Transitioning to FactoryTalk Optix
MCRI is Transitioning to a New HMI Platform Across MCRI Systems Over the next year, Motion Controls Robotics will begin transitioning all new systems to a next-generation HMI platform. This…
Learn More
Selecting a Site Champion for You Robot System Project
Tech Talk: Selecting a Site Champion for You Robot System Project Robotic automation delivers the best results when paired with employee engagement. At Motion Controls Robotics, we build this through…
Learn More
Best Automated Production Systems
Automated production systems are technologies and equipment designed to perform repetitive, precise, or physically demanding manufacturing tasks. Rather than replacing people, they support the workforce by improving safety, consistency, and…
Learn More
Depalletizing Steel Pails
This depalletizing system automates the unloading of steel pails from pallets, improving ergonomics and efficiency in the process. Using a FANUC M-410iB/140 robot with a custom gripper, the system handles…
Learn More
Foam Vacuum Gripper Maintenance
Foam UniGrippers are ideal end-of-arm tools when handling products with variable shapes/sizes, irregular surfaces, or porous packaging. This type of EOAT (End-of-Arm Tooling) is often selected for applications where product presentation and orientation vary. Foam grippers provide gentle handling and wide surface contact, making them suitable for gripping:
Automated End Cap Palletizing System
To keep shelves stocked efficiently and create an eye-catching shopping experience, you need well-organized, stable, and display-ready pallets. MCRI’s automated end cap palletizing system takes the hassle out of palletizing…
Learn More
The Overlooked ROI of Automation
For most companies, automation isn’t just about having the advanced technology, rather it’s about the numbers, the bottom line, and the speed of impact. Decision-makers need clear financial justification, which…
Learn More
Palletizing Paint Cans and Buckets: Scalable Solutions for Growth
This integration project/case study introduces a packaging and centralized palletizing solution specifically designed for the building and construction materials industry. To begin, we focused on streamlining end-of-line operations by developing…
Learn More
Cost Analysis of Palletizing Systems
Robot System Cost Series Part One: 10 Parameters Part Two: The Range of Robot Cost Part Three: A Cost Analysis of a Palletizing System Our goal at MCRI is keeping…
Learn More
2024 Robotic Automation Trends
The industry data presented here is based on leads and inquiries Motion Controls Robotics (MCRI) received throughout 2024. This information offers valuable insights into the automation trends we’re observing across…
Learn More
Robotic Tray Handling-6 Benefits & Applications
In the manufacturing industry, needing to handle trays, whether they are plastic or cardboard, is a common occurrence. Incorporating robotics for tray handling offers advantages that enhance productivity, safety, and…
Learn More
Robot Recovery – Flood Damage
In the aftermath of a flood, total robot recovery can be a daunting task. Water damage, especially from contaminants in floodwaters, can severely impact the delicate components within these machines. One crucial aspect of this recovery process is ensuring that…
Discussing Industry Trends on the Robot Industry Podcast
In a recent episode of the Robot Industry Podcast, hosted by Jim Beretta, Scott Lang, the President and CEO of Motion Controls Robotics (MCRI), discussed robotics and automation from the…
Learn More
Robotic Unitizing an All-Around Success
Over the past 15 years, our Unitizing Palletizer has excelled in performance. Each of the seven rail-mounted robots builds stacks at up to 18 palletizing locations along 45-foot Güdel rails.…
Learn More
Robotics at Pack Expo
Pack Expo Giveaway Don’t miss out on our exclusive giveaway at Pack Expo 2024! We are giving away tickets to the highly anticipated ‘Pack Gives Back‘ event. To enter, simply…
Learn More
Levels of System Automation
The levels of system automation that you implement in your facility can range from single small cells to large interconnected systems. The great thing is the ability to start small…
Learn More
Robot Programming Techniques
30+ Years Designing & Programming End-of-Line Automation That Delivers Results Packing and Palletizing Systems From case packing to multi-lane palletizing, our end-of-line solutions are built for speed, precision, and durability.…
Learn More
Robot Integrator vs In-House – 8 Decision Points to Figure in
Deciding whether to use a robot integrator can be a tough decision. The same robot cell, if you look at just the numbers, can arguably cost less to install with…
Learn More
Unlock the Benefits of Industrial Robotics
Survey Results – What is your facilities stance on Industrial Robotics? We recently conducted a survey across 200 manufacturing facilities in the United States to delve into the perspectives on…
Learn More
48v vs 24v MDR-2X the Voltage!
When you are planning on installing a complete robot system, many times, part of the design includes infeed and outfeed conveyors. When selecting a conveyor, there are a few options…
Learn More
Exploring Vacuum Plenums
Understanding Vacuum Plenums as a Material Handling Resource Vacuum plenums as end of arm tools are becoming a more and more common solution seen in robotic material handling applications. This…
Learn More
A Guide to Knowing Your HMI Cell Status Screen
The HMI (Human Machine Interface) on your robot system contains all the information about the equipment in your cell. Sometimes, the main struggle is to know the proper path to…
Learn More
Maximize Palletizing Power
Maximize Palletizing Power - What Type of Palletizer do I need?Maximize Your Palletizing Power & Elevate Efficiency Motion Controls Robotics gives you palletizing power by offering a variety of palletizing…
Learn More
Selecting the Best Robot Type
Most robots fall into the categories of having one or more of the aspects of articulated, mobile, or collaborative robots. Motion Controls Robotics specializes in integrating Yellow mechanical robots, SCARA…
Learn More
Traditional vs iRVision Line Tracking
If you would like to take a look at the previous article, Click the image above. In a past MCRI Tech Talk Article, we discussed line tracking options and FANUC’s…
Learn More
What is a Robot System FAT?
