FREE! TECHNICAL GUIDES
Downloadable technical write-ups, checklists, and guides written by Nick Repanich and provided as a courtesy of the Mechatronics Center.

INTRODUCTION TO MOTOR SIZING

Using this independent process will you get smaller, less expensive motors with larger safety factors.  Same physics, different motivations.  Give it a try yourself, and have us review your calculations. 

INTRODUCTION TO CAD-TO-MOTION

Have you ever stared at your printer/plotter and thought that same motion would be great in a xxxxx machine?  Here are some of the primary considerations.

CUSTOM MACHINE WORKSHEET

When we start a new project, you will find us asking questions from this worksheet.  It is designed to prompt questions in key areas.

MATCHING MOTORS TO AMPLIFIERS

Many times there is not a standard "package" available with speed-torque curves from a single manufacturer, and you need to mix and match to get the right results.  This guide gives step-by-step instructions to find the right combination.

QUANTIFYING PRECISION MECHANICS

Make sure you are asking for the right level of precision and accuracy by using the proper terms with your suppliers.

SERVO SYSTEM STARTUP

This guide help you to get that pile of components and wires organized and wired correctly, minimizing fear of a puff of smoke.

THE MYTH OF INERTIA MATCHING

Ah, "inertia matching".  A diversionary term used to get you to spend too much money on motors and amplifiers.  A must read before you buy anything!

TROUBLESHOOTING MECHATRONIC MACHINES

You may be surprised at the simplicity of this 4-step process, but if you follow it, you will find your system's problems much faster.

SERVOS: HOBBY vs. INDUSTRIAL
​KEY DIFFERENCES

There are closed loops in each type, but this term "servo" gets implemented quite differently, for some key reasons.

CONNECTING MOTORS TO MECHANICS

Use this checklist to safely bring a motion system online - without crashing precision mechanics.