Encobotics, Inc., a turnkey automation integrator, uses 6 axis robots for its new plastics routering cell. The cell the company has named the Robo-Router combines quick change tooling with the PC-based 6-axis KUKA KR6 robot to give plastics customers a more efficient method of routering plastics products while reducing costs, scrap rates and employee injuries.

"Encobotics' commitment to engineering excellence has helped their customers become more successful for many years," said Kevin Kozuszek, director of marketing for KUKA Robotics Corporation. "This new cell, combining our easy to program robot and Encobotics' quick tool changing solution, will greatly benefit any companies cu tting plastics or wood."

"The performance and reliability of KUKA robots is what our customers have come to expect from our systems," said David George, president of Encobotics. "We are constantly looking for solutions to improve our customer's manufacturing processes and this cell is a great example of just such a solution."

The Robo Router is a coordinated motion routering cell that utilizes a quick-change tooling system and a KUKA KR6 PC-based robot. The cell allows the customer to load plastic tops on to five easy to build vacuum fixtures. The parts typically take a few seconds to load and about four minutes to run. While the parts are being routered the operator is assembling the part just off the machine. The cell has the potential to cut production times by half, eliminate scrap parts and cut processing costs by two-thirds. Additionally, employee injuries resulting from repetitive motions are virtually eliminated.

KUKA Robotics Corporation

Chainflex VFLG is a glass fiber optic data cable for automated applications. It is specially designed for use in Energy Chain Systems® and for continuous-flex applications. CFLG has a minimum bend radius of 10 times the cable diameter and operates within a permissible temperature range of +23 to +158°F. It is unaffected by electro magnetic interference and is ideal for automated applications. With a low-adhesion, PVC-based outer jacket and bundled bare-copper wire construction, Chainflex CFLG can be used on crane and conveyor systems and for single and interface-free data transmission.

Igus® Inc.

The I&J8000 "dual worktable" dispensing robots are powered by servo motors and use ball screw motion systems to ensure high repeatability. These new robots feature two X-axes that work alternately: when one X-axis is working under the Y/Z head, the other X-axis does not move, so the operator can load the workpiece. This ensures the continuous operation of the robot, eliminating the time wasted for stopping and restarting. Z-axis and table loads are sufficient to handle heavy workloads and valve dispensing modules. Multiple I/O communications and RS232 external interface are provided for machine integration.

I&J Fisnar

The DualVision Ultra substation monitoring system sees the invisible and hears the inaudible. It is a remote system which combines airborne ultrasound sensing with visual and infrared video for continuous substation monitoring -- all in an environmentally hardened, internet enabled package. The system consists of separate thermal imaging and video cameras, plus an ultrasonic detection unit, all housed in an environmentally sealed, temperature-controlled enclosure. The cameras and ultrasound sensor have Internet IP addresses and password protection, allowing control from any computer using wired or wireless Ethernet.

Mikron Infrared, Inc.

The Viper™ s1700 is a powerful robot with a reach of 1717mm and capable of lifting and positioning loads of up to 20 kg. The speed and precision of the Viper™ six-axis robots make them ideal for material handling, packaging, machine tending and many other operations requiring precise automation. It can be either floor or ceiling-mounted. The s1700 runs on Adept SmartServo™ controller technology, which enables the robot to make exceptionally smooth path motion moves with a high degree of repeatability and precision. It can also be guided using Adept's machine vision and robot-guidance package allowing the system to recognize and manipulate parts as well as the ability to inspect these parts.

Adept Technology, Inc.

Designed for programmers, software engineers and machine vision specialists capable of operating at the library routine level, this version of EconoCR™ Optical Character Recognition Software is suitable for implementation on smart cameras, micro vision systems and sensors powered by Analog Devices' Blackfin® Digital Signal Processors. This version enables users to quickly create stand-alone industrial OCR systems powered by factory floor proven industrial strength software. EconoCR's library routine format also allows the software to be easily combined with 1D bar and 2D matrix decoding software to produce more general-purpose video camera-based automatic identification solutions.

The Value Engineering Alliance

The KUKA KR10 SCARA robot family is designed for customers needing highly reliable and precise automation solutions of long reach tasks. The new 4-axis robots when combined with KUKA's user friendly PC-based control platform gives customers an extremely easy to learn and use pick and place automatic solution. The SCARA robot family includes 600mm and 850mm reach models which are capable of handling payloads up to 10kg. The robots' highly accurate link and gear combinations and optimized control loops in the kinematic chain give the robots repeatability. The low weight of the robots ensures optimum acceleration values and maximum working velocities which minimize cycle times.