Motion Controls Robotics teams with you to makes sure you get the automation & robotics system you need. The collaborative approach is one of Motion Controls Robotics main strategies for…
Learn More
The Philosophy of Robotics by Tim Ellenberger
I recently sat down with Tim Ellenberger the Vice President and co-founder of Motion Controls Robotics. Tim has been working in the robotics field for close to 40 years. That…
Learn MoreRobotic Palletizing – Overcoming Challenges
Watch our 1-minute palletizing video to see the variety of palletizing cells we have recently integrated. We explore solutions for common robotic palletizing challenges, including single, multi-pick, and full-layer palletizing…
Learn More
Robots on Rails
Do you have multiple lines or stations with low to moderate throughput – requiring significant manual labor? One option is to have a robot added to a rail that can…
Learn More
Industrial Collaborative Robot
FANUC released the CRX series to meet the demand from manufacturing facilities and fulfillment warehouses to have reliable, long-lasting collaborative robots. With the CRX series’ 8-year zero maintenance and industrial…
Learn More
Automation Evaluations by an Experienced System Integrator
The best first step in starting a new automation project is to contact an experienced system integrator to stop by your facility for a automation evaluation walkthrough. Being Certified FANUC…
Learn More
Labor Shortages & Packaging Issues
Labor shortages and packaging requirements are among the top issues driving manufacturers to research how the use of robotics can not only, ease these issues, but drive up throughput to…
Learn More
Central Palletizing
Central Palletizing Solutions for Your Facility Central palletizing combines two or more lines by automating the transport of all products to one convenient location for robotic palletizing. This creates greater…
Learn More
6 Features of Robot Simulations
Why prove out your robotic cell/system with ROBOGUIDE robot simulations? We will show you 6 features that can be explored by building even a simple simulation to answer questions. The…
Learn More
Dashboarding to Improve Overall Equipment Effectiveness
Bring us your robot questions and comments on August 11am at 11EDTYou are welcome to join the roundtable or just listen to the webcast. Dashboarding takes the information collected from…
Learn More
Selecting the Best Robot System Layout
1726 downloads System-Information.pdf Gathering process information for End of Line Solutions for Packaging and Palletizing Download File what-to-send.pdf – 1.55 MB When you start down the road of integrating a…
Learn More
Allen Bradley Drives – Setting IP Address on 527 AC Drives
Do you need to reset the settings on your Rockwell Allen-Bradley PowerFlex 527 AC Drives (AB527)? This video will go over the steps needed to set or reset your IP…
Learn More
How to Improve Quality and Efficiency with End of Line Automation
When production errors are costing you time, money, and end-customer satisfaction, it might be beneficial to take a look at end of line automation solutions. There are various value add…
Learn More
Cracking the FANUC Robot Code
Robot Code – When trying to decide which robot will be best for your process, you need to understand all the information found in the robot’s name. FANUC has a…
Learn More
How to Handle FANUC Robot Parts
FANUC Robot Parts Having spare parts on hand can take up a lot of room in your facility and is a big upfront cost. MCRI’s experience can help you decide…
Learn More
Manufacturing Changes in Industry 4.0
Motion Controls Robotics started building robot systems during Industry 3.0 in 1995 and has continually excelled in those technologies building a strong, trusted robotics integration company. 2020 brings to MCRI…
Learn More
I’m Looking for a Pick-Pack-Pal Robot Cell – How Much is it Going to Cost?
Pick-Pack-Pal systems are very popular end of line solutions in a variety of industries. These type of systems combine three automation functions into one system to increase efficiency. We integrate…
Learn More
Robots + Vision + Databases = Improved Fulfillment Processes
Improved Fulfillment Processes- Warehouses, Micro-Fulfillment Centers, Inbound Warehousing, Outbound Distribution, Grocery Fulfillment, Packaging Plants, and e-commerce Fulfillment centers are part of a growing demand for moving product from point of…
Learn More
Robot Palletizing Options for Flexibility
Leading the way in robot palletizing flexibility & technology Palletizing for No matter what type of product needs palletizing, MCRI has successfully stacked it. And we can help you…
Learn More
Cobot Options
Cobot Options and the 3 Ps of Collaborative Robots There are now three series of Collaborative Robots available from FANUC. MCRI can help you select the collaborative robot that is…
Learn More
Troubleshooting Robot Systems
Secure Remote Access for Troubleshooting Robot Systems Motion Controls Robotics wants to be able to help customers troubleshoot their simple to complex robot system issues as quickly as possible. One…
Learn More
Palletizing Layer Building
Layer Building for Palletizing Layer building is sorting, organizing, and maximizing the space available on a pallet to efficiently place the cases. In this article we are going to discuss…
Learn More
MCRI Value – Design, Build, Install, and Support
Request a Quote for Robot Integration MCRI Value – Our dedicated team goes the extra mile, delivering an exceptional value proposition for our customers. When deciding to add robotics to…
Learn More
A Guide to the LR Mate Series
The LR Mate series definitely has the most diverse selection of robot options.There is a full list of all the options available on the LR Mate Series Robot page. You…
Learn More
Development Process of the M-20iD Robot
The newly developed M-20iD series is a combination of the benefits of two different M-20 robots merged into one robot. These models both have positive attributes suited for certain applications,…
Learn More
Area Scanners for Safe Robot Systems
Area Scanners for Safe Robot Systems – Area scanners are not only used to protect operators but are also for machine safeguarding.
