Machinedesign 10228 778

The "IKEA of Custom Industrial Equipment" Enters Open Beta Stage

June 9, 2017
The service is highlighted for its ease-of-use, and same-day shipping of robust, modular parts used to build custom factory equipment.

Vention, a browser-based service that lets customers build their own automated and stationary industrial equipment, announces transition into its open beta stage. The site now features more components in its virtual parts library, which can be configured in a virtual assembly and ordered for same-day shipping. The site also includes helpful resources to quickly show engineers how to use Vention.

Until recently, the site only offered structural assembly parts like beams, turntables, and caster wheels. Now, Vention has added MachineMotion controllers to its offerings that enable 1, 2, and 3 axes of motion in automated machinery. The controllers pair with NEMA 34 stepper motors. These, along with various M8 proximity sensors, are also offered in the site’s parts library, and can be shipped with other parts for an assembly. Motion and speed profiles can be programmed using a proprietary, open-source apps available on the Vention website. 

The MachineBuilder 3D assembly builder is extremely easy to use in comparison to traditional CAD, since all the parts in the library are modular and designed to integrate directly with one another. (Watch a demonstration video here.) After a user builds their assembly, the website will automatically calculate any additional fasteners needed for the final assembly, and then provide an estimate for assembly time.

The site also includes a Public Assembly library with equipment like test benches, industrial shelving and carts, and turntables. Some of these are built by Vention, while others have been shared by Vention users in industries like aerospace, automobile assembly and inspection, and research.

In its open beta stage, Vention also bolsters its user support with a mechanical and electrical engineering team. It ships custom industrial equipment to customers within 3 to 5 days—the fastest turnaround on the market.

Vention structural beams feature assembly-plate mates with a V shape that robustly secures parts to support roughly 25% more load than conventional screw-in-a-slot positioning.

“We are excited to enter into our open beta stage, so that industrial engineers can experience the convenience of next day delivery for custom assemblies with automated motion capabilities,” says Vention CEO, Etienne Lacroix. “We will transition to our first official release later this year, with even more industrial components and features added to our platform.

The robust structure of assemblies enabled by Vention also plays into the high repeatability of its linear motion components. Recently, a customer built a one-axis motion assembly that would be used to move a scanning camera across blue-prints being converted into digital versions. The assembly included a 30-million pixel camera (not provided by Vention) mounted onto automated piece of equipment. Repeatability was key so that the camera could generate a clear, and accurate rendering of the blue print.

Sponsored Recommendations

High Pressue, High Temperature Pump

April 29, 2024
This innovative axial piston design eliminates the use of elastomers, increases resistance to contamination, and dramatically improves reliability. They can generate up to 10,...

MOVI-C Unleashed: Your One-Stop Shop for Automation Tasks

April 17, 2024
Discover the versatility of SEW-EURODRIVE's MOVI-C modular automation system, designed to streamline motion control challenges across diverse applications.

A Comprehensive Guide for Automation Success

April 17, 2024
Gain insight into the benefits that SEW-EURODRIVE's streamlined automation processes offer to industries involved in machine automation and factory operations.

Navigating the World of Gearmotors and Electronic Drives

April 17, 2024
Selecting a gearmotor doesn’t have to be a traumatic experience. The key to success lies in asking a logical sequence of thoughtful questions.

Voice your opinion!

To join the conversation, and become an exclusive member of Machine Design, create an account today!