KUKA Robotics Corporation

The FLP-200 rugged portable computer is about the size of a fat attache case which has plenty of internal space for application-specific customizing. It features an Intel T2500 2GHz Core Duo processor backed by a minimum of 512MB of memory and is ideal for applications such as testing, data logging and video recording for seismic, flight line, in-flight, and factory floor environments. The FLP-200 provides two full-length internal slots for 320bit PCI cards and one mini-PCI connector which allows a user to customize their system for a specific application.

ACME Portable Machines, Inc.

Lyon's all-new Deluxe Computer Workstation features rear access door 53 1/2 high x 12 1/2 wide which opens completely on full length piano hinge. An ergonomic keyboard shelf slides out and drops down for tension free stroking. A clear view monitor door allows for visibility and protection of up to a 21" monitor. The workstation will easily handle up to a 21" monitor, plus a CPU, printer and lots of supplies. Typical applications include: shop floor/MRO, cellular manufacturing, industrial machining centres, automotive service centres.

Lyon Workspace Products

The new R-Series Synchronous Serial Encoder (SSI) Interface position sensor is designed for machine tool and related industries. The R-Series SSI output sensor includes options for synchronized 7500 kHz update rates and position accuracy as low as +/-20 microns. An internal measurement error-checking routine ensures high immunity to shock and vibration. With its unique double-shielded design, the product also includes a high EMC immunity level. The SSI output product comes standard with an IP 67 housing (IP 68 with integral cable), as well as ATEX-approved explosion-proof and NEMA 4X optional housings.

MTS Systems Corporation

The Agilent Medalist SP50 Series 3 solder paste inspection system enables manufacturers of printed circuit board assemblies to slash inspection time in half, without compromising capability. The system helps manufacturers define the path for solder paste inspection going forward. It demonstrates enhanced ease-of-use and throughput, as well as accuracy and repeatability.

Agilent Technologies Inc.

The TT Tabletop Robot features a rigid base of aluminum extruded material, a high accuracy ball screw and a servo control motor. It allows positioning repeatability of +/-0.02mm and eliminates misstepping. High path accuracy and constant speed are attained through a built-in X-SEL controller. The TT can be used in conjunction with a teaching pendant, PC software or other tools. It is available in two types, gate or cantilever. Designed for high rigidity, the gate type's Y-axis is fixed to withstand unbalanced loads. It is also recommended for applications where the Z-axis receives a heavy load, and applications where a large portion of the load overhangs the slider.

IAI America, Inc.
 

The ITW Ransburg PulseTrack 2 is a microprocessor-based system designed to continuously monitor and maintain the programmable speeds of up to six rotary atomizers while also monitoring temperature and humidity for one or two zones. The PulseTrack 2 system delivers a magnetically generated pulse converted to a fiber optic signal by a small module located in each connected rotar assembly. It also provides multi-zone temperature and relative humidity monitoring using remotely mounted industrial probes and sensors helping to assure consistent, high quality finishes.

ITW Ransburg

The Intermec CV30 flexible, rugged, fixed-mount computer features a choice of Microsoft Windows CE.NET 5.0 or Windows Mobile 5.0 operating systems, multiple mounting options, Cisco® Compatible WiFi®, Bluetooth® and RFID support. It is built rugged to excel in dirty and dusty environments, freezing conditions and water washdown procedures. The CV30 provides a versatile data collection control centre that maximizes productivity while freeing workers from the hassle of managing cables.

Intermec Corp.

ATTC has just introduced a new line of long lasting MIG welding contact tips which are available in various materials. This new type of contact tip has been designed specifically for robotic applications. The tips decrease wear characteristics and extend the life of the consumable tip up to two or three times longer than standard copper alloys. This line also incorporates an Ag Alloy tip that offers conductivity rates up to 98%. The improved conductivity decreases arc start failure and lessens spatter at work area. This product line is offered in variable wire sizes and for other manufacturers' lines.

