Closed Loop control systems can handle a wide range of motions with a wide range of loads if the control system and mechanics are properly designed for the task. A couple of the more difficult combinations to design for are high inertial mismatches and backlash with hard gearing. The question is not just how to make the system stable, but rather how to also get the desired performance.

OES (Optimal Engineering Systems, Inc.) has added vertical stages to their extensive line of high accuracy, high resolution lift stages.  The Z110 Series of Z-axis Stages are available in travel strokes of 15 mm (0.590 in.), 30 mm (1.181 in.), 50 mm (1.969 in.), and 75 mm (2.953 in). These black anodized aluminum alloy stages feature preloaded crossed roller bearings and 1 mm per motor turn lead screws. 

The Smart Function Kit Pressing, a complete mechatronic package from Bosch Rexroth for the quick realization of servo presses, is now available with force control. This means that it is now also possible to perform processes in which the target force must be kept constant over a defined period of time. Intelligent e-tools speed up the selection and configuration of the modular servo press. The pre-installed operating software facilitates quick and easy commissioning, process definition, and line integration.

Dual loop control is often used to improve the performance of a motion control system. Although this appears more complex at first look, the overall system cost and complexity needed to reach the desired level of precision may often be significantly reduced. In the example system, mechanical stiffness was improved by a factor of approximately 100 by the use of a secondary feedback device.In the case of a single loop lead screw system, the feedback is usually located on the back of the motor. 

Schneider Electric announces major enhancements to EcoStruxure Resource Advisor, a versatile enterprise software suite of solutions designed to empower global companies across efficiency, ESG, energy and risk, and renewables and carbon. This strategic evolution from a platform of stand-alone solutions to an integrated and multifaceted suite addresses the rapidly maturing market and the increasing complexity of corporate sustainability needs.

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.

Applied Motion Products introduces the MDX+ series, a family of low-voltage servo systems that integrate a servo drive, motor, and encoder into one package. Solutions with 100/200/400/550W power output are available. The MDX+ product line supports pulse train-based control methods (Pulse/Direction, CW/CCW, encoder following), RS-485, CANopen, and EtherCAT. It also offers packages with electromagnetic brakes to meet the safety requirements of today's industries and will soon provide STO. The MDX+ series is an ideal solution for manufacturers in logistics, AGV, medical, semiconductor, and solar industries, among many others.

In Watch Valley, a region between Basel and Geneva, an ecosystem has developed over several centuries around the watch industry and the smallest precision components for micromechanical devices. Machine builders such as Esco SA in Les Geneveys-sur-Coffrane and Affolter Group SA in Malleray are an important part of this ecosystem. Their CNC machines are used to manufacture the smallest gears, screws, shafts, and other components at maximum precision, practically laying the foundation for the famous precision of Swiss watch movements.

Complementing the OES (Optimal Engineering Systems Inc.) growing line of single and multi-axis positioning stages is the Allegra Series of Stored Program Motion Control Systems Controllers. The Allegra Series of Controllers is available as a desktop (pictured) or 19-inch rack mount system.

Servo Technology has gone through various key stages of evolution, from the Power Transistors (Servo 1.0) and DSP/Microprocessor (Servo 2.0) to the Integrated Packaging (Servo 3.0) and Industrial Network (Servo 4.0). We are now entering the new era in servo evolution called Servo 5.0, where the intelligence and connectivity, in align with the emerging Industry 4.0 effort, are now required in the traditional servo control products.