial safety is the use of lock-out-tag-out (LOTO) devices, familiar to those with experience. But, if you are new to the workforce, a brief introduction may be helpful.


How Cobots are Helping With the Welder Shortage

How Cobots are Helping With the Welder Shortage

The welder shortage is continuing to grow. Are cobots the answer to help relieve the welder shortage gap?


Does 3D Printing Continue to Drive Digital Transformation?

Does 3D Printing Continue to Drive Digital Transformation?

As digital transformation continues to rise, technologies such as 3D printing also skyrocket. What is the relationship between these terms, and how can 3D printing help manufacturers and shops on their journey toward digital transformation?


Top Five Machine Safety Risks and Automated Solutions for the Shop Floor

Top Five Machine Safety Risks and Automated Solutions for the Shop Floor

Each machine on the factory floor comes with risk; learn common safety risks and corresponding automation solutions.


Selecting a Robotic Arm Solution for Industrial Robots

Selecting a Robotic Arm Solution for Industrial Robots

Start learning about robotic arm solution, kinematic chain and motion planning, in this first technical installment.


How are Robots Pushing Further Into Automotive Manufacturing?

How are Robots Pushing Further Into Automotive Manufacturing?

Learn about how various types of robots are currently being deployed in the automotive sector and some of the challenges they face on the factory floor.


What are Six-Axis Robots?

What are Six-Axis Robots?

For many manufacturing processes, Cartesian robots work well. However, there are times with a robot with more movement capabilities works better. Learn about six-axis robots, how they move, and popular applications.


Hall-effect Sensors in Electric Motors and Linear Applications

Hall-effect Sensors in Electric Motors and Linear Applications

Learn about how Hall-effect sensors are used in linear and electric motor applications, including brushed and brushless DC motors. 


What are Cartesian Robots?

What are Cartesian Robots?

This article offers an introduction to cartesian (gantry) robots, including how they work and the applications they're created for.


Comparing Single-Phase vs Three-Phase Motors

Comparing Single-Phase vs Three-Phase Motors

In this article, learn the differences between single- and three-phase motors, including how each one works and applications best suited for each type.


Controlling VFDs with Manual Inputs

Controlling VFDs with Manual Inputs

To increase the flexibility of a motor control system, a variable frequency drive (VFD) is a common device that solves many motor control problems. In this article, learn how to control manual input of VFDs.


A Look Into CAM (Computer-Aided Manufacturing)

A Look Into CAM (Computer-Aided Manufacturing)

This article introduces the concept of Computer-Aided Manufacturing (CAM) and discusses some common uses for CAM for controls and automation specialists.


CNC Hardware and PLC Hardware Signal Differences

CNC Hardware and PLC Hardware Signal Differences

Learn all about the differences between PLC and CNC hardware, and be informed in making the right decision. Although different, it is possible to interchange them, but challenges exist because of the hardware and devices being controlled.


CNC Software vs. PLC Software

CNC Software vs. PLC Software

It can be easy to group CNCs and PLCs together since they are both run by digital processors and programs. Are they interchangeable? This article explores the possibility on a software level.


Applications of Geometric Dimensioning & Tolerancing (GD&T) and Machine Vision in Manufacturing

Applications of Geometric Dimensioning & Tolerancing (GD&T) and Machine Vision in Manufacturing

A look at how cameras are used to detect GD&T based on the resolution of the camera, and how to achieve higher tolerances by using a differential waveform.


The Future of Metal Additive Manufacturing and 3D Printing

The Future of Metal Additive Manufacturing and 3D Printing

As metal additive manufacturing companies find more ways to increase speeds and decrease costs, the innovation behind this technology is continually expanding. 


Advanced Control Techniques for Collaborative Manipulators

Advanced Control Techniques for Collaborative Manipulators

Learn all about the collaborative robots (cobots) that work alongside humans and the many advanced strategies put in place so they can function efficiently and safely in industrial settings.


The Benefits of 3D Printing for Small Manufacturers

The Benefits of 3D Printing for Small Manufacturers

Additive manufacturing, or the more popularized term 3D printing, has become a staple for small-batch manufacturing of some products. It’s even a common sight within companies whose main product is not even a manufactured item! What makes these devices such a great choice for small manufacturing companies?


Introduction to the Fundamentals of Pneumatic Vacuums

Introduction to the Fundamentals of Pneumatic Vacuums

Vacuum pressures are not uncommon, but they can be more complicated than standard air systems. This article explores pneumatic vacuums, exploring applications, uses, and types.


The Evolution of Machine Vision

The Evolution of Machine Vision

This article discusses the evolution and history of machine vision throughout the years and where this technology is headed in the future.