Automation – Page 374
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Article
Quick release cable connections
Now available with integrated SpeedTec quick release fastening technology, igus says its Intercontec connectors offer reduced installation times (with a ¼ turn open-close mechanism), and the special locking mechanism will prevent the connection loosening, as well as offering vibration and shock resistance of up to 25g in three axis.
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Virtual support engineer service for OEMs
Rockwell Automation says it can now offer OEMs secure, remote monitoring and troubleshooting of their production operations through its Virtual Support Engineer service.The company claims this service enables OEMs to identify and resolve technical issues, perform scheduled and preventive maintenance, and monitor their installed base of machinery.Virtual Support Engineer service ...
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Vehicle dynamics control on board motorcycles
Bosch’s stability control system for highperformance motorcycles goes into series production in 2013. Motorcycle stability control (MSC) works by supporting the rider during both braking and accelerating in a straight line and cornering.The technical basis of the MSC is the ABSenhanced system, which Bosch engineers in Japan have now expanded ...
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Combined control for compressor stations
The airtelligence provis 2.0 can control compressor stations of up to 16 rigid or frequency-controlled compressors of various makes, claims Boge.In addition, up to 24 accessory components, such as refrigerated air dryers, filters, fans, dampers or sensors can be integrated. Based on the actual compressed air consumption, the company says ...
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Editor's Note: Software hard driven
The AMS conferences highlight many of the challenges OEMs face in building cars where the infrastructure is still under developed, local suppliers are not always able to offer the levels of support needed and the workforce lack skills and experience. Solutions are being sought and rapid progress is being made ...
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Press line automatic compact transfer system
Strothmann has installed a complete handling system for high-capacity suction presses all the way from blank loading through to end-of-line parts removal at the production site of a major car company.The automation concept, which is suitable for all car parts and can be adapted to new products, consists of a ...
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Space-saving AS-interface splitters
Pepperl+Fuchs has introduced G11 passive splitters to its family of G11 Series AS-Interface I/O Modules.Available in flat cable or M12 male connector versions the company says they are ECOLAB certified and IP67- rated for reliable operation in wet environments.This series of interface modules features a round housing design that enables ...
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On-site nitrogen and oxygen generators
Three new ranges of nitrogen and oxygen generators (for on-site gas generation) have been launched by Atlas Copco Compressors.The new NGM, NGP and OGP generators will enable companies to utilise their existing compressed air installation to generate their own nitrogen and oxygen, avoiding the operational and administrative costs of ordering, ...
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New square-bodied ISO cylinder
A new DSBC range of square-bodied ISO cylinders, featuring PPS self-adjusting air cushioning as standard, has been launched by Festo.The company says the DSBC range offers machine builders the benefits of adjustable air cushioning but without the difficulties associated with set-up. The DSBC with PPS cushioning system automatically compensates and ...
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Integrated measuring system for tube bending machines
The Springmatic optical measuring system from Schwarze-Robitec is integrated into the bending tool.Immediately after the bending of a tube, the new optical measuring system records the rebound value, from which the CNC control of the tube-bending machine calculates the required subsequent bending angle.Subsequent bending is carried out either fully automatically ...
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3D printer for industrial scale prototypes
Objet has launched the Objet1000, the company’s largest 3D printer to date.Featuring a 1000 x 800 x 500mm (39.3 x 31.4 x 19.6 inch) wide-format build envelope, the company says the Objet1000 is suitable for automotive vehicle and component producers that need to create industrial size, 1:1 scale prototypes.The 3D ...
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Dual-coil ignition system offering improved combustion
Similar to a plug top ignition coil, BorgWarner BERU’s latest technology consists of two ignition coils inside a single housing, connected directly to the spark plug in each cylinder.Currently under testing and development with several OEMs, BorgWarner says the new ignition system reduces ignition delays and allows more accurate ignition ...
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Hybrid connectors for automation application
Motorman and Power4Net hybrid connectors from TE Connectivity are available from TTI.The company says TE’s Motorman connector will allow for decentralised automation and the Power4Net connector is suitable for machine automation applications that require a higher performance data connection and power of up to 10A.The Motorman hybrid connector integrates signal ...
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Safety Interlock switch for space-restricted applications
Omron Automation and Safety has introduced D4SL-N Safety Interlock Switches, available with 4, 5 or 6 contacts for a number of applications.The company says the IP67- rated D4SL-N can be mounted in four different directions without needing to rotate the head. Two wiring methods (connector-type and terminal block-type) are intended ...
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Webinar
Robotic laser cutting applications: Building competitive advantage using modular solutions
This webinar explored how current laser technologies combined with flexible robot based automation can help manufacturers build competitive advantage through quality and productivity improvements. This webinar was presented by: Nigel PlattNigel Platt Joined ABB Robotics in 1990 as Automotive Account Manager for the UK and has held various ...
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SPS-IPC DRIVES - Nuremburg 2012
Addressing practical problemsWide range of specialist exhibitorsAccessibility and sophisticationManaging workflow in the automated environmentSophisticated industrial communication systemsQuality of experience organisers key objectiveThis year’s exhibition, being held between 27-29 November, is according to the organisers stronger than ever, despite the difficult economic climate. The diverse nature of the automation market, and ...
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Installing a flexible future at Kassel
Basic process control and workstations of assembly lines are decoupledSufficient reservesIn the assembly of axle drives for commercial vehicles, all relevant machine and operating data is acquired by a new RFID solution. In order to optimally synchronise the flow of materials and data, the transport controllers and workstations must be ...
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Fumes-to-fuel
Different thinkingVOC captureGovernment supportFord’s Fumes-to-Fuel project has been developing systems to use VOCs to power fuel cells for nearly a decade. Its next installation will produce 300kW of power per hour, the company saysWhile their long-term effects are not completely understood, Volatile Organic Chemicals (VOCs) are believed to be among ...
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The vital sunshine sparks
English ambitionPlanting sustainabilityRenault’s six-packSunny site upThe race to lead globallyFerrari’s red automotive masterpieces are produced at a plant that can claim to be among the leaders in green technology. Its Maranello factory is one of a growing number of auto manufacturing facilities that make use of solar photovoltaic (pv) power. ...
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Wind of change blows in some surprising places
Foolish or far-sightedThe blades start turningVW dives inSuccess in SunderlandThe most visible form alternative energy generation is the wind turbine. It has been accepted across the world, although not without opposition – especially from those whose views would be spoiled by the planting of wind farms. But the questions on ...