The NI-DAQmx 7.2 measurement services software offers advanced functionality improvements compared to basic data acquisition drivers. Engineers can use NI-DAQmx to save substantial configuration time while improving performance through capabilities such as plug-and-play TEDS "smart" sensing technology and LabVIEW Real-Time control. This simplifies sensor configuration and eliminates manual data entry and delivers automated system detection and configuration. NI-DAQmx 7.2 also streamlines system configuration by offering dynamic display of terminal connections, showing engineers exactly where they should wire each configured sensor.

National Instruments

PMOvisu operator terminals make rapid, detailed diagnostics a reality, even on complex applications. Units are configured and operated using powerful PMI-PRO graphics software for professional, user-friendly graphics on the PMIvisu. For greater flexibility, a 15" display diagonal is now also available, alongside the 5.7", 10" and 12" versions. The PMI systems are designed to be ventilation-free and heat-stable. Units have all common interfaces for communication purposes. The fieldbus connection can be made via the internal interface, involving very little installation work. A wide range of drivers for PLC connection and online language switching, PMI-PRO graphics software can be used in a variety of applications.

Pilz Automation Safety L.P.

ATR-Strothmann announces the development of a vision-based centering station designed to replace complex traditional mechanical centering systems. Based upon a mechanically simple design, the new vision-based system uses a camera and control system to compare the actual position of the blanks to the desired in-die position and then determines the appropriate motion path required by the feeders to properly align the blanks prior to entering the press. Since the system relies upon programmable motion paths versus hard automation, it offers extreme flexibility.

ATR Strothmann

The PMC-DGX is a multi-featured graphics acceleration PCI mezzanine card suitable for driving SXGA displays in harsh environment console applications. The new PMC-DGX features dual independent display capability that can accommodate both legacy analog CRT and DVI compliant digital video input, flat-panel displays. In Dual-View Display mode, it is able to display either the same image on two displays, separate images on each display, or single image spanning both displays. The unit is available for convection-cooled (SA and RA class boards) or conduction-cooled (ruggedized RC class boards, operating temperatures -40°C to 85°C) environments.

Thales Computers

Transparent Ready™ web-enabled power distribution, motor control and automation products are now available from Schneider Electric. The equipment features an embedded web-server, which organizes and presents real-time metering data from intelligent devices such as circuit breakers, relays and power monitors. Power system information is instantly available to authorized users -- facility engineers, plant managers, and maintenance engineers -- via any PC on the network, even across the Internet, using just a browser. Transparent Ready comes completely configured: all the installer has to do is connect a standard network cable to the Ethernet jack inside the gear.

Schneider Electric

The Safety at Work industrial safety networking system integrates standard mechanical safety devices into most standard PLCs and higher level networks. With one two-wire flat cable that carries power and signal to each safety device, the networking system eliminates the need to individually wire each safety device back to the main control cabinet. The system can be used for handling multiple safety zones on one system and can be configured in ring, star, and truck and drop topologies. Configuration software is used for the set-up of the Safety Monitor by means of a PC.

ifm efector inc.

The EZVision™ 14C machine vision and robot guidance system utilizes vision hardware and software along with the EZVision™ operator interface in a Windows 2000 environment. The complete system includes user friendly software, data file storage, industrial grade PC, vision processing software and PCB, I/O board, light and camera. The 14C machine vision system is fast and accurate with inspections including pattern matching, OCR/OCV, robot guidance and other high performance functions as well as general-purpose inspections involving part sorting, assembly verification and on-line gauging and measuring. The system is applicable in a number of industries including automotive, electronics, semiconductor processing, food and beverage, healthcare, packaging, plastics and pharmaceuticals.

Cincinnati Automation Ltd.

The D4F has four contacts in a compact metal housing ideal for detecting end of base travel on new or existing robots. All normally closed contacts feature a positive opening mechanism to ensure the circuit opens in case of a contact failure. All D4F switches are UL, cUL, TUV and CE approved. Four contacts allow for two safety circuits, one circuit for the robot controller and one circuit for the PLC or control system. Different cable exit directions and lengths allow for a variety of flexible mounting options. While 10,000,000 mechanical cycles provide a long life of repeated operations. The D4F requires only six degrees of travel to activate the contacts allowing for less travel of actuating dogs and faster approach speeds.

Omron Canada Inc.