Pun-ctilious Palletizing Cells
Everybody knows that palletizing to fill orders takes creative and punctilious palletizing. Well, Motion Controls Robotics has designed a variety of palletizing cells that have helped our customers improve their…
Learn More
MCRI Receives an Award-Winning Lexan Bender
Motion Controls Robotics designs and builds many of our robot system components in-house to bring more value and quality to our systems. Lexan is one material that we find very…
Learn More
BSD’s Robotics Technicians Training Program
A little over a year ago Motion Controls Robotics finished a one-line robotic palletizer for BSD (Building Self Determination) Industries (a social enterprise by the Arthur M Brazier Foundation). BSD…
Learn More
SNAPMate – Simplifying Cobot Automation
SNAP Resources (SNAP), a Motion Controls Robotics’ affiliated company introduces two portable SNAPMate Stations featuring either a FANUC CR-15iA or FANUC CR-7LiA collaborative robot. The SNAPMate combines the experience of…
Learn More
Get Employees Ready for Robotics – Bringing Robotics to your Process
There is a difference in beliefs about how robotics will change the workforce. Some believe that robotics will bring new, better jobs to the industry and some think it will…
Learn More
Design your System – Bringing Robotics to your Process
The decision to add robotics to your application has been made and you have selected an integrator. The next step is to work together to design your system. You already…
Learn More
Robot Integrator – Bringing Robotics to your Process
You have made it to the third step in the process of adding automation. You have gone through the work of evaluating, documenting, and improving your current process. Now you…
Learn More
Define your Process – Bringing Robotics to your Process
Define & Document & Improve your Current Process You went through the “identifying your needs” list and found at least two items or needs are applicable to your current application.…
Learn More
Identify your Needs – Bringing Robotics to your Process
According to IFR International there are 4.28 million robots installed today around the globe over a variety of industries – to the right you can see the breakdown of installations…
Learn More
Take Control of Your R1000iA Preventive Maintenance
Download a PM Checklist >> 6304 downloads R1000iA Preventive Maintenance Checklist Download File r1000ia-preventive-maintenance.pdf – 231.93 KB The R1000iA models are reliable, high-speed robots in the medium payload class. The…
Learn More
Top Robotic Trends
We publish articles every month and provide content that helps solve problems for manufacturers that are either looking to add robotics or already have added robot automation to their facility.…
Learn More
Lockout Tagout for Robot Systems
Developing and maintaining a safe robot cell is essential to protect people and equipment, and one of our main priorities when designing the system. Motion Controls Robotics promises safe robot…
Learn More
Applying SmartCart Magnetic Guide Tape
SmartCart Automatic Guided Carts (AGC) can deliver materials to, and take products away from your robotic work cell. SmartCart AGCs are often routed by magnetic guide tape applied to the…
Learn More
10 Most Popular Robots for Manufacturing Applications
Each year new robot shipments in North America are breaking records. In the first three months of 2018, 10,730 robots were added to North American facilities (Robotic Industries Association (RIA)).…
Learn More
Building a 360-Degree Image for VR
Motion Controls Robotics is having a meetup during this year’s 2018 Pack Expo. During this Meetup we are offering customers a chance to view our facility and watch videos using…
Learn More
Resetting a Dual Check Safety DCS Alarm
Robot systems include a variety of equipment to keep operators/people safe around an active robot cell. Some of these physical safety devices include: EMERGENCY STOP buttons Safety fences, barriers, or…
Learn More
Types of E-Stops and How to Use Them
E-stop (emergency stop) push buttons, pull cords, and other e-stop devices are designed to be highly visible by using the standard red and yellow colors. These E-stop buttons and pull…
Learn More
Checking Robot Mastering using a Zero Program
Using the Teach Pendant, you can develop programs that are stored in the teach pendant, and then, more easily and quickly ran when needed. One such program is a zero…
Learn More
Three Considerations for 3D Bin Picking Applications
Some have called bin picking the “holy grail” of robotic automation and it certainly is all the rage in automation circles. What production manager or plant manager doesn’t want to…
Learn More
Can I Mount the Robot Controller with a Robot on Rails?
