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ECM Showcases Disruptive Motor Tech at Automate 2025

At Automate 2025, ECM PCB Stator Tech took the stage — and the show floor — to debut its latest breakthroughs in electric motor design and control. From product reveals to live demos and expert talks, ECM’s presence spotlighted the power of PCB Stator technology to reshape how motion systems are designed, built, and scaled.

ECM’s newly unveiled “Eightball” may be small, but it makes a big impact.

Fresh off its pre-show release, the Eightball was on public display for the first time since the launch of its case study. This compact actuator features a 50:1 strain wave gear reduction integrated with ECM’s patented PCB Stator motor, delivering 33.9 Nm peak and 18.8 Nm continuous torque — all in a lightweight 0.57 kg package. Its low-profile form factor and high precision make it an ideal solution for robotics, aerospace, and automation applications.

The launch was covered by major industry publications, including Design World and Robotics 24/7, underscoring the growing interest in software-defined, ultra-compact motor systems.

👉 Read the case study here

Delta Robot Demo Turns Heads

ECM also showcased a delta robot, actuated by three of its new off-the-shelf 2Nm servo motors. This was the first time the delta robot had been shown publicly — and the live demo was a clear example of ECM’s commitment to high-performance, software-defined motion control.

Key innovations featured in the delta robot (case study coming soon):

Cog-free, direct drive motion for smoother operation and simplified mechanics
Integrated absolute encoders enabling real-time multi-axis coordination
Ultra-compact form factor, ideal for tight robotic systems
Exceptionally quiet operation thanks to fully encapsulated PCB Stator coils
Low EMI, allowing for cleaner system design and easier integration

Speaking Session: Efficiency Standards & Tariffs

On Wednesday, ECM’s Director of Product Engineering, Mark Puglia, presented “Electric Motor Efficiency Standards & Tariffs: What to Know and How to Navigate”. The audience was engaged, with thoughtful questions around global compliance, supply chain agility, and energy-efficient motor architectures.

ECM’s Mark Puglia Presenting at Automate 2025

From smarter motion systems to faster development timelines, ECM’s message at Automate 2025 was clear:
The future of motors isn’t just electric — it’s printed.

Navigating Headwinds: How ECM’s PCB Stator Technology Helps HVAC Companies Thrive Amid Tariffs and Trade Shifts

After reading the recent ACHR News article, “Tariffs, Trade Wars, and the HVAC Industry,” the growing urgency around global trade disruptions for HVAC manufacturers couldn’t be clearer. As the article highlights, shifting tariffs, sourcing volatility, and rising costs are creating strong headwinds across the industry.

At ECM PCB Stator Tech, we believe that staying competitive in this climate requires more than short-term solutions—it calls for a smarter, more adaptable approach to motor design and sourcing.

By providing our partners with flexible manufacturing options, competitive pricing, custom engineering, and expert support, PCB Stator technology enables HVAC manufacturers to maintain competitiveness, control costs, and ensure reliable supply—no matter how the global trade winds shift.

Image showing the adaption from Gerber File to Stator to Motor

Practical Solutions for an HVAC Industry Under Pressure

1. Geographically Flexible Manufacturing

ECM’s patented PCB Stator architecture can be manufactured at any PCB fabrication facility worldwide. By exporting stator design files (Gerbers) from our PrintStator Motor CAD software, manufacturers can shift production to tariff-free regions or bring it closer to end markets—reducing shipping costs and minimizing exposure to global trade volatility.

2. Agile, Asset-Light Production

Our software-defined motor design process allows rapid iteration, customization, and prototyping without the need for winding lines or specialized tooling. That means faster reaction to market changes, fewer sunk costs in heavy equipment, and quicker alignment with evolving trade policies.

ECM Engineer Interfacing with PrintStator Motor CAD

3. Onshoring Options and Vertical Integration

Several ECM partners—including a major U.S.-based HVAC company—have begun vertically integrating motor assembly into their operations. After decades of relying on off-the-shelf imports, they’ve established on-site assembly lines using ECM’s designs. Due to ECM’s simplified assembly process, these partners can more easily bring production in-house. By eliminating dependence on overseas OEMs and assembling motors on-site, they gain tighter supply chain control, reduce lead times, and support local job creation.

▶️ Watch our simplified assembly in action

4. Lower Total Cost of Ownership

ECM’s motors are up to 70% lighter and significantly more compact than conventional machines, lowering freight costs and enabling easier installation. With efficiencies often exceeding 90%, they also reduce long-term energy consumption. Learn more in our HVAC case study on total cost of ownership.

5. Built-In Supply Chain Resilience

ECM enables HVAC manufacturers to reduce dependency on traditional OEM supply chains and hard-to-source components. By leveraging standard PCB supply chains and encapsulated stator technology, manufacturers can build motor systems that are less vulnerable to disruption—and more scalable across geographies.

Let’s Talk

If you’re navigating supply chain disruption, tariff risks, or rising costs, ECM’s PCB Stator technology may offer a path forward. We partner with HVAC manufacturers to co-engineer optimized motor solutions that balance performance, cost, and flexibility.

📩 Learn more at pcbstator.com, or reach out directly to explore how ECM can help future-proof your HVAC systems.

Compact Servo Motors Optimized for Precision and Performance

At ECM, we design motors for the future—compact, efficient, and ready to meet the demands of advanced engineering applications.

Nowhere is that more evident than in our latest release: a high-torque, ultra-compact servo motor powered by ECM’s patented PCB Stator technology and an integrated 50:1 harmonic drive. Nicknamed the “Eight Ball,” this next-generation motor is built for robotics, aerospace, advanced automation, medical devices, and any system where precision motion control meets space constraints.

