To help engineers working in production and assembly lines – or those handling test challenges that require measurements of tensile/compressive forces in confined spaces – HBK has released the U93A, an easy to mount miniature force sensor with the option of digital and analog interfaces. The U93A is available as traditional passive mV/V sensor or […]
Networking + IoT
Servo drives feature support for new synchronized communication protocols
Kollmorgen has announced the latest update to its AKD2G servo drive. With the introduction of these new features, Kollmorgen has broadened its offerings to additionally support PROFINET IRT and Ethernet/IP with CIP Sync alongside CANopen, EtherCAT, and FSoE time-synchronized communication protocols. Each protocol is rigorously tested with a variety of motion controllers and certified by […]
New ring force sensors with galvanically isolated input
Inelta Sensorsysteme has added new model variants to its portfolio of ring force sensors. The sensor type, which acts as a measuring washer, is used to detect axially acting forces on screws, shafts or axles and is used, for example, to determine or monitor preload forces on screw connections. The ring force sensors in the […]
Considerations for HMI in motion control
Open architecture HMI can provide benefits such as increased flexibility for motion control, leading to more efficient machine designs. Ramey Miller • Siemens Designing industrial machines with motion control for manufacturing is a critical aspect of modern industrial automation. These systems regulate the movement of mechanical components, such as motors, actuators, and conveyors, within industrial […]
CIP safety module for safe communication over devices in a network
Mitsubishi Electric Automation, Inc. has designed the MELSEC iQ-R Series CIP Safety Module to ensure safety signal transmission to a diverse range of devices and equipment, including third-party robots, Mitsubishi Electric and third-party-VFD products, and safety I/O and interlocks. Common Industrial Protocol (CIP) safety is a protocol developed by the Open DeviceNet Vendor Association (ODVA) […]
New EtherCAT controller modules from AutomationDirect
AutomationDirect has added EtherCAT controller modules for the LS Electric XGB PLC family. These new modules work in conjunction with the new lineup of LS Electric iX7 EtherCAT servo systems for highly accurate multi-axis motion control functionality. Both 4-axis and 8-axis EtherCAT controller modules are available; up to two of these motion modules can be […]
New POSITAL TILTIX inclinometers have analog outputs
As part of its ambitious NEXTGEN program, POSITAL has released new members of its TILTIX inclinometer family with analog communications interfaces. The new versions are mechanically and electrically compatible with older models and share the same mounting footprint. POSITAL’s TILTIX inclinometers are used in motion control and safety assurance systems to measure a device’s orientation […]
Packaging automation in perspective
To satisfy today’s market design objectives, packaging machinery over the last decade has become increasingly adaptive. That’s been evident in a range of motion components and fully integrated designs at recent Pack Expo events. More specifically, the newest adaptive machines are: Modular (so they can be reprogrammed if not physically reconfigured on the fly) Fitted […]
Controller for wireless safety and control of machines, robots receives SIL 3 Certification
FORT Robotics’ Endpoint Controller, which brings safe, secure, dynamic wireless control to mobile, automated, or autonomous machines, has received SIL 3 (safety integrity level 3) functional safety certification, as defined by IEC 61508, from exida. The controller, which is part of the FORT Robotics Control Platform, can send and receive two different SIL 3 safety […]
Mitsubishi Electric offers servo amplifier support for FailSafe over EtherCAT (FSoE)
Mitsubishi Electric Automation Inc.’s MELSERVO-J5 EtherCAT compatible servo amplifiers let users easily integrate safety devices (E- Stop buttons, safety sensors, and other devices) into a single network. MELSERVO-J5 servo amplifiers are known for their reliability, simple wiring, easy implementation, and now with increased safety through FailSafe. FailSafe over EtherCAT (FSoE) devices operate by separating safety-related […]