American Torch Tip

Fluke introduces IR-Fusion™ Technology allowing visible light and infrared image merging and analysis within thermal imaging cameras. It facilitates real time pixel-for-pixel merging of infrared and visible light images together on a single display. Providing five viewing modes -- each designed to add greater clarity, accuracy and a valuable frame of reference to infrared images -- IR-Fusion allows users to manipulate images right on the camera's display. It is designed for predictive maintenance in the industrial marketplace so that users can find problems not commonly detected.

Fluke Electronics Canada

The CAN locking cylinder series is available in 5 bore sizes (40mm to 100mm) and uses an integral, compact lock unit that is unaffected by the quality of supply air. Also, a manual override lock release is available as a standard feature. Typical applications include intermediate stops, emergency stops, and drop prevention. The lock unit design utilizes a tapered wedge and two rows of precision steel balls to evenly distribute the locking force to the cylinder piston rod. By isolating the locking components from the supply air pressure, poor air quality (contaminants and moisture) will not affect the performance of the lock mechanism. A standard manual override allows the lock to be released in the absence of supply pressure. The lock can be applied either during cylinder extension and retraction.

SMC Corporation

The PresencePLUS® P4 AREA vision sensors are designed to inspect the presence and shape of defined areas. They can perform these multiple analysis functions simultaneously at speeds up to 10,000 parts per minute. The P4 AREA 1.3 offers 1280 x 1024 pixel resolution for advanced high-speed inspections and include Gray Scale and BLOB (Binary Large Object) analysis. The sensors are ideal for a wide range of applications including the following: verify all bottles or cans are present in a packaging application and ensure the correct number of holes are punched in a metal stamping appli cation.

Banner Engineering Corporation

MagShift® Solenoids eliminate impact among its moving parts and therefore provide extremely quiet operation. In an power-ON mode, MagShift solenoids will measure below 40 dBA, including end of travel stop. When the unit reached its end-of-travel position there is no impact force, which eliminates vibration and minimizes noise. When the MagShift is actuated the plunger is able to travel past the electrical ON position. MagShift's unique construction eliminates residual magnetism that can impede performance, and allows the same assembly to be configured as a push or pull solenoid for maximum system design flexibility.

Saia-Burgess Inc.

Pepperl+Fuchs has expanded its family of short-barrel Pile Driver inductive proximity sensors by adding a new Remote Amplifier version. Just 23mm in length, these shielded sensors are fully flush mountable and are suited for space restricted applications in harsh environments such as those found in the welding and metal forming industries, among others. These sensors can effectively operate in temperatures ranging from ­25°C to 70°C. They feature an 8mm diameter housing, offer a nominal sensing range of 1.5mm and can be wired either sinking or sourcing. They come standard with a 100% stainless steel sensing face and barrel, are Black Armor coated for weld spatter resistance and offer a Micro- Quick disconnect method of connection.

Pepperl+Fuchs

The lube oil flowmeters assure delivery of circulating lubricating oil in industrial machinery applications. They are available with optional alarm switches for protecting machinery and minimizing downtime in event of flow failure. The meters monitor rate of oil flow, provide flow indication to assist in problem diagnosis and respond immediately if the flow goes too low. The mechanical flow switches can be wired to trigger equipment shutdown for protection against machinery damage. The meters can be calibrated for specific oils and are easy to install, operate and maintain. They mount in line and in any orientation, with no straight pipe runs required.

Universal Flow Monitors, Inc.

The 4700 Series heavy-duty industrial PCs feature Intel® M Mobile processors resulting in reduced power usage and in less heat output. They are suitable for most factory automation applications requiring NEMA sealed enclosures. Lower heat output makes controlling the enclosure's internal operational temperature much easier and often eliminates the need for expensive cooling devices. The 4700 Series ships standard with a 1.3GHz Intel® Celeron® M processor; 512MB DRAM, CD-ROM and Windows® XP. Upgrades are available and Windows XP Professional or Windows 2000 (multi-language) may be preloaded and configured to make setup easy.

Xycom Automation

The Proficy™ Machine Tool Efficiency (MTE) 4.0 is a monitoring and analysis solution that digitizes the information being generated throughout factories into a "virtual plant" that can be accessed where, when and how you need it. The 4.0 is a unique turnkey solution incorporating the most powerful machine tool connectivity solutions available to provide a comprehensive, actionable root cause analysis. It also provides a suite of remote diagnostic tools to maximize mean-time between failures (MTBF) and minimize mean-time to repair (MTTR), and can be used to populate fields in Computer Maintenance Management Systems (CMMS) to deliver the promise of true usage-based preventative maintenance.

