The Taiwanese automation supplier Delta has launched three Codesys-based motion controllers for single-axis movements as well as synchronous multi-axis motion applications such as gearing, electronic cams and interpolation. The AX-304EL, AX-316E, and AX-364EL controllers support up to 4, 16 and 64 axes respectively, and offer an EtherCat master, two Ethernet ports, serial ports, 16 digital inputs and eight digital outputs.
Fluke Networks has launched an industrial Ethernet tester designed to verify cable performance up to 10Gb/s and to help discover the causes of network failures. The LinkIQ Cable+Network Industrial Ethernet Tester (LinkIQ-IE) can identify connected switches, port and VLAN data, run targeted “ping” tests, and confirm the presence and capacity of available PoE (Power over Ethernet) sources.
The Dutch industrial computing specialist OnLogic has announced an edge computer designed to link existing equipment with the cloud, modern sensors, and other legacy devices. The solid-state Helix 511 edge computer offers a choice of connection options to help bridge the gap between modern systems and older technologies.
The UK motion specialist Trio Motion Technology has launched an EtherCat-based motion controller for up to 64 axes which achieves EtherCat cycle times down to 125μs. The Flex-X Nano Motion Coordinator is designed to increase machine productivity while optimising motion precision.
The German encoder-maker Wachnendorff has developed what it claims is the world’s first incremental encoder that can be configured wirelessly from a smartphone using NFC (Near-Field Communications). It does away with the usual need for adapter cables and parameterisation boxes when setting pulses counts to customise an encoder for an application. The encoders will also be easier to modify at a later date.
Phoenix Contact has released its first managed Ethernet switches that can connect sensors and terminal devices to SPE (Single Pair Ethernet) interfaces. The FL Switch 2303-8SP1 switches support SPE on eight ports with the 10 Base-T1L standard, which supports transmission distances of up to 1km.
Lenze has announced a multi-axis servo inverter which, it says, will allow users to increase the cycle rates of their machines by up to 20%. It adds that the i750 cabinet inverter is suitable for almost any dynamic multi-axis application.
Dobot, the Chinese collaborative robot manufacturer which claims to be the country’s biggest exporter of industrial robots, has announced a family of seven cobots with payload capacities from 3-20kg and working radii from 620–1,700mm. The CRA cobots incorporate high-performance harmonic drive reducers and electromagnetic brakes, as well as updated software and a redesigned user interface.
Parker Hannifin has announced the arrival in Europe of a new approach to Ethernet communications that, it says, reformulates and transforms machine I/O architecture. It claims that the modular PCH Network Portal, which supports Ethernet protocols and IO-Link communications, will cut machine costs, start-up times and downtime
Siemens has launched a dynamic servodrive system consisting of a precision drive, powerful servomotors and easy-to-use cables. The Sinamics S200 system is aimed at applications that need precise speed and torque control, such as electronic production machinery, and winding and unwinding machines in battery manufacturing and cell assembly.
Beckhoff Automation has issued a software update for its XPlanar levitating product transport system which allows it to be controlled by multiple computers, thus supporting many more movers operating over a much larger area. Beckhoff says that potential expansions are “infinite”.
Rockwell Automation has released a family of distributed I/O blocks with built-in IO-Link functions that, it says, will help manufacturers to improve productivity at a low cost. The Allen‑Bradley ArmorBlock 5000 I/O blocks are designed for use on machines, enabling quicker installation, commissioning and troubleshooting, and reducing downtime.
Siemens has announced simulation software that can be used to engineer and commission variable-speed drives, based on digital twins. The Sinamics DriveSim Advanced software allows users to simulate, commission and optimise Sinamics drive systems virtually before building them in the real world. Siemens says it will increase the efficiency and productivity of drive systems and machinery.
Keysight Technologies has announced a compact network tester for engineers deploying IIoT (Industrial Internet of Things) and automotive networks. The Novus mini tester combines traffic generation and protocol testing in one device, allowing users to test the performance and conformance of industrial networks. Keysight says that it has the smallest footprint in the industry, an “outstanding” cost per port, and ultra-quiet, fan-less operation.
The Taiwanese automation manufacturer Delta Electronics has launched a range of open-loop, variable-torque drives for fan, pump and compressor applications at the 2023 Hannover Messe. The VP3000 drives have been designed to make machinery more efficient and to reduce harmonic distortion in a wide range of fluid applications.
