Motion control devices serve various purposes and come in many different forms and sizes, from linear motion control to hydraulic motion control. Motion control software is continuing to improve the processes and advanced motion controls are more user-friendly. While technology continues to improve motion control systems, businesses that use motion control engineering are having a hard time keeping up with the training needed to master the advanced motion controls.
Look for information about motion controls that is specific to your industry and application. While motion control software may be easier to modify and customize, the motion control equipment is not always as easy to operate and requires a learning curve like all new machinery. Motion control distributors typically offer guidance when you are setting up or updating your current motion controls.
1. Work with industrial motion controls suppliers that you trust
2. Find motion control software that is flexible
3. Test the advanced motion controls before going live
Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done
Build a relationship with your motion controller distributors
If you are going to place your operations in the hands of a consultant who also represents industrial motion controls manufacturers, you need to trust the recommendations that you are given. Trust is earned through past experience and can be strengthened by referrals and testimonies. Look for a motion controller distributor that has a long history of success, while keeping up with modern technological updates in the motion control systems industry.
I recommend: Servo Systems is a robotics advanced motion controls distributor that represents all major motion control product. Representatives are all trained engineers who specialize in motion control devices.
National Instruments provides motion control for any application and can advise you on the best motion control systems for your business.
Buy user-friendly motion control software
While you may have some computer experts on staff, you should be able to turn over your motion control devices and motion control systems to anyone who can learn it in a relatively short time. Make sure the learning curve for running motion control software applications is not overwhelming.
I recommend: Elmo Motion control has a motion control software package so easy that it calls it “SimplIQ.”
Semprex makes its motion control systems self-regulating so that power surges and mistakes are easier to monitor.
Use motion controller suppliers who remain with you during the testing process
Motion controller manufacturers and motion controller distributors can boast of an easy-to-use motion control product and sell you on the superiority of their products. But you should make sure that they will be around when you put the new industrial motion controls into use and you run into questions or problems. Look for this assurance when you sign a contract.
I recommend: Advanced Motions Controls is a motion control engineering and manufacturing firm that prides itself in surpassing the clients’ expectations when it comes to follow-up and customer service.
Technosoft will allow you to try out their motion control equipment with an evaluation package so that you can be comfortable about the compatibility of the motion control engineering with your own systems.
Tips & Tactics
Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide
- Ask to be contacted by your motion controller supplier when upgrades are available. You shouldn't have to hunt them down to keep up with the industry news.
The official source of Motion Controls is the Motion Controls page at Business.com
Featured Vendors
Search for Motion ControlsBroad-line distributor web site features real-time stock status & pricing, online ordering, RFQ, technical support, product datasheets, photos & more.
www.digikey.com
NSK Precision America: Motion ControlsManufactures precision motion control products, including ball screws, linear guides and actuators, motors, robot modules, and X-Y stages.
www.nskprecision.com
Motion ControlsManufacturer of high-quality dust control and loading systems. Offers products like loading sprouts, diverter valves, aeration equipment and more.
www.dclinc.com
Motion Controls for Process ControlHuge savings on industrial motion controls including stepper drives/motors, AC servo drives/motors, encoders, counter modules, PLCs, AC drives & more.
www.AutomationDirect.com
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