Temperature sensor spots hot or cold objects

T-Gage temperature sensors are passive, non-contact devices for detecting objects that are either hotter or colder than ambient conditions. Push-button programming requires no potentiometer adjustments. Sensors operate even when product isn't moving and can sense temperature changes as small as 3°C. Several features include a 25 ms response time and its small, self-contained package doesn't require an external controller. Stainless steel barrel and encapsulated electronics are rated IP67 for harsh sensing environments.

Banner Engineering Corp., 9714 Tenth Ave. N, Minneapolis, MN 55441, (888) 373-6767, ims.info.ca/5569-248
Circle 248

Industrial PC connects to EtherCAT

The CX1020, an embedded high-performance PC in an ultra-compact design, has the same capability as larger industrial PCs. CPU performance is several times that of previous CX controllers, the CX1020 features a direct connection for EtherCAT I/O Terminals. It mounts on a DIN rail. CX1020 sports a 600 MHz Intel Celeron M cpu. Compact Flash is the boot and memory media, so it has no discs. The computer was developed for optimum performance with EtherCAT. When EtherCAT is used as the fieldbus, the computer responds in less than 1 ms. Master and slave components from the CX1000 can be used, including those for Profibus, DeviceNet, CANopen, Lightbus and Sercos interface. EtherCAT I/O terminals are connected by a multi-functional CX1100-0004 power supply.

Beckhoff Automation LLC, 12150 Nicollet Ave. S, Burnsville, MN 55337, ims.info.ca/5569-249
Circle 249

A connector for pushbuttons to DeviceNet

The FDN20 DeviceNet station connects pushbuttons to a DeviceNet network. It is compact, rugged, and inexpensive, and has a DeviceNet eurofast connector. The unit fits into any standard pushbutton enclosure. To mount, drill a hole in the center of the bottom of the pushbutton enclosure. Insert the eurofast connector into the hole and tighten the lock nut. The connector extends out the base of the pushbutton enclosure and connects to a network drop cable. I/O screw terminals are easily accessible inside the enclosure. No other cables are needed. The FDN20 powers its input and outputs from DeviceNet.

Interlink BT, 3000 Campus Dr., Minneapolis, MN 55441, (888) 546-5880, ims.info.ca/5569-250
Circle 250

Add 8th axis to robots

The Kuka Linear Slide is a self-contained one-axis unit that adds a 7th or 8th axis to another robot. The unit mounts to floors or ceilings. It features a brushless AC servomotor with rack and pinion gearing. Programmable software limit-switches manage range of movement, with a safeguard of mechanical stops if they get overrun. Slides are available in three payload ranges from 16 to 500 kg.

Kuka Robotics Corp., 22500 Key Dr., Clinton Township, MI 48036, (586) 569-2082, ims.info.ca/5569-251
Circle 251

Flow sensor also reports temperature

Programmable DRO (digital read out) flow sensor monitor flow and temperature of fluids such as water and glycol. The units monitor changes in flow between 0.2 and 12 gpm and are available with a transistor, relay, or analog output. They feature visible, 3-digit displays that show for rate or media temperature. In addition to an adjustable on and off delay feature, the DRO lets users program set points. An adjustable filter smoothes erratic flows. The design uses 316 stainless steel for wetted parts. This solid-state device has no parts in the flow path so it does not trap debris.

Turck Inc., 3000 Campus Dr., Plymouth, MN 55441, (800) 544-7769, ims.info.ca/5569-252
Circle 252

Integral bushing and stud shaft wheels

DualVee integral bushing (BWI) and stud shaft (SWI) wheels feature a one-piece design where the wheel bearing inner raceway is ground into the wheel bushing or wheel stud shaft. Advantages include lower profile and increased rigidity, larger diameter fasteners, less tolerance stack-up, external adjustment and tightening, and lower procurement and installation costs. DualVee wheels come in carbon steel, stainless steel, and polymer overmolded stainless-steel construction.

