Custom-Off-The-Shelf: The New ‘COTS’ Goods

For decades there has been an initiative to source COTS (Commercial-off-the-shelf) goods when possible, and for good reason. COTS goods generally are less expensive, more readily available and easier to dual source.

Torque Measurement with Angle Sensors

As collaborative robots expand into manufacturing environments the issue of safe motion continues to be a concern. Current design approaches involve adding force sensors, torque sensors, and sometimes proximity sensors. These adders along with more complex software control algorithms mitigate most of the concerns and result in slower operation. Unfortunately, these additional sensors also add significant cost and complexity.

Miniature Kit Encoders Ensure High Performance in Maxon Micromotors

With the increasing sophistication of electronic controls for mechanical systems, there is more demand for durable, accurate and easy to use displacement sensors. As automation becomes more common there is also an increasing sensitivity to price. Customers also want sensors that can be easily connected and mechanically integrated.

Chips, Chips & Chips

What semiconductors, snacking and gambling all have in common: Encoders!

There has been a lot of talk lately around the global ‘chip’ shortage. Even social media last month was filled with cartoons of engineers asking Santa for semiconductors for Christmas. Rotary encoders such as the DS-130 by Netzer Precision are an important part of this ‘chip’ production. Accuracies exceeding 0.004 degrees, 21 bit resolution and a 90mm ID ensure that component placement can be done accurately and consistently.