There is a small niche of robot applications where it makes great sense to mount the robot on a rail, providing an additional axis of motion to the robot and…
Learn More
FANUC M-10iA Robot Unboxing
Many customers purchasing a new FANUC robot are curious about what comes with the robot. There are basic changes among the different robot models in size of cables and controller,…
Learn More
UT Co-op Program Benefits Robotics Industry
Motion Controls Robotics is one of 2,400 companies with the privilege of employing students from the University of Toledo (UT) College of Engineering Co-op program. Motion Controls Robotics fully supports…
Learn More
Guard Against Robot Downtime with Password Protection
Setting up password protection for your robot system keeps untrained operators out of areas on the iPendant or system setup where they could make unexpected changes and cause downtime or…
Learn More
Discover the Benefits of the FANUC Teach Pendant
The FANUC teach pendant is a hand-held device used to interact, program, and problem solve the robot and, in most cases, an essential part of a robot system. While there…
Learn More
Simulate Inputs and Outputs on FANUC Teach Pendant
This How-to article is going to go through using the FANUC teach pendant to switch the state of robot cell outputs and simulate and verify inputs for troubleshooting purposes. A…
Learn More
FANUC Adds SCARA Robots to the Small Robot Mix
As a robot integrator, one of the main reasons Motion Controls Robotics selected to become certified as a FANUC integrator is because of the company’s focus on customer needs. FANUC…
Learn More
The Importance of Robot Integration Services
Selecting a robot integrator can be a complicated decision. When deciding to add robotics to your process, there are usually multiple ways to accomplish the same process. Finding the company…
Learn More
FANUC Alarms – Diagnosing & Tracking
Go straight to FANUC Alarm Video When a robot system goes down the first thing the operator wants to do is quickly find out what is wrong and get the…
Learn More
2017’s Top Ten Robotic Applications
Last year we based our annual countdown on the most popular robot topics we covered in our Tech Talk Articles. These topics included all aspects of robot integration. This year…
Learn More
Jogging the Robot
In this Tech Talk How to Robot Series article we are going to go through the steps to take when you want to jog the robot. In a robot system…
Learn More
Meet the New FANUC Palletizing Robot
FANUC recently introduced their new palletizing robot – the FANUC Robot M-410iC/110. FANUC heard a need for a more compact, 4 axis palletizing robot. When it comes to selecting a…
Learn More
Transaction Management with ImpactIQ
Upfront cost is a reason many manufacturers give for hesitating to integrate robotics. In a recent survey Motion Controls Robotics conducted, 65% of the respondents stated upfront costs are management’s…
Learn More
I Need to Contact Motion Controls Robotics
3089 downloads How to Contact Motion Controls Robotics Download File contact.pdf – 76.15 KB Motion Controls Robotics is a FANUC Level 4, full-service integrator. This means that we are able…
Learn More
Dual Check Safety (DCS) Explained
FANUC’s Dual Check Safety (DCS) control architecture includes safety functions that can be used by the robot cell system designer/programmer to reduce floor space requirements and make fenceless robot cells…
Learn More
Food and Beverage Survey Shows Increasing Output is a Major Driver for Integrating Robots
Robotics in the food and beverage industry has been showing an average growth of 29% each year. This growth in robot integration is present from processing applications to end of…
Learn More
Robots are Hot in Food & Beverage
The production requirements for the food and beverage industry are changing. Consumers are demanding a variety of food types and packaging options. At the same time, the FDA is increasing…
Learn More
Where Should the Robot Controller Go?
One of the many decisions that needs to be made in the layout and design of a robotic work cell is, “Where should the robot controller go?” Explore the options…
Learn More
Top 10 Software Options for Robotic Material Handling
Software options, for FANUC robots, allow robots the flexibility to perform a variety of applications. Motion Controls Robotics focusses mainly on robotic material handling. Even if you narrow the scope…
Learn More
How to Select the Best Collaborative Robot
While FANUC has a full line of industrial robots (payloads range from .5kg to 2300kg), below are the collaborative models that have been developed for applications required by robotic customers.…
Learn More
Robot Inertia vs Payload
Payload and inertia are both important factors when designing End of Arm Tooling and selecting a robot. The differences between the two and how they affect choosing a robot is…
Learn More
Why do You Need FANUC Robot Software Options?
FANUC robots are designed to be utilized in a variety of manufacturing environments for a variety of applications. So, this standard robot must have Robot Software Options that allow it…
Learn More
Snap-in-Motion for Speedy Pick and Place
FANUC’s Snap-in-Motion is a high speed vision function available for robotic pick and place applications. Robotic pick and place applications sometimes require picking randomly positioned parts and placing these parts…
Learn More
Benefits of Developing a Palletizing Simulation
Building a simulation for a palletizing cell helps the integrator and customer start on the same page. To build a simulation using the PalletTool software from FANUC, you need to…
Learn More
How to do a Quick Robot Backup
Robot Backups and Batteries Robot operators need to know the importance of batteries and backups to the robot system, and how these items can keep you from losing your robot…
Learn More
FANUC’s User Friendly R-30iB Plus Controller
This week FANUC is introducing their new R-30iB Plus robot controller at their headquarters Open House in Japan. Many of FANUC’s global customers attend this open house to learn about…
Learn More
Replacing and Retasking Robots
Motion Controls Robotics has been installing robot systems for over 20 years, and we are starting to see customers battling with how to best handle robot replacements. Most manufacturing facilities…
Learn More
Why Use Conveyor Mounted, Motor Starter Solutions?