GE Fanuc Automation, Inc.

Beckhoff Ethernet Switches are robust, slimline devices offering user-friendly installation in a stainless steel/aluminum housing via an integrated DIN rail adapter. The switches relay incoming Ethernet frames to the destination ports. In full duplex mode, they prevent collisions. They can be used universally in automation and office networks. The CU series switches have an optimized housing design. The CU2008 switch offers 8 RJ 45 Ethernet ports while the CU2016 switch features 16 ports. The status LEDs are easier to read because they are located directly on the RJ 45 sockets.

Beckhoff Automation

Pilz introduces a software tool called PAScal, which verifies the functional safety of protection devices on machinery in light of current standards. The Safety Calculator supports manufacturers in the calculation of failure limit values, as required by standards IEC 62061 and prEN ISO 13849-1. The PAScal Safety Calculator separates the safety functions into their component parts, calculates the overall probability of a dangerous failure per hour and verifies the data with the prescribed performance level or safety integrity level. The software tool also takes into account potential architectures and variations if sub-components are connected together and parameterized.

Pilz Automation Safety L.P.

DRS26 CoreTech® Incremental Encoders are now customer-programmable, allowing users to freely program the width of the zero pulse and the number of lines from 1 to 8,192. This unique functionality allows users to replace multiple encoders with a single type of encoder that can be programmed at any time, in any location, for any application. Provided in industry-standard 2.5 inch housings, the DRS26 features opto-ASIC with chip-on-board technology for maximum reliability and automatic light regulation for long LED life. Square flange, servo flange and face mount versions are available, with 0.25 and 0.375 inch and 10mm, solid shafts.

Sick Stegmann, Inc.

The new ER Series rope pull emergency switches cover spans from 40m to 200m for emergency stopping capability along the entire rope length, while reducing the number of required switches per application. All models are available with an integral top-mounted, metal emergency stop (E-Stop) button that provides emergency stopping capability at the switch end of the installation. In addition to the unique E-Stop button, ER Series rope pull switches are available with dual-indicator LED beacon that may be wired to flash red, or glow a constant green, indicating the status of the switch.

Omron Scientific Technologies, Inc.

Panasonic has introduced two new rugged Panasonic® Toughbook® computers: the CF-10 convertible tablet PC and the flagship CF-30 clamshell notebook. The new Toughbooks come equipped with Intel Core Duo processors, additional security features, and optional embedded access to next-generation wireless data networks from all major cellular wireless carriers. In addition, these MIL-SPEC-certified notebooks incorporate daylight-readable screens and rugged features such as magnesium alloy cases, sealed keyboards and ports, flexible internal connectors and shock-mounting.

Panasonic Computer Solutions Company

The rugged DLoG MPC 6 vehicle mount computer with its sophisticated features and rugged construction make it a suitable touch-screen PC for indoor and outdoor vehicles, including forklifts and construction machinery, in warehouses and other logistics operations. The MPC 6 includes an up to 1 GHz Intel CPU processor with 1 GB RAM and CompactFlash memory allowing complex applications to be handled with ease. The processor comes with Intel 915 chipsets and is shipped with either Windows XP Professional, XP embedded or a Linux operating system.

DLoG Logistics, Inc.

The JETT®*XL is a rugged mobile hand held computer with its Microsoft® Windows® CE.NET 5.0 operating system. It incorporates an Intel® PXA270 Xscale® technology processor to deliver 624 MHz for fast information processing. Designed with a rugged IP65 rated package, the unit is completely dust-tight and can withstand exposure to driving rain storms. With an operating temperature of -20°C to 50°C, it operates in harsh environments with a wide temperature range. It comes standard with both 802.11b and Bluetooth.

Two Technologies, Inc.

A new single board computer called Galaxy provides optimal control of large area high resolution TFT LCDs used in a wide range of applications including digital signage and POI/POS, gaming, medical and industrial displays. Galaxy features an Intel ULV Celeron processor and combines a compact form factor with low power consumption and compatibility with TFT LCD and CRT displays. Its fanless design maximizes power loss and heat buildup, while its ultra-low voltage, high-performance CPU provides optimal graphics performance for 2D and 3D applications.

Apollo Display Technologies, LLC

Canadian Industrial Equipment News March 2007

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