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Servos

PRODUCT NEWS | 2025-03-27

Kollmorgen’s Encoder Offers Multi-Turn Absolute Feedback

Kollmorgen has introduced the new SFD-M (Smart Feedback Device, Multi-Turn). It allows machine builders to achieve high-resolution multi-turn feedback with absolute positioning information available at system startup.

PRODUCT NEWS | 2025-01-21

Kollmorgen Expands Functional Safety Support with SafeMotion Monitor Upgrade

Kollmorgen has updated its SafeMotion Monitor (SMM) firmware: SMM2.0. This upgrade allows OEMs to leverage SMM functional safety features with more encoder and motor types to support a wider range of applications such as material forming, multi-axis measurement equipment, food processing and food packaging.

TECHNICAL ARTICLES | 2024-12-11

Control System Techniques—Dampers (Part 2)

Closed-loop control systems can handle a wide range of motions with a wide range of loads if the control system and the mechanics of the system 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 also how to get the desired performance. 

PRODUCT NEWS | 2024-11-22

Faulhaber Offers Motion Controller with Four Different Motor Technologies

A motion controller with even more possibilities: With the new MC 3602 B and MC 3606 B motion controllers, the selection and commissioning of drive systems is now even simpler. With the compact MC 3602/06 B, DC-motors, brushless DC-motors and linear motors can be operated with the typical position encoders as servo drive in accordance with CiA 402. Also new is the support of stepper motors with encoder as servo or without encoder in open-loop operation. The products "speak" EtherCAT, CANopen, RS232 and USB.

TECHNICAL ARTICLES | 2024-10-02

Control System Techniques—Dampers (Part 1)

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.

PRODUCT NEWS | 2024-09-27

OES Adds Z-Axis Positioning Stages with Four Motor Options

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. 

PRODUCT NEWS | 2024-09-19

Bosch Rexroth Adds Force Control Feature to Mechatronic Subsystems

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.

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REVOLUTIONS | 2024-08-13

Dual Loop Motion Control with Only One Encoder

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. 

PRODUCT NEWS | 2024-08-12

Schneider Electric Enhances Enterprise Software Suite

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.

PRODUCT NEWS | 2024-04-17

Faulhaber Introduces New Integrated Motion Controller

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.

PRODUCT NEWS | 2024-04-05

Applied Motion Introduces MDX+ Servo System Series

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.

PRODUCT NEWS | 2024-03-13

Beckhoff Automation Provides Servo Drive Technology for Precision Machining

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.

PRODUCT NEWS | 2024-03-01

OES Introduces Stored Program Motion Controllers

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.

PRODUCT NEWS | 2024-02-09

Intellidrives Offers Smart Rotary Mechatronics 5.0

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.

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PRODUCT NEWS | 2024-02-07

Applied Motion Products Introduces M5 Servo Series

Applied Motion Products introduces the M5 Servo Series – where power, precision, and cost-efficiency converge. The M5 Servo Series is engineered for high machine performance, exceptional torque output, and precise control. This series is optimized for cost-efficiency, ensuring peak capabilities without compromising performance.

PRODUCT NEWS | 2024-01-25

Mitsubishi Electric Launches Selection Tool

The Factory Automation (FA) Integrated Selection Tool allows customers to plan and configure their Mitsubishi Electric machines, resulting in a downloadable Bill of Materials (BOM).

PRODUCT NEWS | 2023-12-01

Moticont Expands Linear Voice Coil Servomotor Series

Moticont has released the GVCM-022-013-01 Linear Voice Coil Servomotor. This compact .875 in. (22.2 mm) diameter high speed, high force-to-size linear motor features high accuracy and high repeatability when operated in a closed loop as a DC servo motor.  This brushless servo motor is clean, quiet and has long life, low mass and high acceleration/deceleration for high throughput.

PRODUCT NEWS | 2023-11-28

AMC Introduces All in One Servo Drive

Advanced Motion Controls (AMC) is proud to announce the release of the FE060-25-IPM FlexPro series servo drive. This drive is designed to provide advanced control and power in one compact package, making it the perfect choice for a wide range of industrial and commercial applications.