Bishop-Wisecarver Corp., 2104 Martin Way, Pittsburg, CA 94565, (888) 580-8272, ims.info.ca/5569-253
Circle 253

Mini ultrasonic proximity sensors with focused beam

Ultrasonic proximity sensors generate a highly focused beam of sound that can easily access tight spaces and openings. Their small size, 0.5-in. in diameter and 3.5 to 4-in. long, make the sensors good for small-space applications. They can be either UNAM 12U9914/S14D analog models with variable signals or UNAM 12P1914/S14D discrete (on/off) models. The analog sensors offer sensing distances up to 82mm (3.25 inches), while discrete models deliver sensing accuracy up to 70mm (2.75 inch). The sensors feature a narrow beam angle of just 6 degrees, while the nose cone or beam columnator narrows the focus of the 12 mm sensor to an opening of just 4.9 mm. Combined, these features allow accurate sensing in small spaces and eliminate interference from either side of the target.

Baumer Electric, 122 Spring Spreet, C-6 Southington, CT 06489,(800) 937-9336, ims.info.ca/5569-254
Circle 254

High-density instrumentation connectors

PL-1200 series connectors feature Pulse-Lok coupling, a push and click auto-latching mechanism that greatly simplifies mating by providing tactile and visual confirmation that the connector pair is securely engaged. The connectors have densities up to 78 contact positions in a 1200-thousandth diameter package and are available in both low-cost disposable and rugged reusable models. The series also features low-cost receptacle components as well as enhanced and automated wire termination options that reduce the cost of multi-pin disposable catheters by reducing assembly time. These termination options include multi-contact solder pads as well as crimp and poke stamped contacts. Optional integrated passive and active electronic components identify and limit the use of single-use disposable catheters.

Alden Products Company Inc., 117 North Main St., Brockton, MA 02301, (508) 427-7000, ims.info.ca/5569-256
Circle 256

Rodless cylinders

MY2 and MY3 rodless cylinders use low profile designs to save space compared to typical rodless cylinders. The MY3 cylinder is an unguided rodless cylinder with compact height and length. It has the same properties of the MY1B rodless cylinder in a more compact and lightweight package. The cylinder is available in four bore sizes, 16, 25, 40, and 63 mm. Options include floating joints, stroke adjusters, side supports, and auto switches. The stroke adjuster and shock absorber are integrated into a low profile design. Auto switches can be mounted on both sides from the front direction. Using side supports, the cylinder tube can be fixed from the upper or lower side. Long strokes of up to 3,000mm are available.

SMC Corp. of America, 3011 N. Franklin Rd., Indianapolis, IN 46226, (317) 899-4650, ims.info.ca/5569-257
Circle 257

384-hole microplate heater

A 384-hole heater (4.29 × 2.87 in.) provides temperature uniformitity across a 384-well of polymerase-chain-reaction sample block. Control accuracy is typically ±2°C. Proprietary technology enables extremely tight hole to hole tolerance allowing for near perfect registration of the 24-V, 95-W heater. The heater's seamless fit provides heat transfer critical for fast temperature cycles. Small components give an unobstructed view of reactions. A few specs include a temperatures range from -45 to 150 °C from the etched-foil heating element. Insulation depends on the application but is typically polyimide. Dielectric strength is 500 V and minimum bend radius is 0.030 in.

Minco, 7300 Commerce Lane, Minneapolis, MN 55432, (763) 571-3121, ims.info.ca/5669-258
Circle 258

Software manages CAPA and customer complaints

TrackWise is Quality Management System software with applications that include management of corrective and preventive actions, customer complaints, deviations/nonconformance, investigations, change control, audits and observations, regulatory commitments, and other quality process issues. TrackWise is a fully user-configurable system letting them configure an unlimited number of projects, such as workflows, using one centralized database. This facilitates centralized implementation of all the mentioned applications, and addresses regulatory and business requirements in a user friendly and effective manner. Using the software gives all departments an efficient way to access relevant issues and action-item data in real time. From the time records are logged in, to the time they are resolved, the software provides an easy-to-use mechanism to track the different activities that took part in this process.

Sparta Systems Inc., Holmdel Corporate Plaza, 2137 State Highway 35, Holmdel, N.J. 07733, (888) 261-5948, ims.info.ca/5569-259
Circle 259

Remote imaging system

The Lenox VideoFlex Series is an easy-to-use, high-resolution, remote imaging system featuring an integrated control and display handpiece with a 6.4-inch LCD display. The videoscope is well-suited for inspection of products during manufacture.

