Eitel on Design

06/14/2026

Conversation with Wago engineering about lean managed switches https://bit.ly/43znq5C

Updated 2026 • Recall from basic networking that managed switches need some configuration before operation to expand network availability ... For example,

05/22/2026

Some thoughts on digital integration of motion systems https://bit.ly/4wHqEBc

In a recent conversation with colleagues, we touched on how manufacturing is undergoing a fundamental transformation with motion systems in these settings

05/06/2026

PSA: Self-locking gearmotors aren’t brakes https://bit.ly/4te8tAd

Fractional-horsepower gearmotors must satisfy unique application requirements. In some cases, OEM design engineers specify gearmotors containing worm gearing to leverage the self-locking nature of this gear type. However, the locking characteristic of worm gears is often misunderstood and misapplied...

05/01/2026

2026 Power Transmission issue: Customization rules the world https://bit.ly/4eWnBib

 The 2026 Power Transmission issue of Design World details several ways in which electromechanical systems are being customized to extremely specific

05/01/2026

Integrated servomotors bring realtime motion control to a parallel-kinematics platform https://bit.ly/4tODU5o

To showcase the performance of a line of servomotors, a parallel platform was recently built to control the motion of a ping-pong ball in realtime. Complementing the synchronized servo actuation are visual feedback and realtime kinematic computation. A new three-axis parallel platform demonstrates t...

04/30/2026

Conveyor layouts that support automation and future expansion https://bit.ly/3ODio4i

Customizing a conveyor layout to both current and future needs requires adaptability. Modular components, automation technology, and capacity buffers can

03/20/2026

Join us this coming Tuesday, March 24, 2025 at noon ET! Will link below. Our heart and soul motion control is no longer isolated — it's core to all the digital infrastructure of today’s discrete automation. Bring your questions! The smarties at engineering.com will be on the panel.

03/06/2026

Quick look at Chieftek’s new S1 robot arm — https://bit.ly/47g54IY

At the recent MD&M West 2026, we asked Henry Chou of Chieftek Precision USA a couple impromptu questions about the new S1 compact robot. The six-axis

03/04/2026

This was a short and sweet piece we got to print with Altech Corp. on components used for elevator safety — https://bit.ly/4ueWKTV

Advanced safety relays, terminal blocks, and emergency stops in elevators ensure passenger and technician safety. Laszlo Gyorgypal | Product and quality

02/12/2026

I love family trees of components. Here's one to accompany a piece on which kinds of robotics use which kinds of gear, motor, and control technologies: https://bit.ly/4rccvsx

Garnering much attention these days are industrial robotics and their integration of motion components and incorporation into workcells with other motion-based automated equipment. Such robotic workcells also feature conveyors, vision systems, and machines to automate specific tasks. So, what makes....