This week’s article explains the benefit of adding conveyor mounted, motor starter solutions to robotic systems with conveyors. Motion Controls Robotics uses the AS-Interface for networking system controls. AS-I stands…
Learn More
Robots for Roofing Material Manufacturing
35267 downloads Roll Handling Brochure Various applications and robots used for roll handling applications. Download File Roll-Handling.pdf – 710.17 KB Motion Controls Robotics has developed a variety of robot systems…
Learn More
How Robotic Cell Entry Works
The use of industrial robots is becoming more prevalent every year. According to the Robotic Industry Association, 34,606 robots were added to facilities across North America in 2016. With these…
Learn More
Robotics Training – Get Operators Ready
Motion Controls Robotics knows that one of the main concerns companies have when deciding to add robotics to their facility is whether their operators are ready for the robots and…
Learn More
The M-Tablet Portable HMI
The M-Tablet – Motion Controls Robotics’ Portable HMI The HMI in a robot system is used by the operator to interact, setup and gain important information about the production process.…
Learn More
16 Robotic Topics of 2016
As the year draws to a close, it is interesting to discover the robotic topics that most engaged our readers in 2016. MCRI’s website provides opportunities to learn more about…
Learn More
Robotic Stacking of Flat Panels
Why use Robotic Stacking for Panels, Polyiso, Boards and Other Flat Product? Motion Controls Robotics has developed more than 20 robotic systems that handle flat products. We have packed or…
Learn More
Dual Check Safety Improves Stop Position Prediction
Dual Check Safety (DCS) is a programming software available on the FANUC R-30iA controller. Dual Check Safety designates safety zones in the robot cell – programmatically finding areas where the…
Learn More
Attend Pack Expo to Strengthen your Processes
Pack Expo is coming to Chicago next Sunday (November 6, 2016) for four days. Motion Controls Robotics is proud to be among the many exhibitors sharing their new applications for…
Learn More
Quick Overview of 4D Graphics
One of the upgrades to the newest R-30iB iPendant controller is the availability of 4D graphics (V8.10 and later). The 4 in the 4D represents the additional level of visual…
Learn More
FANUC’s Collaborative Robots add Hand Guidance
In the robotic industry, collaborative robots are all the rage. Collaborative robots allow an operator and a robot to work side-by-side without safety fencing. To allow for this collaboration: Hand…
Learn More
Tour FANUC’s Centerpointe Technology Center
Have you ever wanted to learn all about FANUC robots, get a close-up look at different robot models, and explore a variety of robot systems? FANUC recently opened a 320,000…
Learn More
The Flexible yet Rigid FANUC M900
The M900 series of six axis robots feature best joint speeds, repeatability, and accuracy. The M900 robot series contains 7 models with a range of capabilities to suit a variety…
Learn More
Completely Enclosed M20iB
M20iA + LRMate = M20iB/25 – Compare the enclosed cables and motors in the M20iB/25. Here you can see the unenclosed M20iA (on the left) model’s cables and servo motors.…
Learn More
Spot Process Know Nos at Pack Expo
Click to sign-up for free as a customer of MCRI.Visit us in booth N-4946 Come visit Motion Controls Robotics at Pack Expo International 2016 in booth N-4946. MCRI will exhibit…
Learn More
Predict Downtime – Robot Maintenance Package
Motion Controls Robotics offers FANUC’s Robot Maintenance Package as the best way to perform predicative robot maintenance. With predictive maintenance, you can accomplish zero unscheduled downtime in your robotic system…
Learn More
Range of Robot Cost – Robot System Cost Series
Robot System Cost Series Part One: 10 Parameters Part Two: The Range of Robot Cost Part Three: A Cost Analysis of a Palletizing System Often companies need an estimate to…
Learn More
The Powerful 7 Robot Applications
There are a variety of industrial robot applications, and as robotics and controls technologies in automation mature, the breadth of these applications is only growing. Motion Controls Robotics delivered over…
Learn More
10 Parameters – Robot System Cost Series
Robot System Cost Series Part One: 10 Parameters Part Two: The Range of Robot Cost Part Three: A Cost Analysis of a Palletizing System Your team needs to discuss the…
Learn More
10 Most Popular FANUC Robots
Adding robotics to improve a process is one of the best ways to keep your facility competitive. MCRI focusses our robotic expertise on: Food & Beverage and Consumer Goods Applications…
Learn More
Case Packing Technology – Case Completion Sensing
Have you had customer complaints about shipping partially filled cases of product? Do you currently have one or more operators doing QC checking of cases to ensure you are shipping…
Learn More
FANUC Integrators Appreciate Service First
FANUC Integrators, like Motion Controls Robotics, believe strongly in FANUC robots. When deciding on a robot company to use in your facility, it is extremely important to look at more…
Learn More
Line Tracking for Robotic Pick and Place
Basic Line Tracking is used in robotic pick and place applications where products are being picked off of a moving conveyor, placed on a moving conveyor, or both. Line Tracking…
Learn More
Robots and their Ingress Protection Rating
Robots are being installed in a variety of environments. This requires that the robot be able to continue to function properly even when exposed to such environmental issues like high…
Learn More
FANUC’s Robot Modes – T1, T2 or Auto
FANUC External Mode Select: Simplifying Mode Control Across Your Robot Cell Switching all your robots between teach and production modes from one central controller improves both safety and convenience. Why…
Learn More
Robotic Palletizer System Flexibility
Robotic Palletizer System “In the old days”, manual palletizing required lifting and stacking cases/product which was stressing on the body, inefficient and just slow. So conventional automated palletizers were developed…
Learn More
Delta Robots are the Healthy Alternative
There are four types of industrial robots: Articulated, Cartesian, Delta, and SCARA. While Motion Controls Robotics doesn’t work with cartesian robots, we do integrate the others into a variety of…
Learn More
Reading a Robot Cell Quote
When a company starts gathering proposals for a new robot cell to replace their current manual process, the quotes can come in with drastically different responses in both needs and…
Learn More
Robotic Picking and Packing Essentials
Thinking about integrating a robotic picking and packing operation to increase productivity? This article discusses the essential information needed for the best setup by exploring advantages, robot requirements, end of…
Learn More
Structured vs Random Bin Picking
Robotic bin picking is a term used to describe a variety of processes where a robot is used to pick and place components from a bin. Depending on what happens…
Learn More
Collaborative vs Fenceless Robots
Collaborative and fenceless robots are like the rectangle and square of the robotic field. All squares are rectangles but not all rectangles are squares. All collaborative robots are fenceless robots…
Learn More
Palletizing 101
End of line automation solutions A flexible palletizing system can increase your throughput and reduce your costs. Motion Controls Robotics develops robotic palletizing systems that are highly reliable, flexible enough…
Learn More
Discover FANUC ZDT | Zero Downtime
Reliable and efficient are words Motion Controls Robotics’ customers use to define the robotic systems they need in their facilities. FANUC provides robots with high reliability and uptime averaging 80,000+…
Learn More
Should You Purchase a Used Robot?
