Motion control solutions are a compelling representation of how manufacturing as an industry is evolving. Their continued development is in direct response to key trends that manufacturers are gravitating towards and recognizing their importance amidst the evolution of assembly lines will serve as key indicators of future productivity and efficiency.
At the heart of that development is the need for more data. There’s been a greater utilization of sensors into nearly every component, which naturally produces a flood of information that manufacturers are gathering. Motion control processes can elicit an array of metrics including in positioning, cycle times and temperature and how manufacturers are monitoring them not only dictates how they’re maintaining operations but how they’re proactively addressing anomalies.
The shift from being reactive to proactive regarding production issues is a powerful one and leveraging data is a key accelerator in assuming that position. In particular, sensors elevate the potential for greater positioning and accuracy, which continues to be a priority for manufacturers. The more data plays a complementary role in mechatronic and motion control solutions, the more accurate and precise they can be by adjusting and learning in real-time.
Naturally, artificial intelligence falls in line with that trend as “smart” technology is playing a central role in manufacturing. While adopting such solutions may seem daunting to some, it’s worth noting, at its core, efficiency is defined as strategic input dictating processes and responding to the subsequent data about operational efficiency. That concept should guide the evaluation of any advanced solution and it’s incumbent on manufacturers to know exactly what those data points they should be monitoring.
Achieving a copacetic relationship between operators, linear motion solutions and productivity starts with technology that’s easy to integrate to new or existing environments. There’s a consensus among manufacturers who generally want higher payloads moving at higher speeds, but how they accomplish that and to what degree is truly unique to the manufacturer itself. Solutions that can be commissioned quickly and can communicate with existing infrastructure are highly valued, as they reduce critical downtime spent onboarding employees and ease the transition to a more modern assembly footprint.
Additionally, solutions that can be controlled through a digital app are becoming more commonplace, as the utilization of digital and handheld interfaces typically lends itself to faster adoption, especially among a younger workforce that has grown-up with devices seemingly from birth. Furthermore, how those solutions communicate to each other and a central control system remains pivotal, and open solution settings from a variety of suppliers are becoming standard. It underscores the need for manufacturers to be flexible in responding to consumer needs, which they can accomplish through motion solutions that are easy to install and can communicate with existing infrastructure.
Running in parallel to digitalization among motion control solutions is an adoption of sustainable design. Legacy hydraulic and pneumatic components, while established and reliable, are in some smaller force applications being phased out for electromechanical alternatives that are more economical and eco-friendly. Electronic actuators, for instance, serve as a key example of leveraging on-demand energy, which doesn’t require a constant supply of air or lubricants.
This can not only cut down on long-term maintenance and replacement costs but also reduce the physical footprint within a facility and free up space for additional processes or solutions. The concept of designing with sustainability in mind is increasing in the United States, as the industry is incrementally incorporating policy and compliance measures to keep pace with established practices in Europe.
That concept of starting small and expanding to see the larger picture will continue to serve manufacturers well as they evaluate all aspects of their lines to maximize productivity and throughput. Motion control technology will remain a vital part in achieving those goals and solutions that embody and exhibit the beneficial practices detailed above represent futureproof components that will serve as the bedrock of successful assembly lines for years to come.
Sean Barunas is a Sales Product Manager for Bosch Rexroth. For more information, visit www.boschrexroth.com.