University of Missouri-Rolla (UMR) researchers are using a magnetic lock mounted on a robot arm to lift radioactive control rods out of the facility's nuclear reactor pool for inspection.
Because the control rods are magnetic, the magnetic lock, a Mini-Mite 300 from Dortonics Systems Inc.(dortronics.com), lifts them nicely, the researchers say. The device is much less expensive than ordinary grippers, and is compact and strong. It can provide 300 lb of holding force and has no moving parts. The UMR 200-kW nuclear reactor is used primarily for research and training.
Unlike passive products - made of simple carbon springs - the bionic prostheses developed by Revival Bionics are propulsive, equipped with a motor and an artificial Achilles tendon...
Electric drives are a key technology for the performance of machines, robots, and power tools. Download this guide for an introduction to high-quality mechatronic drive systems...
Voice your opinion!
To join the conversation, and become an exclusive member of Machine Design, create an account today!