The SharfTest portable ultrasonic flaw detection system aces the testing of large shafts and pins with V-scan volumetric grid analysis, "zoom" capability and 3D cross-sectional views. It provides repeatable in-situ testing of shafts and axles in rail cars, ships, turbines, off-road machinery, induced/forced-draft fans, rock-crushers, paper mills, coal mining, machinery, pumps, compressors and similar heavy equipment. The innovative system requires only shaft-end access, avoiding equipment disassembly or multiple setups and scans.

Uni-Tech Engineering

The ProSet4 offers a new option for cylinder position sensing, with four built-in programmable setpoint outputs for detection of end-of-stroke or any position in between. It is ideal for reliable positioning duties on injection moulding machines, woodworking equipment, packaging machinery and presses. The ProSet4 has four discrete setpoint outputs, each providing four possible switching modes: on-off, off-on, on-off-on, and off-on-off. The four outputs, combined with four modes of operation, allow sophisticated motion control without the need for continuous position feedback.

Balluff

The Magellan™ Motion Processor Developer's Kit is an integrated board and software package which allows designers to evaluate and exercise the PMD Magellan Family of Motion Processors and shortens the design time for engineers who are interested in building sophisticated motion control applications. Designed with surface mount technology, the kit provides multiple axis motion control for DC brush, brushless DC, microstepping and pulse and direction motors. The kit can be used as a platform to develop software, as a stand-alone chipset exerciser/test bed or as a general-purpose motion development system.

Performance Motion Devices, Inc.

The Vprox 773 valve position sensor is designed for use in hazardous areas found in many processing and manufacturing applications. These sensors are available with a potted-in cable or quick disconnect which allows for faster, more reliable installations. The unit has dual power (green) and switching (red) LEDs, which allow for easy sensor to target adjustment without the use of a meter. It has no moving parts that can wear, jam or break. The sensor has a 5/8" thread that will fit most industry standard valve brackets and has a programmable output (normally open or normally closed) that is ideal for both valve and damper applications.

TURCK Inc.

Delta has added PROFIBUS-DP communications to its RMC70 series motion controllers designed for one- and two-axis applications. The RMC family of motion controllers target hydraulic, pneumatic and electric servo motion control applications with position, speed, and position/
pressure needs. The RMC70 series offers easy setup, tuning, programming, and diagnostics. Industry applications include plastics, metals, forging, forest products, testing, automotive, aerospace, waste treatment, entertainment and others. Specific applications include injection moulding, cyclic testing, cutoff saws, stacking and positioning pitch rolls.

Delta Computer Systems, Inc.

The MOXA entry-level five-port unmanaged Ethernet switch features 5 10/100BASE-T(X) (RJ45); support IEEE 802.3/802.3u/802.3x; -10-60C operating temperature; power inputs DC: 12 to 48V, AC: 18-30V; DIN-Rail mounting ability.

Manufacturers Automation Inc.

The Thomson Movoact is a self-supporting, height adjustable, actuated column using anodized extruded aluminum profiles which slide into each other. Assured, precise motion is achieved through a built-in Thomson™ Electrak linear actuator. Due to its unique sliding guide mechanism, the Movoact is able to carry off center loads as well as direct acting loads. It features a rugged industrial column for height adjustment of worktables, conveyors, loaders/unloaders and many other applications. The height adjustment serves to position the work environment to the specific ergonomic requirements of different dimensions of items being transported, different physical requirements of operators, or different parameters for loading and unloading material.

Danaher Motion

The Real-Time Polymer Process Monitoring System monitors polymer properties in real-time, continuous along the extruder barrel or at the exit. The system employs patented ultrasound technology that is non-destructive, non-invasive, effective and allows rapid optimization of end-product quality. This non-contact technology monitors a wide variety of parameters. Screw wear, barrel wear and screw bending can also be monitored during material extrusion.

NDT Technologies Inc.

The Neo-Flex™ Arm is an adjustable arm for flat panel monitors. This sleek, streamlined unit provides 8" of vertical movement so you can position your monitor exactly where you want it. Because it clamps to the back of the desk, it also frees up desk space. The monitor provides a wide range of motion including 8" arm height adjustment, 180° right/left monitor tilt, up to 180° up/down monitor tilt, 360° monitor portrait/landscape rotation, and 360° arm side-to-side rotation.

Ergotron, Inc.

