• 11 May
    Article image

    Transforming buildings for a sustainable future

    The Internet of Things (IoT) is rapidly transforming the way we live and work, creating opportunities for businesses to become more efficient, productive, and sustainable. This is especially true in the case of buildings and offices, where IoT technology is being used to digitise and optimise building and the usage thereof, resulting in significant cost savings and reduced environmental impact. 

  • 11 May
    Article image

    The unsung heroes of productivity, efficiency and safety

    Factories of the future are often closely linked with buzzwords including the Internet of Things (IoT), Industrial IoT, Industry 4.0, and other high-tech movements. However, it is often the simple, low-key products and components that can be just as important for achieving productivity, efficiency, and safety in a modern plant. 

  • 11 May
    Article image

    Artificial Intelligence: Don’t call me stupid

    10 years ago, I was quite proud of how smart the machines in our own factory were. Now, with today’s definition of smart, I realise they were actually quite stupid.

  • 9 May
    Article image

    FANUC and Cyan Tec bring MTC’s vision of large-scale robotic laser-cutting cell to life

    A suite of automation solutions from FANUC has proved integral to the delivery of an industrial-scale laser cutting cell commissioned by the UK’s Manufacturing Technology Centre (MTC).

  • 13 Apr
    Article image

    Get a grip: force control for robot end effectors

    Robot end effectors are required in environments from the deep sea to the surgical theatre. While position control is necessary, the application must also integrate force sensing to ensure sensitive handling.

  • 13 Mar
    Article image

    Why SME suppliers are the driving force of UK growth

    Recent world events and an increase in geopolitical uncertainty have resulted in a renewed focus on building, supporting and strengthening of sovereign supply chains. UK businesses want to build robust, and resilient networks of suppliers, particularly in high-tech sectors. 

  • 8 Mar
    Article image

    Data centres are on the frontline of future motor technology

    Cooling is exceptionally important to data centres, given the heat-generating nature of servers. As big data has become the foundation upon which industrial automation providers are building new solutions and services, the increase in data has in turn highlighted the importance of motor technology advances.

  • 8 Mar
    Article image

    Commercial off-the-shelf motors can decrease time and cost for defence projects

    A common expectation for military-spec OEM projects is that each and every component will need to be bespoke-designed and manufactured to meet the strict standard and certifications. 

  • 8 Mar
    Article image

    The importance of sustainability in motion system development

    Market demand is increasing the push towards sustainable development in industry. The efficiencies that the latest automation motion system technology provides are helping innovators to achieve an environmentally-sustainable approach for the future. 

  • 23 Jan
    Article image

    Build or buy a three-axis motion controller?

    Three-axis embedded PCB motion controllers are integral for applications such as robotic arm control. While high volume and specific development needs might drive towards an in-house build, minimising development time and lowering cost for smaller volumes is an advantage of buying in a controller. Comparing these approaches, a hybrid option can also offer the best of both worlds.

  • 23 Jan
    Article image

    The top five essential automation trends for 2023

    Here, Fernando Colás, CEO of OMRON Industrial Automation Europe, explores the main trends that are set to shape industrial automation in 2023 – and beyond.

  • 16 Jan
    Article image

    Strong APAC low voltage AC drive unit sales fuel market growth to $14.2bn

    Strong unit sales in the APAC region increased growth in the low voltage AC drive market during 2022 to an estimated $14.2bn, according to a new report. This growth is heavily driven by retrofit opportunity and increased energy efficiency legislation throughout the region. 

  • 6 Jan
    Article image

    Navigating the supply chain crisis

    Global supply chains are under massive pressure to keep up with demand while coping with raw materials and product shortages. Manufacturers may feel like there isn’t much they can do to change the situation, but there are strategies which can help companies stay afloat. 

  • 4 Jan
    Article image

    How to choose the right radio frequency for telemetry applications

    In highly regulated industries where laying cables is not feasible, radio-based communication can transfer critical data from multiple locations wirelessly and effectively. 

  • 4 Jan
    Article image

    Engineering insights: Ethernet’s evolution beyond IT

    Since its inception in the mid-1970s, the adoption of Ethernet networking has continued to go from strength to strength, and is now the dominant wired networking technology in our homes, retail outlets, industrial plants, offices, telecoms infrastructure, and even cars.