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Simplify pick and place with the THK PPR

THK's Pick-and-Place Robot PPR is a robot that can pick up delicate or minute workpieces such as electronic components and quickly and accurately transfer and assemble them to the base. In addition to the basic movements of raising, lowering, and rotating, various sensors (such as a force sensor), solenoid valves, and controller are all in one unit. The PPR is a process-optimized robot that can improve the production speed of the parts assembly processes and reduce work damage.
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New ROBOMACHINE products and more from FANUC

FANUC America demonstrated the future of manufacturing at IMTS 2026 last week, showcasing how Physical AI-powered automation integrates advanced CNC, machining, and robotics to boost productivity and speed deployment. One highlight was the debut of the ROBODRILL DC Series machining centers -- including the high-speed D54CS and D74CS models -- alongside interactive demonstrations featuring collaborative robots, robotic welding, material joining, painting, and assembly technology.
See all the FANUC new tech featured at IMTS.

What is a stick-slip bi-phase positioning stage?

PI (Physik Instrumente) is expanding its Bi-Phase Inertia Drive (BIX) technology with new motor architectures for compact, high-precision nanopositioning applications. Based on the piezo stick-slip principle, BIX stages replace conventional single actuators with two synchronized multilayer piezo actuators. This compact design delivers precise, repeatable motion while maintaining piezo inertia self-locking.
Learn more about this technology.

Universal Robots unveils Gen 7 robot platform!

Redesigned from controller to tool flange, the new Gen 7 robot platform is out-of-the-box AI-ready, giving companies the modern software tools and next-level connectivity they need to confidently take AI from the lab into industrial operations. Gen 7 represents a unified system upgrade designed to make even the most demanding tasks and setups easier. See all the new features -- they are significant.
Read the full article.

Adaptor mount and hub options provide flexibility

Zero-Max's new CD Power-Series Flexible Shaft Couplings feature ISO Flange Adaptors matching ISO 9409-1 patterns on gear reducers and robotics. Eliminating custom transitions, this direct connection enhances torsional stiffness and positioning accuracy while saving space, weight, and inertia. Offering continuous torque up to 65,000 in.-lb and versatile hub options, these compact couplings deliver high power density.
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Top-shelf motors: Completely revised maxon catalog

maxon has completely overhauled its 2026/2027 catalog, streamlining its portfolio to reduce complexity and improve navigation. The new structure features dedicated sections for business units -- Medical, Aerospace, Industrial Automation, Mobility -- and specialized fields like Robotics and Space. Key product highlights include new ECX PRIME and ECX FLAT motors, GSW planetary gearheads, and ESCON2/EPOS4 controllers.
Learn more and check it out.

Custom stators, rotors, and motor assemblies for low- to mid-volume applications

Arnold's Ramco Electric Motors is your single partner for custom motor components and complete assemblies. Ramco builds solutions for AC induction, switched reluctance, and brushless DC designs up to 200+ HP. Capabilities include custom stators, rotor-shaft assemblies, aluminum and copper casting, induction brazing, permanent magnet assembly, and precision rotor balancing.
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Rotate robot arms more than 600 degrees

The unsupported twisterchain^® from igus eliminates the need for additional trough systems or guide plates in robotic applications, especially in palletizing. This results in a clean, efficient, and space-saving system architecture that delivers both technical and economic advantages. Thanks to its specialized design, it supports rotations of over 600 degrees.
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Match the torque of rotary solenoids to your application

Magnetic Sensor Systems has launched the Made in USA R-10-200-CWM Series of clockwise rotary solenoids. Measuring 2.00 in. in diameter and 1.04 in. long with 18 different AWG options and a serrated front shaft end, these compact units optimize torque, current, and duty cycle. When power is removed, an integral return spring automatically returns the shaft to its home position. The shaft is supported by two high-precision radial ball bearings, providing smooth operation with no axial play. Applications include medical, security, and office equipment.
Learn more.

Planetary servo gear unit: New economy series

SEW-EURODRIVE has expanded its PxG planetary servo gear unit portfolio with the new PxG economy series, introducing the P1.G, P2.G, and P3.G performance classes. Designed for standard industrial automation applications like packaging and material handling, these cost-effective units feature peak torque ratings from 11 to 500 Nm and over 20,000 hours of service life, helping machine builders eliminate unnecessary over-specification.
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Compact hexapod 6-DOF alignment system has overload protection

PI's compact H-811.I2HS hexapod delivers precise 6-DOF motion with patented overload protection, simplifying setup and operation in OEM applications. This built-in protection safeguards precision mechanics during installation and integration against accidental forces or improper handling. Furthermore, the hexapod mounts in any orientation, granting system designers exceptional flexibility for optical, photonics, microscopy, metrology, and automation systems.
Learn more.

What is STUDROLLER technology? Cross Roller Guides

NB SLIDE WAY cross roller guides use precision rollers to provide stable, non-recirculating linear motions in precision stages, inspection equipment, semiconductor manufacturing, and more. At the heart of all NB cross roller bearings is the STUDROLLER mechanism, which eliminates the cage-creep phenomenon that, over time, can create deviances in cross roller retainer performance. NB cross roller guides equipped with this system are more accurate and better performing than any other comparable products on the market today. High acceleration and faster cycle times are possible in any orientation.
View the video.

