Engineered with precision and versatility in mind, the MTB 105 is specifically designed to integrate into multi-axis medium- to large-sized Cartesian Gantry systems, providing robust support for medium to high payloads. Its fully enclosed design ensures reliability even in contaminant-prone environments, making it an ideal choice for a wide range of applications. Precision extrusions for each aluminum actuator body ensure all sides and bottom surfaces are flat and perpendicular giving accurate installations.

Thomson Industries, Inc. has announced the availability of new German-engineered precision ball screw sizes with US-based distribution and machining that provide best-in-class load capacity in a small footprint. The Thomson miniature metric ball screw line uses a unique multi-start ball return design that maximizes support for higher loads. This design provides precise, smooth and quiet operation for applications requiring high precision and load handling in confined spaces.

When an application calls for synchronous lifting and pushing of a heavy load, rack and pinion jacks are an easy-to-use, economical and effective option. They combine a simple structure, robust design and a wide range of lifting forces, making them highly versatile and particularly attractive for installation in tight spaces and harsh environments. In fact, rack jacks can be installed as a complete system with many configurations, connected to air cylinders and motors, to guide forces to wherever they are needed in complex applications.

Almost 43,000 registrants came together in Chicago to seek out the latest and greatest automation and robotic technologies during Automate 2024 in May. As always, A3 did not disappoint with a comprehensive conference paired with new automation technologies on the exhibition floor.

ABB has announced the launch of its 2024 Robotics AI Startup Challenge, a global competition designed to accelerate the development of artificial intelligence (AI) solutions in robotics. The challenge is part of ABB’s ecosystem for innovation, with a previous challenge resulting in the acquisition of Sevensense in January 2024, a Swiss-based start-up and leading provider of AI-enabled 3D vision navigation technology for autonomous mobile robots (AMRs). ABB Robotics' latest challenge will foster innovation and collaboration between ABB and pioneering startups and scaleups worldwide. 

Akribis Systems is pleased to announce a new addition to its varied motion control product line: RDM-A Series rod motors for space-constrained applications requiring high motor forces and smooth linear motion. 

Faulhaber is introducing a new motion control system. Integrated in the powerful brushless motors of the Faulhaber 22xx...BX4 family, the new Integrated Motion Controller 22xx…BX4 IMC, impresses users with its extensive range of functions and outstanding performance. Extension in length compared to the motor alone is 18 mm only including a full featured servo controller and a 12-bit encoder. To top this, the full performance of the motors can be used in all different executions.

A wide range of medical devices, digital imaging or scanning applications, and laboratory automation rely on linear motion. For laboratory automation, the need for increased productivity, higher accuracy, and better reproducibility of experimental results are driving the increased use of linear motion. Sophisticated medical devices and digital imaging or scanning applications are increasingly relying on linear motion control systems which have become crucial for the successful development, progress, and deployment of these vital medical tools. Here are some examples from PBC Linear:

It's no secret that cycloidal gearboxes are important in mechanical engineering, especially when it comes to precision motion control and efficient power transmission. The gear systems differ from harmonic wave/strain wave gearboxes by using a cycloidal disk and needle bearings to transmit torque with minimum backlash, achieve high reduction ratios, and support substantial loads. This Sumitomo Drive Technologies blog will talk about single-stage and multi-stage cycloidal gearboxes.

Genuine Parts Company, a global distributor of automotive and industrial replacement parts, has announced that its board of directors has appointed James F. Howe to the position of president, Motion, the company's industrial business, effective April 1, 2024. With nearly three decades of dedicated service to the company, Howe brings a wealth of experience and expertise to his new role.