Macrovision Inc., 301 S. Main St., 3W, Doylestown, PA 18901, (215) 348-1010, ims.info.ca/5569-260
Circle 260

Stainless steel motor

The SSE motor line from Baldor uses stainless steel in all exposed metal surfaces. The motor targets areas subject to frequent high-pressure washdown such as those found in food processing and pharmaceutical plants. Epoxy encapsulated windings and conduit box leads prevent moisture infiltration into the motor windings. A hydrophobic aspiration system eliminates condensation moisture in the motor. The motors come in sizes from 11/42 to 2 hp today and through 10 hp by year's end.

Baldor Electric Co., 5711 R.S. Boreham, Jr. St., Fort Smith, AR 72901, (479) 646-4711, ims.info.ca/5669-261
Circle 261

Footswitches for medical tasks

Linemaster's medical switches are used by healthcare professionals around the world. Custom designs and modifications can meet specific OEM requirements. The company R&D recently introduced a wireless foot switch that uses patented infrared technology. The company now designs and tests foot switches in a fraction of the time previously required. The switches are UL, CSA, TUV Certified, CE Marked and waterproof to IEC 601-2-2/IP68. New models such as the Air Seal, Aquiline, and IR wireless are examples of foot controls designed to meet tomorrow's standards today.

Linemaster Switch Corp., 29 Plaine Hill Rd, Box 238, Woodstock, CT 06281, (860) 974-1000, ims.info.ca/5569-262
Circle 262

Cut complex parts in one setup

The Cyclone-25 CS is a 7-axis sliding headstock CNC turning center. It holds up to 27 cutting tools and can cut simultaneously with the main and counter spindles, letting users do frontend, backend, and turning and milling work on one setup. This machine does not require the use of ground barstock, as do standard Swiss-style machines.

Ganesh Machinery, 20621 Plummer St., Chatsworth, CA 91311, (888) 542-6374, ims.info.ca/5569-263
Circle 263

Actuator provides high thrust

The Type CRES high-thrust rod actuator (196 to 490 N) is for packaging machines, automatic seat-positioners, panel operating mechanisms, positioning systems, height adjusters, and opening and closing mechanisms. Maximum stroke is 130 mm. Nominal speed ranges are from 15 to 55 mm/sec. The unit is dustproof, weatherproof, and waterproof. Its low-voltage DC motor reduces energy consumption.

THK America, Inc., 200 E. Commerce Dr., Schaumburg, IL 60173, (847) 310-1111, ims.info.ca/5569-264
Circle 264

High-speed EDM delivers clean cuts

Robofil 240cc/440cc EDM features the Clean Cut generator for high-quality surface finishes at high machining speeds. The generator prevents oxidation in materials such as titanium and titanium alloys often used in making implants. The generator also handles cutting PCD form tools with a surface finish and edge sharpness typically better than grinding. The EDM comes equipped with a high-speed and maintenance-free wire-threading system that stretches the wire and cuts it with heat, regardless of wire diameter and material. A Taper-Expert option makes high-precision angles up to 30°.

Charmilles, 560 Bond Street, Lincolnshire, IL 60069, (800)-CTC-1EDM, ims.info.ca/5569-265
Circle 265

Inverters work underwater

E200II and SE/SE2 Series DC-AC inverters for powering CCFL-backlit LCDs feature a unique vacuum-encapsulated design to ensure reliable CCF lamp ignition in harsh environments. They are well-suited for backlit flat-panel displays where compact size, high efficiency, and reliability of the power source are critical, such as medical diagnostic equipment. Standard units for a range of displays and applications are available.

Endicott Research Group Inc., 2601 Wayne St., Endicott, NY 13760, (607) 754-9187, ims.info.ca/5569-266
Circle 266

Robot mounts over molding machines

IRB 1600 robots have a compact wrist and arm design, making them well-suited for loading and unloading injection molding machines (100 to 250 ton) and processing applications such as gluing and waterjet cutting. With a 700 mm reach below their bases, the robots can mount over molding machines, so they need no floorspace. The robots also come with TrueMove motion control software that dictates the machines' optimum path accuracy. A 360° working range lets them also perform assembly, labeling, and quality and control.