The robot cost is only a fraction of the cost of a robot cell. The robot is typically less than 25% of the total cost of a robot cell and…
Learn More
Grasping for Air Flow Grippers
This is the last article covering the main types of grippers used in robotic applications. Remember that most times a custom designed EOAT will include multiple types of grippers to…
Learn More
Sticking with Magnetic Grippers
This is the third of four articles covering the main types of grippers used in robotic applications. Remember that most times a custom designed EOAT will include multiple types of…
Learn More
Gripping Power in a Vacuum
This is the second of four articles covering the main types of grippers used in robotic applications. Remember that most times a custom designed EOAT will include multiple types of…
Learn More
Grabbing Attention with Mechanical Grippers
This is the first of four articles covering the four main categories of grippers used in robotic applications. Remember that most times a custom designed EOAT will include multiple types…
Learn More
Save Money by Removing the Teach Pendant
If you have a robot cell with multiple robots, purchasing a teach pendant (TP) for each robot can get expensive quickly. As the name implies, the TP is used for…
Learn More
Mapping the Way to Robotic Bin Picking
Robotic Bin Picking Bins are often used in the manufacturing environment to hold parts included in an assembly process. The parts are usually randomly placed or dumped into the bins…
Learn More
The Green Collaborative Robot
In continuing our discussion of fenceless robots, FANUC has introduced their first collaborative robot. While Dual Check Safety can help to remove fences around a robot by slowing the robot…
Learn MoreFlexible Packaging Calls for Flexible Automation
Flexible packaging’s popularity is growing every day because of new innovations in converting, printing, and designing. The appeal of flexible packaging is simple – sustainability through less material resulting in…
Learn More
Don’t Blow Up an Expensive Robot Servo
This type of call is rare, but recently we had a call from a customer who had been working with another integrator to troubleshoot a robot that wasn’t acting normally.…
Learn More
20th Anniversary Open House
Thursday and Friday, July 23 & 24 9AM to 4PM Visit Motion Controls Robotics’ 20th Anniversary Open House – Learn more We want to share with you all our great…
Learn More
M2000 Robot Bulks Up
Just when we thought FANUC robots couldn’t get any stronger and tougher, FANUC announces two new, even higher capacity M2000 robots. Previous model M2000 robots have capacities of 900 kg…
Learn More
Automatic Guided Vehicle Tracking Accuracy
Simple Method to Measure Automatic Guided Cart or Automatic Guided Vehicle Tracking Accuracy Motion Controls Robotics has a customer who recently came up with a clever means to measure AGV…
Learn More
Dual Check Safety Makes Fenceless Robots Possible
Safety mat input is triggered which brings up a safety zone around the operator. DCS Part two (read part one) – How Could This Lead To A Fenceless Robot System?…
Learn More
The FANUC R2000iB – Versatile and Strong
The FANUC R2000iB series six- axis robot is versatile in the industrial environment because it has a compact form and slim arm. It is FANUC’s most popular robot. Despite its…
Learn MoreTips for Robot Cell Relocation
One of the benefits of a robotic work cell is the ease with which it can be relocated and/or repurposed to another area of your plant or even another site.…
Learn More
FANUC’s Medium Payload M710 Robot
In this system a M-710 series is working with an LRMate to pack delicate products into a crate. The operation uses iRVision to identify the product and follow specific packing…
Learn MoreBoard or Panel Stacking Automation Solves Quality and Manpower Issues
The building material industry is an area, similar to the automotive industry, that can greatly benefit from the integration of robots into their manufacturing and material handling process. Overall material…
Learn More
FANUC’s M2000iA Handles the Serious Lifting
FANUC’s M-2000iA series 6 axis robot is the heavy weight champion when it comes to payload and reach. The reach of the robot helps to save money on conveyors and…
Learn More
TIG Welding Robots
Motion Controls Robotics just finished our first TIG welding cell and delivered it to a long time, repeat customer. In this automated TIG welding system, manufactured parts are being fusion…
Learn More
FANUC M20iA Series Robot
With a payload up to 20 kg (44 pounds), the M20iA series is best in its class when it comes to payload, reach, and axes speed. The utilities for the…
Learn More
PROFINET Update
Recently, we sold several R30iB version FANUC robots to a customer with PROFINET communications option. Most people involved in industrial automation know that Profinet is an industrial Ethernet base standard…
Learn More
Top Ten Robotics Topics
The Motion Controls Robotics Tech Talk blog was designed to help our customers answer questions, and to be used as a resource for companies that might have questions about adding…
Learn More
FANUC Power Motion i Motion Controller
Motion Controls Robotics recently had an opportunity to hear all about the Power Motion i Model A, FANUC America’s new servo controller architecture for non-robotic equipment that requires precise servo…
Learn More
Add-ons for SmartCarts
The SmartCart Automatic Guided Cart (AGC) from Daifuku is an industry leading product for cost-effective material delivery and take-away for your robotic palletizing/unitizing system, or other robotic work cells. SmartCart…
Learn More
Perfect Your Palletizing with PalletPRO
FANUC’s software combination of PalletPRO and PalletTool work seamlessly together to simulate and then run robotic palletizing systems. These software tools are used by FANUC robotics integrators to build, test,…