PRODUCT NEWS | 2023-10-26

Moticont Updates Linear Voice Coil Servomotor Line

Moticont is releasing two 12.7 mm (0.500 in.) diameter Linear Voice Coil Motors, the LVCM-013-032-02M (Metric) and the LVCM-013-032-02 (Imperial).

PRODUCT NEWS | 2023-09-29

Mitsubishi Electric Expands Servomotor Portfolio

The MELSERVO-J5 portfolio of servomotors and amplifiers has been expanded to include two new servo types, additional “high-speed” motor models, and a number of new features and functions for enhanced capabilities and unparalleled performance compared to previous generations.

PRODUCT NEWS | 2023-09-08

OES Offers New Series of Gimbal Mounts

Designed for larger cameras, tracking devices, telescopes, optics, and other devices, four new, high resolution, three axis gimbal mounts have been released by OES (Optimal Engineering Systems, Inc.).  This new series of Three Axis Gimbal Mounts are 588 mm wide by 463 mm high, and handle loads up to 10 kg.  The AU400-AER (Azimuth, Elevation, and Roll) Series of Three Axis Gimbal Mounts feature high precision 180:1 worm gear driven “V” groove rotary stages. Each axis is capable of 360 degrees of continuous rotation in clockwise and counterclockwise directions. The position is held economically when the motor current is removed as worm gears cannot be back driven.  The Roll Stage has a precision pattern of threaded holes for mounting tooling, cameras, lasers, etc., and a through hole for cables and optics.  Devices up to 395 mm wide can be mounted on the rotary stage. 

PRODUCT NEWS | 2023-08-29

Siemens SINAMICS S210 Servo Drive System Upgrades Mid-Range Product Portfolio

With the SINAMICS S210 next generation servo drive system, comprising a digitally native drive with wide range of corresponding motors and gearboxes, Siemens brings a new level of high-dynamic, motion control in mid-range operation to stand-alone and multi-axis machines. This next generation servo drive system introduces a new level of safety and security to discontinuous motion control in the mid-range segment, as well as moving, processing and positioning functions on a wide assortment of packaging, printing, labeling, pick-and-place, stacking, assembly, chip sorting and filling machines, with a special emphasis on food-and-beverage and pharmaceutical applications, owing to the availability of stainless-steel motor and planetary gearbox options.  

PRODUCT NEWS | 2023-08-22

AMC Expands FlexPro Servo Drive Line

Advanced Motion Controls (AMC) is proud to announce the addition of six new CANopen servo drives with Extended Environment capabilities to their FlexPro line. These new drives join AMC's existing EtherCAT Extended Environment FlexPro drives, making the FlexPro line the go-to solution for motion control applications in harsh environments.

PRODUCT NEWS | 2023-08-15

Kollmorgen Expands Performance and Flexibility of AKD2G Servo Drive Series

Kollmorgen has announced the new AKD2G 24A drive. Designed for applications in precision multi-axis servo systems, the new single-cable optimized drive builds upon the strengths of the AKD2G portfolio including upgraded safety features, SD card backup and a graphical display with higher amperage to support more applications with higher power requirements such as conveyors and vertical lifting applications.

PRODUCT NEWS | 2023-06-09

Moticont Releases Latest Linear Voice Coil Servomotor

The HVCM-051-032-013-01 Linear Voice Coil Motor released by Moticont, features a high force-to-size ratio and a 19.1 mm (0.75 in.) stroke.  A low inertia, high acceleration/deceleration, high speed, clean and quiet, non-commutated, hollow core brushless servomotor, the HVCM-051-032-013-01 Linear Voice Coil Motor is ideal for applications such as: Testing, optical focusing, positioning, laser beam steering, laser drilling, cutting and machining, medical diagnostic equipment, scanning, wafer handling, dynamic vibration absorption, sorting, and assembly applications.

PRODUCT NEWS | 2023-05-15

Nord Delivers Drive Technology for End-of-Line Packaging

Nord Drivesystems is highly familiar with the packaging industry’s specific requirements and has developed specialized solutions for end-of-line packaging applications.

