Yokogawa Test & Measurement has added a new instrument to its ScopeCorder family of portable multi-channel data-acquisition recorders, which is faster and has more channels and data acquisition functions than earlier versions. The DL950 ScopeCorder provides detailed views of an application’s electrical and mechanical behaviour. Its uses include testing inverters, motors, robots, sensors and serial buses.
Pepperl+Fuchs has announced an ultrasonic safety sensor which, it claims, is the first in the world to be certified in accordance with EN ISO 13849, Cat 3, PL d. P+F has acquired the technology from the German Mayser group, which specialises in safety technology, moulded parts and headwear.
The British encoder manufacturer Renishaw has launched a series of enclosed, absolute linear encoders for use in harsh environments such as machine tools. It claims that the Fortis encoders deliver high repeatability, low hysteresis and good measurement performance using a non-contact design that does not need a guide carriage.
ABB has launched an free programming tool for its IRB 1100 industrial robots that allows first-time users to implement robotic automation without needing specialist programming skills or knowledge of the Rapid programming code.
The Danish actuator manufacturer Linak claims to have produced the first linear actuator with built-in two-way IO-Link communications. The device, based on its LA25 actuator, promises to simplify installation, automate parameter setting, and expand diagnostics.
Cognex has announced a “breakthrough” embedded vision system which, it claims, makes 3D inspections as easy to perform as 2D. The In-Sight 3D-L4000 camera uses a 3D laser displacement technology that allows users to conduct a variety on inspection tasks on production lines quickly, accurately and cost-effectively.
Omron has launched a series of AC servomotors and drives with built-in safety functions that can help to avoid machine stoppages, and to achieve zero-loss production due to synchronised emergency stops.
The UK sensor manufacturer Sensor Technology has announced a new generation of non-contact torque sensors based on four-element strain gauge bridges that complement its existing non-contact sensors which use surface acoustic wave (SAW) detection, but offer improved accuracy for the same price.
The German sensor-maker Sick has announced a ready-to-use machine vision system that can perform code-reading, and 2D or 3D inspection duties. It says that the MQCS (modular quality control system), which combines hardware with pre-written software, will cut the cost and time needed to set up automated quality inspection and logistics applications. The package makes it easy to configure even complex 2D and 3D image-processing applications, including upgrades to existing machinery.
Flir has announced a “low-cost” industrial condition-monitoring kit that combines vibration and temperature monitoring to maximise output, improve worker safety, and cut operating costs. The easy-to-configure system can be installed anywhere with connections to a Wi-Fi network. It can track changes in vibration and heat in real time, helping to predict potentially serious problems before failures occur.
Procentec, the Dutch developer of industrial communications diagnostics products, has announced a tool that analyses live data on Profibus networks and gives instant diagnoses of the most likely cause of any faults. The Snap Analysis tool eliminates the need to interpret complicated oscilloscope images and messages.
The German sensor-maker Sick has announced an intelligent add-on for its EDS/EDM35 motor feedback system that allows condition monitoring of servodrives down to individual machine axes. The sHub sensor hub has an integrated acceleration sensor and is said to pave the way for entry into the world of digitalised drive technologies and increasingly intelligent servodrive systems.
At the virtual version of the SPS exhibition, Beckhoff has announced a series of servodrives built into EtherCat terminals with output currents of up to 16A at 48V DC. The ELM72xx drives are built into metal housings that dissipate heat, even at high output powers, as well as shielding the drives against electrical interference. The drives can connect via front-panel connectors to motors, feedback and brakes using a one-cable technology. They can also connect directly to other EtherCat terminals, while additional I/Os allow the latching of position values.
Rockwell Automation has announced a family of servodrives designed to simplify machine design and optimise performance throughout a machine’s lifecycle. The Allen-Bradley Kinetix 5300 drives are aimed at global machine-builders looking to boost performance and adopt a single environment – Rockwell’s Studio 5000 – for control and motion programming of all of their drives. They will able to re-use code from other Kinetix drives, and to streamline the design and commissioning process.
Siemens has announced a compact integrated drive system aimed at horizontal conveyor applications. The Sinamics G115D system combines a motor, frequency converter and gearbox, and is available in either wall-mounting (0.37–7.5kW) or motor-mounting (0.37–4kW) versions.
