Where to Find Answers to Motion Control Challenges

While choosing new equipment to diversify product lines, decision-makers at a small manufacturer need optimal performance for their automation. An integrator meets with them and the decision-makers, or end users, believe the motor size to power the equipment should be larger than what the integrator is recommending.

The integrator sticks by the recommendation and the team wants to do their own research. Knowing where to turn and get answers to tough questions about automation isn't easy, unless you're in a technology eco-system and you know who to trust for information. Powering up robots, conveyors, and other types of equipment requires specialized knowledge.

That's available through an organization that was formed to advance the global understanding and use of motion control and related automation technologies. The Motion Control and Motor Association is the global trade group for more than 200 members. Expert input is as easy to access as MCMA's website, motioncontrolonline.org.

Get Facts

Machine design mistakes were addressed in an article under MCMA's Education page, Don't Let This Happen to You: Avoid These Machine Design Mistakes. The problem of oversized motors is addressed and how it's likely that 80% of motors in use in Europe and the United States are too large.

The article uncovers specific challenges like packaging soda bottles in six packs rather than four packs and why "choosing a higher-torque motor to accommodate the heavier load seems like an easy solution" but it can compound a problem.

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The Education page includes additional write-ups plus webinars on issues like Learn About the Latest Motor Standards, and the regulatory impact on "form, fit, and function."

Getting the right information is important as industrial automation continues growing along with automation for consumers.

Get Prepared

The latest figures reported by Robotic Industries Association show that 7,406 robots valued at approximately $402 million were ordered from North American companies during the first quarter of 2016. Automation is proven effective in turning out high quality products with a nearly zero defect rate.

Equipment today is usually easy to set up and use, but thorough planning remains essential. Raising questions and weighing answers and options before equipment is ordered and installed is a smart way to avoid problems and unnecessary expenses later. Educating yourself and your team is a good step in that direction especially when resources are available for little cost.

MCMA's membership base is diverse. Components manufacturers, end users, system integrators and academic organizations are among the member-types that make up the roster. Education is one important benefit and networking opportunities are another.

Since automated solutions are customizable the answers that are given to pressing problems can't be a one-size-fits-all approach. MCMA provides a way to look for solutions, dig for input, and implement answers with people who are trusted.

The Motion Control and Motor Association and its partner organizations offer a variety of free resources. Find them and membership opportunities as you browse the website of the umbrella association A3.