Proximity sensors are used across a broad range of industrial and manufacturing applications. They’re used to sense the presence of objects or materials and then either initiate some action or simply flag their presence or absence. Key to their operation is that they don’t require physical contact with the target or object being sensed. This […]
Sensors + Vision
What are magnetoelastic sensors for torque measurement?
When a ferromagnetic material is subjected to a mechanical stress — caused by an applied force or torque — it experiences a change in magnetic flux. This phenomenon is known as the magnetoelastic effect, also referred to as the Villari effect, for the Italian physicist who discovered it in the late 1800’s. In motion control […]
AP10 IO-Link position indicators from SIKO maintain efficiency and reliability
Bus-capable position indicators from SIKO are the heart of a monitored size changeover and are indispensable in machine construction today. Their ability to display the setpoint and actual value on the adjusting spindle to the machine operator increases comfort for the setter. This greatly simplifies the process of refitting a production machine for a new […]
New photoelectric sensor from Rockwell for demanding environments
The new Allen-Bradley 42AF RightSight M30 photoelectric sensor from Rockwell Automation is the latest addition to the company’s smart sensing portfolio. Built with improved environmental resistance and long-distance detection in a mid-sized, right-angle housing, the RightSight M30 smart sensor offers the flexibility and performance required for a wide range of high-demand applications. “Our new photoelectric […]
Sensors at heart of bionic robots from Festo
The Festo Bionic Learning Network has released it latest biomimicry innovations to support ongoing research in engineering, manufacturing, and materials science drawn from natural systems. Here are the 2018 additions to the Festo Bionic Learning Network: A transforming spider that rolls or creeps A robotic fish that autonomously maneuvers through acrylic water-filled tubing A semi-autonomous flying bat-like robot […]
Q&A on sensors for food and beverage washdown (and other harsh settings)
Sensors are machine edge devices, so are on the front lines — often completely exposed to the worst of what automated assemblies endure. In a recent Design World interview, Banner Engineering global business development manager for sensors Dana Holmes answered several questions about sensor survival in these harsh environments. Here’s what she had to say. […]
Motion sensors at core of home-therapy tool to retrain brains
Now, a wearable device called the FitMi from Flint Rehab is helping people with neurologic injuries (from strokes and other brain injuries) improve their strength and dexterity. FitMi contains two wireless pucks and a therapy app that picks exercises tailored to the patient’s stage of recovery. As he or she improves, the FitMi exercises and difficulty […]
New vision controller from Matrox Imaging handles multi-camera applications
Matrox Imaging’s new Matrox 4Sight EV6 is the latest installment to the vision controller lineup. An enhancement of its immediate predecessor, the Matrox 4Sight GPm, the Matrox 4Sight EV6 integrates a seventh-generation Intel Core processor to power ever-more demanding multi-camera applications. Matrox 4Sight EV6 possesses the ingrained power to handle multi-camera inspections with ease and […]
FH-Series vision system introduces unique lighting solution for defect detection
Omron Automation Americas has developed a unique technology that can automatically detect small defects and subtle changes in color with great sensitivity. It can also simultaneously detect defects with different characteristics. One of the key technologies in this powerful vision solution is an advanced lighting technology that changes illumination angles, directions, and colors depending on […]
New inductive positioning system from Pepperl+Fuchs offers precise position detection
Pepperl+Fuchs’ new PMI F90 inductive positioning system works with a unique, patented multi-coil system. The absolute position of the actuator is precisely detected from the measuring signals of a single coil. In addition to sending the analog position signal, switch points can also be defined. The sensor can detect two actuators as well as the […]