Ruggedized Nano servo drives for harsh environs

Copley Controls has released its R47 and R48 NanoPlus Micro Module servo drives. Designed for extreme environments and space-constrained applications, these rugged platforms operate from 9 to 180 VDC, delivering peak power up to 6.3 kW. Offering CANopen (R47) or EtherCAT (R48) communications, both feature STO SIL 3 safety and broad encoder support. Well suited for COTS military, nautical, aviation, oil refining, and vehicle-based systems.
Learn more.

Simplify AC motor control with the new OMRON M1 Inverter

The OMRON M1 Inverter simplifies machine design by unifying motion, safety, networking, and motor control into a single platform. Available in M1-STD, M1-ECT, and M1-EMP models, it controls IM and PM motors with high precision. Featuring SIL3 PLe STO safety and native EtherCAT, EtherNet/IP, or RS-485 communications, the M1 accelerates development within the Sysmac environment.
Learn more.

Flexible planetary gearheads: Quiet, extremely robust

FAULHABER GPT gearheads for miniature and micro motors deliver high power density, exceptional flexibility, and excellent cost efficiency. Designed for seamless integration with diverse motors and encoders, these compact planetary drives feature hardened stainless steel components that reliably withstand extreme torques and abrupt load changes. Offered in standard, low-noise, and high-torque variants, they ensure precise, durable performance across wide operating temperature ranges.
Learn more.

Green hauler: SwRI demonstrates hydrogen-fueled Class-8 truck

The Southwest Research Institute has developed a hydrogen-fueled internal combustion engine for this heavy-duty, Class-8 truck demonstrator. [Credit: Courtesy of SwRI]

 

 

Southwest Research Institute (SwRI) has successfully completed development of a hydrogen-fueled Class-8 demonstration vehicle built as part of its industry-supported H₂-ICE consortium. The central focus of the demonstration includes development of a Hydrogen Internal Combustion Engine (H₂-ICE) that produces ultra-low NOx and CO₂ emissions while still providing enough torque and power for most heavy-duty applications.

Launched in November 2022, the H₂-ICE consortium gathered transportation industry leaders -- including engine and truck manufacturers, fuels and lubricants providers, and Tier-I suppliers -- with a unified vision of advancing sustainable mobility through innovative hydrogen engine technology. The consortium focused on demonstrating the potential for H₂-ICE vehicles to complement other zero-emission vehicle technologies on the industry's decarbonization roadmap.

To achieve the consortium's goals, the engine needed to demonstrate industry-leading nitrogen oxide (NOx) emissions in addition to the low carbon dioxide (CO₂) emissions expected from hydrogen combustion. Despite a relatively short 18-month timeline, the SwRI team set an aggressive target of meeting the California Air Resource Board's (CARB) Ultra-Low NOx designation of 0.02 g/hp-hr (grams per horsepower-hour).

"We wanted the program to align with the Environmental Protection Agency's Phase-3 greenhouse gas policy, so we knew our timeline was ambitious," said Ryan Williams, an SwRI Powertrain Engineering Division manager and the H₂-ICE consortium's program manager. "It took incredible planning by the integration teams to ensure that the build proceeded smoothly."

SwRI consortia are hubs for industry collaboration. The SwRI consortium pulled together experts from within the consortium's membership to advance development and overcome technical hurdles related to hydrogen combustion. SwRI converted an X15N natural gas engine provided by consortium member Cummins to run on port-injected hydrogen using components supplied by other consortium members.

"From custom-built parts and prototype components to specially formulated lubricants, this has truly been an industry-wide effort," said Williams. "We could never have completed the demonstration vehicle in the short time that we did without the support and collaboration of the consortium."

The H₂-ICE vehicle represents a compelling zero-GHG option in the difficult-to-decarbonize long-haul trucking market. Its 370-hp engine produces 2,025 Newton-meters (Nm) of torque, which is considered ideal for most heavy-duty trucking applications. Engine efficiency is above 40%, peaking at 43%. Only trace amounts of carbon emissions have been measured in the exhaust, totaling about 1.5 grams of CO₂ per horsepower-hour (g/hp-hr).

SwRI built on experience from previous heavy-duty, low-NOx projects to develop a novel aftertreatment system specifically adapted to the hydrogen exhaust environment. Paired with the H₂-ICE's already low engine emissions, the addition of the aftertreatment system reduces NOx emissions to 0.008 with aged catalysts, well below the 2027 EPA limit of 0.035 g/hp-hr and an industry first.

"The NOx emissions produced by the H2-ICE platform are already at or below the best numbers achieved in our previous diesel low-NOx programs," said SwRI Institute engineer Chris Sharp, who led the aftertreatment calibration effort. "We anticipate the H2-ICE reaching near-zero tailpipe NOx emissions, with single-digit mg/hp-hr levels under nearly all operating conditions. I am extremely proud of the team's accomplishments and excited for the project's future."

The completed demonstration vehicle was on display at the 2024 ACT Expo in Las Vegas, May 20-23, where it was showcased alongside other leading low-carbon and zero-emissions technologies. It will be on display next at the California Hydrogen Leadership Summit on June 16-17 in Sacramento, CA.

For more information, visit the H₂-ICE Consortium or contact Jesus Chavez at +1 210 522 2258, Communications Department, Southwest Research Institute.

Source: Southwest Research Institute

Published May 2024

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