Learn MorePiab COAX Vacuum Pump Maintenance
Recently, we received a call from a customer with a vacuum problem on an end of arm tool. We included “pre-set” vacuum switches on the end of arm tool for…
Learn More
The 410 to Palletizing
The FANUC M-410 robot series is designed for palletizing a wide array of products. The payload capacity available in the models runs up to 700 kg (1500 lbs). This payload…
Learn More
Robotic Case Erector – Efficiently Erect Multiple Case Sizes
The random case erector combines a FANUC M20iA/20 6-axis robot with multiple case magazines and a bottom flap folder with integrated 3MTM case sealing head. The FANUC robot has a…
Learn More
Do I Need a Robot Leveling Plate
A robot leveling plate allows the base of the robot to be leveled if the floor below the robot is not level. This is accomplished with steel plates that are…
Learn More
Servo Adjustable End of Arm Tool Solves Customer Challenges
FANUC robots have been engineered and designed to perform flawlessly and last for many years. The spotlight is now on the integrator to design flexible and unique end of arm…
Learn More
Palletizing Flexibility
Find robot palletizing flexibility for all your SKUs What are you Palletizing? No matter what type of product needs palletizing, MCRI has successfully stacked it. And we can help…
Learn More
Pros of Robotic Machine Tending
The goal for customers in automating machine tending application typically include increased machine utilization and labor cost reduction. The main concerns of customers new to robotic machine tending include; “How…
Learn More
Automated Welding with FANUC’s ARC Mate Series
FANUC offers a variety of ARC Mate robots specifically designed for precise, high speed cutting and automated welding. Automating welding increases weld quality and throughput while decreasing manufacturing costs. All…
Learn More
Disruptive Technologies are About Personal Power
Thinking big is common in innovation – “What can we do to change the world?” We want to start big, and we want to end up with big ideas. The…
Learn More
Can Bluetooth Solutions Replace High-Flex Cable
Are there apprehensions about using Bluetooth devices in your automation system? Industrial Bluetooth solutions are much more robust than the current mobile device uses. Motion Controls Robotics had the opportunity…
Learn MoreBest Practices for Robot Integrators
Motion Controls Robotics recently participated in a panel through a Robotic Industries Association (RIA) webinar entitled Best Practices for Robot Integrators. RIA is a trade group that serves the robotics…
Learn MoreHeaded for a Robot Collision?
When developing an automation system, many times floor space restrictions require the use of multiple robots in a common work envelope. This creates the potential for robot collisions or deadlocks,…
Learn MoreRobot Life Cycle -FAQs
How long will my robot live? This is a common question from prospective customers. When answering this question, it is important to address not only the typical life cycle of…
Learn MoreKISS To Assemble Your Automation Project Specifications
I have been reading automation project specifications ranging from automatic guided vehicle systems to roller conveyor systems, automated storage and retrieval systems and various forms of robotic automation since 1981.…
Learn MoreThrough the Lens
The purpose of the lens is to manage and direct light. To properly select a lens for your vision application, it is important to know the focal length, resolution, field…
Learn More
Machine Vision Cameras
The world of digital cameras has been evolving and improving at a record pace. There are machine vision cameras specifically designed for almost any vision process need from high speed…
Learn More
Filter for Contrast
Proper robotic vision filter selection further facilitates keying in on specific aspects in the vision application related to contrast. While proper lighting is important, ambient light can cause glare and…
Learn More
Machine Vision – See the Light
Lighting can be used in different ways to compliment machine vision applications. The most common application is creating proper contrast for inspection or position locating operations. Lighting is also important…
Learn More
4 Components of Vision Systems used in Automation
Continual advances in vision options fuel improvements in manufacturing automation and quality. The Fanuc iRVision tracking system is designed for easy integration with any robotic or automation application. Vision systems…
Learn MoreBEST Robotics Team Explores Automation and Robotics at MCRI
Skilled manufacturing jobs with knowledge in using CNC (computerized numerical controls), PLC (programmable logic controls), and 3-D printers are in high demand. The use of automation in manufacturing facilities across…
Learn More
Robotic Roll Processing and Packaging Market Being Defined by MCRI
Demand for production, packaging and warehousing requirements for rolls and other cylindrical objects can be found in a wide variety of industries. And Motion Controls Robotics (MCRI) is leading the…
Learn MoreMCRI Personnel Attend In-House Robotic Training
A total of 10 personnel from Motion Controls Robotics, Inc. recently participated in a robotic training provided by a Terra Community College electrical and controls professor. The training was 50%…
Learn MoreMCRI Announces Recertification In RIA Certified Robot Integrator Program
MCRI is proud to announce their recertification of the RIA Certified Robot Integrator Program by the Robotic Industries Association! MCRI achieved their initial certification in April 2012 by completing…
Learn MoreMCRI Goes To Ethosource
Motion Controls Robotics is always excited to talk about our efforts in being environmentally responsible. With that being said, Motion Controls recently furnished some of our offices with refurbished Herman…
Learn MoreIs Your Factory Headed for Greatness, or the Graveyard?
