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.
Japan’s Azbil Corporation – previously known as Yamatake – has developed an adjustable proximity sensor with two outputs that allows operators to configure and check settings remotely from a computer, thus saving the time usually needed to set up multiple sensors.
Rockwell Automation has developed what it claims are the first encoders to support the CIP Safety over EtherNet/IP protocol for safety applications up to SIL 3 / PLe. The Allen-Bradley 843ES absolute encoders are aimed at safety applications that need speed, direction or position-monitoring functions.
The US communications, monitoring and controls manufacturer, Red Lion, has announced a “revolutionary” edge automation platform that, it says, brings a new degree of versatility to edge computing, while its simple point-and-click operation will boost productivity and efficiency.
The German controls manufacturer Beckhoff has announced an integrated machine-mounting servodrive for implementing automation outside of control cabinets. The AMI812x servodrive combines a servomotor, output stage and fieldbus connection in a space-saving design that is available in ratings up to 400W.
The German sensor-maker Sick has unveiled an IO-Link gateway with an on-board Web server that can collect, combine, evaluate and transmit signals from IO-Link devices from any manufacturer. The SIG200 Profinet Sensor Integration Gateway is the first in a family of intelligent Industry 4.0 gateways designed to work both as IO-Link masters and as small, distributed control systems.
The compressor-maker Atlas Copco has developed and patented an interior permanent magnet (iPM) motor which, it claims, has a higher efficiency than the IE5 “ultra premium efficiency” level. It is using the motor to drive the rotors in some of its compressors directly, resulting in energy savings of up to 30%.
A UK torque-sensing specialist has developed an optical rotary torque sensor that can measure values as small as 10mNm. This capability, combined with a 50kHz bandwidth, means that the sensor can record even the most fleeting of transient torques accurately.
The Californian automation manufacturer Opto 22 has announced an intelliegent distributed I/O system designed to connect traditional wired switches and sensors directly to Ethernet networks, software applications and the cloud, without needing intermediary controls or communications hardware, such as PLCs, PACs or PCs.
Stäubli has developed a four-axis Scara robot which, it claims, is the first that can be used in food industry applications where there is a high risk of contamination and bacteria developing. The TS2 HE robots have “a unique and revolutionary hygienic design” that uses smooth, rounded and tilted surfaces to eliminate areas where fluids could accumulate.
Balluff has developed a multi-function sensor for condition-monitoring duties that monitors variables such as vibration in three axes, temperature, humidity and ambient pressure, and processes them on board. The compact, retrofittable BCM sensor supports continuous condition monitoring and allows automated sensing of limits at an “attractive” price.
At the reecent SPS exhibition, the German drives-maker Lenze unveiled a decentralised variant of its i500 frequency inverter which, it claims, is the first to support IO-Link. The IP66-protected i550 protec drive will initially be available in ratings up to 2.2kW. The range will be expanded later up to 75kW.
