The always excellent resource Design World has just posted another great linear motion related article.

Senior Editor Danielle Collins has outlined 5 considerations when implementing a vertical linear applications. Loading, Buckling Load, Back Driving, Lubrication and Contamination must all be understood and accounted for.

For all the details, read the article here

Engineers tend to have highly specific training for their particular field. When it comes to Mechatronics, the combination of mechanical and electrical, engineering disciplines begin the same project from two different starting points. A project manager is crucial for the success of the project to bring these two engineering efforts together.

Whether designing a solar PV tracker, small-scale implanted medical devices or factory automation, it is important to start with a clear project scope. Second, the mechanical team should size the mechanical components first. Lastly, the electrical engineering team should determine the appropriate size and type of motor, drive and controller needed.

Many times, these projects are led by engineers with preconceived conclusions when it comes to selecting the right linear motion product. Depending on their required specifications, a less expensive option could be the best solution. The success of the team is determined by “right sizing” the project for the optimal operating efficiency.

Consulting a linear motion expert is the best advice when you begin a electro-mechanical project. There are many calculators and configurators available to help in the sizing of your application. Look to makingmotionwork.com as a resource for many of these.

When you’re looking for the right solution provider, you’ll find it’s best to look for someone to provide more than only a part or service. You want to start by looking at this long term. What you really need is a solution partner. First, ask why you need a solution provider.

The ideal situation is to find an extension of you, a solution provider that provides all the product offerings and then some. This firm should bring so much more to the party in areas that you are lacking or have budget limitations. The best partners provide things like intellectual property, industry knowledge and a complete second tier of vendors that will contribute to the total solution.

As with so many other relationships, communication is the most important attribute. You’ll want to communicate your goals, timeline and even share budget targets. This will ensure the solution is sized properly to the project scope and the expectations of the team and senior management.

Most companies are looking to reduce their vendor base for components. When evaluating current and future vendors, always consider the value-add that a true solution provider delivers.

We live in a world of instant communication and yet, we are sometimes not good communicators. Poor communication is usually the root problem for creating silos in many technology-driven companies. Development secrets are usually held tightly and limited to only those in the organization who “need to know”.

When you start limiting the flow of information in your organization, divides begin among associates, departments and divisions. Many mature brands struggle with the problem of departmental silos, while some start-ups introduce products at lightning speed. How can this happen? The reason is communication is their lifeline to survival and success.

Look around your organization for signs of silos. You’ll find:
– Special projects in every department no one has heard of.
– Too few meetings to inform senior staff of progress.
– Poor communication from the top illustrating how your efforts fit into the big plan.

Many companies recognize this problem but most don’t know how to address it. The senior staff needs to appoint a cross-functional team of people committed to change, “Change Agents” if you will.

With the backing of the senior staff, this team has the authority to break down barriers of communication throughout the organization. A process needs to be put in place and everyone needs to take ownership.

Change will come through the commitment of proven leaders in the organization as they drive the change process.