Industrial Robotics Editorials
Peripherals: Motors
POSTED: 04/06/2018
Industrial automation processes such as motion control and machine vision have traditionally been based on hardware. This approach introduces a variety of challenges. Besides being expensive and proprietary, migrating to newer products is challenging when hardware components are involved. Further, the compatibility of hardware equipment like servo motors and drives
The Relationship between Real-Time Computing and the Internet of Things (IoT)
POSTED: 04/06/2018
The increasing demand for a data-driven world has led to the rise of reliable and robust software-dependent IoT devices. The Internet of Things relies on embedded systems to transmit and receive information over a specified network in real-time. This means that IoT devices require capable systems to execute their intended
Motion Controllers Explained: How to Choose the Right Motion Controller
POSTED: 04/06/2018
A motion controller is the core element of a motion control system: it calculates and generates output commands for each trajectory or motion path. Motion controllers vary in regards to sophistication, complexity, interpolator, and servo motor control loop. However, they are all designed to execute tasks at precise speeds, positioning
Industrial Automation Software: A Powerful Alternative to Hardware-Based Motion Control
POSTED: 03/29/2018
Traditional hardware-based motion control is an expensive and time-consuming affair. With loads of accessories, connection cables, and applications to support the devices in use, the process becomes costly and cumbersome. Industrial automation software offers a powerful alternative. With customizable options, the software approach to motion control provides the user with
Understanding Software PLC Systems
POSTED: 03/27/2018
The software PLC (soft PLC) was introduced with the aim of enhancing interoperability and compatibility among various industrial systems and products. It is a digital computer that facilitates electromechanical process automation, and a control mechanism that is used to enhance production lines and machine functions and processes. The soft PLC
Types of Industrial Automation Systems
POSTED: 03/27/2018
Industrial automation systems are categorized based on their integration level and flexibility in the manufacturing processes and operations. Different types of automation systems include: Fixed Automation Fixed automation systems are utilized in high volume production settings that have dedicated
Industry 4.0 Defined: 4 Core Components
POSTED: 03/27/2018
Known as the fourth industrial revolution, Industry 4.0 defines the automation and data exchange trend in manufacturing technologies. The term was introduced in 2011 by a group of German business, academic and political representatives who were crafting an initiative aimed at improving the manufacturing industry’s competitiveness as per the German
Components of a Real-Time Machine Vision System
POSTED: 03/27/2018
Machine vision processes consist of algorithms that review images and extract information, make required decisions, and run necessary inspections in real-time. Communication among machine vision systems is executed by a discrete I/O signal or data passed over a serial connection to a device that logs or uses information. The main
Small And Medium Enterprises' Secret Weapon
POSTED: 03/21/2018
Small and medium enterprises (SMEs), also often referred to as small and midsize businesses (SMBs), have a tremendous advantage over larger enterprises and many don’t even know it. Because of SMEs’ energy and agility, they are more able to adapt to changes in the marketplace, adopting and implementing ERP solutions
Introducing KINGSTAR 2.5: Motion Control & Machine Vision Made Better
POSTED: 03/20/2018
KINGSTAR is excited to announce that KINGSTAR 2.5, the latest release of the KINGSTAR Soft Motion Platform, is now available. KINGSTAR 2.5 builds upon its original foundation, literally and figuratively. The KINGSTAR Soft Motion Platform operates on IntervalZero RTX64, our parent company’s flagship product and the DNA that makes KINGSTAR’s cutting-edge
Why You Should Consider Using Motion Control Software
POSTED: 03/19/2018
When talking of traditional motion control, you normally think of hardware as a solution. However, using hardware is not as easy as it may seem, especially when dealing with purchasing all the necessary expensive components that are required. Using software instead of hardware however is a far more elegant and
3 Primary Benefits of Software Motion Control
POSTED: 03/19/2018
Software motion control is defined as PC-based motion control that utilizes the modern x86 CPU to reduce hardware requirements. This means that software motion control is not tied down to the hardware ASIC limitations and does not require complicated cabling. The
SMEs In Industry 4.0: IIoT Cybersecurity, Automation, And Cloud-Based ERP
POSTED: 03/07/2018
Manufacturers are implementing technological advancements to enhance automation processes every day. We call this latest wave of rapid development Industry 4.0, the fourth industrial revolution. While modernization presents numerous opportunities for growth and process enhancement, experts are increasingly aware of their need for heightened security in an increasingly insecure
Understanding Soft PLC Features and Requirements
POSTED: 08/08/2017
Soft PLC is a software technology designed to turn an embedded computer into a fully functional and programmable logic controller, also known as a PLC. It combines PLCs’ discrete, PID and analog I/O control with high performing computer networking, data handling, and computational capabilities. As such, soft PLCs offer dependable
Must-Know Facts about Industry 4.0
POSTED: 08/02/2017
Industry 4.0 is a much-hyped data exchange and automation trend in the manufacturing sector. It is defined by the presence of cloud computing, cyber-physical systems, and the Internet of Things. Through industry 4.0, computers and automation will integrate with robotics that are remotely connected to computer systems that are in