FEATURE ARTICLES | 2023-04-06

Plug & Produce Sensor Production

With its flexible multiproduct line for rotary encoders, Sensata has developed a sustainable solution. The heart of the precise sensor assembly system: The Smart Function Kit for pressing processes. The complete mechatronic package with preinstalled software reduces the programming to a minimum. Engineering, commissioning, and quality assurance become quicker, easier, and more cost-effective.

TECHNICAL ARTICLES | 2023-04-06

The Variation of Servomotor Efficiency in Different Applications

Unlike HVAC applications, servomotors are not normally operated at the same speed or torque for extended periods, thus the overall efficiency of a servomotor is not easily given a single numeric value. The efficiency varies greatly with the application, and thus different applications favor different types of servomotors.

PRODUCT NEWS | 2023-04-05

Festo Introduces Electric Motion Sizing Tool

Festo introduces the company’s latest online productivity tool – Electric Motion Sizing – for error-free sizing of linear and rotary electromechanical systems. Electric Motion Sizing improves project efficiency by slashing the engineering time required for identifying and specifying harmonized electric motion systems. Multi-axis handling systems can be specified with Electric Motion Sizing’s sister productivity tool Handling Guide Online, which offers similar benefits.  

PRODUCT NEWS | 2023-04-03

Moticont Releases Latest Linear Voice Coil Servo Actuators

New, metric and imperial dimensioned electric cylinders or linear voice coil servo actuators have been released by Moticont.

INDUSTRY NEWS | 2023-03-28

Faulhaber Receives Special Honor on 75th Anniversary

On the occasion of the company's 75th anniversary, Faulhaber received a special honor by the municipality of Schönaich: From November 1, the street leading to the company site will be called Faulhaberstraße and the company building will bear the house number 1.

PRODUCT NEWS | 2023-03-23

Sumitomo and Lafert Offer AGV Solution at Logimat 2023

Sumitomo Drive Technologies and Lafert Group will be jointly exhibiting a new version of their drive for applications in automated guided vehicle (AGV) systems at Logimat 2023 from April 25 to 27 in Stuttgart, Germany (Booth F45, Hall 6). The Smartris Drive Compact is a compact drive that is just a quarter of the size of the standard model.

PRODUCT NEWS | 2023-03-22

Ringfeder HTB Brakes Achieve High Torque in Small Package

The HTB electric brake from Ringfeder features a multiple floating disc design that disengages when power is applied to the brake coil and engages when that power is removed. It is a cost-effective solution when you need extremely high torque in a very compact package.

PRODUCT NEWS | 2023-03-10

Moticont Offers High Force Linear Servomotor

A high force Linear DC servomotor from Moticont has been added to their expanding line of voice coil or moving coil motors. The LVCM-095-038-01 Linear Voice Coil Motor is a true servo motor featuring zero cogging, high accuracy, and high repeatability when operated in a closed positioning loop

PRODUCT NEWS | 2023-02-16

TSN Plays Role in Network Technology Expansion for Servo Drives

The capabilities of servos are advancing at an accelerating pace, driving the rapid growth of next-level motion control systems. These devices can enable innovative industrial automation applications and processes thanks to cutting-edge hardware, software and, most importantly, communications technologies that support data-intensive operations.

PRODUCT NEWS | 2023-01-04

Galil Introduces Latest Single Axis Motion Controller

The DMC-3x01x Motion Controller Series is Galil's latest generation single-axis motion controller. It uses a 32-bit RISC processor to provide higher speed than older models.  Like all Galil controllers, programming the DMC-3x01x is simplified with two-letter, intuitive commands and a full set of software tools for servo tuning and analysis. 

INDUSTRY NEWS | 2022-10-04

Beckhoff USA Appoints Jake Schieffer VP of Sales

Jake Schieffer is taking on a new role within Beckhoff USA as vice president of sales. This promotion results from Schieffer’s significant successes as regional director – Midwest. In the newly created national position, he will continue to promote business alignment throughout the sales organization and accelerate growth across the U.S. Based at the Beckhoff USA headquarters office in the Minneapolis area, Schieffer reports to President Kevin Barker. After Schieffer’s promotion, Steve Boelte was selected to fill the position of regional director – Midwest.

