JLCMC Blog

Vision Systems

The Essence of Barcode Symbology: A System of Data Encoding Rules

Introduction Most people only notice barcodes when something moves through a checkout counter or gets sorted in a warehouse. It's a quick flash of light, sometimes a beep, and then the moment is gone. But what's actually happening is more structured than it looks. A barcode is not just a visual pattern—it's a structured relationship between how data is encoded and how machines interpret it under imperfect conditions. In practice, that agreement is called a barcode symbology. And once you start looking......

Mar 24, 2026

Industry Trends

How to Interpret Industrial Automation & Robotics Correctly

Industrial processes today are increasingly controlled by intelligent systems rather than manual labour alone. The shift toward industrial automation and robotics has allowed factories, laboratories, and production facilities to operate with greater speed, consistency, and accuracy than ever before. At a basic level, these technologies use computers, control systems, and programmable machines to perform tasks previously handled by humans. They manage everything from assembly lines and packaging system......

Mar 23, 2026

Operation & Maintenance

7 Techniques for Effectively Using Set Screws

Set screws are a versatile type of fastener widely used in various mechanical and industrial applications. Their primary function is to secure an object within or against another object, such as attaching a gear to a shaft or holding a knob in place. To ensure the optimal performance and longevity of set screws, mastering essential techniques for their use is crucial. These techniques will help maximize the effectiveness of set screws, ensuring their reliability and durability across different applica......

Mar 05, 2025

Linear Motion

Exploring Mechanical Shaft Collars and Their Different Types

Though quite elementary in design, shaft collars serve an important mechanical purpose. In simple terms, a shaft collar is a round clamping device that can be used for axial positioning of components, acting as mechanical stops, or securing parts in place along a shaft. While they may look like simple components, shaft collars must be chosen wisely to ensure performance, accuracy, and longevity of the system. This article focuses on the common types of mechanical shaft collars in transmission systems,......

Feb 02, 2026

Fasteners & Hardware

Shaft Collar Basics: Types and Applications

Shaft collars are among the simplest components in machine design, yet they often determine whether an assembly performs reliably or fails prematurely. In many cases, it is not the motor, gearbox, or bearing that causes downtime. So, understanding how they function, how their different styles perform under load, and how to match them to application requirements is essential for long-term reliability. The right choice improves uptime. The wrong one quietly compromises the entire assembly. What Is a Sha......

Mar 02, 2026

Fasteners & Hardware

How Shaft Collars Support Critical Industries and Applications

Small components often determine whether a machine achieves its intended service life or suffers premature failure. Shaft collars are a good example. By controlling shaft position and preventing unwanted movement, they help maintain alignment, reduce vibration, and protect critical components. Because modern machines demand accuracy and reliability, shaft collars are now used in a wide range of applications—from factory automation to renewable energy systems. Understanding where and how they are used ......

Mar 03, 2026