Category: Robotics
A Look at the Essential Components of a Motion Control System
Modern manufacturers must increase efficiency in their operations to remain competitive. Motion control systems, which precisely control speed, acceleration, position, and torque in industrial automated equipment, can help manufacturers achieve greater levels of productivity. These sophisticated systems have four essential components: a controller, drive, motor, and feedback device. Understanding how they work together is key […]
A Guide to Collaborative Robot Standards, Hazards and Compliance
Collaborative robots, or cobots, are crucial for manufacturing productivity. Cobots are designed with built-in safety features so they may work collaboratively alongside human workers, but these technologies do not ensure safety “out of the box.” Rather, a comprehensive, application-specific risk assessment is essential to safeguarding your workforce and achieving compliance. As your partner in automation, […]
Linear Motion Solutions Power High-Speed Pick-and-Place Precision
In the manufacturing industry where cycle times are crucial, reliable and precise high-speed pick-and-place systems can help you meet your production goals. However, slow or inconsistent motion reduces throughput and degrades finished product quality. Fortunately, you can overcome these challenges by equipping automated pick-and-place systems with a properly specified, high-quality linear motion solution. As your […]
High-Speed Pick-and-Place Robots Power Precision
High-speed pick-and-place robots deliver a powerful solution for modern manufacturers who must increase speed, precision and reliability. As your automation partner, JHFOSTER can design, integrate and support a high-speed pick-and-place system tailored to your application so you can start operating smarter and more efficiently. What is High-Speed Pick-and-Place? Automated high-speed pick-and-place systems use robots along […]
Pneumatic Vacuum Generators vs. Electric Vacuum Pumps
Start operating smarter and more efficiently by selecting the right vacuum system. The choice between an electric vacuum pump and a pneumatic vacuum generator is critical to performance and energy optimization. At JHFOSTER we don’t just distribute products, we provide expert guidance from start to finish. We can help you evaluate the needs of your […]
How Robotics Assist the 3D Printing Revolution
More manufacturers are using 3D printing for prototyping and small-scale production. Also called additive manufacturing, 3D printing is a method of creating objects by adding layers of material. This technique brings greater efficiency to the process when compared to traditional subtractive manufacturing which removes material through grinding, drilling and machining. Integrating robotic technologies into the […]
Automation vs. Robotics: What are the Key Differences?
Most manufacturers have a mix of automated and robotic technologies on the plant floor. While both solutions will cut costs, increase capacity and improve quality and safety, automation and robotics are not the same so the terms should not be used interchangeably. This blog will explain the key differences and how each technology is applied. […]
What is a Robotic Assembly Line? A Guide for SMEs
Statistics show that small- and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) can be up to 60% less efficient than larger manufacturers, which is attributed to a lack of automation. Fortunately, modern robotic technology is no longer just for large corporations. Flexible, affordable and user-friendly collaborative robots (cobots) are breaking down old barriers, allowing SMEs to automate so they […]
Overcome Human-Robot Collaboration Challenges with an Expert Partner
Human-robot collaboration (HRC) is a powerful way to improve productivity, efficiency and safety, but integrating robots into a human workforce presents unique challenges. As your experienced automation partner, JHFOSTER can help you navigate HRC integration complexities so you can start operating smarter and more efficiently. What Is Human-Robot Collaboration (HRC)? HRC is a process in […]
How to Integrate Cobots into Manufacturing
Today’s manufacturers face labor shortages and sharp cost increases. Collaborative robots, also called cobots, provide a powerful solution because they allow you to better leverage the skills of your existing workforce. This guide will walk you through the “what,” “why” and “how” of successful cobot integration so you can begin working more cost effectively. What […]