By Scott Lang, MCRI President As a manager or engineer at a factory in this day in age, you probably have asked yourself “Would robotic automation be a benefit to…
Learn More
12 Reasons to Select FANUC’s Integrated iRVision System
FANUC’s iRVision is the only fully integrated vision system available in the robotics industry. iRVision is one of the many features and tools available from FANUC, the #1 choice of…
Learn More
MCRI – Heavy Weight Champion of the Robotics World!
Early in 2014, Motion Controls Robotics received another customer order for a robotic packaging cell featuring a FANUC M2000iA robot. The M2000 is the most powerful 6 axis robot in…
Learn MoreVirtual Sales Support From Better Packaging and QR Codes
Have you ever stood in front of a rack of similar products in a big box store? Have you found yourself scratching your head, trying to make a decision as…
Learn More
Key Differentiators for Robotics Users
FANUC Robotics Integrators – a key differentiator for robotics users – Rather than trying to serve all of North America from its headquarters location in Auburn Hills, Michigan, or even…
Learn MoreInertia Calculations by Your Robot Integrator Are Critical For Proper Robot Selection and End of Arm Tool Design
by Chris Shepherd, Motion Controls Robotics Inc Successful operation of a robot is highly dependent on the robot’s end of arm tool design and the total payload, and whether or…
Learn MoreHow Often Do Robots Need Preventative Maintenance?
Optimum performance of your robot(s) can be maintained by performing periodic robot preventive maintenance procedures. The following figures are based on up to 3,840 hours of operating time use per…
Learn MorePresentation at the 2013 International Conference on Vision Guided Robotics
Motion Controls Robotics, Inc. had the privilege of giving a presentation at the 2013 International Conference on Vision Guided Robotics at Georgia Tech University on Thursday, November 14, 2013. This…
Learn More
How Cold Can My Robot Go
Recently, we had a prospective robotic material handling customer ask us if a FANUC LR Mate could be used as a cold room robot. This was for a food container…
Learn More
Unraveling Degrees of Freedom and Robot Axis: What does it mean to have a multiple axis pick and place or multiple axis robot?
What does it mean to have a two or three axis pick and place unit or a two, four, five or six axis robot, or even a seven axis robot,…
Learn More
End of Line Packaging Cell for Rolled Roofing Materials by Motion Controls Robotics, Inc.
End of Line Packaging Cell for Rolled Roofing Materials by Motion Controls Robotics, Inc. – These two FANUC R2000 robots were integrated into this end of line packaging cell by…
Learn MoreMotion Controls provides some insight on faulty recovery and robotic solutions.
Check out this article from the RIA website. Motion Controls provides some insight on faulty recovery and robotic solutions. http://www.robotics.org/content-detail.cfm/Industrial-Robotics-Featured-Article/Protecting-End-Users-and-Suppliers—Best-Practices-for-Robot-Integrators/content_id/4094
Learn More
FANUC Robot Maintenance
What Could Be Easier Than Works-In-A-Drawer? While visiting with a prospective customer recently the discussion got around to robot maintenance. One of our competitors had been selling the benefits of…
Learn More12 Reasons to use FANUC’s Integrated iRVision System
FANUC’s iRVision is the only fully integrated vision system available in the robotics industry. It is one of the many features and tools available from FANUC robots the #1 choice of…
Learn MoreRobotic Warehousing: New White Paper Available From Robotics Online
Looking to drive cost out of your warehouse operation? Check out this article from Robotics Online, the e-news site for the Robotics Industries Association (RIA). The article covers the growing use of…
Learn MoreStretch Wrapper Smarts
MCRI utilizes stretch wrappers as part of our overall end of line automation solution. Once the robot has stacked the product or unit load, whether standalone, on a slip sheet…
Learn MoreWhat’s the Big Deal About Project Management?
Smooth project execution is a hallmark of a disciplined robotics integrator with well-defined processes including project management. When seeking a robotic integrator, look for a company with excellent communication skills…
Learn More