Cognex has announced what it describes as the world’s first industrial smart camera to be powered by deep learning. The self-contained In-Sight D900 embedded vision system incorporates the company’s ViDi deep learning software and is aimed at complex in-line inspection applications such as optical character recognition, assembly verification and defect detection.

ABB has announced that its SynRM synchronous reluctance motors now comply with the IEC’s new IE5 ultra-premium energy efficiency class, with energy losses that are up to 50% lower than those of IE2 induction machines. ABB introduced the SynRM technology in 2011 and applications have demonstrated energy savings of up to 25%.

A German company, Michael Koch, has developed a series of active energy management devices for VSDs (variable-speed drives) that, it claims, can cut energy use by up to 40% when used with drives of any make. The devices, which are connected to the drive’s DC link, store excess electrical energy, largely independently of the grid.

The Danish manufacturer of robotic end-effectors, OnRobot, has developed a three-finger electric gripper that, it says, will simplify previously difficult-to-automate precision handling of cylindrical parts, and will accept a wide range of object sizes. The compact 3FG15 gripper has a 15kg payload, a maximum stroke length of 150mm, and can handle parts from 20–150mm. It provides a strong grip for both form-fit (internal) or friction-fit (external) applications.

The German sensor-maker Siko has developed an absolute magnetic encoder comprising a sensor and rule that can be adapted to suit the position and shape of an application. The MSAC200 flexCoder is aimed at rotary applications that cannot be implemented using off-the-shelf components, and which need high resolution and precision, and the ability to adapt to users’ designs. Examples include motor feedback, automated handling and assembly, and robotic systems.

The German automation manufacturer Beckhoff has announced an ultra-compact multi-core industrial PC with IP65/67 protection that can be installed directly on machines or other equipment. When used as a control computer, the C7015 edge device also reduces the need for control cabinet space, and simplifies machine designs as well as later system expansions.

SKF has announced a compact vibration and temperature sensor that monitors the condition of rotating parts on heavy industrial machinery automatically. It says that the SKF Enlight Collect IMx-1 sensor will allow users to cut both unplanned downtime and maintenance costs. They will also be able to collect data more frequently – over hours and days, instead of weeks and months – from locations that were previously inaccessible, using fewer technicians.

Siemens has announced a “paradigm-shifting” new version of its Logo! logic module that connects directly to the cloud, opening up a wide range of new control and monitoring possibilities – such as energy management and predictive maintenance – and simplifying networking. The new version (8.3) is due to be launched at the Hannover Fair (recently postponed until July) and is planned to be available in late 2020.