The first rule of any technology used in a business is that automation applied to an efficient operation will magnify the efficiency. The second is that automation applied to an inefficient operation will magnify the inefficiency.

The future is now. Advanced automation and robots are already all too common sight in so many manufacturing processes for decades now. Although this change did not occur as dramatically as cyberpunk anime films would have it, its coming was predicted a long time ago. All of this has caused a unique kind of disturbance, positive or negative, depending on one’s position in this whole newly created situation. For quick-witted business owners of major industries, these improvements represented a quantum leap that heralded the reshaping of the notion of efficiency.

There is no doubt that the advances we have witnessed so far are but the very tip of the industrial automation iceberg which is not even withing sight of all that is possible in future. However, if there is something we’ve learned from history, that is the human ability to connect the dots of now as to strengthen the lines of yesterday.

The dawn of industrial automation altered the ways of many general processes such as material handling, quality control, decision making and logical programming commands. All of this was made possible by the introduction of automation equipment systems. A reliable automation equipment system is able to enhance the productivity at each end of the manufacturing spectrum. These systems took over all daunting and monotonous physical work and their beyond human abilities led to speedy production and omission of the all-too-human needy disruption.

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These systems are used for the purpose of modification, design, parts fabrication, on-site support, computer aided manufacturing and process development. In addition, they successfully replace human workers in hazardous environments where toxins and radioactivity are the byproduct from the work of machines. And as fiction based as it may sound, they are all bound to adhere to the three laws of robotics.

Every automation equipment system is unique in terms of its abilities and fields where it can be applied. The most common choices include: material handling automation, robotics, testing systems, pick and place equipment, marketing equipment and automated assembly equipment. If incorporated correctly, these systems can be used as multifunctional devices the role of which can even stretch up to processes such as machine vision inspection, welding and web converting.

Beyond its practical function, industrial automation has also taken up the role of pushing the boundaries of human limitations. Contrary to the popular belief which states that robots are diminishing the need for human force, many experts will tell you that all these innovations are doing is opening up new and far more challenging jobs for the human intellect and potential.

Finally, it is plain to see that the implementation of industrial automation amounts to stellar achievements and has enabled industrial owners to find the much needed shortcuts in this overly competitive, rush-hour life.

The post From Muscles to Machines: The Role of Automation in Replacing Human Workers appeared first on Sherlocks.com.au Blog.

Electromagnetic Power Off Brakes

The EM power off brakes are used to hold or stop a load when the electrical power has been accidentally lost or disconnected. Since they are used as a plan B, the power off brakes are referred to as fail safe brakes. Installed on or near the electric motor, they are heavily used as servo motor brakes, holding brakes, robotics, etc. For increased brake torque, multiple disks can be used. There are two main types of fail safe brakes: spring applied and permanent magnet brakes. They do have differences, but both power off brakes types work when no power is applied to them.

Electromagnetic Particle Brakes

This electromagnetic braking system is the most unique type of EM brakes, as they use a design from other electro-mechanical brakes and have a wide operating torque range. As any type of electro-mechanical brake, the torque to voltage is almost linear, but with magnetic particle brakes, the torque can be controlled very accurately. With this ability, they are perfectly suitable for tension-control applications. Also, they have a fast response, which makes them efficient for high cycle applications.

Electromagnetic Hysteresis Power Brakes

The electromagnetic hysteresis power brakes are known for having an incredibly wide torque range and exceptional torque repeatability. These brakes can even be controlled remotely, so they are perfect for test-stand applications where varying torque is needed. But as the drag torque is minimal, the EM hysteresis power brakes provide a wide torque range of any hysteresis product. As mentioned, the test stand applications are most suitable for this electromagnetic braking system.

Multiple Disc Brakes

When extremely high torque within a small space is needed, the multiple disc brakes are an obvious choice. The multiple disc brakes can be used either dry or wet, so they are suitable for running in multi-speed gear box applications, applications that involve machine tools and in off-road equipment.

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