A Breakthrough in High-Torque Miniaturization

The Eight Ball delivers an impressive 33.9 Nm of peak torque and 18.8 Nm of continuous torque from a frame just 2.95″ x 3.35″ x 1.96″ in size, weighing only 0.57 kg. It’s engineered for peak torque density—and precision control.

ECM’s PCB Stator Motor – The ‘Eight Ball’ Features an Integrated 50:1 Strain-Wave Gearing and achieves as much as 34Nm

Dual encoders enable closed-loop feedback, ensuring smooth, cog-free operation and pinpoint positional accuracy. From surgical robotics to UAVs and factory automation lines, this motor is designed to fit where others can’t.

Compact. Efficient. Application-Ready.

Beyond its size and power, the Eight Ball represents a leap forward in sustainable and efficient motor design:

Compact and Lightweight: Saves weight and simplifies integration
Energy Efficient: Lower inertia helps reduce energy draw
Easy to Integrate: Flexible thru-hole design fits complex assemblies
Precision Built-In: Dual encoders ensure accurate motion feedback

With reduced raw material usage and fewer mechanical components, it’s a smarter solution for engineers designing next-gen machines under strict spatial and performance constraints.

Real-World Impact: From Robotic Arms to Aerospace Systems

ECM developed the Eight Ball in direct response to industry challenges. Traditional motors either underperform in tight spaces or require trade-offs in torque or control. This servo changes that.

Whether powering compact robotics, enabling finer control in medical devices, or helping aerospace systems shed weight and boost efficiency—the Eight Ball delivers.

A Full Suite of Servo Solutions

The Eight Ball is part of ECM’s expanding servo lineup, which includes 0.5 Nm and 2 Nm servo evaluation motors. Each is optimized using our PrintStator Motor CAD platform—allowing fast prototyping, performance tuning, and deployment.

Want to see it in action? ECM will be showcasing the Eight Ball and our full servo motor lineup at Automate 2025 in Detroit, Booth 6223.

Explore the Eight Ball and our evaluation motor lineup at pcbstator.com

ECM Unveils Next-Gen PCB Stator Servo Solution with Integrated Harmonic Drive

Modern engineering challenges demand compact, high-performance motion systems. ECM’s new harmonic drive servo motor—nicknamed the Eight Ball—delivers exceptional torque density, precision, and efficiency in a lightweight, space-saving design.

Challenge

Industries such as robotics, automation, medical devices, and aerospace are constantly pushing the boundaries of performance and efficiency. However, engineers in these sectors face a common set of challenges:

Space Constraints: Traditional servo motors can be bulky, limiting integration possibilities.
Weight Sensitivity: Every gram matters in aerospace and medical devices, where lighter components reduce inertia and power consumption.
Torque Density: Applications require high torque output without sacrificing compactness.
Precision & Reliability: Advanced tasks demand smooth, accurate motion control with minimal cogging and robust feedback mechanisms.

Solution

ECM PCB Stator Technology’s new High-Torque 50:1 Harmonic Drive—nicknamed the ‘Eight Ball’—directly tackles these challenges by offering an ultra-compact, lightweight, and torque-dense servo motor that fits seamlessly into space-constrained applications.

Key Innovations

Compact & Lightweight Design

The Eight Ball’s ultra-compact dimensions (2.95″ x 3.35″ x 1.96″) and minimal weight (only 0.57 kg/1.26 lbs) allow seamless integration into space-constrained systems, reducing overall system complexity.

High Torque Performance

Despite its compact form factor, the motor delivers a remarkable 33.9 Nm of peak torque and 18.8 Nm of continuous torque, powered by an integrated 50:1 harmonic drive for robust performance in demanding applications.

Precise Control

A dual encoder system provides closed-loop feedback, ensuring smooth, cog-free operation with accurate speed and position control—essential for high-precision tasks.

Efficiency Benefits

The innovative design not only enhances performance but also minimizes inertia and energy consumption, making it an ideal solution for applications where efficiency is critical.

Real-World Applications

Robotics & Automation: High torque and precision enable smoother, more responsive robotic arms and automation systems.

Medical Devices: Compact form factor and low weight reduce mechanical stress, improving reliability in sensitive medical environments.

Aerospace: Every gram saved enhances efficiency and reduces fuel consumption, making the Eight Ball a prime candidate for aerial systems.

Outcome

By combining a harmonic drive with PCB Stator technology and dual encoders, ECM has created a servo motor that meets—and exceeds—the demands of modern engineering. The Eight Ball offers:

Precision & Reliability: Dual encoders ensure the motor output matches the commanded position with minimal error.
Enhanced Durability: The harmonic drive system is designed for smooth, long-lasting operation.
Broad Adaptability: A flexible, thru-hole design accommodates various integration needs.

Delve deeper into the Eight Ball’s specificions and inquire today!

“The Eight Ball is a testament to our relentless pursuit of innovation and excellence. By seamlessly integrating our PCB Stator technology with an advanced harmonic drive, we’ve created a servo motor that sets a new standard for performance and precision. This breakthrough not only empowers our customers to overcome their toughest engineering challenges but also opens up a world of possibilities in robotics, aerospace, and beyond.”
Brian Casey – CEO ECM PCB Stator Tech

Conclusion

ECM’s Eight Ball represents a new frontier in compact, high-torque servo motor solutions. Whether you’re pushing the limits of robotic innovation, optimizing automation lines, or pioneering aerospace technologies, the Eight Ball delivers the performance, efficiency, and precision required to overcome today’s most critical engineering challenges.

See the press release on the eight ball here.