ABB Ltd.,Robotics, Automotive, and Manufacturing, 1250 Brown Rd., Auburn Hills, Mich., 48326, (248) 391-8776, ims.info.ca/5569-267
Circle 267

Cylinders for many applications

A 450-page catalog, titled FL-04, has eight sections: Original Line Cylinders, Flat Cylinders, Linear Thruster/PneuMoment, Pneu-Turn Rotary Actuators, Ultran Cylinders, Double-Wall Cylinders, Position Control System products and related products. It includes position-sensing solutions, flow controls, accessories, shock absorbers, transition plates, and alignment couplers. New products include stainless-steel repairable original-line cylinders, stopper cylinders, position-feedback cylinder rod locks, and seven others.

Bimba Manufacturing, P.O. Box 68, Monee, IL 60449, (708) 534-8544, ims.info.ca/5569-268
Circle 268

Voice order-fulfillment systems

EASYpick voice order-fulfillment systems feature the Integrated Speech Recognition Engine (VISE), letting workers use audible commands and voice responses to perform a variety of order-fulfillment tasks. VISE operates without difficulty in noisy environments. The technology ignores words not in its vocabulary, so workers can communicate seamlessly with the system and co-workers.

FKI Logistex North America, 9301 Olive Blvd. St. Louis, MO 63132 (877) 935-4564, ims.info.ca/5569-269
Circle 269

Manage plant floor from the Web

AIM Enterprise Version 3.0 is Web-based software that features an Automated Line Supervision and Dash Board reporting tool, which makes real-time plant-floor data available through any PC, anytime, anywhere in the world. The software monitors and controls production, manages operation modes, tracks uptime and downtime, and manages maintenance, providing on-line prints and manuals. Its open architecture lets it integrate with existing ERP and MIS systems.

AIM Analytical LLC, 476 East Riverview, Napoleon, OH 43545, (419) 591-2951, ims.info.ca/5569-270
Circle 270

Can Stack step motors

Portescap 20M024 Can Stack step motors have a 15° step angle and are available with unipolar or bipolar winding construction. Bipolar windings have up to 1.6 oz-in of holding torque for high torque in a small package, reducing package size with a smaller diameter motor. Windings can be optimized to specific application requirements, with 1.25 watts of input power per winding. Sintered bronze sleeve bearings are standard; ball bearings are available as an option.

Danaher Motion, 1500 Mittel Blvd, Wood Dale, IL 60191, (866) 993-2624, ims.info.ca/5569-255
Circle 255

High-density instrumentation connectors

PL-1200 series connectors feature Pulse-Lok coupling, a push and click auto-latching mechanism that greatly simplifies mating by provides tactile and visual confirmation that the connector pair is securely engaged. The connectors have densities up to 78 contact positions in a 1200-thousandth diameter package and are available in both low-cost disposable and rugged reusable models. The series also features low-cost receptacle components as well as enhanced and automated wire termination options that reduce the cost of multi-pin disposable catheters by reducing assembly time. These termination options include multi-contact solder pads as well as crimp and poke stamped contacts. Optional integrated passive and active electronic components identify and limit the use of single-use disposable catheters.

Alden Products Company Inc., 117 North Main St., Brockton, MA 02301, (508) 427-7000, ims.info.ca/5569-000
Circle 000

High-density instrumentation connectors

PL-1200 series connectors feature Pulse-Lok coupling, a push and click auto-latching mechanism that greatly simplifies mating by provides tactile and visual confirmation that the connector pair is securely engaged. The connectors have densities up to 78 contact positions in a 1200-thousandth diameter package and are available in both low-cost disposable and rugged reusable models. The series also features low-cost receptacle components as well as enhanced and automated wire termination options that reduce the cost of multi-pin disposable catheters by reducing assembly time. These termination options include multi-contact solder pads as well as crimp and poke stamped contacts. Optional integrated passive and active electronic components identify and limit the use of single-use disposable catheters.

Alden Products Company Inc., 117 North Main St., Brockton, MA 02301, (508) 427-7000, ims.info.ca/5569-000
Circle 000