In today’s age of smart manufacturing, industrial automation is transforming how we design and operate machinery. Mechanical engineers are increasingly expected to work alongside automation technologies, especially in the field of motion control. Fundamental to this is a solid understanding of drive systems and the components that enable precise movement in automated machinery.

While college is a traditional pathway for many, it's not the only route to a lucrative and fulfilling career. In fact, several alternatives offer high earning potential, job satisfaction, and opportunities for personal growth without the hefty investment of time and money that a four-year degree often requires.

Rising College Tuition and the Debt Trap.

Where do we find gears? Better yet, where don’t we find gears? Chances are any machine with a moving part will probably have a gear.

After decades of technical manufacturing jobs taking a back seat to roles requiring a college education, jobs in high-tech manufacturing are quietly making a comeback. Several factors are driving the trend:

A dual-channel AGV (Automated Guided Vehicle) motor controller refers to a controller system that is designed to control the movement of two separate motors in an AGV simultaneously. AGVs are autonomous vehicles used for material handling tasks in various industries such as manufacturing, logistics, and warehousing. They rely on motor controllers to precisely control the speed, direction, and positioning of their wheels or propulsion systems.

After years of cancellations and virtual events due to the pandemic, industrial trade shows are back. Even with tremendous advances in how virtual events are conducted, they still cannot compete with the efficiency and powerful ability of in-person events to help brands form new business connections.

The 4th industrial revolution, also known as Industry 4.0, refers to the current trend of automation and data exchange in manufacturing technologies, including the Internet of Things (IoT), artificial intelligence (AI), and cognitive computing. It is characterized by a fusion of technologies that blur the lines between the physical, digital, and biological spheres. The creation of “smart factories,” in which machines and systems can communicate and cooperate with each other, making the production process more efficient and flexible, is the primary goal. Smart factories blend several new technologies together, such as the Internet of Things (IoT), artificial intelligence (AI), and robotics, to create manufacturing processes that are more efficient, flexible, and adaptable.

The pandemic disrupted supply chains around the world and exposed many weaknesses, but one of the most glaring issues was in microchip manufacturing. Microchips are the engine that runs the modern world, from cars to mobile phones, computers, and electronics of all kinds, disruption to the production of microchips rippled through the world economy. Many industries that require advanced microchips in the manufacturing process experience delays and shortages. The shortages drove the price of goods up and contributed to rising worldwide inflationary pressures.

Couplings are a simple component that are often overlooked until late in a project which can cause issues. If not given the proper care and attention to detail early, they can become a source of frustration and even failure if handled incorrectly.

“What critical medical components are currently vulnerable to supply chain disruptions, but could be sourced domestically with some prior planning and coordination?”