White Papers

iAutomation Smart Motion Cheat Sheet (2.27 MB)
A detailed look into sizing Smart Motion Systems.(includes Smart Motor Sizing/Selection Flow-Chart, Key Motion Relationships, Key Mechanism Related Equations, Engineering Unit Conversions)
Industrial Ethernet Article (233.25 KB)
Although the discussion that surrounds industrial Ethernet solutions frequently centers on such academic topics as the right method and the fastest technology, the long-term market will only accept solutions that are open, proven, easy to use, future-oriented and that conform to standards and support interoperability. Users have become extremely cautious about proprietary systems since they can lead to unpredictable dependence that cannot be easily lifted.
Differences Between Round & Square Rail Linear Guides (326.27 KB)
The advantages and disadvantages of each linear guide technology. Get an inside look into which type of linear guide would work best for you. In order to apply the correct type of linear guide in a particular application, the design engineer must consider the advantages and capabilities of each. In many cases the designer has a fair amount of flexibility between which technologies they employ. Tuning the performance of one's system by choosing the most appropriate component for each function will result in the optimum solution, translating into competitive advantage relative to cost and performance. by Robert Lipsett, Engineering Manager, Thomson BSA
The Epic Struggle in Linear Motion (1.37 MB)
In these days of twice as good at half the cost in electronics, mechanical engineers need all the innovation they can get. Imagine the perfect bearing: Zero friction, zero wear, infinite load, and infinite speed. Whoa! Even the electronics industry would be trying to catch up with that innovation.