REVOLUTIONS | 2022-08-19

A Look at Servo Technology for Power Transmission Systems

The following article looks at the latest news on servo motors, drives and motors. How do we differentiate between the definitions? What can design engineers find between a stepper and a servo motor? Also, a quick update this summer on the benefits of closed-loop motor control. 

PRODUCT NEWS | 2022-08-03

Mitsubishi Electric Releases Servo and Motion Solutions

Mitsubishi Electric Automation, Inc. has introduced Economy Solutions, packaged servo and motion bundles that allow for high precision motion control in a way that is quick and affordable to integrate.

TECHNICAL ARTICLES | 2022-08-03

Closed Loop Control of Hybrid Motors: When Is It a Servo?

A quick search of the patents issued, as well as a review of recent articles, shows a wide range of what authors call “servo stepper motors,” “closed-loop step motors,” “hybrid servo motors” and the like. Although the names may sound similar, the performance can vary quite substantially. Most of the “closed-loop stepper motors” are not actually servo motors! 

INDUSTRY NEWS | 2022-05-26

Faulhaber Integrates Subsidiary PDT

Effective April 1, 2022, Dr. Fritz Faulhaber GmbH integrates subsidiary PDT Präzisionsdrehteile GmbH from Nürtingen and thereby welcomes 34 new specialists to the Schönaich location. Thanks to this strategically planned step, Faulhaber can, with a machining center of its own, respond more quickly to individual requests and expands competencies in the area of machining production.

PRODUCT NEWS | 2022-05-25

NSK Develops New Ball Screw Technology

NSK Ltd. has developed a new technology that significantly extends ball screw life in high-load drive applications. Products with this technology are expected to be adopted by industrial machinery makers shifting to electric designs. Through this and other technologies, NSK continues to contribute to electrification and productivity increases industrial machinery.

TECHNICAL ARTICLES | 2020-08-01

Closing the Loop around a Transverse Flux Hybrid Step Motor

Transverse magnetic flux motors -- also known as step motors -- become Hybrid Servos when you operate them closed loop. This is the same transformation that happens between running a 3-phase synchronous motor from line voltage as opposed to running it closed loop as a brushless servo. In the case of hybrid motors, there are many degrees of what is advertised as "closed loop," and thus significant differences in the performance improvements seen.
TECHNICAL ARTICLES | 2020-06-01

Transverse Magnet Flux AKA Hybrid Step Motor Driver Techniques

The transverse flux permanent magnet motor -- also known as a hybrid step motor or hybrid servo motor -- has a wide range of performances, depending upon how you drive these motors, and whether you operate them in open loop or one of the many variants of closed loop methods you use. In this third installment we will cover some of the many ways to drive these motors, as well as how these choices affect the performance of these motors.
TECHNICAL ARTICLES | 2020-03-01

Hybrid Transverse Magnetic Flux Motors - AKA Stepper Motors and Hybrid Servos

This is the first of a series of articles on permanent magnet transverse magnetic flux motors - AKA step motors. These articles will be covering the development history and the various drive technologies used with these motors - both open and closed loop.
| 2017-01-16

Demystifying Bearing Fit Practices

Happy New Year! I hope everyone had a little time off over the holidays. We’re just getting into Michigan’s bi-polar winter season where leather co...
| 2016-06-03

The Driving Force

In “the good old days” we simply connected a motor to the power lines and that created motion — but those days are disappearing fast. Almost all mo...
FEATURE ARTICLES | 2011-08-01

Motion Control - Product Spotlight

This special product news section takes a look at the latest in motion control products.
EVENTS | 2011-06-01

Energy and Automation Create Buzz at Hannover Messe 2011

More than 6,500 businesses from 65 countries came to Hannover to display their solutions with energy and automation the main topics of discussion.
FEATURE ARTICLES | 2009-12-01

Honing a Competitive Advantage

Sunnen grows product portfolio with motion control solution from Siemens.
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