The complete Product News section from the April 2021 issue of Power Transmission Engineering.

Are you looking for one simple formula to help you choose between centralized and decentralized motor control? Unfortunately, such a formula does not exist. However, evaluating the overall size of the system, comparing labor and material costs, and maintaining flexibility can help guide engineers in the right direction.

Welcome to the Age of Information, where flexible, intelligent drive systems separate the haves from the have nots

Standing in a factory or a warehouse, you're bound to notice machinery, whether it's a conveyor system that winds across the floor or large fans that hang from the ceiling. You may even notice automated guided vehicles or autonomous mobile robots carrying parts, driving themselves from one section of the building to another. These machines are good candidates for using high-efficiency gearmotors, especially if they're expected to run for long stretches at a time. If they aren't using high-efficiency gearmotors, then they may be costing more money than they should.

IMTS 2018 had its fair share of machine tools, 3D printers and advanced robotics. Meanwhile, the East Hall — home to Hannover Messe USA — took a more systematic approach, highlighting the smart components and techniques that will be integral in developing the digital factory of the future.

You may have noticed a lot of merger and acquisition activity lately in the power transmission industry. What does it mean?

Power transmission and motion control companies will be on-hand during Hannover Messe 2013 to display the latest technology offerings in key product categories including roller bearings, gears, pumps, motors, transmissions, drive system components, clutches and braking systems.