The E9066T compact, thin-panel industrial computer has been designed for space constricted applications. The small, modular industrial computers provide a reliable solution for data collection, industrial control and production/factory automation. Because of its reduced footprint, the unit is suitable for bench-top, panel mount, wall-mount and swing-arm applications. Measuring 45mm in depth and weighing 6 kg, the E9066T features a 15" active matrix LCD display, built-in Ethernet port, two USB ports and all standard computer interface ports. An optional touch screen is available.

Marposs Corporation

Both the Dual PWM Input Controller and Multiple Output Controller interface with joystick(s) located in the vehicle cab and drive multiple hydraulic valves. CAN networking capability permits communication with other machine automation devices. Applications include: off-highway and construction equipment, work machines, cranes, lift equipment, work platforms, elevators, harvesters, spreaders, directional drills, refuse trucks as well as robotics and material handling machines.

Axiomatic Technologies Corporation

The HD-5000 hand-held video microscope is a portable, high resolution inspection system that provides a versatile means to observe and record small objects. Its lightweight scope is quickly positioned and re-positioned, giving the operator flexibility not available from stand-mounted cameras. The HD-5000 has switchable 20X or 50X magnification standard, providing real-time images to a video monitor. An easily accessible "freeze" button permits any image to be captured for further evaluation. With an optional PC image capture kit, it allows creation of jpg or bmp formatted images for presentations or web use.

ASG, a division of Jergens, Inc.

The Nex Air Blade is recommended for the blowoff and cooling of parts, webs and other materials. The system utilizes the Coanda effect to amplify air flow dramatically reducing air consumption. The system has a full flow design, rugged build and several mounting options for ease of installation and maintenance. The air blades are made of anodized aluminum or stainless steel for high temperature and food grade applications. Applications include blow-off of water, coolant, etc. and the cooling of webs and parts.

Tech Sales Co.

The 1K2 changeover switch is recommended for PCB configuration applications. The switch occupies a board space measuring only 10mm x 2.5mm with a height of 4.5mm excluding actuator. It is available with 2.54mm pitch pins allowing end-to-end or side-by-side stacking on 2.54mm pitch board. Straight or 90° versions are available. Typical applications include jumper replacement, circuit testing, on/off switch, factory setting and board configuration.

EAO Switch Corporation

The Beckhoff CX1000 Automation Control is a modular, DIN rail mounted industrial PC for mid-range PLC and motion control solutions. The CX1000 combines Microsoft® embedded operating systems (Windows CE.NET and Windows XP), and Beckhoff's "TwinCAT® CE" PLC and motion control software in a ruggedized hardware platform suitable for use in a wide range of machine tool and industrial control applications. It is rated to operate in ambient temperatures up to 55°C without forced cooling. With no moving parts, it is highly vibration tolerant for use in robotics, machine control, process control, packaging machinery, injection moulding, milling, stamping and bending applications.

Beckhoff

The Smart Linear Actuator (SLA) Modular Automation System utilizes Smart Motor Technology and features a modular design that allows for a multitude of system configurations in two- or three-axes, satisfying the requirements for automated applications where high accuracy and multiple pick-and-place positions are desired. Programs for simple, synchronized motion are easily created and stored in the Smart Linear Actuator Drive, eliminating the need for an external computer in some instances. Programs can also be stored on a PC and the Smart Motor can communicate to a PLC or PC for simple 1-, 2- or 3-axis programs.

Robohand, Inc.

The Allen-Bradley® Pico GFX-70™ is a versatile, small-footprint controller that features a multi-function human machine interface. Combining control and HMI capabilities, it is designed to perform simple logic, timing, counting and real-time clock operations. With the integrated graphic display, engineers can perform both control and HMI functionality with one software package or with on-display buttons. Its graphic display and onboard analog I/O make it ideal for a broad range of industries. Along with machine control, commercial lighting, and HVAC systems, the new controller is equally adept at speed and temperature control.

Rockwell Automation

The ChamberIR family of infrared heaters features cylindrical chambers with controlled, concentrated infrared energy for applications such as preheating, curing silicone, re-glossing plastic tubing, curing coatings or adhesives on wire or cable, vulcanizing rubber, testing specimens, and more. The infrared energy emitted from each heater can be adjusted to match the specific heating requirements for a variety of applications. They provide a clean and efficient heat source, which does not contact the product being heated.

Research Inc.

Canadian Industrial Equipment News October 2004

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